About Pressure Washers

Pressure washers are mechanical devices that use high-pressure streams of water to remove paint, oil, grease, and dirt from a variety of surfaces, including brick, concrete, metal, and asphalt. Pressure washers are available in a variety of sizes and strengths, and can be rented or purchased directly from most hardware stores. Typically, pressure washers produce pressure between 2000 psi and 5000 psi. They are used for both residential and commercial purposes.

History

Pressure washers are not new, and they have been around in various forms for nearly 50 years. Changes have been made to pressure washers over the years to make them more portable and powerful, but the basic device was first used in America during the 1960s.

Types

Pressure washers are generally classified into two groups: electric and gas. Electric washers plug into standard outlets and use cold water. Typically, electric pressure washers are not as powerful as gas washers, and deliver up to about 2000 psi of pressure. Electric washers are also often quieter and more compact than gas washers, which makes them ideal for lighter jobs around the house. Gas pressure washers can deliver twice as much pressure as electric washers, but are unsuitable for enclosed spaces due to the fumes they produce. This makes them less appealing to most buyers. Some pressure washers use hot water, which is especially useful for removing grease and oil.

Identification

Depending on the brand and model, pressure washers are available in all colors, sizes, and shapes. All pressure washers consist of a motor that is used to drive a water pump, a high-pressure hose, and a trigger gun. Some smaller washers come with a bottle to hold detergent and a carrying handle, and larger washers are often fitted onto trailers with wheels for easy moving. The length of pressure hose depends on the type of pressure washer purchased, with some hoses exceeding 200 feet in length. Attachments include brushes, nozzles, extension wands, and surface cleaners.

Function

Pressure washers can be used for either residential or commercial needs. They work by increasing the out flowing pressure of the attached water source to deliver a high-power force capable of removing the surface of nearly any material. However, they work only by pressurizing the water as it moves out of the pressure washer. They cannot draw more water from the pipe or supply than is normally available. Because of this, the supply must be adequate for a pressure washer to work. The type of nozzle used varies the pressure and stream type delivered. Some nozzles deliver a very thin, but powerful, jet of water, while others force the water out of the pressure washer in a triangular plane for cleaning larger surfaces. Some washers also allow detergent to be mixed into the water stream, creating a powerful cleaning tool.

Warning

Pressure washers should only ever be used by those with training, as they can be extremely dangerous. The level of pressure near the nozzle is powerful enough to break bones and to strip flesh. Objects introduced through the water supply can be ejected from the pressure washer at great speeds, and objects in the line of the water stream can be propelled. This can result in serious bodily injury and property damage.