FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Below you’ll find answers to some of the questions we get asked the most about pressure washers, steamers and other cleaning solutions.
General Questions
A pressure washer is a machine that uses high-pressured, hot or cold water to clean surfaces.
The key thing to remember is a pressure washer takes in low pressure water from a water source and uses a gas engine or electric powered motor to power a water pump that pushes the water through a high pressure hose, wand, gun and nozzle to produce high pressure.
PSI is the pounds per square inch and GPM is the gallons per minute. To determine true cleaning capacity, you need to factor in both PSI and GPM.
To effectively clean a surface, a pressure washer needs to be capable of doing two things: separate dirt and grime and rinse it away. PSI measures the unit’s ability to separate and GPM measures the ability to rinse it away. For a commercial pressure washer, you should expect PSI between 2,000 to 3,000 and GPM between 2 – 10.
A steamer is a machine that uses vaporized water to clean surfaces. Unlike the typical cold water pressure washers, a steamer heats water to high temperatures to create vaporized water.Â
Dry vapor-steam is the most efficient cleaning solution for industries like food and beverage manufacturing, wineries and more.
Yes, hot water pressure washers offers extra cleaning power. Hot water pressure washer is particularly useful when cleaning oil and grease as it breaks down the bonds that exist on a molecular level. Additionally, hot water can rid surfaces of bacteria, algae etc.
Cold water pressure washers are ideal for breaking up dirt and grime, also ideal for surfaces like wood or plastics that may warp under high temperatures.
Yes, according to the CDC, cleaning removes germs, disinfecting kills germs and sanitizing lowers the number of germs.
Depending of your cleaning needs, we offer a range of equipment ranging from pressure washers that can be used as misters for dispensing sanitizer or disinfectants, or steamers capable of producing temperatures of over 300°F, well above the 176°F that is known to kill or inactivate most bacteria and viruses.
The pump in your pressure washer is a key component, so taking care of the pump is very important. At Pressure King we recommend that our customers change the oil every three months, depending on usage.
Yes, we recommend you winterize your pressure washer if you will be storing it for the winter months.
To winterize,
- Add fuel stabilized to fuel tank if gasoline powered machine and then run through the system
- Clean out the detergent and water from the pump system by putting the detergent feed tube in clean water and running the pressure washer holding the trigger down for a few minutes
- Add anti-freeze to the pump inlet and run antifreeze through the pump
Yes, we recommend using cleaning detergents as part of your cleaning solution because it helps you get the job done faster, ultimately saving time and money.
No, never use bleach in a pressure washer. Bleach is corrosive and can damage your pump, o-rings, hoses etc.
No, we only recommend using pressure washers approved detergents.
- Cold pressure washers are ideal for cleaning dirt, mud, and dust from surfaces.
- Hot pressure washers are better for breaking down grease, oil, and industrial grime.
- Use a cold pressure washer for general cleaning like patios, driveways, sidewalks, and vehicles.
- Use a hot pressure washer for tough stains, grease removal, and industrial applications.
- Electric pressure washers are quieter, require less maintenance, and are great for residential use.
- Gas-powered pressure washers offer higher power and mobility for commercial or heavy-duty cleaning.
- Light-duty (1,500 – 2,000 PSI): Cars, outdoor furniture.
- Medium-duty (2,000 – 3,000 PSI): Driveways, decks.
- Heavy-duty (3,000+ PSI): Industrial cleaning, paint stripping.
Yes. Using the wrong PSI or nozzle can damage delicate surfaces like wood, paint, and windows. Always test in an inconspicuous area first.
Essential accessories include hoses, guns, nozzles, wands, surface cleaners, and detergent injectors to enhance performance.
Use pressure washer-safe detergents based on the surface and type of dirt. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the machine.
No. Cold pressure washers are not designed for hot water use and may get damaged if hot water is used.
- Check oil levels (for gas models) before each use.
- Clean or replace filters regularly.
- Inspect hoses, nozzles, and connections for wear.
- Restaurants and food industries (grease removal).
- Automotive shops and garages.
- Factories and industrial cleaning.
A hot water, gas-powered pressure washer with 3,000+ PSI and 4+ GPM is recommended for heavy-duty cleaning.
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Use a pressure washer trailer for mobility, especially for mobile cleaning businesses.
- Wear goggles, gloves, and non-slip shoes.
- Never spray people or pets.
- Avoid pointing the washer at electrical outlets or wiring.
- Store in a heated area.
- Use pump antifreeze to prevent damage.
- Drain water from the pump after use.
No. You need a hot water pressure washer with a built-in heating coil or burner.
- Check for clogged nozzles, a dirty filter, or a leak in the hose.
- Ensure proper water supply.
- For electric models: Check power supply and reset the GFCI.
- For gas models: Check the fuel, spark plug, and air filter.
With proper maintenance, a pressure washer can last 5-10 years for residential use and 3-5 years for heavy commercial use.
- Drain all water and detergent.
- Store in a dry place away from freezing temperatures.