Pressure Washers - FAQs

Many questions about pressure washers may exist before making the investment. Of course, the purchase process may seem simple, but these cleaning machines come with different degrees of pressure and a variety of features that set them apart from one another. Finding out what those differences are and how they apply to certain situations can make the buying process much easier.

The following are frequently asked questions about pressure washers with answers that may help you in the buying decision:

Question:
How much pressure do I need?

Answer:
For industrial use, the average pressure per square inch, or PSI, for an industrial project is 3000 PSI. This strength will remove viscous substances from floors. However, lower pressure at 1600 PSI or 2000 PSI will also be effective in removing oil and grease, as well as cleaning dirt and dust from surfaces. If you will be stripping surfaces, then you will want PSI upward of 3000.

Question:
How much flow do I need?

Answer:
The flow is important for rinsing horizontal surfaces. If cleaning vertical surfaces, you will need a low flow pressure washer with high PSI. Flow is what pushes dirt across a horizontal surface. If you will be cleaning a surface with dirt that comes off easily, you will need a unit with high flow and that means the PSI will be lower.

Question:
What are the differences between hot and cold pressure washers?

Answer:
Cold water washers can clean many surfaces and objects through the spray pressure and/or the application of cleaning agents. Cold water is effective in areas that are not soiled with grease or oil, but this does not mean that grease and oil cannot be removed with cold water. If the grease and oil is very thick, then hot water may be best. Hot water loosens sticky substances the same way it does when washing dishes. It is effective in loosening dirt, oil, grease, gum, and other viscous substances.

Question:
What is the difference between belt drive and direct drive?

Answer:
Belt drive is best if the pressure washer is going to be heavily used. If you will need to use the washer for 40 hours or more per week, belt drive can handle the load. If you will be using the device for 30 hours or less, direct drive may suit you better and tend to be a lower cost alte
ative.

Question:
What fuel source should I choose?

Answer:
You have your choice of electric, petrol, and diesel. Electric is ideal for indoor use because those using petrol or diesel emits exhaust and exhaust indoors can be dangerous. Petrol and diesel are better used outside or in well ventilated areas with diesel fueling models with very high pressure and the ability to work long and hard, but petrol also fuels models with PSI that can range from 2000 to 4300 for small to large jobs.

Now you should have a better idea of the different options that are available on pressure washers. They are effective in cleaning a variety of surfaces without damaging the surface itself when the right PSI is used. Fortunately, there are many models available with different fuel sources to fit your unique purpose, so choosing the right one is made much easier for you.