Page Section – Quick-links

Choose your own path to DPF Cleaning independence

Choose your own path to DPF Cleaning independence

There are 2 DFP Cleaning methods we have systems for: Thermal and Aqueous.
Each method has different strengths and benefits.

Consider each DPF Cleaning option to see which one is a good fit for your fleet. Ask yourself some of the key questions we ask to better understand each customer’s situation.

Then get educated on some common DPF Cleaning topics such as why and how often.

Finally, learn about Filtertrak, a powerful software tool to easily manage all your DPF Cleaning service data in one place

Let’s get started…

There are 2 distinct DFP Cleaning methods we have systems for: Thermal and Aqueous.
Each method has different strengths and benefits.

Start by considering some key questions and explore each DPF Cleaning process to help decide which one is for your fleet.

Then get educated on some common questions about DPF Cleaning such as why and how often.

Finally, learn how you can use Filtertrak, a powerful software tool to easily manage all your DPF Cleaning service data in one place

Let’s get started…

Which DPF Cleaning process is right for your fleet?

We can help you answer this question based on the unique needs of your fleet. Factors to consider include the types of filters your trucks have, duty cycles, driving conditions, off-road vs on road, etc. Whatever your needs are we’ve got you covered. 

Explore the 2 main types of DPF Cleaning systems below.

  • Ultra-fast turnaround time (hours not days).

  • No need to cut filters open.
  • Wash & dry odd-shaped filters with ease.
Aqueous DPF Cleaning System for fleets by Filtertherm
  • Predictable results from the time-tested cleaning method.

  • Capacity to bake multiple filters at a time.

  • Prioritize safety and control
Thermal DPF Cleaning System for fleets by Filtertherm

Key Questions to consider when looking at DPF Cleaning methods.

A: If you answered YES, the Aqueous DPF Cleaning method has the capacity to clean and dry filters in as little as 2 hours.

A: If so, Aqueous DPF Cleaning better accommodates odd-shaped filters using adapters without the need to cut open the filter.

A: If so, then you want to use the Thermal method which features the Filtertherm DPF Oven – which is designed to bake numerous filters at a time.

A: – The Oven was designed to be safe & user-friendly, the outer skin has an air pocket, during use, we blow air around this pocket to keep the outer skin cool to the touch.

The oven is designed to be used by authorized users only, each trained user is assigned a password, and only persons with a password may operate the oven. The passwords are further tracked so you can identify who was using the oven and when. The door is controlled electronically to only open below a certain temperature threshold.

A: – The Thermal system is limited by the physical size of the oven (34” x 36” x 34”), depending on the size of the filters to be cleaned, you may be limited to 6 or more filters to be baked overnight.

The Aqueous system will allow you to clean up to 20 filters in an 8-hour shift.

A: – Yes, the thermal system oven is designed with a dry-out cycle, this allows you to remove the liquid portion of the contamination. After a dry-out, the filter can then be cleaned as normal using either the thermal or aqueous systems.

Note: if a catalyst has been oil or coolant soaked the filter will lose its ability to regenerate, therefore rendering it as no good.

Not sure which DPF cleaning process is right for you?

Check out this infographic to help you compare both DPF Cleaning methods. Also, see where each piece of equipment fits into the flow and what it does.

DPF Cleaning Methods compared infographic

Get educated on DPF Cleaning best practices

Having the right DPF Cleaning Equipment for your fleet is just the beginning.

You don’t need to “reinvent the wheel”

A key element is also using the correct cleaning process. Establishing and following the right process for each filter is the best way to ensure consistent, predictable results for your fleet.

Without this, you’re at the mercy of external DPF cleaning facilities. You can either hope for the best or have rock-solid confidence in your own in-house cleaning operation. Your choice.

Filtertherm Logo - DPF Cleaning Machines and Systems

The Filtertherm® team has spent nearly 15 years cleaning tens of thousands of filters. We’ve extensively fine-tuned and tested the process in our own DPF Cleaning facilities.

We are happy to share this knowledge with you and can even provide training for your technicians.

Why Clean your own DPFs?

A DPF (diesel particulate filter) is designed to catch & oxidize soot (unburned fuel/lube oil) and turn it into ash. The ash is pushed to the bottom of the filter and stored there. Over time it builds up and requires cleaning. With the cost of some new DPFs soaring to over $12,000, routine maintenance is key.

Filtertherm Logo - DPF Cleaning Machines and Systems

Being proactive & in control of your fleet service intervals can drastically decrease downtime and service expenses. At the same time increasing operational efficiency and profit. Thus, it’s important to regularly inspect, clean, and track your filters, not only to preserve the functionality of each filter but to save on fuel and protect your engines.

How often should you clean your DPFs?

There have been many myths and misconceptions about aftertreatment systems. Some people think you can just ignore them until the dreaded “derate”. Others think you can base all emissions servicing on the OE specs alone. That’s just not the case in the real world.

OE service recommendations are between 200,000 – 300,000 miles, or 4500 hours – whichever comes first. Aftermarket manufacturers of DPFs recommend cleaning at 50,000 – 70,000 miles, or 1,000 hours – whichever comes first. These numbers are generally overly optimistic and presume perfect operating conditions.

Based on our experience, Filtertherm® recommends servicing your DPF at least once a year. Removing the soot regularly will help extend the life and performance of your fleet’s aftertreatment systems and engines. Hardened ash build-up in the system restricts the flow and often causes unnecessary engine issues or failures.

It’s vital to establish a maintenance schedule that also takes into consideration the real-world driving conditions of the vehicle. Trucks that are run in stop-and-go traffic or high idling situations often need dpf cleanings at closer intervals.

Proper DPF maintenance is key to a healthy truck & in turn a HEALTHY FLEET.
Made in the USA - Filtertherm DPF Cleaning machines

Designed and Built in the USA

Designed and Built in the USA

Filtertrak - DPF Cleaning Service Tracking Application logo

DPF Service Tracking Software

FILTERtrak™ custom-built, cloud-based, searchable software tool for Fleets and DPF Cleaning facilities.

FILTERtrak™ stores before/after filter pictures, vehicle info, filter info, cleaning records, and more.

FILTERtrak™ is responsive making it simple to use & view all your DPF service data on multiple devices!

Get a FREE 1-year subscription to FILTERtrak™ (a $1,200 value) with the purchase of any Filtertherm DPF cleaning package.

Visit the FILTERtrak™ website to learn more.
Contact Wayne to learn more about DPF Cleaning machines from Filtertherm

Find the right DPF Cleaning solution for your FLEET.

Give us a call. Get Answers.

Use our ROI tool to see how quickly this investment can save your fleet time and money.

Schedule a meeting with Wayne Cochrane, our National Sales Manager.