Water is a precious commodity and as the population grows, water resources become more valuable as more people use a finite amount or sometimes even less during periods of drought. A recent architect asked if it is possible to collect rainwater from an aircraft hangar to reuse it as aircraft washing water.
This is certainly possible and in Texas where it is located it rains a lot. Therefore, it makes sense to collect this rainwater. But how much does it cost to pick up? Well, a 250 gallon water tank costs about; $350.00 at a farm supply company. Accessories, filters are around $50.00 and the tank will need to be ground mounted due to the 8.2 pound per gallon weight. So you need a transfer pump, electric around $75.00 or hand crank around $60.00
Next, you need a pressure washer if you are going to clean the plane in the hangar. Each 50 feet of hose is around $28.00 and the cheapest electric pressure washers that are truly reliable are around $125.00 and up.
The labor will cost you quite a bit, I suppose, as much or more than the costs. In San Antonio, there is a company called Industrial Equipment Specialties, they are located just south of Seguin. They are a dealer for Hydrotek, Hotsy and Landa and do coin operated car washes and probably have access to all the components and could give you a better total installed price. Or you can do it on your own and save some money; “Home Depot is”
Most airborne aircraft must be washed every two weeks or cleaned weekly, with a fresh water wash monthly. If flown, during the two week period it will be necessary to clean them after each flight and wash them with fresh water after 3 take offs and landings over salt water or every two weeks when flying a lot. This is all probably overkill for your project, but I hope some of this is of value, the rest go ahead and pass it on to your client if you think it could help.
