Pressure Washer Buying Guide
When it comes to removing dirt and grime from external surfaces, the pressure washer has become a sought-after cleaning tool for both home users and commercial or industrial facilities. Due to this wide user base, a wide range of machines and accessories are available – here we will go over some things to consider when purchasing a pressure washer.
- Surface or area to clean
First determine what you are looking to clean. This will determine the type of pressure washer to buy. If you are looking to clean small surfaces like cars, grills, boats, small outdoor tables, small decks, etc., then you will want to purchase an electric washer. They are smaller, affordable, easy to transport, and perfect for owners who are not industry professionals.
If you are looking to clean large surfaces, such as large decks, outdoor pool decks, patios, driveways, and homes, you may want to consider purchasing a gas-powered pressure washer. These are much more powerful and are usually the ones used by professional pressure washers, although they are relatively affordable for the consumer and run on gasoline. With these you will use less time and less water with better results for large surfaces.
- Use
If you purchase a pressure washer for your business say the Giraffe tools pressure washer, you will need to check whether the device is designed for professional or commercial use. Pressure washers designed for the domestic market are not designed to be subject to continuous operation requirements and may not be covered under warranty if used in this manner.
The commercial-grade machine should be built with powerful materials and high-quality components that will help it offer long life even with heavy use. Some manufacturers such as Giraffe tools only make pressure washers for the home or professional market, while others such as Kutcher and Bosch divide their ranges into two distinct product groups (in the case of Kutcher, the gray professional machines and their local counterparts are the professional and green range of local scope).
- Engine types
You’ll also want to look at the types of engines available. For electrical systems, motor size and power can vary greatly. They mostly come in two sizes: small and large and are powered by a universal motor or an induction motor; Induction motors usually cost a little more and offer more power. This will largely depend on your needs, including the surface area of what you are cleaning and the number of times you intended to use your pressure washer.
For electric ones, you’ll also need to determine if you want a small electric one that typically doesn’t have a built-in detergent tank. An advantage of this is that it is very lightweight and can be easily maneuvered while cleaning (ideal for smaller people to use). But if you want something with a built-in tank, you’ll have to make it larger. Some models even have two detergent tanks.
- Energy and water needs.
Pressure washers require a power and water supply to operate. The vast majority of those sold in the UK are electrically powered and are supplied with standard 240V ports to connect to UK power ports. When using corded outdoor power tools, especially near water, it is recommended to ensure a set is in the circuit for optimal safety.
This can be easily achieved by connecting an inexpensive adapter between the plug and the outlet. Some pressure washers are also available in 110V options for use with transformers, making them suitable for safe use on construction sites and other industrial environments. A less common type, which is ideal for agricultural facilities and sites without electrical power, is a gasoline engine type, which is usually attempted alongside rugged tires.
- Type of nozzles
It is also important to look at the nozzles. Most pressure washers offer two different types of nozzles so you can make sure how much pressure you want and whether you want to spray a small, concentrated area or a large, wide area.
- Type of detergent
You’ll also want to check the type of detergent specified by the pressure washer manufacturer before purchasing. You will want to make sure you have easy access to purchasing this type of detergent so you don’t have to endlessly search for the type of detergent your pressure washer requires.
- Warranty
Additionally, before purchasing a pressure washer, you will want to see if there are any warranties available. Many times, manufacturers will include free warranties with purchase or service plans. Other bonuses, like free detergent included with purchase, can also add value.
Conclusion
Just be sure to go online before purchasing and check out consumer reviews on pressure washers. Consumer reviews can let you know how people like you would rate the pressure washer’s performance, along with cost, ease of service, parts replacement, etc. It may seem tedious, but checking consumer reviews can be a big help in determining whether purchasing a pressure washer is a worthwhile investment (versus paying someone to do it for you or renting one) and, if so, how much should you invest in one.
