Cleaning drones are turning specialized equipment into a business model

The commercial cleaning industry is entering a period in which specialized robotics can become part of the business itself rather than simply another piece of equipment.

For entrepreneurs, that creates a different entry point into the market. Instead of building an operation around ladders, lifts and traditional exterior cleaning equipment, operators can use aerial systems to reach portions of commercial buildings while keeping more of the work on the ground.

The Apellix Power Wash B2 is one of the systems being positioned for that market. The aircraft has a manufacturer published maximum flight time of 32 minutes and maximum working height of 195 feet. SkyPSI uses the B2 as the core hardware for its drone cleaning operation.

But buying or accessing a drone is only one part of building a commercial cleaning operation. Operators still need training, a ground system, insurance, customers, safety procedures and a process for turning individual jobs into recurring commercial relationships.

That is where operator programs are becoming a different category from simply purchasing equipment.

Apellix B2 Operator program

SkyPSI’s Operator program is built around the Apellix Power Wash B2 and is designed for people who want to operate an independent commercial cleaning business. The program starts at $3,000 per month and includes the B2 flight kit, training and front line support. SkyPSI also says qualified operators receive a guaranteed paid commercial job.

The model is structured so that the operator builds the local customer base and owns the commercial relationships, while SkyPSI provides equipment access, training, operational support and marketing assistance. The company describes the program as an alternative between purchasing equipment outright and joining a traditional franchise.

The economics also depend on what an operator already has. SkyPSI estimates that someone starting from scratch can face roughly $40,000 to $90,000 in total launch requirements depending on the existing truck, cleaning rig and other infrastructure, while an established cleaning business can have a lower incremental investment.

The program therefore is not simply an Apellix B2 rental. It is a business model built around putting commercial drone cleaning equipment, training and support into the hands of independent operators.