US Dollars
Fluid Foundations: Building and Sustaining Your Drain Cleaning Business in 2024
"Plumbers and Drain Cleaners protect the health of the nation." said Mike Sekach, National Sales Director of Spartan Tool.
Beyond their role in fixing leaks and unclogging drains, these unsung heroes play a vital role in safeguarding public health and well-being. Their expertise goes beyond the visible pipes and fixtures, from preventing waterborne diseases to averting potential environmental hazards, their diligent work often goes unnoticed until a crisis emerges. It can often feel like a thankless job, it is hard, tough work. But we see you, we thank you, and we appreciate you.
As a small token of our appreciation, we would like to provide a few helpful insights from some of our Spartan Tool employees on how to grow your business and keep everything running smoothly as we embark into a new year together. We appreciate your commitment to maintaining the hygiene and integrity of our plumbing systems. Plumbing and Drain Cleaning is not just a profession but a cornerstone of public health.
Customer Service
"Compliments still work" Warren Richmond, Territory Manager in the Denver, Colorado area said. Holly Anderson, Customer Service Manager, added "We are here to make good things happen for other people, you never know what your customers are going through."
The reputation of your business can either flourish or falter through word of mouth. It's crucial to equip your employees with not just technical expertise but also exceptional customer service skills. A positive customer experience has the power to foster repeat business and generate numerous favorable word-of-mouth referrals. Often, the way you and your team interact with someone shapes their overall experience, leaving a lasting impression on the customer. Invest in cultivating a culture of excellent customer service to build a reputation that resonates positively with your customers.
More Business? More Social Media!
In today's digital era, everyone is online. Seeking recommendations for home services or the best companies for emergencies often happens through friends' references on platforms like Facebook and other online sites. Social media acts as a megaphone for the traditional word of mouth.
Alyssa Townsley, Social Media Specialist, emphasized, "You want people to be able to tag your business profile, for that homeowner or business owner to click on your profile and instantly access your location, phone number, reviews, before-and-after photos, etc. The more you share or post on social media, the more visibility your business gains, and, more importantly, it becomes memorable."
Training, Certifications, New Technologies
Stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technologies. Investing in training for you and your team not only enhances your skills but also builds trust with customers who appreciate knowledgeable and qualified professionals with options for their needs. Explore a trade show in your area, see what training might be right for your team, check out what other services you don't offer, but could.
Did you know we offer a course a few times a year for basic plumbing and sewer system design, along with safe operation and application of equipment?
International Instiute of Sewer & Pipe Cleaning
Ask for Assistance
It's a universal necessity; you can't fulfill every need for everyone all the time. When requiring additional staff, equipment, or new technology, don't hesitate to seek assistance. If financial constraints are a concern, reach out for support. We highly recommend Apex Commercial Capital – they've been instrumental in helping numerous customers elevate their businesses to new heights by providing the essential assistance they needed to thrive.
Giuseppe Cucuzza, Commercial Account Excecutive with Apex stated, "Apex offers Spartan customers the ability to purchase the equipment they need and keep their capital on hand. Quick turnaround times, monthly special offers and e-docs mean more time working and less time setting up financing."
Preventative Maintenance
Matt Hitchman, Field Service Technician said "Preventative maintenance is a standard, to keep a machine in tip top condition, and always at the ready when needed. Good maintenance is what lets a business flourish, not only with equipment but along with personnel. Tip: the unloader is one of the most overlooked parts on a jet and needs to also be cleaned and lubricated."
Tim Gage, Territory Manager in the Cleveland, Ohio area added, "Clean the water filters on the jets routinely."
For cable machines, "Make to lubricate your power feed bearings and your cable. This will help the longevity of both - it also prevents rusting, friction, and poor mechanical operation. I have always used a silicone based mechanical lubricant to spray on the cable and bearings. It is one of the MOST common issues I see in the field where no one is taking this vital step to keep their machine in tip-top shape." Jason Robey, Territory Manager in the Kansas City area.
Owners Manuals - if you don't see yours listed, please reach out to your Territory Manager or Customer Service.
Utilize Branding
Maximize the visibility of your business by branding your service vehicles or hydro-jets with your company logo and contact information. You are constantly traveling, use that to your advantage! A branded vehicle/trailer acts as a moving advertisement, raising awareness of your business to all the areas you service. Keep that in mind the next time you are picking out your truck, van or jet. Can you get it wrapped?
Here are some of our favorites:
Personal Growth
We saved the best for last.
Al Lopez, our dedicated employee who just concluded an incredible 62-year journey with Spartan Tool upon his retirement in 2023, generously shared his Secrets to Happiness. These pearls of wisdom are frequently discussed within the Spartan Tool family. We believe that these insights carry profound significance not just for advancing your business, but also for nurturing personal growth. While some may directly contribute to business success, each secret resonates with the broader spectrum of personal development, making them universally relevant and impactful.
Secrets to Happiness - Al Lopez
Live beneath your means.
Stop blaming people.
Admit it when you make a mistake.
Be on time.
Don't make excuses.
Be kind to people.
Be even kinder to unkind people.
Let someone cut ahead of you in line.
Get organized.
Understand and accept that life is not always fair.
Try to go 24 hours without criticizing anyone.
Don't sweat the small stuff.
Be humble.
We wish you and your business all the sucess in the upcoming year. If you have questions, don't ever hesitate to reach out to your territory manager or our customer service team. We are committed to supporting you, enabling you to focus on safeguarding the health and safety of those around you.
