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Pressure Washers
Pressure washers use a gas or electric motor to power a pump, forcing water at a high pressure through a concentrated nozzle to blast away loose paint, mold, grime, mud, chewing gum and dirt from surfaces. Whether you’re cleaning up a construction site, cleaning farm equipment, or washing down a driveway, the powerful stream of water provided by a pressure washer will make all the difference.

  • Available in gas or electric options
  • Ideal for cleaning decks, driveways, house siding, fences, cars, and patio
  • Higher PSI is best for tougher cleaning jobs

Gas vs Electric
The two main types of pressure washers are electric powered and gas powered. Electric pressure washers are typically less expensive and have less cleaning power. These units are usually available in lower pressure ranges like 1,400 - 1,750 PSI. Gas pressure washers on the other hand, typically have a stronger cleaning capacity, 1,800 - 4,000 PSI's, which allows the use of a wider spray pattern making the cleaning job go faster.

Gas Powered:

  • Delivers higher pressure
  • Quickly cleans large areas like decks, and driveways
  • Cleans heavy gunk such as chewing gum and tree sap

Electric Powered:

  • Best for lighter jobs like small decks, patios, and outdoor furniture
  • Lighter and quieter compared to gas powered
  • Little upkeep, no exhaust emissions


Pressure / Power
The higher the pressure (measured in pounds per square inch—PSI), the tougher the cleaning jobs they can tackle. Both electric and gas powered units require a steady, uninterrupted supply of water (in gallons per minute—GPM).

  • Water pressure is measured in PSI (Pounds per Square Inch)
  • The flow rate of the water, is measured in Gallons per Minute (GPM)
Light-Duty (Consumer):
  • Usually rated between 1,300 and 1,900 PSI at 2 GPM
  • Ideal for smaller more delicate jobs like cleaning the car, patio furniture, and grills

Medium-Duty (Semi-Pro):

  • Rated between 2,000 and 2,800 PSI at 2-3 GPM
  • Tends to be gas powered, sturdier, and more powerful making it easier to clean siding, fences, decks, and driveways

Heavy-Duty (Professional):
  • Rated 2,800 or higher PSI at 3-4 GPM
  • Built with a stronger, more durable engine and pump
  • Ideal for heavier jobs such as removing chewing gum

Cold Water vs Hot Water

Cold Water pressure washers are quite popular due to their smaller size and lower cost compared to hot water pressure washers. Moreover, they require less maintenance.

  • More compact & portable
  • Less Maintenance
  • Inefficient at cleaning grease/oil

Hot Water pressure washers are recommended if you need to clean greasy or oily surfaces. Hot water is more effective at removing grease and oil stains from surfaces, especially with the assistance of detergent.

  • Cleans grease & oil
  • Can be used for defrosting
  • Faster clean, more expensive


Chemicals / Soft Wash
For some applications, people like to use chemicals and less pressure depending on the job. "Soft washing" forgoes much of the pressurization in favor of chemicals and other cleaning agents. These chemicals are both safe for your home and the environment.

  • Low pressure reduces the chance for damage
  • Saves money on repairs that could have been easily avoided
  • Recommended for: Rooftops, siding, stucco, vinyl, and other delicate surfaces


Soft Wash Buying Tips

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Accessories
With the right pressure washer accessories and little guidance, your space can look fresh and tidy for the season.
Many pressure washers come with extra nozzles or tips for different kinds of cleaning. These interchangeable tips range from 0 degrees to 65 degrees. The lower the degree the more powerful, concentrated the spray will be