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| Select a Pressure Washer |
Learn about Selecting a Pressure Washer
- Pressure Washer Performance
- Quality of Parts Used
- Special Features
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Tools of the Trade Checklist
Pressure Washer Performance
Pressure washers are rated by PSI (pounds per square inch) and GPM (gallons per minute). The higher these numbers are, the faster and more effective the cleaning. Choosing the right combination of PSI and GPM is the key to purchasing your ideal pressure washer.
PSI refers to the water pressure, measured in pounds per square inch. Pressure determines how much force is applied to break down stubborn dirt and grime.
GPM is the water flow delivered to the spray gun, measured in gallons per minute. Flow determines how much water runs through the system and provides the muscle to break down dirt faster and remove it from the area.
The combination of PSI and GPM determines a pressure washer’s cleaning power (or CP). CP offers a better indication of a machine’s overall performance and is useful when comparing pressure washers. To calculate CP, multiply a pressure washer’s maximum PSI rating by its GPM flow (CP = PSI x GPM).
Frequency of UseAfter deciding how much power you need to get your job done, consider how often you will be using your pressure washer. If you plan on using it less than 100 hours per year, you may want to choose a pressure washer with a lower PSI. However, if you will use it more frequently, a higher PSI pressure washer is recommended.
The following chart can be used in helping to determine what type of pressure washer to choose for your specific needs:
Occasional Use| Cleaning Power (CP) | For Cleaning | Cleaning Speed |
 | ||
| 1400-2100 PSI 1.8-2.1 GPM |
| Fast |
| Cleaning Power (CP) | For Cleaning | Cleaning Speed |
| ||
| 2200-2600 PSI 2.2 – 2.5 GPM |
| Faster |
| Cleaning Power (CP) | For Cleaning | Cleaning Speed |
| ||
| 200-3700 PSI 2.6-3.2 GPM |
| Fastest |
Quality of Parts Used
Another important consideration when selecting a pressure washer is the quality of the parts used. Better quality parts will ensure that your pressure washer operates properly and lasts longer.
There are two basic types of engines that power pressure washers:
- Side Valve (SV)
- Overhead Valve (OHV)
SV engines are small, easy to start, and reliable. OHV engines provide longer engine life, reduced emissions, and lower noise levels. They also use much less fuel. Cast-iron cylinder sleeves provide extra durability for longer life.
Stainless steel construction for the wand protects against corrosion and ensures a longer life for your pressure washer.
Back to topSpecial Features
These special features add to the efficiency, effectiveness and durability of pressure washers.
The automatic cool down system protects the pump from overheating in case hot water is accidentally introduced into the pressure washer or if the pressure washer engine is left running when the spray nozzle is not in use.
The detergent injection system enables you to achieve better cleaning results by using cleaning detergents to help break down dirt and grime. Use only detergents made specifically for pressure washers.
Easy start pump technology uses a bypass valve to relieve pressure during start up to provide easy, low effort starting.
Back to topFrequently Asked Questions
Q: What are PSI and GPM?
A: PSI refers to water pressure, measured inpounds per square inch. Pressure determineshow much force is applied to break downstubborn dirt and grime.
GPM is the water flow delivered to the spraygun, measured in gallons per minute. Flowdetermines how much water runs through thesystem and provides the muscle to break downdirt faster and remove it from the area.
Pressure washers are rated by PSI (pounds persquare inch) and GPM (gallons per minute). Thehigher these numbers are, the faster and moreeffective the cleaning.
Q: Can I use any pressure washer to clean anysurface?
A: Yes, but different projects require differentcombinations of pressure and flow for the bestresults. Use the nozzles to control the pressureand flow for each project.
Q: Is the level of pressure most important inchoosing a pressure washer?
A: No, both the water pressure and water flow areequally important. The pressure breaks downthe dirt and the flow removes it from the area.
Q: Is it possible to use detergent with pressurewashers?
A: Yes, the detergent injection system enablesyou to achieve better cleaning results by usingcleaning detergents to help break down girtand grime. (Do not use chlorine bleach; voidsproduct warranty.)
Q: Do any of the pressure washers allow you to useany type of cleaning detergents?
A: No, only detergents that are specificallyapproved for pressure washer use arerecommended. Using detergents that are notapproved for pressure washer use voids thewarranty, may damage the pressure washer, andmay not be environmentally sound. (Do not usechlorine bleach; voids product warranty.)
Q: What is easy start pump technology?
A: A bypass valve used to relieve pressure duringstart up to provide easy, low effort starting.
Q: Is an electric or gas-powered motor better?
A: Gas-powered pressure washers provide morepower, flexibility and cleaning speed thanelectric-powered models.
Q: Can I siphon water from a lake or holding tank tooperate the pressure washer?
A: Not necessarily. Most pressure washers are notdesigned to be used in this manner. Lake watercontains sediment and other materials that canclog the unit. Siphoning water from a holdingtank with a machine not designed for siphoningwill severely damage the pump. Siphoningrequires a heavier pump complete with specialfittings.
Q: Can I hook my cold water pressure washer to ahot water supply?
A: NEVER hook any pressure washer to a hot watersupply. Doing so immediately voids the warrantyand ultimately damages the pump.
Back to topTools of the Trade
Checklist- Pressure washer appropriate for the job at hand
Accessories/Other
- Cleaning detergents specifically designed for pressure washers
- Brush attachment
- Wand extensions
- Pump saver
- Pump oil
- Garden hoses for extension
- Power Plus Protection
Note: Tractor Supply can special order many parts and accessories.
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