What Is a Water Fed Pole? How It Works, Benefits, and the Best Brands to Buy
Whether you’re a professional window cleaner or someone researching tools for starting your own cleaning business, you’ve probably come across the term “water fed pole.” It might sound fancy, but it’s actually a game changer in the world of exterior window cleaning.
At The Cleaners, we use water fed poles every day because they let us clean high windows safely, quickly, and with amazing results. We don’t need ladders, and we don’t leave spots behind, just crystal clear glass that dries perfectly on its own.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what a water fed pole is, how it works, the pros and cons, and why so many cleaning pros swear by it.
What Is a Water Fed Pole?
A water fed pole is a long, telescoping pole that delivers purified water to a brush at the top, allowing you to clean windows, solar panels, and other exterior surfaces from the ground. The best part – no ladders needed.
The water flows through a hose inside the pole and sprays out through jets in the brush head. This setup is used with pure water systems that remove minerals and contaminants from tap water so the glass dries spot free, without the need for drying or wiping.
Two major brands that sell both water fed poles and purification systems are Tucker and Xero by WCR. These companies offer complete setups including DI tanks, RO systems, and replacement filters, so you can run your system efficiently and reliably. Whether you’re just starting out or upgrading your equipment, these brands are trusted by professionals worldwide.
How Does It Work?
Here’s the basic flow:
Water purification system (like RO/DI or DI tank) removes impurities in the water.
Pure water is pumped through a hose to the pole.
Water flows up to the brush, which you move over the window.
The brush agitates dirt and debris while the pure water rinses everything clean.
The water dries naturally with no spots because it’s completely mineral free.
Benefits of Water Fed Poles
1. Stay Safer on the Job
You can clean windows up to four stories high without ever leaving the ground. That means no ladders, no lifts, and way less risk of falls or injury.
2. Work Faster and Smarter
Water fed poles let you clean more windows in less time. Most pros find they can finish jobs twice as fast compared to traditional methods.
3. No More Towels or Squeegees
Because you’re using ultra-purified water, the windows dry spot-free without wiping. This cuts down on time and guarantees a streak-free finish.
4. More Than Just Windows
You can also clean solar panels, signs, awnings, glass railings, and even light-duty siding with the same setup. It’s one system that does it all.
5. A Professional Image
Showing up with a WFP system tells your customers you invest in quality equipment, care about safety, and know your craft. It’s a strong first impression that builds trust fast.
Downsides to Consider
1. Upfront Cost
A full WFP setup (pole + purification system) can cost anywhere from $800 to $3,000+.
2. Learning Curve
It takes practice to get good technique—especially avoiding drips and streaks from poorly flushed frames.
3. Maintenance
You need to maintain your purification system, replace filters, and keep hoses in good shape.
4. Not Ideal for Inside
Water fed poles are designed for exterior work only. You’ll still need traditional tools for indoor jobs.
Who Should Use a Water Fed Pole?
Residential and commercial window cleaners
Solar panel cleaning services
Pressure washers adding window cleaning
Entrepreneurs starting a low-overhead service business
If you’re expanding your cleaning business or want to offer a high-end, efficient solution, a WFP system is one of the best investments you can make.
Is It Worth It?
If you’re serious about exterior window cleaning, a water fed pole setup is more than worth the cost. It’s safer, faster, and delivers better results with less physical strain. Once you master it, you’ll wonder how you ever worked without it.
So whether you’re just doing your research or ready to level up your cleaning game, the water fed pole is a tool that will pay for itself many times over.