For consumers who have a really tough cleaning job, the best solution is usually a power washer. Let's take a look at some of the pressure washer characteristics that can help consumers determine which model is best for the job. Depending on how small or large the pressure washer is, let's take a look at some of the pressure washers and the different areas to look for depending on the PSI and GPM rating. Be sure to look for the recommended items to clean before purchasing a pressure washer because too high a rating can damage the surface while too low a rating will not effectively clean the surface.
Smaller Jobs Washers
There are some items that are around the home that pressure washers are really the easiest way to clean, such as cars, garden furniture, garage doors, lawn equipment, even to washing the dirt off the fence or siding. These smaller washers generally have a PSI rating under 1800 pounds per square inch, and a GPM rating of one to two gallons per minute.
Some of the characteristics that make these popular are that they are reliably inexpensive and, since cold water is great for these items, there's no heating element which makes these models lightweight. Many of these smaller models run on electricity, which is fine because most of these household items that need cleaning are relatively close to the home's electric sockets.
These smaller job pressure washers also come with a variety of nozzles and lances. These are quite handy based on the job that needs to be done. For example, rotating nozzles are great to help get that winter sludge and grime off the car, or even all the leaves out of the gutters. The fan nozzles are perfect for cleaning the leaves and pollens off of the decks, patios, and sidewalks.
There are also some that have adjustable pressure settings, and lances to help get those harder to clean areas. Be sure to look for automatic start / stop features so that it's only on when the trigger is engaged, and also if purchasing a gas model, make sure it has an auto stop if the water tank goes dry to prevent burning out the engine.
Larger Really Tough Jobs
Beyond those models that are smaller for home and small industrial uses, there are those tough jobs that are a nightmare, such as greasy floors for a machine shop or mechanics shop, and there are some great models for these as well.
When looking at the Pressure Washer Characteristics for these larger models they typically have a PSI of 3000 or over with a two to three gallons per minute. Many of these also have heating elements because some of these oily, greasy stains are best cleaned with hot water. Also look for those that combine detergents or solvents with the heated water for even better results.
Many of these larger models are gas powered and because they are so large they are on a cart or a trailer. With these models make sure that there is an auto stop if the water tank is empty so that the engine does not burn out. Also look for pneumatic or flat-free tires on these models, and professional grade nozzles, wands, and lances, as well as longer high pressure hoses.
Decisions
When there are a wide variety of pressure washer characteristics, make sure to determine which features are the most desirable. Take a look at what has to be cleaned and the perfect power washer for the job will provide an efficiently cleaned item.
