From Squeegees to Nano Filtration: The Evolution of Unger’s Window Cleaning Technology

Unger Enterprises Marketing | April 8, 2025

For over 60 years, Unger has been at the forefront of innovation in the window cleaning industry—consistently designing professional tools and solutions that enhance efficiency, safety, and sustainability. The story began in 1964, when Henry Unger, a professional window cleaner in Germany, set out to improve the tools of his trade. Armed with firsthand experience and a drive to solve real-world problems, he began developing better window squeegees and traditional cleaning tools—ones that were not only more effective, but also more ergonomic and built to last.

As the cleaning industry evolved, so did the expectations of professional window cleaners. Traditional methods—squeegees, chemical cleaning agents, and ladders—remained reliable, but also posed challenges in terms of safety, time efficiency, and environmental impact. We once again stepped up, pioneering the use of pure water window cleaning technology. This revolutionary approach allowed windows to be cleaned using only purified tap water—eliminating the need for detergents or harsh chemicals. This shift not only delivered a high standard of clean with zero streaks or residue, but it also significantly improved worker safety by reducing the need for ladders and minimizing chemical exposure.

Through continuous innovation in filtration and purification, we introduced industry-leading products like the HydroPower® DI and RO systems, which use deionization (DI) and reverse osmosis (RO) to produce pure water. These systems gave professionals a powerful, sustainable, and efficient cleaning option—ushering in a new era of water-fed pole systems and ground-based cleaning for high access windows and solar panel cleaning.

But we didn’t stop there. By listening closely to the needs of window cleaning professionals, we identified a critical gap in the market: the need for a compact, portable, and easy-to-use pure water system that could serve smaller jobs and/or highly mobile professionals without compromising on performance. That insight led to the development of the HydroPower® Nano—a lightweight, highly portable pure water system that combines Nano resin technology with the same cleaning power Unger is known for. Ideal for quick jobs, tight spaces, or professionals who need mobility, the Nano represents the next step in our commitment to responsive innovation.

From our humble beginnings with the squeegee to today’s cutting-edge pure water systems, our journey is rooted in one thing: supporting the evolving needs of professional window cleaners around the world.

The Latest Innovation: Unger’s HydroPower® Nano System

As the demand for more efficient and cost-effective pure water solutions continues to grow, we recently introduced the HydroPower® Nano System, a game-changing advancement in pure water technology. This system addresses critical gaps in the market by offering a powerful, economical, and easy-to-use filtration system that operates without electricity.

 

Key Features and Benefits of the HydroPower Nano System:

• Non-Power Driven Technology: Unlike traditional RO systems that require electrical pumps, the HydroPower Nano operates without power consumption, making it highly portable and cost-effective.
• Advanced Nano Membrane Filtration: This innovative filtration method efficiently removes impurities at a molecular level, ensuring a steady flow of high-purity water.
• Optimized Water Flow with the Flow Optimizer Dial (FOD): The integrated blend dial balances pressure and resin usage, extending resin life up to four times compared to standard DI systems.
• Reduced Wastewater & Improved Efficiency: The system minimizes water waste, making it an eco-friendly alternative to traditional RO systems.
• Compact & Portable Design: With a lightweight frame, large wheels, and built-in tool storage, the HydroPower Nano is designed for effortless transport and on-site organization.
• Pre-Filter for Enhanced Protection: Effectively removes chlorine, dissolved minerals, and sediments to prevent clogging and damage to the filtration system.

Bridging the Gap Between RO and DI Systems

The HydroPower Nano system is an ideal middle-ground solution between DI and RO technology. It provides the benefits of membrane filtration without the higher costs and power requirements associated with reverse osmosis, making it a practical choice for professionals who need efficient pure water cleaning without excessive operational expenses.

By leveraging cutting-edge nano membrane technology combined with an optimized resin filter, the HydroPower Nano offers an innovative, cost-saving approach for professionals and facility managers looking to enhance their cleaning capabilities while reducing environmental impact.

The Future of Pure Water Technology

As sustainability and efficiency continue to drive innovation in the window cleaning industry, systems like the HydroPower Nano will set new standards for performance and cost-effectiveness. With its low-maintenance design, extended resin lifespan, and optimized water usage, this system marks the next phase in the evolution of pure water cleaning technology. The HydroPower Nano System is a testament to how technology continues to refine and revolutionize pure water cleaning.