An Overview of Chemical Dilution Control

The three predominant methods of using chemicals are ready-to-use, bulk concentrates and dilution control. Each has their place in the cleaning operation and has specific benefits.

Ready-to-Use (RTU) | RTU is convenient and is particularly good for chemicals that are difficult to concentrate effectively. These include floor finishes, high-acid cleaners and metal polishes. When other products such as glass cleaners, all-purpose cleaners and degreasers are in RTU packaging, they are very costly versus concentrates.

Bulk Concentrates | Products such as degreasers, floor strippers, glass cleaners, etc. are often sold in concentrate form. These are packaged in various sizes (pre-portioned packages, cartridges, gallons, drums, etc.). Instructions are provided for dilution (one ounce per gallon, one packet per mop bucket, etc.), and it is up to the user to correctly measure both the chemical and the water. This is commonly known as the “glug-glug” method.

Dilution Control | Concentrated cleaning chemicals are effectively diluted according to manufacturer specs or customer needs by a device that automatically measures out the concentrate and the water at certain proportions. These devices can range from wall-mounted units to hand-held miniature dilution systems.

Controlling Chemical Dilution

Effective dilution of concentrates only happens when both the water and concentrate are controlled. If the concentrate is measured, but the water is not, the dilution is not controlled.

Benefits of Dilution Control

When possible, dilution control of chemicals is the most beneficial system you can use. Dilution control provides you with:

• The most cost-effective use of chemicals
  
  
• Reduced “re-cleaning” because the cleaning job is done right the first time
  
  
• Reduction of hazards because the system, not the people, handles concentrated chemicals

What to Look for in a System

There are many dilution control systems on the market. They all measure water and chemicals to the right dilution. Some of the other things you might want to look for are:

• Systems that are flexible and can be designed to meet your needs
  
  
• Systems that help prevent the worker from coming in contact with the concentrate when changing concentrate refills
  
  
• Designs that help make sure the right product is hooked up to the right control button (color-coding, numbers, pictures, etc.)
  
  
• Labels that help ensure spray bottles are filled used correctly (photos of the product in-use, easy-to-read labels, etc.)
  
  
• Back flow prevention devices that meet all codes and minimize side effects such as foaming

Your WAXIE Account Consultant is always available to help assess your needs and suggest the best system for your particular operation.