4 Tips for Picking a Pressure Washer
Simplify your pressure washer choice by better understanding the basics
If you’re in the market for a new pressure washer, you have lots of options. Stick to the following four pointers to choose a unit that will last and offer a higher return on investment.
1. Hot or Cold
Cold pressure washers are compact, economical and suited to handle any job that requires washing away dirt and mud. Hot pressure washers are better for removing oil, grease or grime.
2. Pressure & Flow
PSI and gallons per minute (GPM) indicate a pressure washer’s capabilities. The psi rating describes its ability to break the contaminant-surface bond. Too low is ineffective and too high can result in dirt blowing around or even damage some surfaces. And the more gpm, the faster it can get the job done.
3. Horsepower
Just because a pressure washer states that it has a certain psi and gpm doesn’t mean it will produce. Make sure the engine has enough power to adequately turn the pump. For instance, a gas-powered pump putting out 3,000 psi and 4 gpm needs an engine to produce at least 11 horsepower.
4. Features
Other components such as heavy-gauge steel frames, ceramic pumps, thermal pump protection, and heavy-duty spray wands and hoses all contribute to a longer service life. By keeping these simple tips in mind, you can make an educated purchase on a pressure washer that will clean effectively and hold up to demanding commercial applications.
