Pressure Washers

Adjustable Spray Wand: Some pressure washers are equipped with a spray wand that allows you to adjust the angle of the water stream.

CPU (Cleaning Power Units): Total pressure washer power is expressed in CPU (cleaning power units). CPU is the best indicator of a pressure washer’s overall performance. The combination of 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. (CPU = PSI x GPM)

Detergent Injection System: Drawing detergents, soaps, or other cleaning agents into a pressure washer’s stream can intensify its cleaning capabilities. The combination of heat, water pressure, and cleaning detergents can prove to be very effective in eliminating stains and other unwanted build-up.

GFCI (Ground Fault Current Interrupter): Many electric-powered pressure washers include this feature which protects the user from electrocution.

GPM (Gallons per Minute): A unit of measurement that indicates the flow of water. It indicates the amount of water that is actually used during a one-minute period.

HP (Horsepower): Horsepower is a unit of measuring the working capabilities of a pressure washer’s engine.

OHV (Overhead Valve): A type of engine that has valves placed above the piston head. These engines are generally more expensive than other models, but are also longer lasting and easier to start. In addition, OHV engines produce low emissions and are extremely quiet to run.

OHVI: An OHV engine, more suitable for heavy-duty industrial applications.

PSI (Pounds per Square Inch): The measure of water pressure delivered by a pressure washer.

RPM: Revolutions per minute

Thermal Relief: A technique used to reduce the build-up of high temperature water within a pressure washer pump caused when the spray gun trigger is closed. This relief system prevents against internal wear and tear, and prolongs the life of the unit.