WHAT SIZE UNIT DO I NEED AND SHOULD IT BE A HOT OR COLD WATER MODEL

There are three major factors to compare in order to find the right pressure washer selection and size:

Difficulty of the cleaning job:

Depending on how difficult it is to powerwash the dirt from an object or surface and also depending on what type of dirt is being removed, you should determine the size of the machine. If you use a cart pressure washer to powerwash a car or boat , or maybe for patio cleaning, purchase a small to medium size pressure washer, but, if you use it to remove oil, grease and fuel spills, then you will need a larger hot high power washer.

Frequency of use:

If you plan to pressurewash and use the equipment frequently, you should choose one with high ratings in order to increase efficiency and minimize time. Smaller washers are suitable for short and less frequent jobs. Larger washers are right for bigger jobs with frequent use. If you plan to use the powerwasher for less then 20hrs/year you will need a residential size unit. If you plan to use it around 30hrs/week you need to consider a commercial pressurewasher. Finally, if you know that you will be using it for 40hrs/week or more you will need to invest in a heavy duty industrial pressure washer.

Cost:

Machines with greater PSI and GPM cost more. In addition, hot water pressurewashers are more sophisticated and more expensive than the cold-water pressure washers. Some cleaning jobs require plenty of water and very little pressure, and some require a very high pressure and less water. Depending on the type of the job you will be performing you have to make a decision on what washer is most suitable for completing the job most effectively.
Not sure if you need a cold or a hot water pressure washer?

Once you have determined what applications you will be performing with your power washer you will then be able to decide what type of unit you will need to purchase. Here is a general guideline for what the cold and hot water units are considered to be best for:

Cold Water Power Washers

Cold water units are best suitable for car, deck, patios, sidewalks, houses, roofs and truck power washing. Also, if you have a car washing or an airplane pressure washing business cold water power washers are the best machines for the job.

Hot Water Powerwashers

On the other hand, hot water pressure washer models are excellent for oil, grease, and fuel spills, and for sanitizing. Hot water pressure washers are also the best choices for places such as garages, industrial plants, agriculture machinery, service station areas, food processing plants, farms, malls and airports.

TIPS AND SUGGESTIONS FOR PRESSURE WASHERS

Using a pressure washer can save so much time and energy on cleaning most any surface. Weather you’re a professional pressure washer, car detailer, farmer or homeowner you know the benefits of owning a pressure washer. Pressure washers for the home have become increasing popular over the past years, however the quality of these units leave much to be desired. Our commercial quality pressure washers will last 5-10 times as long as a homeowner type. By spending a little more up front you can save yourself thousands in the long run. Here are some tips that will help you maintain your machine and prevent damage to you and the surfaces you clean.

When using chemicals always follow the manufacturers directions. Never run bleach or any type of acid through your chemical injectors. When switching to your chemical tip always check to see that your O-ring is seated properly before inserting the tip. If the O-ring is in a bind or missing, chemicals may be able to spray back towards your face. Always where eye protection when applying chemical or pressure washing.

To understand the amount of power needed for any given job, stand away from the surface six feet, pull the trigger, and slowly walk towards the surface you are cleaning. Once you see the desired effect taking place that is the range you will want to work from. This simple step will give you a reference point for proper cleaning and will prevent damage to the cleaning surface.

You will want to perform routine maintenance on your machine to prolong its life. Change your engine oil every 50 - 100 hours with the recommended oil for your machine. Change your pump oil every 150 - 200 hours with a NON-DETERGENT oil as recommended by the pump manufacture.

When using a hose reel in order to extend the life of the reel unroll the hose all the way. By doing this you relieve the pressure from the core of the reel. On a hot water machine you will not only relieve pressure but also eliminate heat build up on the reel and your hose.

Bleach can be a great cleaner, however you should never use bleach on wood, shingle roofs, or around delicate landscaping of grassy areas.

If you are planning on pressure washing greasy or oily areas you should definitely use a hot water machine. The heat will emulsify the oil allowing the water volume to carry it away. With a cold water machine oil will actually thicken and stick to the surface making it even worse. For normal dirt a cold water machine works fine.

Adding a hot box to an existing cold water pressure washer is a great economical way of creating a hot water pressure washer, and installation is simple.

If you own a shop and don’t plan on moving your pressure washer an electric model can save you time and money on energy costs. You never have to add fuel, and running an electric machine is cheaper.

Here are a few uses and recommendations on tip selection. Keep in mind most machines also come with a 65° Black chemical/soap tip as well. This is the tip you will need to make your chemical injector work.

Pressure Washing Tips Overview
0° Spray Tip – RED - This tip is not recommended for wood applications, its stream of water is to narrow and concentrated. This tip would be ideal for concrete, and metal.
15° Spray Tip – YELLOW - This tip is for heavy duty cleaning or stripping. You can use this tip for cleaning concrete, loose paint, and driveways.
25° Spray Tip – GREEN - This tip is for general cleaning purposes. You will find yourself using this tip for your deck, siding, and your car.
40° Spray Tip – WHITE - This tip has the least amount of impact. The white tip is great for rinsing, cleaning out your gutters, and other sensitive jobs.

NOTICE: My Pressure Washers and/or the author of any listed instructions on this website are in no way and/or can not be held responsible for any damage and/or injury to any person, pressure washer, or property being pressure washed by anyone attempting to perform the recommendations contained herein. Always read the product manual and use your pressure washer in a safe manner.

FAQ'S OF PRESSURE WASHING

FAQ’S OF PRESSURE WASHING

What is pressure washing?

Pressure washing is the application of high pressure water to remove tough dirt, grease, and grime. A Pump, along with a spray tip creates a restriction that generates a pressure in some cases powerful enough to cut through concrete. Pressure washing is a valuable means of cleaning surfaces at incredible speeds and coupled with the right accessory such as a flat surface cleaner or rotary nozzle can make your experience much faster with a lot less effort.

What’s more important, water volume (GPM) or pressure (PSI)?

Both GPM and PSI are very important for the optimum performance for a pressure washer. The pressure lifts the dirt and the water volume carries it away. The more GPM the faster it carries the water away.

What should I do with my machine in the winter?

If you live in a climate where it is below freezing you will want to run an antifreeze mixture through your system before you store it away at night. The ideal condition is to store your machine in a climate controlled building but not all of us can do that. The mixture should be 50/50 antifreeze and water.

Should I remove the fuel from the tank when storing my pressure washer?

It is always best to remove the fuel for storage. If you do not plan on storing your pressure washer for longer than a month you can add a fuel stabilizer mixture. You should never store gas inside your garage or home.

How much high pressure hose can I use?

The recommended length is anywhere from 50’ to 100’ however you can use more. If you choose to use over 100’ you may notice some drop in pressure.

What do the different color nozzles mean?

0° Spray Tip – RED - This tip is not recommended for wood applications, its stream of water is to narrow and concentrated. This tip would be ideal for concrete, and metal.
15° Spray Tip – YELLOW - This tip is a heavy duty cleaning or stripping tip. You can use this tip for cleaning concrete, loose paint, and driveways.
25° Spray Tip – GREEN - This tip is for general washing purposes. You will find your self using this tip for your deck, siding, and your car.
40° Spray Tip – WHITE - This tip has the least amount of impact. The white tip is great for rinsing, cleaning out your gutters, and other sensitive jobs.

How often should I replace my nozzles?

This depends on how much time you use your machine. A good rule of thumb is if you notice a gradual lose in pressure you should replace that tip. Not all tips will wear out in the same amount of time.

How do I clean a clogged nozzle?

Remove the nozzle from the end of your wand, using a small piece of wire like a paper clip clear the clog. Flush water through the nozzle and replace it on your pressure washer. If it is still partially clogged try again.

What type of oil do I use in my pump?

You want to use Non-detergent oil. You should always refer to your owner’s manual to understand what type Non-detergent oil and the weight the manufacture recommends.

I have a hot water supply, can I run this through my pump?

No, incoming hot water can damage the seals in your pump. If your pump exceeds 145 degrees the thermal relief valve will pop to protect your pump and it will need to be replaced.

What does by-pass mean?

This allows the pump to circulate water so there is no pressure and heat build up inside the pump when the trigger of the gun is not squeezed, however if you leave your machine in the by-pass mode for longer than two minutes you may risk overheating your pump. The best rule of thumb is if you are not using your pressure washer turn it off you will not only save your pump, you will also save on costly fuel.

What is a thermal relief valve?

The thermal relief valve is a safety device for your pump. It will keep the pump from burning up if left in the by-pass mode for too long. This device is set to the maximum pump temperature rating usually 145 degrees. If the valve pops you will need to replace it but remember you just saved your pumps life.

Why doesn’t my chemical injector work?

First check the chemical injector to see if you are using the chemical tip that comes with the machine, in most cases this will be your black tip. If you are using the right tip you may be using to much hose. If you are using over 100’ use a shorter piece of hose and this should correct the problem.

If you have any questions and to see the latest in equipment http://www.mypressurewashers.com/

PRESSURE WASHING A DRIVEWAY

PRESSURE WASHING A DRIVEWAY

Dirt, oils and tire marks are all enemies of your driveway. As you drive you will collect all sorts of unmentionable road debris, depositing it onto your driveway. Your kids may play there and you will certainly track this dirt right into your home. Instead of spending hours with a broom and hose try a commercial quality pressure washer. Our 13HP Honda pressure washer could easily save you hours of unnecessary scrubbing and your back. Using chemicals can also reduce the amount of time you spend caring for your driveway.Concrete driveways will require the most PSI with a recommended minimum off 2500 PSI. Your water volume GPM is also an important factor; this is what carries the loose dirt away. Keep in mind a larger machine with more PSI and GPM will significantly shorten your cleaning time. Asphalt and other driveway surfaces may require less pressure than concrete. You may want to test your power in an inconspicuous area prior to pressure washing your driveway.

Start by removing cars, bicycles, and anything else that may get in your way. You can pretreat oil stained areas with a good degreaser, being sure to follow all directions. The most effective spray tip will be your 15° tip giving you powerful concentration. Connect your machine to the appropriate water source and then turn your machine on. Start pressure washing at the highest point of your drive way, which will usually be next to your house or garage, this will allow dirty water to flow away from your house. Using overlapping strokes continue down your driveway until you have removed all of the dirt build up. Certain areas may require more time than others depending on the amount of dirt buildup. Give your driveway a final rinse and allow to dry 24-48 hours before applying any sealers or paint.

You may want to consider using a Flat Surface Cleaner which will save you and your back anenormous amount of time and will do away with the zebra striping effect you get when you usea wand. To see latest in equipment and get advice visit www.mypressurewashers.com

THE DO'S AND DON'TS OF PRESSURE WASHING

THE DO’S AND DON’TS OF PRESSURE WASHING

PRESSURE WASHER DO’S

Test your pressure washer on a small section of the object to be cleaned and make sure that the pressure is adjusted correctly. Make sure you are using the right tip for the job, and the spray will not cause any damage to the surface you are about to clean.

Check your engine and pump oil levels on a regular basis and before starting your machine. Read the owner’s manual for the correct type of oil for both the motor and the pump.

Store your pressure washer in a well ventilated area. If the area is unheated, winterize your pressure washer to avoid damage caused by cold weather.

Keep your body parts and other people’s clear of any high pressure stream. Pressure washers are extremely powerful machines and need to be operated in a safe manner.

Pay strict attention to the distance the spray tip is away from the surface. If the tip is too close to the object you can cause damage to the surface.

Wear protective safety gear such as goggles or gloves for the job you are performing.
Use pressure washing accessories to make pressure washing jobs go easier.

Clean your chemical injector by running fresh water through it after every use.

PRESSURE WASHER DON’TS

Don't leave the pressure washer running while unattended you can cause damage to the pump.

Don’t add fuel or oil while the machine is running.

Don’t lend your pressure washer to anyone who is not familiar with its proper usage.

Don’t run your pressure washer for longer than one minute without pulling the trigger.

Don’t point the wand at anyone, even if the machine is turned off there may be trapped pressure in the hose.

Don’t pressure wash windows you can break the glass or ruin the weather seals.

Don’t use caustic based products or bleach with your chemical injector it can damage it beyond repair.

Don’t use hot water with your cold water pressure washer it can cause severe pump damage.

Don't spray towards any part of your body or towards another person.

How to select a pressure washer

HOW TO SELECT A PRESSURE WASHER

While a garden hose and some detergent and elbow grease will get the job done, there is nothing like a pressure washer to take the pressure out of all sorts of chores: preparing patio furniture for storage, degreasing the grill or cleaning oil stains from the garage floor.
There are three things to consider when buying a pressure washer, water pressure, gallons per minute and price.

Water pressure, expressed in pounds per square inch, can range from about 1,500 p.s.i. to 4,000 or more for commercial washers.

Gallons per minute is the volume of water a machine produces at a given pressure. For household and commercial units, the gallons per minute ranges from one to four.
As for price, pressure washers range from less than $100 for electric units to $1,000 and more for large gasoline-powered washers.

When choosing between electric and gas, consider how you want to use the machine. You can get decent performance from an electric washer, but they’re not very convenient because you have to run a cord to it. That’s fine for washing the car, but it gets old really quickly if you’re going to be scooting around the house.

Consumers often believe that “bigger is better” when buying a pressure washer. That is not the case, because there is an optimum pressure and flow for each job.
For example, someone who wants a pressure washer primarily to clean a car should buy a machine that has relatively low pressure 1,000 to 1,500 p.s.i.

On the other hand, someone who wants to pressure-wash siding, strip paint or clean a patio or sidewalk should choose a unit with higher pressure 3000 - 4000 p.s.i.
Some pressure washers allow the user to vary the pressure, most homeowners will be satisfied with a fixed-pressure unit of 1,500 p.s.i. to 2,800 p.s.i. while commercial users like the higher p.s.i. of 3,000 to4,000 and up.

The detergent used will make a difference in how the machine performs, too. Pressure washers work best when combined with chemical cleaners. There are different cleaners available for different jobs, and there is a lot of price competitiveness. But if you buy the least expensive cleaner, it’s going to perform like the least expensive cleaner.

Anyone who uses a pressure washer should remember that it’s an aggressive machine. “With a high-pressure washer, you can carve your name in a wood deck or even break a window.”
Used carelessly, pressure washers can also inflict injury. These machines are extremely powerful, never point a pressure washer at yourself or anyone else.

Since most washers come with an assortment of tips that deliver different spray patterns, users should pick the least aggressive tip that will get the job done.
We suggest using the 40-degree nozzle first, referring to the tip with the broadest spray pattern. Test a small portion of the surface first.

All kinds of attachments are also available, brushes, rotary nozzles, and gutter cleaning attachments to name a few, and a flat surface cleaner ($169.00 and up) is good for cleaning large areas like decks, sidewalks or patios.

Storing the pressure washer properly is extremely important and if done correctly will give years of care free service. For a look at the latest equipment visit http://www.mypressurewashers.com/