A pressure washer uses high pressure output to blast away dirt, stains, and other impurities from hard and semi hard surfaces. These machines are mainly used in industrial and commercial cleaning applications. For heavy degreasing and cleaning jobs, it is recommended to use an industrial pressure washer.
There are many ways to categorize these machines, but before you choose which machine is best for you, it is important to understand the features of these machines
Basic Facts about High Pressure Washers
An industrial pressure washer can provide a very high pressure output. Depending upon the model, the output pressure can vary from 500 psi to 8000 psi. The output temperature can vary as well, reaching up to 330°F.
A third specification - flow rate, is also important. Flow rate denotes the quantity of water passed through the outlet of the machine in a given amount of time. It is expressed as gallons per minute (GPM). Flow rates range from 0.5 GPM to 9 GPM. While higher flow rates translate to greater cleaning, lower flow rates are required in areas with limited drainage facilities or water availability.
Segmentation by Application
The use of the machine is the simplest way of classification. One can find industrial, commercial, and auto detailing pressure washing machines on the market. An industrial pressure washer is used for heavy duty industrial cleaning application. Auto detailing machines are used for cleaning automobiles and boast a maximum pressure level of 1500 psi to ensure no automotive surfaces are damaged in cleaning. And, commercial pressure washer are used for cleaning commercial buildings.
Segmentation by Temperature
A pressure washing machine can provide three types of output:
- Cold water
- Hot water
- Steam
A cold water pressure washer provides an output temperature of water at room temperature. The output of a hot water pressure washer has a temperature of 220°F. A steam pressure washer has an output temperature of 330°F.
Each type of machine has its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, a steam pressure washer is the most powerful; however, they are not suitable to use on delicate, heat-sensitive surfaces. And, though cold water systems are the least powerful among the three options, the addition of green chemicals can enhance their cleaning power.
Tri-mode systems are a growing trend, in which a pressure cleaning machine can independently operate as a cold water, hot water, or steam system. Operators can then vary the temperature for the application at hand.
Segmentation by Power Method
Based on the power source, these machines are categorized as electric, propane, gasoline, or diesel pressure washing equipment. Selecting the right machine for you depends fully on the nature of the cleaning applications you face.
Pressure washing machines with a gasoline, propane, or diesel powered engine are powerful systems that can operate outdoors without an electrical supply nearby. This greatly enhances their mobility. However, these systems emit combustion byproducts into the environment. Many people do not recommend these machines for interior cleaning applications because of the exhaust.
Electrical machines are preferred for indoor cleaning jobs as they generate no exhaust and are quieter. However, electric pressure cleaners are limited in mobility by their dependence on electricity.
Choosing the right model to suit your needs depends wholly on the applications for which you will use the machine. To make sure you purchase the right type of pressure washer, consult a product specialist at a trusted supplier and discuss your requirements.
