Keeping wreckers clean and professional looking is part of maintaining a good business reputation. An important part of lightbar maintenance is keeping it clean.

However, the cleaning methods used will vary depending on the components used on our wreckers. For instance, lightbar lenses have specific cleaning requirements depending on the manufacturer. The general steps for cleaning your lightbar are as follows:

1. Wet lightbar with gently running water

2. Use a mild, soapy detergent with a soft cloth to wipe lightbar clean

3. Rinse lightbar with running water and use your soft cloth to remove water spots

Below are excerpts from the owner’s manuals of several of our lightbar manufacturers.

Whelen: Clean the outer lenses of a Whelen lightbar with only soap and water. Do not use any other cleaning products. Using any other cleaning products or solvents, may cause damage to the lenses.

When cleaning, use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub away any dirt or debris from the lenses. Rinse the lenses with clean water and then dry completely with a soft, lint-free cloth. Use of other chemicals could result in premature lens cracking (crazing) and discoloration.

Lenses in this condition have significantly reduced effectiveness and should be replaced immediately. After cleaning, inspect and operate this product regularly to confirm its proper operation and mounting. Do not use a pressure washer to clean this product, as it can damage or scratch the lens.

PSE Amber: Clean your lenses with clean water and a soft cloth. Alternatively, use Code 3® lens polish and very soft paper towels or facial tissue. Because plastic scratches easily, cleaning is recommended only when necessary (about every six months). Do not subject the lenses to car washes that use brushes as these will scratch and damage the lenses.

Federal Signal: Crazing (cracking) of the lenses will cause reduced effectiveness of the light. Do not use cleaning agents (which will cause crazing) such as strong detergents, solvents or petroleum products. If crazing of lenses does occur, reliability of the light may be reduced until the lenses are replaced.

Ordinary cleaning of the plastic lenses can be accomplished by using mild soap and a soft rag. Should fine scratches or haze appear on the lens, they can be removed. Remove with a non-abrasive, high-quality, one-step automotive paste cleaner/wax and a soft cloth.