|
With the hundreds, even thousands, of pressure washers on the market today, we know it can be difficult to select the unit that best meets your needs. That's why we at alkota have put together this buyers guide.
This guide answers the questions about pressure washers that we most often field from our customers. If you have any additional questions about power washers or a specific unit be sure to contact AVC Sales and Service at (316) 942-6116!
What's most important: HP, PSI or GPM?
First of all its important to know what each of these acronyms means.
HP stands for horsepower, PSI for pounds per square inch and GPM for gallons per minute.
The HP of a pressure washer is divided up to produce both the pressure at which the water is released (PSI) and the number of gallons that are released (GPM) For example a 2 HP motor can produce 2.1 GPM at 1600 PSI or it can produce 3,0 GPM at 1100 PSI. Cleaning power is a function of both volume and pressure.
Size does matter.
When selecting a pressure washer, first determine the minimum PSI you need to break the bond between the dirt and surface you are cleaning. The chart on this page can help you, or you may wish to contact your dealer if you need help.
After selecting a pressure washer of at least that level, look at the GPM rate. The higher the GPM rate the faster your clean up job will be. That's because once you have the necessary pressure to remove the dirt and grim, the only way to make your job faster is to increase the rate at which the water is released.
You can lower the cleaning capacity of a larger washer simply by changing spray nozzles or using a variable pressure wand. You can not make a smaller washer bigger. Horsepower is horsepower; a 2 HP motor can not pump over its capacity.
Always buy a unit big enough for your needs. Buying a unit that does not have adequate cleaning power will cost you extra clean up time and repairs in the future.
PSI Needed For Various Applications |
| Use |
Minimum PSI Needed |
| Cars and SUVs |
1500+PSI |
| Industrial Applications |
1500+PSI |
| Trucks, Trailers, Tractors, Combines, Silage Choppers, Cotton Pickers |
1800+PSI |
| Decks, Fences, Siding |
2000+PSI |
| Livestock Shelters |
3000+PSI |
| Large Surfaces such as Driveways and Patios |
3000+PSI |
What are units of cleaning power?
The measurement units of cleaning power is an easy way to rate pressure washers. To determine the units of cleaning power for a machine, multiply the PSI by the GPM (PSI x GPM) This calculation helps you compare different pressure washers, to determine which one is more powerful. The higher the number the more powerful the pressure washer.
For example, lets say you are considering one washer with 2 GPM and 3000 PSI and one with 4 GPM and 2000 PSI. Which is better? The units of cleaning power on the first washer are 6000 while the second unit has 8000 cleaning units.The second machine is more powerful and will more likely be your best choice.
Units of Cleaning Power |
| GPM |
PSI |
Units of Cleaning Power |
| 2.0 |
1600 |
3,200 |
| 3.0 |
1100 |
3,300 |
| 3.0 |
2000 |
6,000 |
| 4.0 |
1800 |
7,200 |
| 4.0 |
3000 |
12,000 |
| 4.8 |
1800 |
8,640 |
| 5.0 |
3000 |
15,000 |
Back to top
Do I want a gas or electric pressure washer?
Gas engines are best when you need a portable unit. Since electric motors are quiet and emit no exhaust, they are ideal for indoor use. With the Alkota trailer mount you can conveniently carry water along with you.
Back to top
What's the difference between belt drive and direct drive?
The drive refers to how the pump is connected to the power source, such as a gas or electric motor. Direct drive means the pump is directly connected to that source, while a belt drive unit transfers energy from the power source to the pump along an intermediate belt.
Direct drive pumps are more compact and typically cost less than belt drive pumps. However, direct drive pumps are not as durable or as long lasting as belt driven ones. The connected power source and RPM generate heat, shortening the life of directly-driven pumps. Excessive vibration, a problem with the direct drive, can also cause a shorter life. And with direct drive, any damage or stress on the power source also damages the pump.
With belt drive, the pump is separated from the motor, protecting the pump from added stress or damage and extending the life of the unit. Belt drive pumps also generally operate at a lower RPM, causing less heat build up which further protects the pump.
Back to top
Should I buy a hot water or cold water pressure washer?
It always depends on what you are cleaning and how fast you want to get the job done. If you need to clean grease or oil, hot water will do a better job of breaking down the grime. Hot water can decrease cleaning time and help detergents and chemical cleaners work better, they also sanitize in areas where bacteria is a problem.
Hot water power washers typically do cost more. Hot water units heat the water using a heating coil and this component is complex. Make sure the coil on the unit has at least 1/2" inner diameter; a narrower coil could become lined with build up reducing the pressure of the machine. The coil should also be spiral wound with even spacing to prevent soot build up, which interferes with combustion.
On Alkota pressure washers the coil actually forms the combustion chamber, so there is no troublesome insulation. The even coil spirals also allow adequate air flow, improving combustion and fuel efficiency.
Back to top
Should I buy a portable or a stationary unit?
This depends on your needs. If your dirt is confined to one room, a stationary unit might be best. However, if your stationary unit is permanently installed, service and repairs can be more expensive since the technician will need to travel to your location.
A portable unit is convenient, especially if you have multiple areas to clean. Pay close attention to the tires on a portable unit. Make sure they are well lubricated and roll easily. Also make certain the unit is not top heavy; a top heavy unit can be dangerous for an operator to transport.
Back to top
What safety features should I look for?
A number of features will make your pressure washing equipment safer and easier to operator:
- -A safety relief valve on hot water units.
This valve should be mounted between the pump and the coil inlet, not on the coil outlet. Valves mounted on the outlet will spray dangerous hot water in an emergency.
- -Ground fault interrupter.
This protects the operator from dangerous electrical shocks.
- -Automatic shut-off switch.
This turns off the heat source if it receives an insufficient flow of water.
- -Float tank/anti-siphon device.
Protects water sources from contamination
- -Trigger gun.
increases operator safety.
- -Thermostat.
regulates heat.
Back to top
When I buy a pressure washer, what other equipment will I need to buy to make my pressure washer efficient?
If you will be using your pressure washing equipment for vehicle washing, you may want to install a water softener. improved water quality will help reduce wear and tear on the machine, plus decrease the amount of detergent you use.With a hot water unit, you may need to install a drain nearby to deal with condensation.
You may also need to install an exhaust stack through the roof.For any pressure washer, you may want to purchase other accessories to get the most productivity out of your machine. For example, different brushes , nozzles, wands, or chemicals can help meet the demands of your specific cleaning job. Hose reels can also increase safety and extend the life of the hose.
Back to top
How will I need to maintain my pressure washer?
Like any equipment, your pressure washer will last longer and perform better if you take proper care of it. Your dealer can walk you through maintenance for the pressure washer you are considering. For example, if you select a gas unit you will need to change the fluids regularly.As with all equipment, at times you will need to replace parts on your pressure washer. Make sure you purchase a machine for which parts are readily available.
Back to top
Is there a difference in pressure washer brands?
In the pressure washer industry certain compensates may be similar between brands but you should always make sure to select a brand that is easily serviced . Consider where the manufacturer is located; U.S. manufactures make for accessible parts delivery and better maintenance. The manufacturer and dealer's experience may also reflect what kind of service you can expect down the road.
Above all, buy a pressure washer that will work efficiently in your specific situation.
Back to top
Back to AVC's Buyers Guide |
