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Why do drain pipes need to be cleaned?

Managing the water balance on land often gets attention again when the suffering has already been suffered, or in other words: during the dry periods everyone forgets that there will be a wet period again. This can cause major problems in the spring when the land has to be tilled or during the harvest in the autumn.

When you have experienced such a situation, you look for a solution. This is often the construction of a drainage system. It is often then forgotten that this system also requires periodic maintenance:

• are the outlets still free?
• have the drainage pipes silted up due to flushing?
• did root growth cause blockage?

It is therefore important to carry out periodic checks and maintenance so that the drainage system can continue to do its job optimally.

Cleaning drainage = managing the water balance!

• The soil reaches a better temperature, among other things, for germination
• An extension of the growing season and the harvest period
• Less chance of damage to the crops during extreme rainfall
• A better harvest (quality and quantity)

In March Sieger paid a visit to Kor Schutter at his farm in Sint Annen, Groningen (NL). He explained the process he went through before deciding to buy a new drain cleaner and shared the main reasons he ultimately chose a Sieger Drain-Jet. We got it all on video to help others who find themselves in the same situation. He also told about his experience with both the machine and the provided service: the major factors behind this farmer’s choice were the excellent price-performance ratio and extensive functionality included as standard with all Sieger drain cleaners. Ultimately he decided the Drain-Jet WR model was the best fit for his needs.

Why clean drains?

In order to keep the fields in the best possible condition and to ensure a good harvest, it is important for Schutter to have good working drainage. The fields in Sint Annen consist mainly of clay soil on which, for the most part, wheat is grown. Partly due to the properties of the clay soil, the drainage pipes must be cleaned regularly. The seepage of the silty clay into the drainage pipes gradually reduces their effectiveness. The washed-in clay restricts flow in the drainage pipes and can even result in complete blockage. These blockages can cause problems such as ponding on fields which greatly reduces the crop yield.

Rationale behind new drain cleaner

The old drain cleaner no longer met the current requirements, so it was time to start looking for a new machine. Kor Schutter compared drain cleaners from several providers based on a number of his key points. Firstly, the flushing hose had to be long enough to be able to clean the drains. He learned that Sieger supplies its machines with a 500-metre hose as standard. The position of the arm was also important. The hydraulically foldable arm on the Sieger Drain-Jet is located on the left side, close to the tractor, so the machine can be easily operated from the cab. Above all, the most important point for the Groningen farmer was certainly the price-quality ratio – and it was soon clear that Sieger gets high marks in that regard. Because the Sieger machines include every functionality one would expect from a good drain cleaner, at a very competitive price.

Reservations about ordering online

Naturally there were also some reservations about ordering such a machine online. Kor Schutter felt the trepidation one always has before making a major purchase: “It’s not just a loaf of bread you’re buying from the baker!” But these concerns were quickly allayed by the good contact with Sieger. Questions were answered quickly and the customer was kept well informed about the progress of his order. All in all, ordering online proved a very good choice for the farmer.

Good working drain cleaner

Having now had the opportunity to put the drain cleaner to use, Kor Schutter is more than satisfied with how well the Sieger Drain-Jet works. The WR’s wireless remote control, in particular, makes operating the machine a piece of cake. Positioning the hydraulic guide arm in front of the drain pipe is done with ease from the comfort of the tractor cab. Because drainage pipes are often cleaned during rainy periods this is an important advantage.

All things considered, Kor Schutter is yet another satisfied Sieger customer.

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Sieger has a unique approach as a manufacturer, offering a web shop where both the drain cleaners and parts can be ordered directly. This means that potential customers now have the option of ordering the drain cleaner directly, from the manufacturer’s website. But Sieger naturally also understands that there are customers who would like to order a drain cleaner at a rock-bottom internet price yet would first like to see the machine in person.

To give potential buyers the opportunity to see the machine – possibly in action – Sieger works with promoters. These are current users of the Sieger Drain-Jet who are so enthusiastic about the drain cleaner that they are happy to provide potential buyers with information and help them make their choice.

The big advantage of this is that you get to hear the story of someone who has actually purchased and uses the machine. So you get more than just information about daily use of the drain cleaner. After all, this user can also tell you what they thought of the purchase process and information they received. You can also expect to learn about aspects such as the first use and quite possibly any maintenance that has been performed.

Moreover, someone who has purchased the drain cleaner for their own use can tell you what considerations led them to choose the Sieger Drain-Jet. This means you hear the arguments of a buyer rather than a dealer who would love nothing more than to sell you something.

Depending on the promoter you choose to contact, it may also be possible to see the machine in action. And not in a special demo environment but rather in a real-world situation where the drain cleaner is used to clean the drain lines for which the Drain-Jet was purchased. But this naturally depends on whether the promoter has work for the machine at that time of year.

Are you a potential buyer interested in contacting a promoter for information about the Sieger drain cleaner or perhaps a demonstration? Then contact Sieger and we will be happy to put you in contact with a promoter near you.

View promoters

The Sieger promoter programme is a great success! Our promoters have already helped many visitors with interest in a drain cleaner during the last year. Because thanks to these promoters it is possible to see the drain cleaner in action outside the traditional showroom. Sieger promoters are just regular Drain-Jet users who are happy to show the machine to people considering buying one and are willing to share their experience. This is often invaluable for the prospective buyer. In addition, it is also very attractive to become a promoter yourself..

Besides being fun and educational, as a Sieger promoter you will enjoy many other benefits. If you indicate your willingness to become a promoter when you purchase a Drain-Jet, you can receive an attractive discount or a bonus in the form of extra parts or accessories.
In addition, as a promoter you also receive a nice incentive when a new customer indicates that they have purchased a new Drain-Jet thanks to you. This can either be a small gift or, perhaps, a credit on your account for parts.

From our promoters we are also hearing many positive stories about the visits. Sharing knowledge about cleaning drain systems is seen as very valuable for all parties. Tips about the use of a drain cleaner, especially those based on first-hand experience, are always welcome. In addition, this also often leads to valuable new contacts in one’s network.

Moreover, it is also the best way for interested parties to get the most candid information about the drain cleaner. You own the machine, after all, so you know exactly how it works. Therefore you can also provide real-world examples of the positive (or perhaps less positive) aspects of the Sieger Drain-Jet. This is almost certainly a more balanced perspective than a showroom sales pitch.

And any contact with an aspiring buyer also always goes through Sieger. You will find a map on our site that highlights all the places where we currently have promoters. Those interested in visiting a promoter can contact Sieger. Then we always ask you, the promoter, whether you are willing and have time to receive a visitor. It’s always up to you.

Are you interested in becoming a promoter for the Sieger drain cleaner? And would you also like to help other potential buyers by sharing your story? Then contact Sieger to discuss it, with no obligation, if you are considering purchasing a machine or have already done so. One hand washes the other!

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Monday 21 December 2020

With the Automatic Drive Stop function on the Drain-Jet, agricultural contractor Den Hartog from Culemborg (NL) can clean the drainage in a relaxing way.

Every Drain-Jet drain cleaner supplied by Sieger is standard equipped with all the functions the professional user needs. This includes four-wheel drive, the hydraulically extendable and collapsible arm and a 500-metre flushing hose. Sieger sees these as features that a modern drain cleaner simply should not be without. Not as optional extras. This means that every Drain-Jet also has an adjustment that automatically stops the drive in the event of stubborn blockage. Sieger calls this the Automatic Drive Stop function, or ADS.

After all, virtually everyone who cleans drain pipes is familiar with the phenomenon: a sizable accumulation or blockage that the nozzle does not pass through in one go at normal speed. If this is not detected in time, the drive of the flushing hose keeps running at normal speed and, thanks to the four-wheel drive, the special drive wheels do not slip either. When this occurs the flushing hose will try to find another way, possibly even jumping off the reel. But this can easily be prevented thanks to Sieger ADS.

ADS, from Sieger, is a fully mechanical function included as standard on the drive system of the Drain-Jet drain cleaner. It is adjustable, with the flow control valve located next to the valve block. This regulates not only the speed but also the power of the drive. And ADS can even be set so the drive can simply be stopped by grasping the hose with a hand. It can be adjusted so the drive stops or decelerates automatically in response to any resistance in the drain pipe. But the flushing function of the nozzle simply continues, and in many cases this extra flushing opens the way forward.

How ADS is used depends on the possible resistance, length and/or slope of the drain pipe. Because the speed is also adjusted by reducing the setting of the flow control valve, Sieger recommends doing this when there is a suspicion of heavy contamination in the drain system. Exactly how this works is quickly learned in the field. There are users of the Drain-Jet who almost always use the ADS, to their great satisfaction. An additional advantage is that the lower speed means more water passes through the system, flushing out contaminants such as sand, small particles and deposits. This ultimately results in a cleaner drain system.

In October, Sieger paid a visit to the Heckmann farm in Saerbeck, Germany. Last summer the company was looking for a good replacement for a 30-year-old Douven drain cleaner. Several requirements were: the new drain cleaner had to be at least as robust, easy to use and – of course – the price had to be right. Their minds were made up a few days later: it was to be a Sieger Drain-jet S.

Heckmann have a total of 32 hectares, and most of the land is drained with coconut fibre-wrapped plastic drainage pipes. Besides the fact that the ground has a high iron content, the adjacent canal is also a major influencing factor. This means that the drainage system must be cleaned regularly. The drainage pipes are flushed every other year, and the collecting wells every six months. If the drainage system were not cleaned regularly, the blockage of the system by iron oxidation in combination with the pressure from the canal would quickly make agriculture all but impossible.

Because a replacement for the old drain cleaner had to be found quickly, Heckmann began scouring the internet. After some online research Sieger came into focus. While the machine’s specifications speak for themselves, the company found the price very attractive too, and after brief contact the purchase was made. Payment was made via PayPal, which gave the buying party a few additional guarantees. Sieger delivered the drain cleaner to the company a few days later.

Heckmann have now been using the Sieger Drain-Jet S to their full satisfaction for some time. In addition to the drain cleaner’s enormous capacity, the easy operation is a particular plus point. Because an extra water tank is often used for the flush water, the fact that the Drain-Jet can also be used on a smaller tractor is an additional advantage.

Although they were a little nervous ordering online, Heckmann are now not only happy with the machine itself but also about the contact with Sieger and the information provided. Both the purchase and delivery went smoothly. And that is what Sieger strives for, nothing more and nothing less. Mr Heckmann essentially says the same thing himself: “Es ist ja einfach nur spülen.”

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Tuesday 13 December 2016

Besides developing and building robust, user-friendly machines, Sieger is also always hard at work improving the Sieger webshop. The aim is to make the whole process of searching, comparing and buying as clear and hassle-free as possible. Since we know our customers like to pay with their own preferred method, Sieger has recently added KBC and CBC, American Express and Carte Bancaire to the available payment methods.

The large Belgian banks, KBC and CBC, offer their own payment solution. Customers of these banks can use the KBC/CBC payment button to easily pay for their online purchases within their trusted online banking environment. The security of the transaction is guaranteed by the bank during payment. Another advantage is that customers can also use this payment method to pay at a later time.

We have recently expanded the credit card options to include American Express in addition to Mastercard, Maestro and Visa. American Express (Amex) is one of the largest credit card companies in the world. Therefore it is an often used payment option, both offline and online. There are strict security requirements for the processing of the data, and we do this via our secure SSL procedure.

The most commonly used card for online payments in France is Carte Bancaire. Previously this credit card was best known under the name Carte Bleue. From now on we are giving our French customers the option of paying with this quick, safe method too. Convenience and confidence are the key words in this regard!

Check out all the payment options here.

Thursday 24 November 2016

Interest in the Drain-Jet drain jetter from Sieger has also been growing in the media. The latest edition of the special interest magazine “Innovation & Entrepreneurship” from the newspaper ‘Akkerbouwkrant’ features an article in which our product specialist discusses maintenance of drainage systems and Sieger’s market position.

The newspaper ‘Akkerbouwkrant’ gives farmers a wealth of information on innovative developments concerning crop growing and opportunities for entrepreneurs. The November edition focuses on “Investment and Business Development”, with topics including soil management, investment, conversion and crop selection. The timing is perfect. Investing in a Sieger drain jetter now is an investment in a functioning drainage system, which is essential for good crop yields.

See the article with Sieger in the edition of ‘Akkerbouwkrant’

Translation of the article:

Drainage management – increasing the efficiency of crop yields

Many Dutch farmers have already invested in water management by installing their own drainage system. With a constantly changing climate, it has never been a better time to give drainage some serious thought, and not least because precipitation is becoming heavier and more extreme. “If you haven’t cleaned your drainage system properly, you’ll only know about it when things go wrong. That’s usually when you get heavy showers,” explains Sieger product specialist Martijn Geerdink.

Speaking directly to farmers on behalf of Sieger, Geerdink explains that drainage system maintenance is still too far down the list of priorities. “I try to raise awareness of the risks. A properly functioning drainage system ensures that your farmland remains usable. If your drainage system isn’t up to the task, then you run the risk of the land being under water for long periods of time, both while you’re working it and during the growing season. You then have a higher chance of your crops rotting. Water management is a crucial intervention in maintaining per-hectare crop yields. Investing in usable farmland during the 2017 cultivation and harvest season will automatically bring about an increase in the efficiency of your crop yield. This may seem a rather narrow way of looking at things, but any farmer who has ever had to deal with flooding on his land will welcome this approach”.

Visual inspections after every cultivation season
With the autumn period having been comparatively dry, the focus on maintaining water management systems has been slowly dwindling, but according to Geerdink, Sieger can be of great benefit to farmers at this time of year. “Harvest naturally dominates the summer months. But we recommend performing a visual inspection of drain jetters after each cultivation season, paying particular attention to the drive wheels. Aside from that, they are pretty much maintenance free. To stop things from freezing up, we also recommend getting cleaning out of the way before frostier temperatures set in. In this regard, November and December are the perfect months for carrying out this sort of work”.

Internet sales
All Sieger products have next-day delivery. “We don’t have a direct dealer network, rather we sell directly to end users over the internet. For farmers this means that prices are that bit lower than they would be at a dealer. We supply the product, the end user carries out the work. Sieger has deliberately chosen to launch a product that is easy to operate and without frills. It’s the only way for farmers to learn how to operate the machine without having much prior knowledge”.

The website gives customers more information about cleaning with the right pressure, an overview of options, causes of blockages and choice of nozzle. “Customers can choose from three models: Drain-Jet S, Drain-Jet HS and Drain-Jet WR. Each system has its own specific features, but all three are equipped as standard with a 500 meter flushing hose. In addition, all Sieger machines have a high-power water pump and drive with hydraulic motors. This gives all systems a huge cleaning capacity”.

Market leader
The Haaksbergen-based company aims to take over as market leader as quickly as possible. It’s an ambitious goal but, according to Geerdink, a realistic one. “We started internet sales a year and a half ago. Doing things this way makes us completely different to our competitors. The market for online sales of drain jetters is so large that we’re actually growing even faster than we had expected. We’re now supplying to the whole of Europe, but even so, we’re not at out limits. Sieger will continue to innovate. We’re currently working on development of a new nozzle for even more efficient cleaning. At the same time, we’re also looking at alternatives for drain jetter systems for use on sports fields”.

Akkerbouwkrant

Wednesday 09 November 2016

The Sieger drain cleaner has always been equipped with a high quality, 10-metre-long suction hose. A 15-metre hose was available as an option. Having discussed the matter with various users, Sieger has now decided to deliver the Drain-Jet with the longer, 15-metre suction hose as standard. When it comes to decisions like these, we at Sieger have always considered the feedback from our customers to be very important in helping us to make the drain cleaner as effective and user-friendly as possible.

Although the drain cleaner works perfectly well with a 10-metre suction hose, increasing the length to 15 metres is beneficial to the user in two important ways. Firstly, it is now easier to use the drain cleaner in combination with an external water tank as the source of flushing water. The second advantage is even more important: it is now possible to place the suction strainer in the water even farther from the end of the drainage pipe. This reduces the risk that the flushed-out contaminants are sucked in again.

Incidentally, we have also recently seen systems in which the suction hose is hung on the guide arm. Precisely because of the great advantage of placing the strainer free and as far as possible from the end of the drainage pipe, Sieger is naturally not in favour of this practice. In addition, it is always wise to pay attention to any flow in the water and place the suction filter on the clean side (upstream) of the drainpipe.

The suction hose is made of high quality materials, one of the benefits of which is continued flexibility even at lower temperatures. Drain cleaning is often performed during the winter, and this suction hose is suitable for use down to -25 °C! The choice of material also contributes to the ease of use, because the suction hose is therefore always easy to handle.

The new 15-metre-long suction hose is now supplied standard with the Sieger Drain Jet drain cleaner at no extra cost.

Discover the Sieger drain cleaners

Wednesday 19 October 2016

Sieger Drain-Jet jetting heads are known for being extremely effective and durable. The design of each specific jetting head ensures that it provides optimal cleaning, and the combined design and the quality guarantee a long service life. Moreover, Sieger locating systems are the most user-friendly and price-effective solutions available. To make these benefits available for all drain cleaners Sieger has developed a special adapter.

The drain cleaner jetting head adapter allows Sieger jetting heads with a 5/8″ threaded connection to be used on drain cleaners with a 1/2″ connection. This special drain cleaner adapter, made of tempered steel, matches the Sieger Drain-Jet jetting heads and locating equipment perfectly—in terms of both material and dimensions—and is therefore trouble-free in use.

Thanks to this adapter it is possible to use all the Sieger Drain-Jet jetting heads and drain locating equipment on drain cleaners from other suppliers. Now, for example, you can optimize your Homburg drain cleaner, which has a 1/2″ connection, with a Sieger jetting head. And for locating drain pipes and/or blockages the outstanding Tecta and Altra systems can now be used on both a 1/2″ and 5/8″ connection.

This means that Sieger technology is now available for every drain cleaner.
You can find the drain cleaner jetting head adapter here in the Sieger online shop.