The invention of the pressure washer has taken the ability of cleaning to the next level. Pressure washers can be found in all shapes and sizes with a variety of uses for residential, agricultural, automotive, and construction site duties. With so many options available in today’s market, it can seem overwhelming when trying to choose one that fits your needs. In an effort to provide you with some peace of mind, allow the experts at Hotsy Iowa to help you know what to look for when shopping for your next pressure washer.
Which Type Of Pressure Washer Do I Need?
Hotsy pressure washers operate from three different power sources: electric, gas, and diesel. Each power source provides a unique advantage in output pressure, mobility, and the water temperature.
Electric Pressure Washer
Electric pressure washers generally provide less power out than that of a gas or diesel engine pressure washer. The upside to them is that they are much quieter, weigh less, and cost less than its counterparts. The majority of electric models that Hotsy carries operate with cold water, such as our BDE Series and our EP Series. These models are generally used for residential and small business settings. That isn’t to say that electric pressure washers are not able to provide heated water. Both our HWE Series and 771/772 model pressure washers are powered and heated by electricity.
Gas Pressure Washer
Gas-powered pressure washers provide the greatest amount of power while also giving the operator more mobility to work with, since there is no cord needed. Apart from the increase in pressure and mobility, gas-powered pressure washers are highly durable. The versatility of gas pressure washers has called for small, portable models like Hotsy’s DA Series and DB Series while also providing monstrous power with our stationary models like our 5600 Series.
How To Determine What Pressure Washer Size Is Best
How Will You Be Using Your Pressure Washer?
It’s crucial that you choose a pressure washer that is powerful enough for the job while also not damaging the items you will commonly be pressure washing. Electric pressure washers are great for cleaning off patios, outdoor furniture, and personal vehicles. Gas pressure washers have a more diverse role, both being used for residential purposes and for large industrial cleaning jobs. You can expect gas pressure washer to clean house sidings, sidewalks, fleet vehicles, construction equipment, and industrial equipment. Diesel pressure washers will usually be found in larger industrial settings such as manufacturing and construction.
PSI Output
The pounds per Square inch (PSI) measurement is what determines the amount of power coming out of your pressure washer. This is essential in making sure that you have enough power for your jobs while also realizing when you have too much. Remember, safety with pressure washers is essential. The higher the PSI goes, the more damage you can do to yourself without proper usage.
- 1,500-2,499 PSI: This is the perfect amount for cleaning off outdoor furniture, grills, patios, and vehicles.
- 2,500-2,999 PSI: This pressure range covers everything below it while also being able to knock the dirt and buildup off of docks and fences.
- 3,000-3,999 PSI: You will be able to thoroughly clean boats, large vehicles, driveways, sidewalks, and house siding with this range of PSI.
- 4,000+ PSI: Pressure washers with this much power are able to strip away the thickest of materials while also erasing coats of color. You can find these commonly used for industrial and construction purposes. They are also great for removing graffiti, if needed.
GPM Output
Another important measurement to consider is the gallons per minute (GPM) a pressure washer uses. The GPM ultimately correlates with providing your pressure washer with enough water to uphold its maximum or desired PSI. For example, our 1200 Series pressure washers are capable of throwing out 6 GPM at 4,000 PSI. If the source that it draws water from is not able to provide 6 gallons of water for every minute, the PSI will not reach its maximum value.
Contact The Pressure Washer Professionals
Hotsy Iowa has been helping Iowans with their pressure washer needs since we opened our doors back in 1975. We have locations in Des Moines and Hiawatha with service representatives throughout the entire state. Whether you need pressure washers, pressure washer accessories, detergent, or any of our floor care products, we have you covered! Contact us today, we look forward to hearing from you!
