Waterfed Pole Cart 1.0 Build: Pure Water System for Spot-Free Cleaning
As you launch your pressure washing business, adding window cleaning can diversify your services and increase earnings. A waterfed pole system enables efficient, spot-free cleaning by filtering water to TDS (total dissolved solids) below 10, eliminating mineral residues for flawless results without manual drying. This original 1.0 cart is a sturdy, high-capacity design with a larger carbon filter, DI tank, and robust cart—perfect for beginners seeking reliability. Though heavier than our 2.0 version, it's built for demanding jobs. Assemble yours to build skills and offer premium window cleaning confidently.
Cart Comparison: Version 1.0 vs 2.0
Version 1.0: Sturdy with higher capacity components for durability.
Version 2.0: Lighter with downsized parts for easier mobility.
How the System Works: Reducing TDS for Spot-Free Results
The cart filters tap water to TDS below 10, avoiding spots as water dries. Elevated TDS causes buildup; low TDS delivers pristine surfaces. The stages are:
- Charcoal (Carbon) Filter: Eliminates chlorine and debris, extending RO membrane lifespan by blocking chlorine that could erode it over time.
- RO Membrane: Pushes water through a fine filter, drastically lowering TDS (90-95%) by isolating clean water from contaminants. Purified water moves forward; waste exits through a discharge port to the ground.
- DI Resin Tank: Finishes purification with ion-exchange: Resin captures charged particles (like magnesium or sulfate), exchanging them for harmless hydrogen and hydroxyl ions that form neutral water molecules.
Always check TDS at the start of each job. Replace DI resin as needed.
Schematics
Parts List
Main Components
- TDS Meter
- Simpure 4x10 Filter Housing
- Carbon Filter (2pk)
- Axeon 4x40 RO Membrane
- Stainless RO Membrane Housing Kit
- Xero DI Tank
- Hand Truck / Dolly / Cart (This dolly is a lighter weight option than the one in the video. We’ve used it on WFP cart 2.0 and it’s been great)
- Xero Pro 30 Waterfed Pole
- Alternative Pole - Tucker 30ft Carbon
Barbs and Fittings
- 1 NPT to 3/4 GHT Adapter
- 3/4" PVC Elbow - MNPT to FNPT
- 3/4" NPT to 3/4" Barb
- 1/2" NPT to 3/4" Barb
- 3/4" Spigot
- 3/4 Female GHT to 1/2" Barb
- 3/4 GHT to 3/4 Barb
- 1/2" PVC Plug
Hoses
Hardware
Tape and Sealant
Step-by-Step Build Process
This original design offers a robust foundation for pure water production, suitable for beginners venturing into window cleaning alongside pressure washing. It's heavier than 2.0 but provides higher capacity. Gather tools like wrench, screwdriver, heat gun, and Vaseline. Follow these steps (from transcript and online best practices):
- Prepare Carbon Filter: Insert CTO carbon filter into 10x4" Simpure housing. Add 1" NPT to 3/4" GHT adapters on inlet/outlet with thread tape. Mount bracket to cart frame using hardware and 3/4" wood spacer; apply bedliner spray for waterproofing.
- Assemble RO Membrane Housing: Lubricate O-rings on caps with Vaseline. Insert Axeon 4x40 membrane (bottom without O-ring first). Secure caps with clips, tightening bolts evenly for balanced pressure.
- Fit Inlet Cap Ports: Plug 1/2" port with PVC plug. Add 3/4" elbow (MNPT to FNPT) and 3/4" NPT to 3/4" barb for water inlet from carbon filter.
- Fit Outlet Cap Ports: Add 1/2" NPT to 3/4" barb for clean water. Use 3/4" spigot for discharge control (adjust to 4:1 reject:pure ratio for efficiency).
- Mount RO Housing: Use straps and flush mounts on cart crossmembers. Ensure secure but removable for maintenance.
- Connect Plumbing: Inlet: Garden hose to carbon filter (female GHT). Outlet from carbon: 3/4" poly hose (barb + clamps) to RO inlet. RO clean outlet: 3/4" poly hose to DI tank. RO discharge: 3/4" female GHT to 1/2" barb for waste hose. DI outlet: Quick connect to 5/16" tubing for pole.
- Assemble DI Tank: Insert Xero DI cartridge. Mount with bracket; ratchet strap for easy resin replacement.
- Test System: Connect hose, run water. Adjust spigot for flow (60-65 PSI ideal). Measure TDS (<10 for spot-free); verify no leaks.
This setup balances cost and performance; for lighter alternative, see 2.0 guide. Integrate with waterfed pole like Xero Pro 30 or Tucker 30ft Carbon. How to build a waterfed pole cart for custom setups.
Watch the Full Build Tutorial
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