Sometimes the problem isn’t the whole plant, it’s one filthy fitting letting the rest down. Spot cleaning targets high-risk areas prior to running a full system wash.
Note: IF manual spot cleaning in a vat, it must be undertaken with serious caution when removing the spot deposits. Be aware of the safety cautions when entering a vat and that it is not OSH approved. Such as turn off power, wear PPE, take vat door off, have a safety person standing outside vat, never enter the vat without confined space training and equipment, use approved Agmax alkali and acid chemicals.
What You’ll Need
Agmax Alkali and Agmax Acid (suitable for manual cleaning and sanitising)
Hot water
Bucket or spray bottle
Designated dairy cleaning brushes or cloths
Gloves, safety gear and PPE
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Identify the problem area
Use your inspection notes or grade test results to pinpoint where the issue might be.
Typical hot spots include: jetters, rubberware, inlet seals, receiver bowls, vat lines, milk filter housing, sensor probes, vat door seals, stirrer paddles, walls and floors.
Note: The milk line that runs from the milk filter to the vat is often overlooked for spot problems. Make sure you check that this line is spotlessly clean with no deposits.
2. Prepare your cleaning solution
Mix Agmax Alkali as directed on the label.
Use hot water. You want effective cleaning.
3. Dismantle if needed
Take apart any fittings or parts you’re targeting.
The more exposed the surface, the better your clean will be.
4. Scrub thoroughly
Use a clean brush or cloth that’s only used for dairy equipment.
Scrub all milk-contact surfaces until visibly clean.
Focus on joins, threads, seals, and dead ends where gunk hides.
5. Sanitise
Apply a sanitising solution of Agmax Acid to the cleaned area.
Recirculate for at least 8 minutes.
6. Rinse with cold compliant fresh water.
Once spot washed with alkali and then acid
Flush or wipe with cold, clean water until all chemical is removed.
Don’t leave any residue behind.
Let the line drain fully before milking.
When to Spot Clean
After a grade result points to one area
After replacing parts
If visual inspection shows residue or biofilm
Between scheduled full washes
Pro Tips
Don’t use the same brush for different areas, especially not the vat and the receiver.
Store brushes clean and dry. Do not leave them soaking in a bucket.
If a spot needs cleaning more than once a week, you’ve got a deeper issue to fix!