When you’re looking for a pressure washer, you’ll want to find one that’s durable and reliable. There are a variety of options to choose from, including gas, electric and heavy-duty models. Each can be purchased with different features, accessories and concentraion solutions.
Gas-powered pressure washers
If you want a reliable pressure washer to get your home clean, then you should consider gas powered models. They are generally more powerful, quieter and versatile.
Gas pressure washers come with a variety of nozzles. Some models offer quick connect nozzles, which enable you to change spray patterns quickly. You can also buy accessories from independent manufacturers to make cleaning harder jobs easier.
While you’re shopping, look for features such as a heavy duty garden hose. Many of the top-rated models have onboard detergent tanks, which save you the hassle of having to carry separate containers.
The type of octane you use should also be considered. For example, Premium gas is better than regular gasoline, but it doesn’t do much for small power washer engines. Similarly, ethanol in the fuel should be less than 10%.
Depending on the model, you may need to replace the spark plug. Make sure to follow the owner’s manual for more information.
In addition, the right amount of oil is important to cool the pump. Adding oil can help keep the engine lubricated and prolong the life of the machine.
Gas-powered pressure washers can also be noisy. During use, the average unit produces over 85 decibels. It is a good idea to wear hearing protection.
When you’re in the market for a new pressure washer, make sure to read the owner’s manual. Not following the instructions can cause damage to the machine.
The best way to store your pressure washer’s gas is in a locked can. Ideally, it should be stored in a cool, dry area and not left out for more than 30 days. Moisture can collect in the can and damage the machine’s internal parts.
Electric pressure washers
When it comes to cleaning your driveway, walkways, deck, grills, cars and shutters, pressure washers are a great option. These machines use an electric motor that is very quiet when running. They are also easy to maintain. You can choose from a range of models, from the light-duty ones to the heavy-duty, commercial-grade models.
Light-duty pressure washers are compact and lightweight, making them ideal for cars, patio furniture, and grills. The pressure of these machines is generally between two and four gallons per minute (GPM), which is enough to clean a small area, such as a driveway.
Medium-duty machines generate between 2000 and 2800 PSI, which is enough to clean concrete and exterior siding. Typically, you need three to four gallons of water per minute to complete these tasks. Compared to electric machines, gas-powered models offer more power and greater durability.
For heavy-duty tasks, you need a pressure washer that has a PSI of at least 2,800 psi. Gas-powered models are much heavier, so you should make sure to take safety precautions and wear protective clothing.
Pressure washers come with a variety of accessories. Many come with multiple nozzles, allowing you to choose the angle at which you want the spray to reach. Depending on the type of pressure you need, you may also be able to get specialty attachments that allow you to clean a certain surface.
Some tow-behind machines are equipped with extended reach wands, sandblast attachments, and rotating nozzles. With these accessories, you can remove years of dirt, grime, and grease from your vehicle’s exterior.
If you need more pressure than a battery-powered model can provide, you can rent a pressure washer from Home Depot. Rentals are available for 1,400 to 2,500 PSI. Cost is around $35 a day.
Heavy duty pressure washers
If you want to clean your home or business’ exterior surfaces, you should consider a pressure washer. These machines have the power to blast away barnacles, graffiti, and even paint. They can also be used to prep surfaces for painting.
You can choose between gas powered and electric pressure washers. Gas powered machines are usually more powerful. However, they can produce smelly fumes, and you may need to make trips to the nearest gas station. Electric models are much lighter and require little maintenance.
Light duty pressure washers are best for cleaning patio furniture, cars, and trash cans. Some models have adjustable nozzles, which are useful for adjusting the spray pattern.
Professional models are designed to tackle heavy-duty tasks. These units have a high-pressure pump that can reach up to 4,000 PSI. In addition, they offer a wide variety of nozzle tips. The nozzles follow a universal color-coding system to indicate spray angles.
When deciding which model is right for you, it’s important to consider the pressure washer’s power, cost, and features. Purchasing a machine that’s overpowered can be a waste of money. And some people recommend starting small, rather than spending too much.
Light duty pressure washers are generally more affordable than their medium-duty cousins. They also have better ergonomics and ease of use.
Medium-duty units have all of the features of light duty models, but can handle larger areas. You’ll be able to remove stubborn stains, and they’re not as likely to splinter wood.
Lastly, gas-powered pressure washers are best for cleaning asphalt driveways, siding, and sidewalks. They are also more portable than their electric counterparts. But they can be noisy, require regular maintenance, and you’ll need to be close to a gas station for refills.
Concentrated solutions
Pressure washer concentrated solutions are used to enhance the cleaning power of your pressure washer. The chemical cleaners in these products break the bond of heavy dirt, grease, and grime. They also remove rust, algae, and road film. These chemicals are perfect for industrial equipment, oil rigs, and kitchen equipment.
To use these concentrated solutions, you must first dilute them with water. After a few minutes of work, you should rinse the surface with clean water.
If you are looking for an economical way to make your pressure washing job easier, consider using a concentrated detergent. These solutions are available in a variety of strengths. There are also special concentrates for soft wash systems. In addition, many are eco-friendly.
Concentrated detergents are formulated to work better on specific surfaces. You can choose from degreasers, alkaline cleaners, and acidic cleaners. It’s important to look for a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to learn more about the ingredients in the product.
Using a concentrated solution for your pressure washer is more economical than using diluted soap. However, it is also important to make sure that the solution is compatible with your machine. For instance, some detergents are designed for cold water pressure washers, while others are for hot water pressure washers.
One of the most popular concentrated solutions is Simple Green. This multi-purpose cleaner is designed to help slow the return of mold and mildew on a variety of surfaces. It is also environmentally friendly, since it does not contain petroleum solvents.
Pressure washer concentrated solutions are great for restoring outdoor surfaces. When diluted properly, they can create up to 20 gallons of cleaner per gallon. But you will need to test your surface to ensure it is compatible with the chemical.
Accessories for pressure washers
If you are looking to boost the cleaning power of your pressure washer, you will want to invest in the right accessories. They will increase your output and make the job easier and more convenient. In addition, the proper accessories will also protect the surfaces being cleaned, which is important if you are working on delicate surfaces.
A pressure washer gauge is an attachment that is attached to the pressure washer wand and is used to measure the amount of pressure being exerted. This can help you determine whether or not the pressure is too high. It will also let you monitor the performance of your pressure washer.
Another useful pressure washer accessory is the water broom. It is an attachment that is designed to clean large flat surfaces with a strong stream of water. These types of accessories are especially helpful if the surface has a lot of dirt.
You can use an extension wand to reach even taller objects. The wand extends up to 20 feet. Extension wands can also be used to wash vehicles.
Another pressure washer accessory is a soap nozzle. Soap is added to the stream of water before it reaches the surface, which helps to remove grime and stains.
There are also a number of different brushes for use with your pressure washer. Depending on the type of surface you are cleaning, you may need stiffer bristles to help get the job done.
Other pressure washer accessories include hose reels and nozzles. Hose reels can be mounted on walls in a wash bay to keep your hoses and the pressure washer neat and tidy.
Snips are another handy pressure washer accessory that can be used to wedge under tight fitting components. When used correctly, snips can help you get the job done faster and with more accuracy.
