Pressure Washer Buying Guide

Questions to Consider When Buying a Pressure Washer

Pressure Washers

Pressure washers are available for all levels of use from the weekend warrior projects to heavy-duty commercial applications. Below are a few questions to consider before purchasing.

• What are you planning to clean?

Cars, trucks, patio furniture, sidewalks, fencing, garage floors, driveways and houses are candidates for pressure washing. However, each doesn’t share the same cleaning requirements. You should purchase a pressure washer that best serves the projects you're looking to accomplish.

• Is time a factor?

There are many pressure washer accessories available to help cut down the time of a job. Our rotating surface cleaner is 12 inches wide with dual-rotating jets that spin rapidly, breaking up dirt without streaking.

• Do you need a pressure washer for commercial use?

For commercial use, use a pressure washer that has a triplex pump. Pressure washers with triplex pumps have a longer life expectancy and are more efficient than axial cam pumps.

Pressure Washer Glossary

• Pounds per square inch (PSI) are the measurement of water pressure. The greater the psi, the better the cleaning efficiency.
• Gallons per minute (GPM) refers to the water flow rate. Look for a combination of psi and GPM to deliver cleaning power. High pressure with little water flow isn’t effective.
• Cleaning unit (CU) is the water pressure multiplied by the water flow. A higher number means more power.
• Gasoline engines are measured in horsepower (HP). Electric motors are measured in amperage (amps). More HP, or amps, means more power.
• Pressure washers are available in a choice of two pump-drive methods: direct drive and belt-driven. Heavy-duty, belt-driven pumps offer more durability and efficiency.
• The high-pressure pump is the core of any pressure cleaning system. Some pressure washers use plunger-type pumps because of their high-pressure capability and compactness. More plungers result in smoother flow.
• The nozzle, or tip of the washer, performs the actual cleaning. The spray angle of the nozzle can be adjusted to fit the cleaning need. The wider the spray, or fan, the lower its ability to cut through dirt. A zero-degree nozzle provides intense power. Fan angles of 15 to 25 degrees cover larger areas, combining stripping and washing power. Fans of 40 degrees or more are generally used for simple washing. Rotating nozzles are used for some cleaning applications.

Pressure Washer Safety

Depending on what you’re cleaning, each application has its own specific procedure. Here are some general things to remember:

• Always use the correct nozzle. Using a nozzle that concentrates too much power can harm some surfaces, especially wood.
• Use the chemical recommended by the manufacturer. Most manufacturers have detergents and waxes approved for use in their equipment. Different formulas are available for houses, decks, degreasing and car washing or waxing.
• Start from ground level rather than on a ladder when cleaning a house. Use accessories, such as spray-arm extensions and brushes, for this type of project.
• Cleaning results vary based on:
  • Whether or not you use detergent
  • How far you're from the surface being cleaned
  • How high the water pressure is
  • How wide you set the spray angle

Pressure washers are equipped with safety features designed to reduce pressure buildup. Unloaders and thermal relief valves prevent heat and water pressure from reaching dangerous levels. An oil-level indicator ensures that the washer stays properly lubricated.