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As one of the most rented items in any rental inventory, drain cleaners can be a very profitable item because they are always in demand, no matter the season or economy.

Despite their dependable profit potential, drain cleaners can present some challenges to the rental business that needs to keep them cleaned and maintained while protecting its customers from the hazards that can result from careless or incorrect use. The solution to both the maintenance and safety issues is communication with your customers. If you can effectively convey proper care and operating procedures to your customers, you stand a better chance of reducing maintenance costs while ensuring your customers’ safety.

Clean machines

Considering the environments where drain cleaners work - most notably, sewer pipes - it’s safe to say that these are not the shiniest tools in your shop. In fact, thinking too much about where these machines have been is enough to make even those with a tough constitution reach for an extra pair of rubber gloves.

Aesthetics aside, there are health and safety reasons for making sure your drain cleaners are kept impeccably clean and sanitary, says Marty Silverman, vice president of marketing at General Pipe Cleaners. The cleanup and repair of drain cleaners is important to keeping them working efficiently as well. Cleaning the machines is an important first step to maintaining them for the long run and it begins with an overall inspection of the unit when it’s returned from rent. It’s very important to inspect the whole drain cleaner, especially the cable.

In addition to the ubiquitous dirt and debris, it’s not uncommon for machines to come back from rent with the cable tied in knots. This problem must be remedied before the unit goes back on the floor, as a kink can be dangerous to the operator and cause damage to the pipe, according to Mark Speranza, vice president of sales with Electric Eel.