Pressure washers are trendy equipment that works not only in professional but also at-home applications. Thanks to them, the consumption of water, energy and most importantly, time is limited. The use of a pressure washer allows for effective and convenient surface cleaning - usually without the use of detergents. Before buying this device, it's worth learning how it works and what parameters to look for when choosing it. The wide range of washer manufacturers means that we can easily find equipment tailored to our requirements - from small and handy electric washers to heavy exhaust and stationary washers.
HOW DOES THE PRESSURE WASHER WORK?
The operating principle of a pressure washer is quite simple. This device is connected with a hose to a water source - usually directly to the household water network. After installing special filters, it is possible to collect water from open tanks, e.g. water holes. The washer body has a high-pressure pump, whose task is to create high water pressure. This water is then fed through a durable hose to the spray gun.
High water pressure allows for effective cleaning of most surfaces - even porous ones such as cobblestones. Hot water washers are also available on the market, which additionally heats water. Hot water has better cleaning properties, which makes the use of such solutions even more useful. This is especially appreciated by construction and service companies as well as car washes.
ELECTRIC, COMBUSTION OR BATTERY WASHER?
ELECTRIC WASHER
In household applications, electricity washers are the most common. The advantage of this solution is undoubtedly a lower price, quiet operation, the possibility of using the device indoors and less weight. The limitation is the need for a permanent connection to the electricity grid. Despite the limited mobility, the cost of using and operating an electric washer is much lower than in the case of a petrol washer. It is also worth adding that washers with single- and three-phase motors can be found in the producers' offer.
combustion WASHER
High-power washers, on the other hand, guarantee high mobility and efficiency. The cost of purchasing and operating such a device is undoubtedly more elevated, but it has its advantages. First of all, gas washers do not require access to the electricity network. They endure long-term use much better and are perfect for professional applications, where high performance and durability count. On the market, you can find petrol washers with gasoline and diesel engines. Unfortunately, due to the generated flue gas, these washers should not be used indoors.
Battery WASHER
Battery-powered washers with a built-in water tank, boast the most significant mobility. Great for removing light dirt around the house. Before using, fill the tank with water and charge the battery. Unfortunately, the full movement of the device also has its drawbacks. First of all, the washer's short working time, which is usually limited to several minutes. The downside is also the low efficiency of the device, which reduces its use for cleaning lightly soiled surfaces or flushing dust.
IMPORTANT PRESSURE WASHER PARAMETERS
Before buying a pressure washer, you should think about what applications you will need it for. Otherwise, we can purchase equipment that will not meet our expectations or on the contrary - we will not use its full potential.
Water pressure
This parameter is given in bars [bar] or megapascals [MPa]. The higher the water pressure, the more powerful it will hit the surface. When planning to buy a pressure washer for car washing, water pressure at 120-140 bar will be the most optimal. In the event of occasional cleaning work around the house, a device providing a pressure of up to 100 bar is sufficient.
EFFICIENCY
It is most often given in litres per hour [l/h]. The pump capacity should be taken into account in particular when the washer will be used frequently and for a long time. For domestic applications, size of approx. 350 l/h is sufficient.
In addition to the parameters mentioned above, it is also worth considering the material from which the pump head was made. Three types of raw material are used: plastic, aluminium and brass. As you can guess, the least durable solution is plastic. It is better to look for washers with an aluminium pump head. However, brass is used in devices for professional applications and guarantees the highest durability. Unfortunately, together with the solidity of the quality, the price of the product increases.
RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES FOR PRESSURE WASHER
It is useful when the manufacturer or distributor attaches additional nozzles or brushes to the set with a washer. Rotary nozzles are most often used for the primary pressure lance. Especially suitable for cleaning heavily soiled and porous surfaces. Brushes and foaming machines are also available on the market, which mechanically and chemically assists in the cleaning process.
Quite often, users of pressure washers decide to buy models with a built-in detergent tank. Thanks to this, washing heavily soiled surfaces will be much simpler. You should only remember to select and use the detergent by the manufacturer's instructions. This may seem unnecessary, but when choosing a washer, it is worth paying attention to the length and quality of the hose. It should be thick and reinforced so that it does not break down during work. It is best if the equipment has a drum on which you can wind the hose - it can significantly improve the comfort of use.
How to use a pressure washer?
Although the principle of operation of pressure washers is the same, it is mandatory to read the user's manual of the device before using the washer for the first time. In particular, this applies to combustion washers whose servicing is more complicated. Because of the recoil, the lance must be operated by adults. When washing a vertical surface, it is advisable to follow the principle of cleaning from top to bottom. That will minimize the risk of stains.
It is essential to choose the outlet nozzle correctly. Failure to comply with this point may result in damage to the surface being cleaned. A narrow and robust stream is perfect for cleaning gaps and point dirt. The most commonly used flat spray will be ideal for cleaning larger areas, e.g. car bodies or garden paths. For the heaviest dirt, it is recommended to use a rotary nozzle that rotates under the influence of water. The pulsating stream is perfect for cleaning porous and uneven surfaces. Do not use this type of nozzle for washing cars because of the risk of damage to the paint. Water jet, regardless of the nozzle installed, should always be directed at a distance of min — 20-30 cm from the surface.
IS IT WORTH BUYING A PRESSURE WASHER?
Pressure washers are increasingly used for even small backyard work. The handiness of these devices and their versatile use mean that their purchase is in most cases a good investment. Standard electric washers cost a few hundred zlotys, although it is not worth being interested in the cheapest models due to their low durability. In the case of professional combustion or stationary washers, one has to take into account a much larger expense, from several to even tens of thousands of zlotys.
