Water is a formidable force, and you can achieve mind-blowing results under the right psi. Most people buy pressure washers to wash cars at home. Carpets are the other reason why most people buy pressure washers. However, there are countless other reasons why one would need a pressure washer. For example, you will need a pressure washer ranging between 1300-2300 psi to remove common stains such as dirt buildup or oil stains.
Choosing the right pressure washer can be the difference between a successful business or a cleaning project. Before I go out to buy a pressure washer, I need to ask what pressure washer psi do I need and for what purpose I am buying the washer.
PSI, 0r pounds per square inch, is the amount of cleaning power that a cleaner produces during a pressure wash. Pressure washing depends on how much the pressure washer gives out psi and how much water is given off per minute.
Types of Pressure Washers
There are two types of pressure washers to choose from; Gas-powered pressure washers and electric pressure washers. A gas-powered pressure washer has higher psi ratings compared to an electric pressure washer. So if you are looking for a commercial pressure washer, then the gas-powered option is what you should go for.
Both the electric and the gas pressure washers have their advantages and downsides. The gas pressure washers are effective cleaning units used in commercial cleaning jobs because of their high cleaning power. On the downside, the gas pressure washer requires more skills and safety precautions because of the high pressure they produce. In addition, they are expensive too and harder to maintain compared to the electric pressure washer.
The electric pressure washer is easier to start and use. You can use the electric power washer in enclosed spaces because they are more accommodating in such situations. The electric washers cost less and are easier to maintain. The downside is that you can only do low-pressure jobs with the electric pressure washer. The water pressure coming from the electric washers might not be able to handle some jobs.
You have to get the correct cleaning power units with the right psi ratings for efficient cleaning. You can find pressure washers under 300$ or 200$ that can serve all your needs.
The Pressure Washer You Need
Here are some situations and the appropriate pressure washers you need.
1) Washing the House
You have to be careful when buying a pressure washer for your home. You need to know how much pressure the washer needs to have because you will be cleaning different surfaces such as the patio furniture or the brick wall. Some powerful pressure washers will damage your property, and you need to avoid such.
For safe washing, go for washers between 1600-2000 psi. This pressure will not damage the mortar between the bricks or strip paint on most hard household surfaces. You can use this pressure for cleaning decks or cleaning patios. Some surfaces will need a regular garden hose, and you have to know the difference. You have to know how much psi you need for different projects.
2) Cars, Trucks and Vans
Vehicles are one of the reasons you will be using your pressure washers the most. For this reason, you have to consider the water volume the washer uses and the GPM gallons per minute because you will be washing your car at least once every two days. 1300-1900 psi ratingis great for removing tough stains from the car without causing any damage. Higher GPM will not be good for your car as long as you encounter some stubborn stains. Sometimes all you need is to clean dirt.
3) Driveways, Asphalt, Sidewalks, Pathways
Pressure washing is the best way to go about these surfaces. You will need a power washer with about 2300-3000 psi to get the job done. Higher pressure might lead to corrosion of the surface and cause damage when cleaning concrete. The best pressure washer for pathways should be below 2000 psi to avoid damage.
4) Wood, Fencing, Decking, Outdoor Furniture
Power washers and pressure washing machines are great for outdoor furniture and wooden surfaces. Most of these light-duty pressure and power washing machines have a similar rating as the home pressure washer. Most pressure washers have a psi between 1300-2300 as this is the ideal pressure to clean and wash away broken-up filth from surfaces.
Your DIY projects will remain clean without you using a high volume of water or power.
5) Yacht, Boat or Jet Ski
A yacht or a boat will need a high psi of about 4000. This is as high as you should go, and the washer should remain specifically for its purpose. This pressure can damage other surfaces such as stickers, paint strips or vinyl.
Final Take
You can find almost all kinds of washers, from cold water pressure washers, hot water pressure washers, and gas or electric pressure washing machines. First, however, you need to know why you need the washer in the first place and whether it will be multipurpose. For example, you might need the washer to clean the garage floor, the furniture, cars or the wall.
You need to consider the flow rate of the washer and the power output to save you cost in the long run. Monitoring power and water flow are vital, especially if running a business. In addition, look for other features like the nozzle tip with different spray patterns, the low-pressure nozzle or the thermal relief. Avoid pointing the washer at power lines when cleaning, and ensure you read the owner’s manual to keep safe.
