Pressure Washer Guide
Pressure washers are invaluable tools for cleaning, with uses across so many industries and dozens of domestic jobs being suited to high pressure washers, the first question to ask yourself is what is the most common task I hope to achieve? View our full range of pressure washers here
The cleaning power of a pressure washer is produced by main 3 factors:
- The first is the water pressure, measure in Bar or psi (pounds per square inch) higher pressure equates to more cleaning power.
- The second is the water flow rate, which is the amount of water being pumped, generally measured in litres per minute (Lpm) or gallons per hour, again, higher flow rate means more power.
- The third and often over looked factor is the nozzle or cleaning attachment used. Rotary or 'Turbo' nozzles can add cleaning power by directing the water jet over a small area, in effect concentrating the cleaning power in one spot. Fan shapes lessen the power with distance but produce a water pattern ideal for cleaning patios and large areas. Other attachments include rotary floor cleaners, sand blasters and other specialist tools.
Other factors which can affect the cleaning power of pressure washer units are special chemical additives such as detergents and the water temperature can have an effect too.
Light duty pressure washers
Light duty pressure washers, up to 100 Bar (1500psi) are suitable for domestic cleaning of garden furniture, small patios and paths, outdoor toys, BBQ's, garden tools and cars.
Medium duty pressure washers
Medium duty pressure washers, up to 150 bar (2000psi) are more suited to cars and lorries, play equipment, wheelie bins and containers, patio and path cleaning.
Heavy duty pressure washers
Heavy duty pressure washers, 150 bar or 2000psi and greater, are generally used for industrial cleaning, plant and machinery, agriculture, marine industry, brickwork and masonry and also specialist tasks such as internal tank cleaning, graffiti removal, flat surface cleaners for commercial floors, pool sides, public facilities etc...
Electric pressure washers
Electric pressure washers can be limited by the power available from a 13amp socket but are useful for domestic cleaning and light duty work. 240v is usually limited to about 130 Bar at 10 Lpm. 415v 3-phase motors are capable of pressures up to 150 Bar at 15 Lpm.
Petrol pressure washers
Petrol pressure washers are capable of higher pressures and flow rates with the convenience of not requiring an electric supply. High pressure pumps require a flooded system to allow the pump to draw the water it needs rather than relying on mains water. Our petrol units are powered by the ultra reliable Honda 4-stroke engines from 4hp up to 13hp, which will produce 250 Bar at 15 Lpm.
Diesel pressure washers
Diesel pressure washers are the ultimate in a hard working environment, designed to produce the power on a continual basis, our diesel pressure washers use top quality Hatz and Lombardini diesel engines to push out 400 Bar at 18 Lpm or 200 Bar at 41 Lpm for serious cleaning power.
Hydraulic pressure washers
Hydraulic pressure washers are ideally suited to run from a hydraulic supply from tractors or plant machinery. Capable of 140 Bar at 15Lpm, great on site for cleaning of building and plant equipment and agriculture machinery.
Mobile pressure washer
If you need a mobile pressure washer with rapid deployment, take a look at our water bowsers with optional petrol and diesel pressure washers, or use one of our stand-alone units.
Safety: When using any high-pressure washer, always wear suitable protective clothing and follow the manufactures instructions. High pressure water can cause debris to be reflected back towards the operator so safety goggles are essential as are protective gloves and boots, as these pressure washers are capable of removing skin and tissue. Never point a high pressure water jet towards another person or animals.
If you have any questions or would like some advise, feel free to call or email.
