Frequently Asked Questions
How does it work?
Superheated steam is generated at a press of the trigger within the barrel of a gun applicator (steamgun), right on top of the target weeds. Steam output temperatures can be adjusted up to 550°C (1000°F), which causes immediate weed suppression. There are no heavy hoses or pressure boilers.
What happens to the weeds?
Superheated steam transmits heat immediately so weed control is very fast. Weeds are instantly cooked, they turn dark green and collapse, much like wilted spinach. Plant cells die at approximately 80°C, cell walls rupture and vascular systems shut down. They lose their structure and decomposition begins immediately. Most broadleaved weeds simply disintegrate and disappear in a day or two so cleanup usually isn't required.
Does it work on all weeds?
Yes, if treated early in their growth cycle, preferably before they exceed about 4". Broad leaved annuals and new perennials are very susceptible to steam, and grasses if not overgrown. If a follow-up steam treatment is applied about 3 to 4 weeks later studies show steam is as effective as Roundup. Well established old perennials will require more applications.
Will the weeds come back?
Nothing can permanently prevent weeds except highly toxic soil sterilants. We recommend a scheduled steam weeding program as part of an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategy.
What sort of locations are recommended?
The steamgun system is specifically designed for weed control on hard surfaces (pavement, concrete, pavers), especially environmentally sensitive public areas, such as:
- Municipal sidewalks and public building perimeters
- Highway medians, traffic islands and roadsides
- Schoolyards and Playgrounds
- Military Bases, Airports
- Commercial Parking Lots
- Sensitive Water Sides - paths by streams, lakes and harbours.
- Under chain-link fences and sidewalk tree gratings
- Lines on playing fields
How safe is steam weeding?
Superheated steam transmits heat instantly, much faster than flame, but condenses and cools quickly. This allows operators to eradicate targeted weeds without damaging vegetation or objects at the periphery. It can be used around trees and buildings safely. Steam won't cause fires (it extinguishes fires by displacing oxygen).
What is the environmental impact?
- Beneficial soil organism are unaffected.
- There are no residual chemicals or toxins left behind, only moisture from condensed steam.
- The steamgun system uses clean burning propane which dissipates if there was a leak. Water is the primary byproduct from burning propane.
- No energy is wasted, as all heat generated to make steam is directed on to the target weeds.
Costs?
The purchase price is a ½ to ¼ or less of the cost of truck-mounted hydrothermal weeders.
Contact us for current pricing.
Operational costs/consumables?
Propane fuel costs about $2/hour or $15 in an average full days operation.
The system uses 2 - 3 gallons of water an hour or 25 gallons/day.
The water pump is powered by a rechargeable (overnight) battery.
Operating time?
The water tank provides for 3 to 4 hours of operation.
The 20 pound propane cylinder will provide a full day of operation with a small reserve.
Limitations?
- Application isn't as fast as herbicides, but quicker than manual and flame weeding.
- Not recommended for large open areas. Best for linear weed control.
- Operation not recommended at air temperatures below 12°C (55°F).
Advantages?
- Highly portable - Operators can walk their "route" independent of a vehicle.
- Very low operating costs, using very little fuel and water.
- Simple to operate - add water, point and shoot. Pesticide applicators license not required.
- Safe- no fear of pesticide exposure, chemical drift, waterway contamination or lawsuits.
- Operational in wind and light rain.
- Easy to maintain, simple design, very few moving parts.
- Versatile - quick release wheels allow mounting on small vehicles such as "Quads" or "Gators".
- Convenient - no pesticide inventories to maintain, store, and record. Just add water.
