How much water does a water-fed pole use per window?

A water-fed pole typically uses 2-6 litres per window depending on the flow rate setting and window size. At a flow rate of 2 L/min with 2 minutes per window, each window uses about 4 litres. Efficient operators who brush first and rinse briefly use less.

What flow rate should I use?

A flow rate of 1.5-3 litres per minute is standard for water-fed pole work. Lower flow rates save water but take longer per window. Higher flow rates speed up cleaning but drain the tank faster. Most systems have an adjustable flow controller — set it to the minimum that gives good results.

How much does pure water cost to produce?

If you produce your own pure water using a DI vessel or RO system, costs are approximately 2-5p per litre depending on your local water hardness and system efficiency. In hard water areas, DI resin depletes faster, increasing costs. RO systems are more cost-effective for high-volume users.

How far can a water-fed pole reach?

Standard water-fed poles reach 2-4 storeys (up to about 12m). Extended poles can reach 5-6 storeys. Carbon fibre poles are lightest and most rigid at height. For buildings above 4 storeys, specialist access equipment or abseiling is usually required instead.

CleanCalcs

Water Fed Pole Calculator

Calculate water usage and flow rate for water-fed pole window cleaning.

Number of Windows

Total windows to clean

Time per Window

Including brush and rinse

Flow Rate

Litres per minute

Tank Capacity

Van tank or backpack

How We Calculate This

How the calculation works

Water usage is calculated from the number of windows, time per window, and flow rate.

Formulae

Total time = windows × minutes per window

Total water = total time × flow rate (L/min)

Tank refills = total water ÷ tank capacity

Pure water cost = total water × £0.03/litre

Pure water production cost is estimated at 3p per litre (DI/RO average).

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Calculators

Window Cleaning Solution Calculator

Calculate the correct mix ratio of water and cleaning solution for window cleaning.

Squeegee Size Calculator

Determine the optimal squeegee blade width for different window sizes.

Glass Area Calculator

Calculate total glass area from window dimensions and quantities.

Window Count Estimator

Estimate total window count for a property by building type and size.

Window Solution Mix Calculator

Work out the exact volume of pure water additive for window cleaning solutions.

Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities and timings for your specific situation.