WHY SHOULD I BUY A PRESSURE WASHER?

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BUYING A PRESSURE WASHER?

Pressure washers are a time-saving solution for washing vehicles, boats, outdoor items, and patios. Various attachments cater to specific tasks like removing moss, unclogging drains, abrasive cleaning, and tank maintenance. As with any household appliance, a pressure washer is essential in industrial and commercial environments. Ultimately, no matter your line of work or daily routine, a high-quality pressure washer can significantly simplify your cleaning process.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

The effectiveness of pressure washers lies in their connection to a water source and use of a strong motor, resulting in a significantly higher output pressure compared to regular garden hoses. This makes them not only highly efficient, but also environmentally friendly as they use much less water. For example, while a conventional hose can use up to 3500 litres per hour at a pressure of 4 bar, Karcher models only require 400 litres per hour at 100 bar. With this money-saving solution, we can conserve our precious natural resource - what's not to adore about it?

Electric options can easily be plugged into a regular socket, while petrol and diesel alternatives come in handy when portability and access to electricity are limited.

WHAT DIFFERENTIATES EACH MODEL?

Karcher offers a wide range of pressure washers worldwide. The main differences between models are their motor size, water flow, and pump pressure. When considering which one to choose, other important factors to consider include the quality and length of the hose, as well as additional accessories like brushes, nozzles, trolleys, and detergents.

WHAT IS THE OPTIMAL PRESSURE WASHER TO PURCHASE?

This is a complex question to answer, as individual requirements vary. When purchasing any pressure washer, it is wise to consider the highest-quality option available. In addition to budget considerations, portability should also be considered. Generally, more power results in more reliable performance and better outcomes. It is advisable not to cut corners in this regard - opting for a model that surpasses your anticipated needs rather than risking strain on a lower quality pressure washer due to overuse. Fortunately, most high-end pressure washers offer adjustable pressure settings to suit various tasks. If the intention of purchasing a new machine is to simplify life, investing a few extra pounds can prove invaluable.

WHAT SETS APART A DOMESTIC PRESSURE WASHER FROM YOUR TYPICAL INDUSTRIAL ONE?

When selecting a pressure washer, the differences between higher-end domestic models and industrial ones are often minimal. However, industrial units are constructed with superior components such as brass cylinder heads, stainless steel pistons, and sturdier hoses and trigger assemblies. As a result, they have a longer lifespan and can withstand extended usage. If you anticipate using your pressure washer for over 100 hours per year (approximately 2 hours per week), it would be wise to invest in an industrial model.

WHAT SETS A PRESSURE WASHER APART FROM A STEAM CLEANER?

These two types of machines function on a similar concept. Steam cleaners, use hot water heated up to 140 degrees Celsius to remove grease and oil effectively. This high temperature also provides sanitization, which is crucial in situations where proper hygiene is essential. However, for basic household cleaning needs, cold water machines are suitable. There is widespread uncertainty surrounding 'dry' steam cleaners, as they operate differently and do not require a continuous water supply. Additional information on these types of steamers can be found here.

WHEN IT COMES TO MACHINES, WHICH VARIABLE HOLDS MORE WEIGHT: FLOW OR PRESSURE?

Typically, the difference between higher pressure and higher water flow is not particularly significant for customers seeking a pressure washer that can tackle multiple tasks, such as car washing, patio cleaning, and general household use. This is because standard machines usually have a trade-off between the two. However, in industrial settings with specific tasks, the ratio should be taken into consideration. To compare performance across various machines, you can look at the motor size (in KW) as an indicator. Another way to evaluate performance is by multiplying PSI (pounds per square inch) by LPM (liters per minute), which gives a "work" value. For example, operating at 1500 PSI and 10 LPM would give a work value of 15000 (1500 x 10). Whereas, at 1300 PSI and 16 LPM the work value would be 20800 (1300 x 16). The rate at which the water flows, or LPM, plays a significant role in the time it takes to clean something. A stronger motor typically results in a higher flow rate, leading to a shorter cleaning process. This is because PSI, or pressure, generates enough force to break the material's bond with the surface.

IS THERE A WAY TO RAISE THE PSI ON MY PRESSURE WASHER?

The power measurement, known as 'PSI,' is a fixed value that represents the force of water on a single square inch. To increase its pressure, the water stream can be narrowed into a fine pencil jet. This method is utilized by Dirtblaster nozzles, which also enhance coverage by producing a spinning jet.

Our pressure washers are equipped with reliable induction motors, ensuring a longer lifespan compared to brush type motors. Unlike other brands that use brush type motors, which are not as durable and often require frequent repairs or replacements.

WHAT ADDITIONAL ITEMS SHOULD I PURCHASE?

Karcher machines arrive fully equipped and ready to use, so additional accessories are not required. However, they can greatly improve the speed and ease of certain tasks. For example, a car wash brush is particularly useful for removing stubborn dirt from wheel arches or alloy wheels. Another popular attachment is the high-pressure 'Dirtblaster' nozzle, perfect for cleaning patios and brick surfaces. If you require drain cleaning or sand blasting, these kits can be purchased separately with your machine or requested later on. Certain models come with these add-ons included, while others may need them to be purchased separately.

IS IT SAFE TO UTILIZE CLEANING SOLUTIONS IN CONJUNCTION WITH MY PRESSURE WASHER?

Pressure washers are equipped with different exclusive chemicals that enhance their cleaning effectiveness. There are two methods for incorporating detergent: basic models utilize a bottle attached to the lance, utilizing the 'venturi' effect, while other versions have a built-in tank. Industrial machines have brass pumps and are ideal for using caustic traffic film remover, although all models can handle general wash and wax-type products effectively. For heavily soiled areas, it is recommended to pre-spray the surface and allow the product to sit before rinsing with a pressure washer.

WHAT SHOULD THE WATER PRESSURE BE FOR MY SITUATION?

Typically, pressure washers are highly efficient and low water pressure is not a common concern. To determine the necessary flow rate for your machine, you can add 10% to its maximum capacity. For example, if the machine has a 500 litre per hour rating, then you would require at least 550 litres per hour. If you are worried about the water pressure from your tap, make sure to test whether it can fill a ten-litre bucket within one minute (equivalent to 10 litres per minute x 60 = 600 litres per hour). If your tap cannot achieve this rate, you may need to consider using a lower-rated machine or obtaining water from an alternative source, such as a float system in a water butt. When you notice the machine "hunting," it could be an indication that there is inadequate flow from the water supply or there is an obstruction in its hose.