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.