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/