Bike Shop Essentials – the Ultrasonic Cleaner

First, how much and how often do you need ultrasonic cleaning? Models range from those with less than a gallon capacity to those with tanks large enough to fit car parts in. Generally, the smaller the ultrasonic cleaner, the less it will cost. However, don't automatically home in on the bargain bucket, but bear in mind how much and how frequently you're going to need it as well.

Second, some models come with a temperature controller. There will be different optimum temperatures for cleaning different components, materials, and for removing different kinds of dirt. For cleaning bike parts, 160°F is usually considered optimum. However, consider exactly what you're cleaning and what cleaning solution, if any you're using. There's a world of literature suggesting what temperatures are best for what application, and the best place for you to start is probably the manual.

Finally then, many types of cleaning solution exist for different applications. Some have more aggressive chemistries than others. Choosing between chemistries is often a balance of cleaning power versus preserving the items to be cleaned (if for example they're delicate). Washing-up liquid is a good start to determine whether or not you will need a specialized cleaning solution for your specific application.