Broadcast on Commercial Appliances

Host Introduction

• Mike Reed: Host, technician with 32 years of experience
  • Began career in family’s appliance business in Chicago
  • Broadcast is interactive, encourages questions

Guest Introduction

• Charles Payne: CP3 Ice, specializes in commercial ice machine cleaning
  • Based in Houston, Texas
  • Services both residential and commercial ice machines
  • Known clients: Galleria Mall, former mayors, CEOs
  • Father to three sons

Discussion Points

Charles Payne's Background

• Salesman for an ice machine company for 12 years
• Transitioned to independent business after a long conversation with Mike Reed
• Emphasized the importance of stepping out on faith
• Stressed the importance of quarterly cleaning for ice machines

Importance of Quarterly Cleaning

• Work comes back faster, less labor-intensive
• Clients more likely to stick to regular schedule
• Ensures ice machines are well-maintained

Business Strategy

• Pricing: Charge adequately to ensure profitability
  • Residential: Around $550 for one-time cleaning
  • Commercial: $800 to $1000 for one-time cleaning
  • Aim high to avoid being stuck with low-paying clients
• Customer Service: Always provide a thorough job to avoid complaints

Challenges and Solutions

• Technical Difficulties: Initial struggle with getting Charles on the stream
• Marketing and Advertising: Mostly word-of-mouth, passing out literature, and Google presence
• Client Management: No pricing over the phone to avoid being undercut

Tools and Equipment

• Basic cleaning tools: nickel-safe cleaner, bucket, sponges, sanitizer, basic hand tools
• Emphasized not overstocking on supplies initially

Training and Certification

• Importance of attending manufacturer classes for certification
  • Locations like Jacksonville, FL regularly have training classes
• Certification builds trust with clients

Service Calls and Warranty Issues

• Charge for service calls and travel time
• Warranty only covers manufacturer defects, not cleaning or adjustments
• Encourage clients to understand what is and isn't covered under warranty

Geographic Considerations

• Different strategies for different regions, especially in cities like Chicago
• Importance of scheduling and managing travel time

Audience Questions and Answers

• Various questions about pricing, tools, scheduling, and client management

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

• Mike Reed emphasizes the importance of running a business professionally
• Charles Payne highlights the profitability and satisfaction in his niche market

Next Broadcast: Thursday evening, focusing on further topics related to commercial appliances.