Used Greenhouse roof cleaners

About second-hand Greenhouse roof cleaners

A greenhouse roof washer cleans the glass or plastic covering of the greenhouse. Dirt, algae, dust, lime scale and residue can noticeably reduce light penetration, and light is a crucial growth factor for plants. The main benefit of a clean greenhouse roof is therefore that more light enters the greenhouse.

Every year a greenhouse roof is not washed, 2-5% less light enters the greenhouse. And that costs a lot of production! Especially when you consider the rule of thumb that 1% light equals 1% yield. By not washing a greenhouse roof, you are leaving yield on the table! Greenhouse roof washing machines are therefore a logical investment that pays for itself within a few years.

How does a greenhouse roof washer work?

A greenhouse roof washer drives over the greenhouse roof itself, usually between two spans, with wheels that run on the gutters or purlins. A guidance system keeps it running straight, so the machine keeps driving straight across the span without the operator constantly having to steer. The drive is often electric, hydraulic or by combustion engine, and many machines are equipped with a remote control, allowing one person to operate the cleaning from the ground while the brushes clean the greenhouse roof.

Water is supplied in two ways: via a pump and water tank mounted on the machine itself, or via a hose connected to a fixed water connection or pipe in the greenhouse that moves along with the machine. Sprayers distribute the water over the roof, often combined with a cleaning agent, after which the brushes loosen and rinse away dirt, algae and residue.

Why more light in the greenhouse makes a difference

Especially in autumn, winter and early spring, extra light is valuable, because light is often the limiting growth factor during these periods. A clean greenhouse roof can also help reduce the need for artificial light or heat, because sunlight is used more efficiently.

More light usually means:

• better photosynthesis;
• stronger and more even growth;
• more compact plants;
• better flower and fruit development;
• possibly a higher yield;
• less quality difference between plants in different parts of the greenhouse.

Do pay attention to the timing of washing: in the middle of a hot, sunny period, a lot of extra radiation can suddenly occur, making plants more prone to heat stress or scorching. That is why a greenhouse roof is often cleaned in combination with a suitable shading or whitewash policy.

Buying a used greenhouse roof washer: what to look out for?

A used greenhouse roof washer can be an interesting investment for growers and contractors who want to clean the greenhouse roof efficiently. Removing dirt, algae, dust, lime scale and old whitewash layers lets more light into the greenhouse, which can contribute to better growth, a more even crop and a higher yield.

When purchasing, it is important not to look only at the price and year of construction. The machine must above all suit your greenhouse, way of working and intended use. Pay attention to the following points, among others:

Does the machine fit your greenhouse?

Check the greenhouse type (Venlo, wide-span or other), the span width and bay size, the slope of the greenhouse roof, the construction of purlins, gutters and ridge, and any obstacles such as roof vents. The machine's dimensions, wheel spacing and guidance must match these.

Cleaning width and capacity.

The working width and driving speed largely determine how much greenhouse area can be cleaned per day. The actual capacity may differ from the factory specification, depending on the degree of contamination, the layout of the greenhouse and moving the machine.

Condition of the brushes.

Worn or damaged brushes reduce the cleaning result. Check the condition of the bristles, the bearings and drive, the adjustability of the brush pressure and the suitability for the glass, plastic or any coating present.

Water pump and water consumption.

Pay attention to the required water pressure, the consumption per hour, the condition of the pump, hoses and sprayers, the ability to dose cleaning agents and the suitability for reverse-osmosis water.

Washing and whitewashing?

Not every greenhouse roof washer is suitable by default for applying whitewash or a shading agent. Check whether the machine has a suitable pump, a mixing or dosing system, the right sprayers, a separate tank and resistant components.

Drive and controls.

Greenhouse roof washers are driven electrically, hydraulically or by combustion engine. Pay attention to the condition of the engine or hydraulics, batteries and connections, the presence of a remote control and the operation of the straight-line guidance and steering. A machine that can be operated remotely by one person considerably reduces labour requirements.

Maintenance and parts.

For a used machine, the technical condition is at least as important as the year of construction. Check bearings, chains, gears, drive motors, wheels, guides, water pump, hoses, electrical controls and sensors, and ask about the maintenance history and the availability of spare parts; for older machines, the availability of electronic components is especially important.

Fixed machine or mobile contractor machine?

Consider in advance how and where you want to use the machine. For use at a single fixed greenhouse location, a machine can be chosen that is fully tailored to that specific greenhouse construction. If you are a contractor or want to serve multiple locations, a mobile greenhouse roof washer is often more attractive. In that case, pay attention to the transport dimensions, the total weight, the time needed for setup and breakdown, adaptability to different span widths, the transport vehicle required and the presence of its own pump, tank and drive. A contractor machine must be flexible, quick to move and suitable for different greenhouse types.

Buying a used greenhouse roof washer from Duijndam Machines

At Duijndam Machines you will regularly find used greenhouse roof washers for various greenhouse types and applications. We regularly have machines from the brands Besseling, Combat and Alubo in stock. Depending on the specification, these machines are suitable for cleaning, whitewashing or professional use as a contractor machine. We are happy to help you assess the specification, dimensions and suitability for your greenhouse or work.