Pressure washer buying guide :

Not all pressure washer are designed for the same purpose. You shouldnot use a washer with car or bike that is designed for cleaning deck. In other words, the emitting power is different for different pressure washer.

Pressure washers are built for cleaning. Almost always, the water pressure is enough to remove the dirt but sometimes you need to use detergents, especially for vehicles. In this post, we will explore few points that will be helpful for you to choose the right one.

How to read the power of a pressure washer :

Emitting power of a pressure washer is measured by Pounds per square inch(PSI) and gallons per minute(GPM). PSI is the pressure that the machine can deliver and GPM is the amount of water flow. PSI helps you to understand how powerful the washer is and the GPM is to indicate how much surface area it can clean.

One more term used in pressure washer is cleaning unit(CU). Both PSI and GPM are important factors while considering a pressure washer. Cleaning unit is the product of both.

Compare the cleaning unit value of different models to find out the powerful one.

Types of pressure washer :

Mainly, we can divide pressure washers in two categories based on their power source :

a) Electric pressure washer and b) Gas pressure washer

Electric pressure washer :

Electric pressure washers are small in size, less costly, quiter and easy to move models. These are ideal for home.These washers are mainly used to clean window, vehicles,mold,furniture and other light duty jobs.Electric pressure washers are not powerful as gas pressure washers and the power range normally lies between 1300 to 1800 PSI with 1.5 GPM. These washers are fumeless and ideal for indoor use. It doesn't mean that you should use this washer to clean items anywhere you want !

Always go through the manual provided with the package. You need to keep it connected to a power source and you may need to use it with a extension cord. If extension cord is required, use the same type as mentioned in the manual or check the product website.

Avoid touching the washer switch if you hands are wet. Turn off the main switch before and keep the power connection dry.

Gas pressure washer :

Gas pressure washers are designed for heavy duty tasks. They are powerful and you can use almost anywhere without the need of a power connection. This also avoid the problem of electric shocks. Gas pressure washer can deliver much higher throughput as compared to electric washers. Standard gas pressure washers are normally 2000 to 3000 PSI models with 2.5 GPM.

They are used for clearning driveway or sidewalks. Professional gas pressure washers can deliver upto 4000 PSI with up to 4.0 GPM. These are used for serious heavy duty jobs like industrial cleaning, graffiti removal,cleaning concrete walls etc.

Setting up a gas pressure washer is easy.Always read the owner's manual before using it for the first time and keep the fuel as mentioned.

Pressure washer assessories :

1. Spray nozzle :

Spray nozzle is the main part to handle the intensity of the spraying water. Nozzles are vary from brand to brand. Most manufacture provides five universal color coded nozzles : red, yellow, green , white and black.

The Red nozzle emits water at zero degree i.e. this is the most powerful among all. It is designed to use only on hard surfaces.

The yellow nozzle delivers water at 15 degree. Use it on floor, driveway , gutters etc. It is less powerful than the red nozzle but still it can damage delicate items.

Gree, white and black nozzles can deliver at 25 degree, 40 degree and 65 degree respectively. The black one is the least powerful and it can cover the largest area.

Few pressure washer brand also provides one all-in-one nozzle. With this nozzle, you can twist and change the spray pattern.

2. Onboarding storage :

Extra storage on the pressure washer is required for keeping all of your accessories. You will not use the washer everyday and keeping everything at the same place is a good habit.

3. Handle and wheels :

You will have to keep moving the pressure washer. A good pair of wheels and a handle will make this easier for you.

Maintenance :

Maintenance process is not same for different models. Always go through the manual before using a pressure washer.

  • Before using the washer, make sure that the equipments are connected securely.
  • Test the spray gun and keep the electric wires off the ground.
  • Never operate a gas pressure washer in indoor area.
  • If any part got damaged, check the manual before trying to change it on your own.
  • After using a pressure washer, keep it clean. Run water continuously for few minutes to remove all detergents.
  • Keep it dry. Drain all water from the washer after use.
  • Keep cleaning debris of the cooling vents.
  • If you are storing it for a long time, keep it protected with a dry cover.
  • Always keep it in a dry area and away from any heat source.