Building a car wash requires careful planning, strategic design and the right support to ensure long-term success. After being founded in 1986, Reliable Plus has served beyond expectations, providing innovative solutions as a dedicated partner. By following this guide, you can set your operation up for efficiency, profitability and sustainability.
1. Site Selection and Planning
The first step is choosing the right location. A well-chosen site accommodates vehicle flow, drainage and local zoning requirements. Space planning and environmental considerations are important to minimize operational issues.
2. Custom Design and Layout
A successful car wash is more than just equipment. Facility layout should maximize traffic flow, stacking and customer convenience. Proper site planning ensures service areas are efficiently organized and equipment is optimally placed. Thoughtful design increases wash productivity while supporting future expansion.
3. Water Management and Environmental Compliance
Water usage and wastewater management are critical. Designated wash bays and containment systems are important to prevent runoff and pollution. Planning for proper drainage and environmentally responsible water treatment protects your operation and surrounding community.
4. Equipment Selection
Choosing the right equipment determines wash quality and maintenance needs. Consider the type of wash you want to offer, whether in-bay automatic, tunnel, self-serve or heavy-duty and ensure the machinery meets operational standards. No matter what type of wash you need, Reliable Plus has an extensive product line to keep you covered. We offer ancillary equipment including air compressors and vacuums, entry activation stations, water treatment equipment and overhead doors. Our equipment selection will help elevate your business.
5. Construction and Installation
Following established construction practices ensures safety and functionality. Well-planned construction reduces future issues and supports equipment longevity.
6. Ongoing Maintenance and Operation
Preventative maintenance is essential. A structured schedule prolongs equipment life, maintains service quality and protects your investment. Reliable Plus offers preventative maintenance with highly skilled technicians who will be able to give you a thorough rundown of the condition of your car wash equipment when they regularly visit your site.
7. Chemical Solutions
Reliable Plus makes chemical management simple with flexible container options ranging from bulk tanks to smaller drums, your site setup can be customized for efficiency and customer satisfaction. The Motivity line of robust and environmentally responsible cleaners, soaps, protectants and waxes is designed to tackle every type of dirt while leaving vehicles with a lasting shine. Motivity delivers results that keep customers coming back.
At Reliable Plus, we take the guesswork out of building a car wash. Whether constructing a new facility or upgrading existing equipment, our team provides solutions. We help select the right site, design a custom layout and manage installation from start to finish. We ensure that every detail supports efficiency, customer experience and long-term growth.
From light-duty self-serve washes to heavy-duty tunnel operations, Reliable Plus has the experience to help you build a car wash that meets your needs and maximizes your investment. Our trained team of technicians can install, upgrade, and periodically service your equipment to ensure a smooth, hassle-free car wash operation that delivers clean vehicles day in and day out. Contact us today to start your project with confidence.
