Your Complete Guide to Buying a Pressure Washer

Once you have decided to invest in a pressure washer, it can be daunting trying to find the best model for the right price given the large selection available online and in stores. For this reason, it is important to do your research and know the right questions to ask before committing to one of these units. Pressure washers can vary in power, attachment options, compatible accessories, and more. Speaking to a professional about what you plan on using the machine for is a helpful way to guide your decision.

If you are just starting your search, you may be overwhelmed with information online about what you need to know before buying a pressure washer. Our team at Crown Cleaning Systems has simplified things by breaking down all of the most important things to consider when you are in the market for one of these powerful tools. Use the following list of tips as your complete guide to buying a pressure washer.

Tips for Buying a Pressure Washer

  • Determine your specific requirements

Buying a pressure washer is much different than shopping for a mop or a vacuum cleaner. In many cases, pressure washers are purchased for commercial purposes, which means many of the models you will find for sale are targeted towards large industrial spaces making them unnecessary for home use. Even if you own a business, we recommend considering what tasks you plan on using your pressure washer for and whether or not one of these commercial models is worth the investment.

Additionally, if you do not plan on using your pressure washer regularly, you may want to consider alternative options. At Crown Cleaning Systems, we offer a pressure washer rental service where you can benefit from industry-leading machinery without making a large purchase.

  • Have a basic understanding of how it works

Many people who shop for pressure washers do not understand exactly how water is pumped through the system or how the machine is powered. By understanding at least the basics of how a pressure washer works, you will be able to make an informed decision when comparing models. For example, a gas-powered model will produce more noise, however, it works better than electrical models for heavy-duty tasks.

  • Familiarize yourself with top brands

Buying from a trusted brand is a safe way to ensure you are getting a high-quality product. Karcher and Landa are two of the largest pressure washer manufacturers in North America, offering reliable, high-quality machines at fair prices. At Crown Cleaning Systems, we offer a variety of commercial and residential pressure washer models from these great brands.

Another reason to familiarize yourself with the best brands is to ensure the product meets the necessary safety standards and certifications for inexperienced people to operate it. Our selection of pressure washers at Crown Cleaning Systems meets all of these criteria. Buying from a top brand normally helps owners keep pressure washer repair services to a minimum.

  • Purchase suitable accessories

Using the right attachments and accessories on your pressure washer will ensure you get the best clean for the task at hand. For example, if you are looking to apply as much pressure as possible to remove stuck-on paint, you may want to purchase a narrow jet nozzle. If you are cleaning a large area, you may want to buy a hose reel to prevent the hose from becoming tangled. Accessories can make all the difference when it comes to cleaning with a pressure washer.

  • Understand the concept of PSI

PSI is a term that is commonly used to describe the amount of power that a pressure washer provides. The acronym stands for “Pounds per Square Inch” and is used to convey the weight of the amount of water coming out of the machine when it is powered on. A higher PSI does not however necessarily make a better pressure washer. If the surfaces you plan on cleaning require a certain level of protection such as a car, you may want to look for a PSI as low as 1000. However, if you are planning to clean a large, industrial space on a regular basis, you may need something more powerful. Knowing the amount of power you require is a great way to save money on unnecessary features.

Another way of measuring the quantity of water that is released is by identifying the gallons of water which are expelled per minute during use. If the PSI number is not available, the GPM should be.

  • Ask about the water temperature

Before buying a pressure washer, it is important to know the temperature of the water that will be released. The hotter the water, the more effective the cleaning power will be when combined with pressure washing chemicals. However, hot water can be damaging for certain surfaces, and you will need to consider this before opting for one of these systems. One of the benefits of renting a pressure washer as opposed to buying your own is that you can enjoy the advantages of different models for a variety of unique tasks.

  • Check the horsepower

Horsepower is yet another measurement of a pressure washer’s power, however, it is different from GPM and PSI in the sense that it depends on the machine’s motor, not the amount of water that is used. If you have experience shopping for cars based on horsepower, you should have no problem doing the same while shopping for your pressure washer.

Are you looking for a pressure washer repair service, rental options, or units for sale in Ohio? Crown Cleaning Systems has you covered! Contact us today for more details.

The Ins and Outs of Pressure Washing Chemicals

Armed with the right pressure washing chemicals, there is no mess that can withstand one of these powerful machines. Unfortunately, many novice pressure washer owners are unfamiliar with the array of cleaning solutions at their disposal and how to use them properly. Depending on the task at hand, you may require a chemical that protects paint, is safe for food preparation, enhances shine, or offers some other special quality. By educating yourself on the best pressure washing chemicals for every job, you will get results that you are satisfied with every time.

Crown Cleaning Systems is Ohio’s best source for high-performance pressure washing chemicals. Our team is happy to offer expert recommendations for any type of cleaning task and ensure you understand how to safely use your cleaning chemicals. Here we have provided an extensive list of the ins and outs of pressure washing chemicals so that you know what to expect next time you are shopping for a cleaning solution!

How to Get the Most Out of Ohio’s Best Pressure Washing Chemicals

Be mindful of overspray

Understanding the ingredients in a cleaning solution is not only important for ensuring the best clean, but it can also affect the surrounding environment due to overspray. For example, if you are cleaning the exterior of a building with an attached garden, you may want to avoid harsh chemicals that could destroy the plants. In this case, a powerful citrus-based cleaner like EC-410 may be a better option.

Ask a professional about chemical injection

Pressure washing chemicals can be injected in two different ways. Knowing the difference is essential to making sure you get the best clean and avoid damaging the machine. First, upstream injection is where you insert the chemicals in your pressure washer before the pump. The reverse is called downstream injection, where you insert the chemicals after the pump. The injection will depend on how harsh the chemicals are and which process is safer for the pressure washer. When buying your cleaning chemicals, ask a professional which type of injection should be used and whether or not you will need a soap nozzle to complete it.

Consider the environmental impact

In a perfect world, all cleaning solutions would be made naturally and cause minimal damage to the environment, however, this is not always the case. For tough cleaning jobs, sometimes a heavy degreaser or bleach solution is necessary. However, there are a few all-natural, high-performance pressure washer chemicals that have been released in recent years. If you are concerned about the effect that pressure washing may have on the environment, read the list of ingredients before purchasing your cleaning agent and ensure that overspray will not damage the surrounding natural environment.

Understand how weather affects pressure washing

When pressure washing outside, the weather will not always agree with your cleaning plans. If you plan to clean on a windy day, it is important to test the wind direction and find out where your stream of water will go when you power on your machine. This will help you avoid wasting valuable cleaning chemicals, fuel, and water. Additionally, a jet nozzle may help you concentrate the stream of water in a specific area on a windy day. If you are using harsh chemicals like Unique, you may be at risk of harming yourself or damaging the objects around you if you are not careful. If this is the case, you may want to wait for a less windy day to clean outside.

Protect your plants

As mentioned, overspray can seriously harm your plants if you are not careful while using your pressure washer. There are a couple of ways, however, that you can avoid destroying your plants even while using powerful chemicals like Taginator. First, we recommend watering your plants before using a pressure washer so that they do not absorb the first dose of water that comes out of your machine. If you have a light tarp or cover that you can rest on top of your garden without crushing your plants, this may also be of use when using harsh chemicals.

Look for surface protectors for delicate tasks

The reason why there is such a wide range of pressure washing chemicals available is because pressure washers are highly effective tools used to clean many different surfaces. For example, you may wish to remove stuck-on paint or graffiti from a wall, which means you would want an aggressive cleaning solution that dissolves even the toughest residue.  However, if you are cleaning your car, you will want the opposite effect. When cleaning delicate surfaces like this, you will need to look for a cleaning agent that doubles as a surface protector. Some of the best pressure washing chemicals for these purposes are High Image and Rinse & Wax.

Add heat

If you want to make an already powerful pressure washing chemical even stronger, adding hot water to the mix is by far the best way to do this. Heat will both bond with the chemicals and help remove grease.

Be mindful of caustic ingredients

If you are using a heavy-duty chemical solution like Strike, you will want to ensure you have all the information you need to safely use it without harming anyone or anything in the process. For example, if you are cleaning a commercial kitchen, we recommend avoiding these types of products altogether as they could make your food seriously toxic for consumers. Additionally, if you have any small children or pets in the area while cleaning, you may want to have them wait in another part of your home until you are finished using your pressure washer.

Are you looking for the best pressure washing chemicals in Ohio? Contact us today at (216) 341-6000  to learn more about our impressive selection!

Warning Signs to Look for When Your Pressure Washer Needs Repair

Whether you rely on your pressure washer to maintain a presentable place of business or you simply require a pressure washer to clean up around the house, it is important to know the signs to watch out for when high-pressure washer repairs are needed. By tackling small problems when they first arise, pressure washer owners can avoid causing further damage to their machinery.

Do you regularly use a pressure washer? Don’t let a serious problem catch you by surprise. At Crown Cleaning Systems, our team is committed to giving you all the information you need so that you know when to call a technician for a pressure washer repair service.

Indicators That a High-Pressure Washer Repair Service Is Needed

  • Insufficient water pressure

When your pressure washer is clogged, you may notice a reduction in water pressure. Whether there is a slight change in water pressure or barely any remaining pressure at all, this should be taken as a signal that repairs are urgently needed. By calling a professional for help, you will be able to find the root of the problem and clear any blockages within the hose, valve, or anywhere else in the unit.

  • Disruptions in service

Once your pressure washer is powered on, it should run smoothly throughout the entire cleaning process. If your pressure washer appears to start and stop erratically, there could be a problem with your fuel tank or ventilation system. Often this is caused by an inability to release air properly. This can easily be remedied by a professional if it is handled at the first sign of a problem. Otherwise, the system may break down due to prolonged ventilation problems.

  • Leakage

Not only is water leakage frustrating and bad for the environment, but it can also cause serious damage to your high-pressure washer if the leak is not repaired in a timely fashion. A leak can occur in any part of your pressure washer. Check the seal, nozzle, hose and pump for openings or call a technician to assess the damage before it worsens.

  • Unable to turn on the machine

When your pressure washer refuses to start, it is usually a sign of a more technical issue than a leak or other easily detectable problems. This could be caused by a faulty spark plug, coil, or another electrical element. Fixing these types of problems can be dangerous and should therefore be done by a professional.

Contact us today to learn more about our high-pressure washer repair services.

The Best Cleaning Chemicals for Commercial Pressure Washers

Even top-of-the-line pressure washers require the right chemicals to clean properly. Depending on the task at hand, commercial pressure washer operators will select various cleaning solutions such as degreasers, gentle dirt removers, and others. With so many pressure washer chemicals to choose from, you may be wondering which of these solutions are best.

Our professional cleaners at Crown Cleaning Systems are well-versed in a wide range of cleaning chemicals. Continue reading to view our recommendations for commercial pressure washer chemicals.

Best Commercial Pressure Washer Chemicals for Various Tasks

High Image: Best for treated surfaces

High Image is a pressure washer chemical that is commonly used for delicate surfaces that are easily compromised by harsh chemicals. Our team often uses this chemical for treated and metal surfaces. Metal surfaces in particular benefit from this product’s rust inhibitors.

Unique: Best for tough vehicular cleaning

Unique is commonly used to clean large vehicles such as transport trucks. The chemicals in this solution provide an aggressive clean, which is great for graffiti removal, along with other stuck-on residue. Commercial pressure washer users should, however, use this cleaning product with caution as it is one of the most powerful chemical solutions available.

Force: Best for degreasing

Many of our customers at Crown Cleaning Systems come to us to find an effective commercial kitchen cleaning solution. Unfortunately, many pressure washer chemicals can be incredibly harmful if they are used in a food preparation facility. For this reason, we recommend products like Force, which is an effective, non-toxic degreasing solution.

Rinse & Wax: Best for an attractive finish

One of the best things about cleaning with a pressure washer is the pristine result. If you are using a commercial pressure washer on decorative objects or vehicles, we recommend using Rinse & Wax for a glossy finish. The product is made with style in mind, as it cleans surfaces effectively without leaving unsightly water spots behind.

Dyna-Shine: Best for commercial vehicles

While many pressure washer chemicals offer degreasing power and safe usage for vehicles, Dyna-Shine is recognized as one of the best truck-cleaning solutions on the market. The product cleans, brightens, degreases, and leaves a beautiful shine.

Crown Cleaning Systems

With the right chemicals, your pressure washer should be able to remove practically any unwanted residue. The aforementioned chemicals are just a few of the cleaning solutions we use at Crown Cleaning Systems. To learn more about our diverse selection of pressure washer chemicals, contact us today!

The Key Differences Between Power Washers & Pressure Washers

Are you looking for a piece of high-powered cleaning equipment to remove stubborn dirt and residue from your property? The two most effective machines for tough cleaning jobs are pressure washers and power washers. Unfortunately, most people do not know the difference between these machines, which can result in an inadequate clean.

At Crown Cleaning Systems, we specialize in pressure washers from top brands like Karcher. Our team understands the importance of having the best equipment for the job. Continue reading to learn the main differences between pressure washers and power washers.

Pressure Washers Vs. Power Washers

  • How do the machine components differ?

Power washer and pressure washer parts are very similar, which is one of the reasons why many people believe they are synonymous. The key difference between these two systems is the temperature of the water that is used during washing. Power washers utilize hot water whereas pressure washers use water that remains at a moderate temperature. This difference gives each system the ability to clean a variety of unique surfaces.

  • What are the best uses for each system?

Both power washers and pressure washers are powerful pieces of equipment that can be used to clean some of the most stubborn messes. Using a variety of jet nozzles and cleaning solutions, pressure washers can clean vehicles, building facades, patio furniture, concrete, and more.

Power washers can clean the same types of surfaces as pressure washers;however, the added benefit of hot water is often useful for stained surfaces. Power washer operators should also consider the danger of using hot water on painted or treated surfaces that could be destroyed at high temperatures.

  • What are the necessary precautions for each piece of equipment?

Both pressure washers and power washers are extremely powerful machines that should be used with a few precautions in mind. First, we recommend buying power and pressure washer parts from trusted brands in Ohio such as Karcher or Landa. Buying from reputable brands will ensure that you have full customer support and guidance every time you use your high-powered washer. If you are not sure how to use your equipment correctly, we also recommend hiring a professional to complete your cleaning service. Lastly, look for a reliable pressure washer repair service to ensure your equipment is working properly and is not at risk of breaking down during a cleaning job.

Contact us today if you are looking to buy or rent a pressure washer in Ohio.

How Hoses and Pump Repair Kits Help Keep Your Cleaning Business on Track

Cleaning businesses of all kinds rely on pressure washers to operate. Ideally, your pressure washer will run optimally for years without any need for repair. However, unfortunately, that is not always the case, regardless of the quality of your cleaning equipment. In the event of an emergency, it is important to have a repair kit along with additional hoses at the ready so that business can continue as usual.

At Crown Cleaning Systems, we pride ourselves on being recognized as the best pressure washer repair shop in Ohio. Here we have provided a few reasons why we recommend buying extra hoses and a comprehensive pump repair kit to keep with you at all times during cleaning services.

Why Cleaning Businesses Should Carry a Pump Repair Kit and Multiple Hoses

A variety of hoses will serve multiple functions

There are many different hoses, which can be attached to your pressure washer for specific cleaning purposes. From turbo nozzles to general surface cleaners, all pressure washer accessories serve different functions and should be used accordingly to avoid damage or overuse. You can find a variety of unique hose fittings at our top-rated Ohio pressure washer shop. By having backup hose attachments, you will be able to continue a cleaning job even if one of your hoses becomes damaged.

High-pressure systems may overwhelm your hose

Pressure washers pump water at a staggering rate, however that does not mean that all models can handle the same temperature or level of water pressure. Selecting a hose that is an appropriate length for the water pressure you plan on using is a good way to avoid these types of damages. However, if you notice lower than normal water pressure, your repair kit will help you address associated problems such as belt slippage, stuck valves, and other issues.

Certain chemicals can damage the hose

Having a variety of washing chemicals on hand is a great way to tailor your cleaning services to a specific task, however, it is not uncommon for operators to make the mistake of using the wrong chemicals. Certain hose attachments may deteriorate from overuse of a powerful cleaning chemical such as Strike. Having a repair kit and spare hoses on hand is important when using heavy-duty cleaning materials.

Cleaning business owners can prepare for any situation with the right equipment on hand. Contact our pressure washer repair shop today to learn more about repairing or replacing damaged equipment.

How to Choose the Right Pressure Washer for Your Mobile Cleaning Business

Mobile cleaning businesses offer a wide range of services such as industrial equipment and concrete patio cleaning. Depending on your business’s specific area of expertise, it is essential to have the support of a highly effective piece of equipment. By doing your research before buying a pressure washer, you will be able to offer high-quality cleaning services in your area using equipment such as Landa pressure washers.

Are you looking to buy or replace a pressure washer in order to take your business to the next level? The following are a few important tips that will help you select the right pressure washer for the job from our Ohio-based team at Crown Cleaning Systems.

Tips for Selecting a Pressure Washer in Ohio

  • Buy from a reputable brand

Investing in a pressure washer from a reputable brand is an excellent way to ensure great performance and minimize the need for repairs down the line. At Crown Cleaning Systems, Ohio business owners can find name-brand commercial pressure washers from trusted manufacturers such as Landa and Karcher. Landa pressure washers have received numerous awards for their cutting-edge design and eco-friendly initiatives, while Karcher has been recognized for their impressive fuel efficiency.

  • Choose an appropriate water temperature

Cleaning businesses have the option to buy either hot or cold water pressure washers, however, many people do not understand the difference between these models. While cold water will offer more of a gentle clean, hot water pressure washers are essential when you are dealing with grease, such as in the case of cleaning an automobile.

  • Pair your equipment with the right chemicals and accessories

While the model of your pressure washer is extremely important in achieving a sufficient clean, choosing the right accessories and washing chemicals for the job are other useful factors to consider. At Crown Cleaning Systems, we offer a wide range of cleaning chemicals that can be used on various surfaces including Unique, Taginator, and many others. Shoppers can also pair their pressure washer with high-powered jet nozzles to fine-tune the flow of water.

  • Buy from a local dealer

Buying an expensive piece of equipment such as a pressure washer can be overwhelming when you buy directly from the manufacturer. By purchasing from a local dealer in Ohio like Crown Cleaning Systems, we will offer unbiased opinions on all of the products and brand names in our shop.

Contact us today to buy a pressure washer for your Ohio business!

How to Maintain your Karcher Pressure Washer

Our team at Crown Cleaning Systems in Ohio wanted to offer this quick guide on how to properly maintain and care for your Karcher pressure washer.

Prior to Using

The first thing to remember is to always clean your Karcher pressure washer before every use. Debris can build up after each use, so this step is very important. Using a damp rag, also wipe and clean off your Karcher pressure washer parts like springs controls, cooling fins, the muffler, and even the pump and engine. Be certain you also check the pressure hose for any cracks or other damage that could cause leaks.

Another important part to check before use is the inlet screen. Always inspect and remove debris. If you encounter any damage to the screen, be sure to replace it.

Proper Storage During Winter

If you have any water leftover inside of your pressure washer, it can potentially freeze (over the winter) and damage your pump. You can find special pump antifreeze that is made to protect your pump and water from freezing during storage. Also, you can use RV antifreeze that is alcohol-free.

After removing your sparkplug, let the antifreeze cycle in the pump – you can then connect up the spark plug.

Checking the Oil

Just like with a car or lawnmower, your Karcher pressure washer motor will need oil changes. For most pressure washers, you will find a drain plug around the bottom of your unit. Never use oil that has detergent in it since it can cause issues with the pump. Only use SAE 30 oil (non-detergent). While with normal use you may not need to change the oil until the 500- hour mark, it is recommended to periodically check it for dirt, etc.

Pressure

Whether you’re storing your washer over the winter or will not be using it, you have to release the pressure before storing it. Once you have allowed the motor to idle for about 5 minutes, set the throttle to the slow setting and shut it off as soon as the engine keeps a continuous speed. Then spray the remaining left-over water from your gun until all the pressure is released. You can then detach the gun and hose.

The hose and gun should not be disconnected until they have been depressurized in this manner.

Get Karcher Pressure Washers, Parts,& More in Ohio

Contact our team at Crown Cleaning Systems for information about our cleaning equipment and services, pressure washers, and Karcher pressure washer parts in Ohio.

Everything You Need to Know About Pressure Washing Chemicals

If you are new to using a pressure washer, you may not be aware of the variety of pressure washing chemicals available and the various purposes that they serve. At Crown Cleaning Systems, we sell a range of high-quality pressure washing cleaning chemicals from reputable brands. Learn a few details about some of our top selling pressure washing chemicals listed below.

Pressure Washing Chemicals

Dyna-Shine

Dyna-Shine is our best-selling product for truck owners and professional cleaners. This product is highly effective for aluminum and painted surfaces, leaving vehicles with a noticeable shine and gently removing dirt, grime, and grease.

Unique

Unique is a great industrial-level cleaning agent for heavy machinery. If you work in construction and you are looking to freshen up your equipment or you own a large trailer, this could be the perfect option for you.

High Image

High Image is our most popular pressure washing chemical for regular vehicles. This product will protect delicate paint jobs while removing a buildup of dirt and grime. High image also protects metal surfaces against an accumulation of rust.

Force

Force is a favorite for those working in the food industry. This product is non-toxic, making it a perfect choice for cleaning areas where food is stored or prepared. If you work in a professional kitchen, we also recommend using an industrial floor cleaner to maintain a pristine work area.

Taginator and Tagaway

These two excellent pressure washing chemicals are perfect for removing graffiti, pen, and marker from brick walls or smooth surfaces. These products are great to have on hand if you are a business owner looking to maintain a fresh appearance. Jet nozzles will allow you to target specific areas that have been vandalized.

Strike

Strike is one of the most powerful pressure washing cleaning chemicals on the market. This is a highly corrosive substance, meaning non-professional cleaners should approach this product with extreme caution. We recommend using this product for the toughest residue and stains only. We offer a range of parts and accessories for better precision while using toxic cleaning chemicals.

View our full selection of powerful pressure washing chemicals today to explore other great options. We offer pressure washers from popular name brands including Karcher and Landa. Contact us today for more information or to inquire about our pressure washer repair services in Cleveland.

4 Ways That Commercial Pressure Washing Can Increase Sales

There is nothing like a dirty entrance to drive customers away from your business. While it is important to keep the inside of your commercial space tidy, business owners should be looking at the appearance of their entire property in order to get customers through the door.

Crown Cleaning Systems has helped countless Cleveland business owners tidy up the outside of their commercial buildings with pressure washer sales, rentals and repairs. Continue reading for four foolproof ways to increase sales with this high-powered cleaning solution.

4 Reasons Why Pressure Washing Improves Sales

1. An inviting appearance

A buildup of dirt and grime can easily make a paved walkway, a set of steps or a brick building exterior look dreary and uninviting. There is no better way to attract new customers to your shop than to keep the outside of your business looking fresh with a powerful dirt-removing pressure washer. This will also send a message to onlookers that the interior of your business is clean and well taken care of.

2. Help maintain the building

Staying on top of cleaning with a commercial pressure washer is a great way to keep your Cleveland shop in good condition and avoid costly repairs. When a building is affected by a serious buildup of residue, it can impact the integrity of the structure by expanding cracks and holes in various parts of the building. This could mean thousands of dollars in repairs that could be easily avoided by using a pressure washer from a reputable brand such as Karcher or Landa.

3. Take your business advertisements to the next level

Adjustable pressure washing accessories such as Karcher triple jet nozzles and safe cleaning chemicals like High Image allow business owners to clean even the most delicate signage on a commercial building. Cleaning up your advertisements will make them look brand new, encouraging customers to check out the products or services that you have to offer.

4. Protect your staff

Many business owners focus on sanitizing the inside of their business to keep employees from getting sick. However, with employees coming in and out of the building daily, it is equally as important to keep the exterior of your business clean to prevent the spread of illnesses.

Crown Cleaning Systems

Call us at (216) 341-6000 and speak to the experts at Cleveland’s best pressure washer repair shop today to learn more about our excellent cleaning products and services!