Basics When Choosing a Pressure Washer

What is a pressure washer — every motorist knows. Pressurized water allows the washing in the most gentle “non-contact” way. The flow of water at the outlet of the nozzle has a speed of more than 100 m/s (360 km/h) and simply knocks dirt off the surface — in contrast to the classic method of washing with a damp sponge, in which dirt particles embedded in the sponge rub against the surface of the body, scratching the paintwork.

Nevertheless, despite all the usefulness of such a device for pressure washing Spokane WA, even 10 years ago, buying a high-pressure washer was rather pointless — they cost so much that they paid off only with continuous operation. Therefore, they were bought mainly by car washes, as well as professional cleaning services. that offered different pressure washing locations.

Today, the situation has changed dramatically, the reduction in prices for pressure washers has made them affordable for any enthusiast. The ubiquity of pressure washers has even made it possible to find several non-standard applications for this device. In addition to the usual, it allows power washing:

  • cars and bikes;
  • garden paths, walls, and fences;
  • garden tools.

Pressure washers were capable of:

  • spraying chemicals over kitchen gardens and garden trees (models with a liquid intake from the tank);
  • cleaning surfaces from old paint and rust (with a special nozzle);
  • cleaning of sewer pipes (with a special nozzle);
  • and even peeling fish and new potatoes.

Types of pressure washers

Despite the absence of fundamental differences in design, mini-washers are usually divided into three classes:

  1. Compact entry-level mini-washers most often have pumps made of plastic, create a pressure of up to 120 bar and, strictly speaking, are not suitable for washing cars — the jet pressure is not enough to wash off stubborn dirt. Their productivity is low — up to 400 l/h. Such mini-washers are best used for washing bicycles, garden equipment, and paths.
  2. Mid-range washers remain fairly light and compact but are capable of delivering pressures up to 150 bar and running continuously for 1 hour or more.
  3. High-level mini-washers and high pressure pumps are more likely to be professional equipment. They create a pressure above 150 bar, have a capacity of 600 l/h, can work for a long time without shutting down, and are typically equipped with additional options, such as water heating or a separate tank for detergents.

What design features can a pressure washer have?

A water tank can be built into the body, which allows the equipment to work without being connected to the water supply. A filter can be installed in the washer. The fine filter removes particles smaller than 150 microns in size from water. The coarse filter purifies water from sand and large particles.

The pressure washer can have wheels, thanks to which it is convenient to transport equipment from one place to another. A special handle on the body facilitates the transportation of the washer. Some models may have a storage compartment for accessories such as nozzles.