Pressure Washers

1. GAS-POWERED vs. ELECTRIC-POWERED: WHICH POWER SOURCE IS BEST?

Gas Powered pressure washers are normally more powerful than electric powered pressure washers. High water pressure levels are ideal for cleaning large areas and removing tough stains. They are typically very portable, and therefore commonly found in industrial settings. Gas-powered pressure washers must only be used outdoors due to carbon monoxide emissions.

Electric Powered pressure washers are lightweight and conveniently used around the home, or for light industrial projects. They are limited in cleaning power production, but are very safe and extremely efficient. They are ideal for cleaning patio furniture and cars. Electric powered pressure washers can be used either indoors or outdoors and are extremely quiet. Electric powered pressure washers are designed for occasional use, typically about 2 hours per week.

Diesel Powered pressure washers are ideal for heavy-duty industrial applications. They will typically produce more PSI and offer greater cleaning power than electric or unleaded gas powered pressure washers.

Natural Gas and Liquid Propane powered pressure washers are also available. These fuel sources are typically much cleaner than gas units and operate very quietly.

2. CLEANING POWER, PRESSURE, and FLOW
You’re probably familiar with the fact that water pressure is measured in PSI (pounds per square inch). PSI measures how much force a pressure washer is able to produce in order to propel its water stream. However, contrary to popular belief, a pressure washer’s PSI rating is not the best indicator of its overall effectiveness. You must also consider the water flow, which is measured in GPM (gallons per minute). The GPM identifies the amount of water a pressure washer uses.
Total pressure washer power is expressed in CPU (cleaning power units). CPU is the best indicator of a pressure washer’s overall performance. The relationship between PSI and GPM determines a pressure washer’s total cleaning power. To calculate a pressure washer’s total CPU, simply multiply its maximum PSI rating by its GPM flow. It is important to keep this equation in mind:
PSI x GPM = CPU
Don’t be fooled – more PSI doesn’t necessarily mean more cleaning power. For example, a 2,500 PSI pressure washer that uses 2.5 GPM generates 6250 CPU, while a unit with only 2,200 PSI and 3 GPM generates 6600 CPU.

3. HOW MUCH CLEANING POWER DO I NEED?
The size and capability of your ideal pressure washer depends on your particular application. Generally speaking, pressure washers with higher CPU ratings clean faster and more efficiently than smaller models. However, you don’t want to have too much power; a water stream that is too powerful could potentially damage the object you’re cleaning.
You should also consider how often you’ll be using your pressure washer, and how much time you’re willing to spend on each project.

4. HOT WATER CLEANING vs. COLD-WATER CLEANING
Hot water pressure washers are quicker, more thorough, and overall more efficient than cold water units. Hot water pressure washers are ideal for large areas or areas with stubborn grease and oil stains. Hot water pressure washers can produce water streams up to 200° F. The combination of heat and high water pressure emulsifies and breaks down dirt very effectively. You can also add soap or degreasers to intensify the cleaning power. Hot water units are preferred for commercial settings and heavy-duty cleaning around the home.
Cold water pressure washers are usually compact and easily portable, making them ideal for light projects around the house. They are typically less complicated to use as well as less expensive than hot water units. However, cold water pressure washers typically require more time and effort. They also require more soap or degreasers than hot water units.

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS

How do pressure washers work?
Pressure washers connect to a standard garden hose (or another water source). Their engine, high pressure hose, and nozzle all work together to create an accelerated water stream which can be about 50 times more powerful than a garden hose.

How much horsepower do I need?
If you are unsure about choosing the right sized engine for your pressure washer, just keep this in mind: a higher horsepower engine is required to produce higher PSI and higher GPM, resulting in more CPU.

What does a pressure washer “plunger” do? Do I want Ceramic or Non-ceramic?
The plunger is the part that rapidly moves back and forth within the pressure washer pump to actually create the high pressure water stream. Ceramic plungers are much more efficient and will extend the life of the pressure washer. Non-ceramic plungers will ultimately wear down, and hinder the overall performance of the unit.

What type of attachments do I need?
You should consider using brush attachments or various sized nozzles to help break down and remove stubborn stains and other unwanted build-up.
This guide is designed to provide the information necessary to narrow down your search for the perfect Pressure Washer, but if you have any unanswered questions or concerns, give us a call! We’re happy to help.