Name: Hotsy Equipment Company
Address: 3005 Interstate Dr, San Antonio, TX, 78219, US
Price range: $
Location: Hotsy Equipment Company

Hot water cleaning: the best, most efficient means of cleaning. We have over 80 hot water pressure washers in our line-up

Hotsy Cold Water Pressure Washer, Hotsy Detergents, Hotsy Hot Pressure Washer

Will a Pressure Washer Remove Oil from Asphalt? Everything You Need to Know

Asphalt is considered one of the best paving options in the world for good reason – an asphalt driveway is affordable, strong, and when regularly maintained, looks much better to potential clients.

However, asphalt also stains from time to time. The type of stain that is mostly associated with this paving option is grease and oil stains from vehicles. You may also deal with other types of stains depending on where your asphalt is – from roadkill to food spills. Whatever the case, these stains can ruin the appearance of your business or property.

Fortunately, there are several options that a business can employ to remove oil from asphalt and make their properties look great again. A great option is cleaning oil off the asphalt with a pressure washer in San Antonio.

Wait – will a pressure washer remove oil from asphalt? The answer may surprise you…we’ll take an in-depth look at cleaning oil off asphalt with a pressure washer in this article. By the end of this discussion, you’ll know how to get oil off asphalt with a pressure washer. First things first – why is this so important?

Why Removing Oil Stains From Asphalt at Your Property is so Important

A clean driveway says a lot about your business. It sells the idea that you are considerate of even the little things about your business. It gives customers that extra sense that your business will serve them in the same way you take care of your driveways and parking lots. This might seem a bit farfetched, doesn’t it? Well, it is not far from reality. Like the front and back covers of a book, the exterior compound of your business needs to evoke a good impression on which clients will base their first opinion about the business.

How to get oil off asphalt with a pressure washer from your property is more than just cosmetic repair. From a business perspective, removing oil stains from asphalt not only appeals to clients and persons who visit your premises. It also prevents asphalt damage thus prolonging the lifespan of your property.

There are a few ways to remove asphalt from your property but is pressure washing oil from asphalt the best method? Will a pressure washer remove oil from asphalt? For those who already have a power washer, their bugging question is probably, how to get oil off asphalt with a pressure washer? Read on to learn more and find answers to these questions.

Will a Pressure Washer Remove Oil from Asphalt?

Pressure washing is a powerful force that can break up and wash away oil stains in your asphalt. However, there is a caveat – you need to use the best commercial grade pressure washer to get the results you’re after in an efficient manner. If you are using a weak pressure washer, it might not have enough force to completely remove the oil stains.

Moreover, a pressure washer alone does not get the job done. You will need to pair it with a quality detergent, advanced pressure washing techniques, and sometimes, manual brushes for the best results.

However – the answer is yes, a pressure washer will remove oil from asphalt when used correctly. In fact, this is the best way to tackle crude oil and grease stains on any surface, really! You just need to know how to get oil off asphalt with a pressure washer – which we’ll teach you below. Keep reading to learn the best way to pressure wash oil stains from asphalt!

How to Get Oil Off Asphalt With a Pressure Washer: The Best Way to Remove Stains

Ready to learn the best way to pressure wash oil stains from asphalt?

Spilled oil can leave nasty stains on your asphalt driveways and parking lots. These stains are not only an eyesore but also a slipping hazard. A business should take care of these stains right away before they become liabilities. With the right materials, there are a few options available to help clean driveway asphalt in no time.

Before beginning the process, make sure you have all equipment ready. You will need a suitable pressure washer, a quality detergent, and an asphalt brush to get started. It helps to dedicate a few hours to this task and also don’t forget to check the weather.

Prepare the Surrounding Area

Before you can successfully remove oil from asphalt, it is important to clear surfaces of any obstruction.

When working on a car parking lot, for example, you will need to move all the cars to another place. Make sure the customers are aware of the ongoing repairs so that they can move their vehicles before you start the job.

Then use a large utility broom to sweep any debris such as dirt, twigs, shrubs, leaves, flowers, and small stones. We also recommend you read our article on pressure washer safety before starting a pressure washer.

Choose the Right Pressure Washer

Cleaning the exterior of your business can be a tedious task. Fortunately, using a pressure washer can help to powerfully deep-clean surfaces such as sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, garages, walls, or sides of buildings. With over 80 hot water and over 35 cold water pressure washers paired with the best pressure washing detergents in the industry, Hotsy offers the necessary equipment and the best ways to pressure wash oil stains from asphalt that will work perfectly for your business.

A pressure washer uses either hot or cold water to produce superior high-pressure levels that can break oil and other stubborn stains on your surfaces. For example, commercial cold-water pressure washers rely on pressurized water produced by the motorized piston pumps within the machine whereas hot-water pressure washers derive much of their cleaning ability from hot water. Whether you are looking for a commercial cold water pressure washer or a commercial hot water pressure washer for sale, Hotsy’s wide range of commercial pressure washers and detergents is a great investment.

Pair it With a Quality Detergent

If cleaning oil off asphalt with a pressure washer is your preferred method, you will need a pressure washer soap to succeed. Hotsy’s detergent, soap, and degreasers are among the best the industry has to offer. But you may be wondering what kind of soap to use in power washer, exactly. Hotsy Brown is one of the most powerful pressure washer degreaser used to remove carbon-based deposits such as grease, oil, exhaust strains, road film, and dirt.

Keep in mind that not all soaps and detergents can be used in a pressure washer to clean asphalt. Some types can even clog your power washer’s nozzle. The last thing you would wish for is to incur additional costs on things you can avoid. And we should also mention that you should never use homemade pressure washer soap – it’s much more affordable and efficient to stick with quality, tried-and-true formations from the experts at Hotsy.

Dilute some detergent with water and put it in the pressure washer. Sprinkle the solution over the spills and let it soak for some minutes, before scrubbing and rinsing away.

Use the Right Pressure Washing Technique

The best way to pressure wash oil stains from asphalt is by first powering the power washer to bleed the hose of any compressed air. You can do this by holding down the trigger to allow any water out. This process takes no more than a minute.

For the best cleaning results, first, use the pressure washer with plain water to remove dirt. Next, use the wide nozzle setting to apply the best pressure washer soap. Let it sit for some minutes so that it can penetrate the dirt before you start scrubbing.

Finally, find a balance between a wide nozzle and a tight nozzle, but not a setting that is too aggressive, to rinse the asphalt surface with plain water. Remember, a 0-degree nozzle setting could easily damage the asphalt.

Scrub if Necessary

Scrubbing is perhaps the most important stage in the entire cleaning process. Scrubbing enables a degreaser to agitate oil stains that have been sitting on the asphalt for a long time.

When oil stains on asphalt driveways wait a long time to be removed, they become harder to get out. This means that apart from a reliable pressure washer and detergent, you will also need a dedicated asphalt brush that has strong bristles and that can generate adequate power when used to scrub a surface.

Follow-up as Needed

To get the best appearance and most life for your asphalt driveways and surfaces, make sure that you conduct sealing and regular maintenance every 3-5 years. Pressure washing the driveway at least once or twice per year can get you more seasons out of your investments.

Final Thoughts on Cleaning Oil Off Asphalt With a Pressure Washer

To answer the question, will a pressure washer remove oil from asphalt? The answer is yes. Using medium to heavy-duty commercial pressure washers can remove oil stains and dirt from your asphalt driveways and parking lots.

However, when cleaning oil off asphalt with a pressure washer, it is important to choose a suitable power washer and use the right pressure washer tip to avoid causing any damage to the asphalt. Although oil stains are hard to remove, Hotsy Pressure Washers guarantee the best cleaning job possible even for the toughest stains.

If your power washer needs maintenance, Hosty’s pressure washer repair and services may help but if you are looking to use a commercial power washer severally a year, our pressure washer rental San Antonio services may more sense from a business perspective. Call us or visit our stores in San Antonia today for the best pressure washing deals!

by Keval Shah

Hotsy Cold Water Pressure Washer, Hotsy Detergents, Hotsy Hot Pressure Washer

How to Pressure Wash Concrete: Complete Guide to Pressure Washing Concrete

Want to learn all about pressure washing concrete at your property? You’ve come to the right place – we’re going to detail everything you need to know on this topic.

Maybe you’re a business owner looking to keep your storefront or office looking clean and professional. Or, perhaps you’re a property owner looking to raise curb appeal and protect your investment. Either way, learning how to pressure wash concrete is of the utmost importance.

This is the most effective, efficient way to get your concrete looking like new – whether you’re dealing with sidewalks or a large patio. However, there are so many uncertainties shrouding this topic and leaving business or property owners perplexed.

How much PSI to pressure wash concrete is necessary? What nozzle to pressure wash concrete do you need? What is the best way to pressure wash concrete? How long before you can pressure wash new concrete?

Don’t worry – these are just a few of the many questions you’ll find an answer to in this complete guide to pressure washing concrete. By the end of this discussion, you’ll feel more confident in taking this task on yourself – or arming someone in your team with the resources for doing it. First – why should you invest the time, money, and energy towards concrete pressure washing?

Why Pressure Washing Concrete Routinely is So Important

Concrete pressure washing isn’t just about making things look nice – although that’s certainly a perk. This activity also boasts a long list of benefits, both functional and aesthetic.

On the functional side, concrete pressure washing routinely will:

Prolong concrete lifespan. By removing harmful debris, chemicals, or salt that could eat away at it, you are protecting your initial concrete investment. Let’s face it – concrete is expensive. An investment in pressure washing is an investment in the concrete itself.
Enhance traction to reduce slip-and-fall accidents. From retail storefront entryways or sidewalks to concrete patios at a restaurant or country club – helping eliminate the risk of slips and falls not only protects your employees and your customers. But, it also protects your business from lawsuit liability!
Help prepare the surface for repairs or treatments. If there are cracks, pits, or other surface damage, pressure washing will help prepare the concrete for repair. This way, you’ll achieve a seamless look once the repairs are completed.

On the aesthetic side, pressure washing concrete routinely will:

Make a great first impression on customers or clients. First impressions matter – whether it’s for your business or your home. If potential customers or clients see a pressure-washed sidewalk or entryway, they’ll get the sense that you care about your property and take pride in it. This can go a long way!
Brighten up the area and give it new life. A pressure washer can make even the dingiest concrete look brand new again. This is an easy way to brighten up an area without spending a lot of money.

What to Use to Pressure Wash Concrete

Now that we’ve gone over some of the reasons why pressure washing concrete is so important, let’s discuss what you need to do it. The obvious answer is a pressure washer – but there are other supplies you may not even realize you need. We’ll help you prepare yourself or your team to take on this task with confidence in this section below. First, you need a pressure washer.

Industrial Pressure Washer

This one is obvious – but do you know how to choose a pressure washer for concrete? First, you need to decide whether you’re going to rent or buy a pressure washer. Wait – can you rent a pressure washer? Yes – and it may be the right play for your business in certain circumstances.

If you don’t think you’ll use it more than 2-4 times a year, commercial pressure washer rental might make more sense for you. But, if you plan on making this a regular activity, buying a pressure washer will save you money in the long run. Trust us – there are so many things you can use the unit for it will pay for itself in no time. From pressure washing parking lots to pressure washing commercial building exteriors, and a whole lot more!

In terms of actually choosing your unit, you need to choose between hot water pressure washers and cold water pressure washers. Each has its time and place, but we typically recommend heated pressure washers because they just have a bit more cleaning capabilities.

Now – another big question we’ve been asked is how much PSI to wash concrete is needed. In general, you want to look for a unit that delivers around 2,500 – 3,000 PSI of pressure. This is generally enough pressure to power through most concrete cleaning jobs without damaging the surface. But beyond just the pressure washer PSI, you should consider pressure washer GPM as well. The higher the GPM, the more water pressure you’ll have access to – and this can make all the difference in getting your concrete clean.

Above all else, you need the best industrial pressure washer – do not skimp on quality. Otherwise, you won’t reap the benefits of pressure washing concrete that we described earlier. And at Hotsy, that’s exactly what you’ll find. We’re the #1 choice in all of South Texas – visit a retailer near you and we’ll help you find the perfect unit for your needs.

Specialized Commercial Pressure Washing Detergent

You also need pressure washing detergent. And no – we do not recommend you use your own homemade pressure washer detergent! Remember – concrete pressure washing is an investment in your business or property. Trust us when we say it is well worth the investment in a targeted cleaning solution made specifically for pressure washers.

Now, in terms of choosing the right kind of soap to use in a pressure washer, you have a few options. At Hotsy, we have two great pressure washer degreaser soap formulations for concrete pressure washing in particular: Hotsy Floor Wash & Hotsy Ripper I. Either of these is a great choice as the best pressure washer soap for concrete – no doubt about it!

What Nozzle to Pressure Wash Concrete With

Now that you’ve got your pressure washer and soap, the question becomes: what nozzle to pressure wash concrete with? The answer may surprise you – it’s not just one nozzle that pressure washes concrete well. In fact, there are a few different pressure-washing nozzles you can use for this specific application:

– 40-degree pressure washing nozzle: good for general cleaning

– 15-degree pressure washing nozzle: great for getting into tight spaces

– 0-degree pressure washing nozzle: perfect for stubborn stains and build-up

You also have to make sure you use the right soap tip for pressure washer – this will ensure the pressure washer soap comes out in the right consistency. If you’re using Hotsy pressure washing detergent, we recommend a black pressure washer tip.

Manual Cleaning Equipment May Help as Well

It’s true – pressure washing is the most effective, efficient form of concrete cleaning there is. However, you may encounter tough stains that need a bit of physical agitation – like a tough-bristle brush.

And as we’ll discuss below, you should also have a broom or rake on hand to clean up physical debris before even starting a pressure washer.

Don’t Forget the Proper PPE, Either!

Last but not least, you need to make sure you have the right Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for concrete pressure washing. This includes:

Gloves
Glasses
Boots
Ear protection

You may also want to consider a pressure-washing suit – this will help keep you clean and dry while you work.

Now that we’ve gone over what you need to pressure wash concrete, it’s time to get into how to pressure wash concrete step by step. Trust us – it’s not as complicated as it may seem! Just follow these simple steps and you’ll have no problem getting your concrete clean as new.

How to Pressure Wash Concrete: Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to discover how to pressure wash concrete? We’re not going to waste any time here. Once you’ve got your equipment and you’ve set the time and date for your cleaning, here’s what you need to do…

Step 1: Clear the Area

The first step in pressure washing concrete is to clear the area of any loose debris. This includes things like leaves, dirt, and rocks. You don’t want anything flying around when you turn on the pressure washer! This is a key element of pressure washer safety.

Step 2: Connect Your Pressure Washer

Now it’s time to connect your pressure washer. If you’re using an electric pressure washer, plug it into a nearby outlet. If you’re using a gas-pressure washer, make sure the engine has oil and gasoline. Once everything is connected, start up your pressure washer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 3: Test the Pressure Washer

Now that your pressure washer is running, it’s time to test it out. Point the pressure washer nozzle away from any people or pets, and squeeze the trigger. This will give you a feel for how the pressure washer works and how much pressure you’re working with.

Step 4: Soak the Concrete

Now it’s time to start pressure washing! Begin by soaking the concrete in water. This will help loosen any dirt or debris that’s stuck to the surface. You don’t need to use soap at this point – just water will do the trick. However, if your concrete is extra dirty, it’s time to bring some soap to the fight.

Step 5: Add Soap and do the First Pass

You’ll fill your pressure washer with detergent via the detergent tank – and you’ll need to look to the product manual to ensure you get the proper dilution. We have a complete guide on how to use soap in pressure washers if you’re doing this for the first time. Once you’ve added the soap, it’s time to do the first pass.

We recommend letting the suds sit on the concrete for at least 10-20 minutes and soak. This is why it’s best to wait for the concrete to be shaded s other suds won’t dry. After you’ve given the chemicals a chance to work the stains and debris loose, you can then rinse off the concrete.

Step 6: Rinse Off the Concrete

Once you’re finished pressure washing, it’s time to rinse off the concrete. Turn off the pressure washer and let the water run for a few minutes to rinse away any soap or detergent residue. Once you’re finished, turn off the pressure washer and disconnect it from the power source.

Now it’s time to let the concrete dry. This usually takes 12-24 hours, depending on the weather conditions. Once the concrete is dry, you can apply a sealant if desired.

Step 7: Seal Concrete After Pressure Washing

Wondering how to seal concrete after pressure washing? This is an important step for a few reasons – but it’s often overlooked. First, pressure washing can remove the existing sealant on the concrete. Second, sealing concrete helps protect it from staining and fading.

If you want to reseal your concrete after pressure washing, we recommend waiting at least 24 hours. This will give the concrete plenty of time to dry completely. Once it’s dry, you can apply a new sealant with a brush or roller. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions – and wait for the sealant to dry completely before using the area again.

FAQs About Concrete Pressure Washing

That concludes our guide on how to pressure wash concrete – but now, we’re going to address a few FAQs about concrete pressure washing.

Does Pressure Washing Damage Concrete?

No – pressure washing does not damage concrete. At least, not if you follow the advice we laid out in the article. This goes back to a similar question – how much PSI to wash concrete is needed? If you stay under the 3,000 PSI range and be sure to hold the nozzle a safe distance, you won’t need to worry about damaging your concrete.

How to Pretreat Concrete Before Pressure Washing?

There are a few different ways to pretreat concrete before pressure washing. You can use a pressure washer brush attachment, a broom, or a garden hose with a spray nozzle. Whichever method you choose, you’ll want to make sure that you’re using soap or detergent. This will help loosen any dirt or debris that’s stuck to the surface of the concrete.

How to Keep Concrete Clean After Pressure Washing?

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure – so learning how to keep concrete clean after pressure washing is a great idea. After all, you don’t want to have to pressure wash your concrete more than necessary.

One of the best ways to keep concrete clean is to seal it after pressure washing. This will help protect it from staining and fading. You can also sweep or hose off the concrete regularly to remove any dirt or debris that’s been tracked onto it.

How Long Should Concrete Cure Before Pressure Washing?

If you’ve just laid fresh concrete, how long should you wait before pressure washing? 28 days will give the concrete plenty of time to cure and harden. Pressure washing too soon can damage the concrete – so don’t get too eager!

Final Thoughts on Pressure Washing Concrete

There you have it! That’s how to pressure wash concrete in seven simple steps. Just remember to take your time, be safe, and use the proper equipment and PPE – and you’ll have no problem getting your concrete clean as new. We have an article on more advanced pressure washing techniques if you’d like to learn more about actually using a pressure washer.

And don’t forget – no cleaning process is complete without Hotsy equipment and supplies. When they say nothing cleans like a Hotsy, you can take their word for it – our reputation as the #1 San Antonio pressure washing store precedes itself!

by Keval Shah

Hotsy Cold Water Pressure Washer, Hotsy Detergents, Hotsy Hot Pressure Washer

Pressure Washing Graffiti: The Complete Guide to Graffiti Removal with Power Washers

Let’s face it, graffiti is an amazing art. Unfortunately, from what we can see in today’s society, graffiti is more like a tool of protest and vandalism than it is a decorative tool. How would you feel to wake up one morning and find your property defaced with graffiti writings? Heartbreaking, right?

Sometimes, graffiti may cause damage to surfaces like stucco and brick, and that’s why it is important to remove them as early as possible. Before you decide on the appropriate graffiti cleaning service, make sure you do a thorough check-up of the method you intend to use to avoid unnecessary costs.

Luckily, pressure washing graffiti can quickly restore the appearance of your vandalized walls and make them even more attractive.

Is Graffiti Removal Pressure Washing the Right Choice for Your Business?

A clean and well-maintained exterior is integral to the success of your business activities. Clean external walls attract customers as they are eye-appealing.

Moreover, clean walls increase the property value and portray a positive image to the buyers. The local government and the private sector have a significant role in ensuring that public and private businesses are clean and free of unwanted Graffiti.

As a result, graffiti removal pressure washing is considered the right choice for your business because it is easy and effective when professionally executed.

The Importance of Removing Graffiti from Your Building or Property Fast

As earlier stated, graffiti on a business property portrays a negative image of the organization. If the graffiti goes unanswered, the businesses may suffer losses associated with declining property value. When some clients see graffiti on your

properties, they tend to de-rank your services trusting that your services are not worthwhile. When graffiti is left in a building for an extended period, it may cause more damage to the building and is much more costly to remove.

Leverage the Help of Efficient, Highly-Effective Pressure Washers!

A high-end pressure washer is considered an essential resource in pressure washing commercial buildings. Cleaning methods differ for surfaces made of bricks, concrete, vinyl siding, metal, and asphalt. Using a power washer to clean these walls may appear to be tiresome and time-consuming, especially if you do not know how to choose the right power washer for the job.

There are various types of pressure washers, and while some can be used to pressure wash graffiti, there are several pressure washers to strip paint off walls. The pressure washing graffiti evaluation should also consider the type of wall to be cleaned as well as the working conditions: basically, any exhaust fumes from the machine should not create environmental problems.

What You Need for Pressure Washing Graffiti off Your Property

To remove most graffiti using a power washer, you will need the pressure washer itself, a quality detergent, and other accessories including PPE equipment.

The Pressure Washer Itself

To start the graffiti removal pressure washing process, you must first determine the type of surface you are dealing with. Why?

There are various types of pressure washers, and making the wrong choice may result in more harm than good. Businesses should be able to tell the difference between hot water vs cold water pressure washers and which works best for them.

The pressure washer should be comfortable and provide the user with a safe working environment. The machine, for example, should be portable and easily moved from one building to another. That being said, this step-by-step guide will show you how to choose a pressure washer for your walls.

To remove most graffiti from your property with a power washer, you must have a pressure washer capable of exerting a pressure of about 2000 PSI, particularly on concrete surfaces.

However, in cases involving delicate bricks or masonry, the pressure should be kept below 500 PSI to avoid surface destruction. The procedure is straightforward: simply point the jet’s pressure washer at the graffiti-covered surface.

The pressure from the jet, which flows at a rate of 4 GPM, does the majority of the work in removing the graffiti from the surface. Hotsy’s heated pressure washers for sale are ideal for providing efficient graffiti removal services for your business.

A Targeted, Quality Detergent

Graffiti removal has become much faster and easier thanks to high-quality detergents. Although homemade pressure washer detergent may be useful on some walls, they are not the best.

The best soaps for pressure washing graffiti should be environmentally friendly, that is, nontoxic and biodegradable. When cleaning concrete surfaces, it is critical to spray the walls with the recommended pressure washer degreaser, which aids in the removal of Graffiti more efficiently and in a shorter time frame.

Other Supplies/Equipment

Graffiti removal is a time-consuming process that may expose the cleaner to hazardous substances. To avoid health risks, the following PPE supplies and equipment are required. T

hey include, among other things, a face mask, thick gloves, a spray bottle, aerosol solvent, a pressure washer, safety glasses, a sturdy cloth, a sponge with a rough side, and a detergent cleaner. In addition, you will also need a water source. If you don’t have a reliable water source, then the Hotsy pressure washer trailer might come in handy.

Step-by-Step Guide to Pressure Washing Graffiti

High-end and long-lasting power washers are needed to remove graffiti on walls because they increase cleaning efficacy and save money. Here is how you can use the machine to pressure wash graffiti.

Clear the Area & Prep the Surface

Before pressure washing a wall surface to remove graffiti, the cleaner must first assess the area to determine the type of surface being washed.

This step is critical because knowing the type of surface you’re working with helps you determine how much pressure to apply to avoid destroying the walls. Assessing the area will also assist the cleaner in determining the safety precautions to avoid injuring themselves or others around the work area.

Cover up any other surfaces, such as glass or any other surface that could be damaged by strong water. The final step in this stage is to apply the graffiti removal solvent to the surface and allow it to dissolve the graffiti. In some cases, some light scrubbing may be required depending on the condition.

Get in Your PPE & Start the Pressure Washer

Although pressure washer accidents are uncommon, it is critical to have the necessary PPE before performing graffiti removal pressure washing.

Then, get your pressure washer ready. You’re probably wondering how to start a pressure washer at this point. Those who are using a pressure washer for the first time should read the machine manual to learn about pressure washer safety. The user will also be able to understand how to clean graffiti from walls using detergents for effective and efficient results.

Fill the Detergent Tank & Choose the Right Tip

Many people are curious about how to use soap with a pressure washer. It is simple. The washer uses water to clean surfaces.

PSI is the measurement you want to look at when determining how much force you are using to clean the surfaces. GPM is another important metric that measures the amount of water flowing out. After assembling the pressure washer, it is recommended that you fill the detergent tank and select the appropriate tip.

To avoid damaging the surfaces you are cleaning, soap tip for pressure washer should be wide. Using the correct nozzle for each surface is critical for achieving the desired efficiency and effectiveness in your work. Here is what you need to know: first, a nozzle with a small opening focused spray at high velocity; second, a broad nozzle has a wide spray with low velocity.

Spray Top to Bottom in a Sweeping Motion

Efficient pressure washing techniques are required for the best graffiti removal pressure washing results. Place yourself approximately 2 feet away from the surface. Choose a small area to test the pressure washer.

Check to see if there is any damage after spraying. When the water blast is too powerful, masonry materials like brick and stone can chip or crack. You may proceed if everything is in order. Aim the wand at the graffiti and begin spraying, moving it back and forth in nice, even horizontal strokes.

Let the Suds Sit a While

it is necessary to let the suds sit for a while before rinsing. This also helps to completely loosen the graffiti before the final rinsing. Following this tip will make your work look adorable as operated by a pro.

Rinse the Surface to Reveal a Like-New Shine!

After pressure washing graffiti with a detergent solution, rinse away the grime. This is a simple step that involves running clean water through the pressure washer.

Rinsing should also be done in the same order as the cleaning, that is, top-down. Also, begin where the soap solution has been sitting the longest, to ensure that the soap does not stick to the surfaces and that all of the detergents have been removed.

Repeat if Necessary or Introduce Some Scrub Brushes

If you have completed all of the preceding steps but still see some graffiti on the wall, you can use a brush to scrub off the remaining pieces.

You will then rinse the surfaces once more to remove the unwanted graffiti and restore the appearance of your wall. Commercial pressure washing for graffiti removal is a significant investment, but only if done correctly.

Final Thoughts on Graffiti Removal with Pressure Washing Tactics

Graffiti on property or businesses leaves a negative impression, particularly on customers or clients interested in purchasing products from businesses. People may regard graffiti as art or decoration, but when used illegally, it creates a negative impression and degrades the business or property.

Fortunately, Hotsy offers the best commercial hot water pressure washers for removing graffiti from walls. If you only need graffiti power washers a few times a year, Hotsy also offers hot water pressure washer rental. Many businesses agree that cleaning graffiti with a pressure Washer in San Antonio is effective and time-saving because the spray washer requires little knowledge to operate.

by Keval Shah

Hotsy Cold Water Pressure Washer, Hotsy Detergents, Hotsy Hot Pressure Washer

Commercial Building Pressure Washing: How to Restore & Maintain Your Property

Want to learn all about commercial building pressure washing? You’ve come to the right place. In this in-depth guide, we’ll answer all your questions about pressure washing commercial buildings.

Maybe you’re the proud owner or property manager of an industrial building. Or, perhaps you’re starting a pressure washing business and want to target building owners yourself. No matter the circumstances you came here under, one thing is certain: by the end of this discussion, you’ll feel confident in taking your next steps to pressure wash the exterior of a commercial building!

This article will explain the benefits of pressure washing your building’s exterior. And, we’ll cover what to use when pressure washing exterior commercial buildings. Of course, you’ll also gain insights on how to actually pressure wash commercial buildings – step by step. We’ve got a lot to cover and recognize how valuable your time is, so let’s get right into it!

Benefits of Commercial Building Pressure Washing

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of commercial building pressure washing, let’s first look at some of the benefits. After all, you may be wondering: is pressure washing commercial buildings worth it?

Trust us – it’s worth it. And frankly, you don’t even have to take our word for it. There’s a reason commercial building owners make pressure washing a regular part of their maintenance schedule. Here are a few of the most noteworthy benefits you’ll unlock by doing the same:

Pressure washing can extend the lifespan of your building. By regularly removing dirt, grime, and other buildup from your building’s exterior, you’re essentially protecting it from wear and tear. This will help you avoid costly repairs down the line! From extending the life of your building’s paint to the actual material making up the exterior walls, professional cleaning is a great investment in the building itself.
Pressure washing can improve your business’s curb appeal. First impressions matter – and if potential customers or clients see a dirty, neglected building, they may not have the best impression of your business. On the other hand, a clean and well-maintained building will convey that you take pride in your business – and may even attract more customers!
Pressure washing can increase property value. If you’re thinking of selling your commercial building, pressure washing it first can definitely increase its resale value. And, think back to that first point we mentioned. If you routinely clean the exterior of your building, it will command a higher price point when it comes to selling the property.

These are just a few benefits of commercial building pressure washing – but we think they’re compelling enough to warrant further investigation! Now that you’re convinced, the question becomes – should you pressure wash the building yourself or hire a company to do it for you?

Should You Pressure Wash Your Commercial Building Yourself or Hire a Company to do it?

There are two ways you can get your commercial building pressure washed:

Use internal resources to get it done
Outsource the work to a pressure washing company

Of course, each approach has its own pros and cons. If you do the work yourself, you’ll have to either rent or buy a pressure washer and other supplies. This does require an upfront investment, but you save much more money in the long run than paying for costly professional services.

However tempting it may be to leverage the help of a professional so you can just keep it out of sight, out of mind, it usually makes more sense to do it yourself. You won’t have to deal with the hassle of scheduling appointments, and you can make sure the job is being done exactly how you want it done. But the real kicker is the cost savings in the long run.

Let’s move on to what materials you’ll need for the job.

What to Use When Pressure Washing the Exterior of Commercial Buildings

Now that we’ve gone over some reasons why pressure washing commercial buildings is important, let’s talk about what to use when pressure washing the exterior of commercial buildings.

As you can imagine you’ll need the best commercial pressure washer and the best pressure washing soap. Add an operator (or a few operators depending on building size), and you have a superpowered cleaning solution that can blast through the toughest dirt, dust, and grime. Even the dirtiest commercial building exterior is no match for this tandem.

The key here is that you need to carefully consider your unique building when choosing your equipment and supplies. Our buying guides (linked above) are great resources to help you pick the right pressure washer and soap. But if you want an expert recommendation, we’re here to help.

Trust the Experts at Hotsy for All Your Commercial Building Pressure Washing Essentials!

Hotsy is the #1 choice for all things pressure washing in South Texas – serving San Antonio, Laredo, Houston, and the Rio Grande Valley. With over 40 years of experience, you can trust that we’ll get you set up with everything you need for effective, efficient cleaning. Nothing cleans like a Hotsy! We have a reputation for producing dependable, long-lasting equipment. You can enjoy peace of mind investing in our machinery knowing you’ll get your money’s worth. Our pressure washers are built to stand the test of time.

Now – to get specific, what type of unit and soap do we recommend for commercial building exterior pressure washing? Stick with one of our commercial hot water pressure washers. You can buy one if you plan on using it a few times or more a year. Otherwise, our hot water pressure washer rental service may make more sense for you.

Then, you’ll pair the unit with one of our powerful pressure washer degreaser soaps. You will get impressive results with our Blue Thunder detergent in particular – it’s perfect for brick or steel building exteriors! However, there are many detergents that will get the job done: Breakthrough, Super X, Ripper I, and Enviro-Clean are other candidates.

When Should Commercial Building Pressure Washing be Done?

We recommend developing a commercial building pressure washing schedule based on your unique location and circumstances. The reality is, no two buildings are the same – but here are some considerations to help you come up with a schedule:

Consider Seasonality: anytime the seasons change, it creates a great opportunity to clean your building. Not only is it a good way to maintain a “once a quarter” cleaning schedule. But, your building will actually become dirtier with the changing of seasons. Pollen starts flying in the spring and summer, rain and snow muck up the building during winter, and leaves and other debris accumulate during fall.
The Eye Test Never Fails: cleaning your commercial building’s exterior once a quarter is plenty for businesses situated in mild climates and clean areas. But, maybe your location is particularly dry and dusty. Or perhaps your commercial building is near a processing plant that affects air quality. There are countless reasons your commercial building may need to have the exterior cleaning more frequently – so, just be sure to analyze the exterior every month or so. As you notice it becoming dirtier, you can schedule a cleaning.

How to Pressure Wash Commercial Buildings: Step by Step Guide

Now that you know what to use when pressure washing exterior buildings, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get to work. We’re going to help you navigate this process with a step-by-step guide on how to pressure wash commercial buildings.

If you have no prior experience operating a pressure washer, start by reading some of our resources. Our guide on how to start a power washer is a great entry point. Then, read our guide discussing safety. This will help you eliminate all the potential pressure washer accidents that could occur through proper protocols, PPE, and other measures. Finally, our resource on how to use a pressure washer covers the basics you need to know along with advanced pressure washing techniques for more effective, efficient cleaning.

With all that said, here is how to actually get started pressure washing commercial buildings. The process is broken down into three key steps:

Step 1) Preparation

– Assess the commercial building and create a game plan. You’ll want to take note of the areas that are particularly dirty or challenging. Then, you’ll develop a strategy for how you will approach pressure washing the exterior. This will also help you identify precisely what detergent you’ll need. For example – if you find some graffiti, you can grab a bit of our Fat Cap Graffiti Remover.

– Next, set up your pressure washing equipment. This includes unloading the pressure washer from the truck, connecting all hoses and cords, adding soap to the unit, and testing everything out to ensure it’s working properly. Read our guide on using soap with a pressure washer if you’re unsure how to add/mix it.

– Finally, do a walkthrough of the commercial building with the owner or manager. Point out any areas of concern and get approval to move forward with pressure washing. You may need to board up/cover windows or signs that you don’t want to risk damaging (especially with high pressure washer PSI).

Step 2) Cleaning

– Begin pressure washing the commercial building starting from the top and working your way down. If you’re using a hot water pressure washer, be careful of any areas that may be susceptible to heat damage.

– As you work, pay close attention to any problem areas. These will likely require more time and effort to get clean.

– Make sure you move slowly and evenly across the surface as you pressure wash. This will help ensure you don’t miss any spots and that the cleaning is even throughout.

-You may need to rinse with pure water after an initial detergent pass. Don’t leave suds behind – and don’t let them dry on the walls while you’re cleaning the exterior of the building either. This will leave a film behind.

Step 3) Post-Cleaning

– Once you’re finished pressure washing, it’s time to do a walkthrough. If you were contracted by a building owner to do the cleaning, you’ll want to make sure they’re present for the walkthrough – just as they were for the assessment. This time, you’ll point out all the areas that have been cleaned and any areas that may still need attention.

– Then, you’ll pack up your pressure washing equipment and load it back into the truck. Make sure everything is turned off and disconnected properly before leaving the job site.

– Finally, if you were contracted by a building owner, touch base with them a few weeks after the fact to schedule a follow-up appointment to assess the results of the pressure washing and determine if any additional work needs to be done.

Final Thoughts on Pressure Washing Commercial Buildings

That concludes our complete guide to pressure washing commercial buildings. Investing in a pressure washer for your commercial building is a smart move for any business owner or manager. Not only will it improve the appearance of your property – but, it will also extend its lifespan. With Hotsy by your side, you can rest assured you’re getting the best possible results.

And now that you know how to pressure wash commercial buildings, there’s only one thing left to do. Head to your local Hotsy Equipment retailer and experience how simple and effortless industrial cleaning jobs can be! Our commercial pressure washer store in San Antonio has everything you need to transform your building’s exterior and restore it to a like-new condition.

by Keval Shah

Hotsy Cold Water Pressure Washer, Hotsy Detergents, Hotsy Hot Pressure Washer, Hotsy Parts & Accessories

Why Your Pressure Washer Soap Dispenser Doesn’t Work: 5 Causes & Fixes

You invested in a pressure washer and an accompanying detergent because you were told it would make your life easier. And it’s true – using a pressure washer with soap is a great way to supercharge your cleaning process and get through jobs faster. And, the end result is far more impressive. There are other benefits to combining the power of hot water pressure washers and a quality detergent, like less risk of damaging surfaces and lower water usage.

But – if your pressure washer soap dispenser doesn’t work, it can leave you frustrated and unsure of your next steps. Sure, you can try and get by using just the water pressure itself. However, to help you get the most out of your investment, we’re going to answer the question you came here with today…why won’t my pressure washer dispense soap?

In the coming paragraphs, we’ll identify the most common causes for why your pressure washer soap dispenser doesn’t work and the related fixes. If what we discuss today doesn’t seem to remedy the problem, you can bring your unit to a Hotsy retailer in South Texas near you. Our expert repair and maintenance staff are on standby ready to get the unit back working as intended.

Before we get into all that, though, allow us to quickly explain how to dispense soap from a pressure washer. After all, there’s a slight chance you could just be missing a key step in the process. Let’s take a look:

How to Dispense Soap From a Pressure Washer: Quick Guide

Assuming you have a pressure washer with an operational soap dispenser, there are only a few steps standing between you and sudsy success. Here’s a quick guide on how to dispense soap from a pressure washer:

Fill the pressure washer detergent tank with your desired cleaning solution – just make sure it’s compatible with your model
Select the appropriate nozzle for applying soap. You can find this listed in your user manual
Attach the hose from the pressure washer detergent tank to the unit. Again, consult your user manual if you’re unsure how to do this
Turn on your pressure washer and select a low setting. This is important because using too much pressure can actually cause liquid to be forced back into the tank
Pull the trigger on the pressure washer wand to allow the solution to flow. You should see suds immediately
Apply the soap to your surface using an up and down or side to side motion
Once you’re done, turn off your pressure washer and release any remaining pressure in the hose. This will help prevent detergent from leaking out later
Finally, disconnect the hose from both the pressure washer and detergent tank. It’s always a good idea to give everything a quick rinse with water before storing it away.

There are additional steps in this process – many of which come before actually setting up your unit. We encourage you to read our article on the best soaps for pressure washing – along with our discussion on how much soap to put in your pressure washer. Our in-depth guide on how to use a pressure washer with detergent provides a far more detailed overview of how to dispense soap from a pressure washer if you’d like further clarification.

My Pressure washer Soap Dispenser Doesn’t Work…Now What?

Assuming you’ve followed all the advice above and your pressure washer soap dispenser doesn’t work still, now what? Even the best industrial pressure washer can experience issues here and there. And while you can certainly continue using the unit without soap in the meantime, you want to get the most out of your pressure washer. Eventually, you’ll need to address the issue and come up with a fix.

If you’re wondering why won’t my pressure washer dispense soap, keep reading. We’ll provide a few potential causes – and their accompanying fixes.

Why Won’t My Pressure Washer Dispense Soap? 5 Common Causes & Solutions

Sometimes, the cause for your pressure washer soap dispenser not working is as simple as a clog in the nozzle – or, perhaps you chose the wrong nozzle altogether. Or, it could be something more complex and convoluted – like a broken soap injection system. We’ll cover all this and more below.

You Have a Clogged Nozzle or Hose

Over time, it’s not uncommon for a nozzle or hose to become clogged with dirt and debris. This can be easily remedied by taking a quick look at the screen – if it’s caked with crud, simply remove it and give it (and the area around it) a good cleaning.

You may also want to check the pressure washer pump inlet screens and filters while you’re at it. Eventually, you may need to replace the nozzle and hoses altogether. We always recommend running pure water through your lines and out the nozzle prior to breaking the unit down to prevent this issue from arising in the first place.

The Detergent Tank Has a Clog

If you don’t have a clog in your nozzle or your hoses, the next step should be to check your detergent tank. If you made the mistake of leaving soap in your detergent tank and failed to rinse it thoroughly after the previous use, it’s likely that soap scum has dried and clogged the exit point in the tank.

The fix is simple – scrub it clean and remove the clog. And next time, clean your tank prior to unit breakdown!

You Chose the Wrong Nozzle for Soap

Another common reason your pressure washer soap dispenser doesn’t work is that you’re using the incorrect nozzle. Remember, different nozzles serve different purposes – some are designed for applying soap while others aren’t.

We have an in-depth resource on choosing the right soap nozzle for a pressure washer. There, you’ll learn that we typically recommend going with the black nozzle for soap – it has a larger orifice that decreases the water velocity. And thus, it increases the pressure in the hose, creating a better spray with soap.

If you still feel uncertain about which nozzle you should choose, check your user manual or contact Hotsy customer service for assistance.

The Detergent You Chose is Not Compatible

It’s also possible that the pressure washer soap you’re using simply isn’t compatible with your unit. This is why we always recommend checking with Hotsy (or another trusted source) before adding any new solution to your pressure washer. Using an incompatible product could cause serious damage to your machine.

If the detergent is too thick, it won’t be able to adequately make its way from the tank, through the soap injection system, and out the spray nozzle. This can be the result of either improper dilution or improper soap selection altogether.

Fortunately, we’ve written a complete guide on what kind of soap to use for pressure washing. Not only will this help you understand the importance of using only certified Hotsy soaps – but it will also help you pick the right formulation for any sort of job. Whatever you do, avoid going with a homemade pressure washer detergent! Shop at Hotsy for the premier selection of pressure washer degreaser soap.

Broken Soap Injection System in Your Unit

The soap injection system is responsible for mixing your detergent and adding it into the high-pressure washer that shoots out your nozzle. There are a few components in this system, and if any of them fail, it could prevent the unit from dispensing soap altogether.

If your pressure washer has a broken soap injection system, it likely needs professional repair. We don’t recommend attempting to fix this on your own as you could end up causing more harm than good. Contact Hotsy customer service or bring your unit into a local servicing location for assistance.

Need Further Assistance? Visit a Hotsy Location in South Texas for Repair & Maintenance

Many times when your pressure washer soap dispenser doesn’t work, it’s a case of user error. Maybe you dropped the ball on routine pressure washer servicing and your emitter, nozzle, or hose has become clogged. Or perhaps you just need to brush up on some of our top pressure washing techniques – as you’re not adding enough soap or setting the pressure washer up correctly.

However, there is also a chance – albeit unlikely – that your Hotsy unit needs to be inspected and repaired by professionals. If you need further assistance, we encourage you to visit one of our Hotsy locations in South Texas. There, our team of pressure washing experts will be more than happy to help you troubleshoot the issue with your pressure washer soap dispenser – or perform any necessary pressure washer repair or maintenance. We service San Antonio, Houston, New Braunfels, Laredo, and everywhere else in South Texas.

One of the best parts about Hotsy pressure washer rental is that if you experience issues while on the job, we’ll bring you a new unit and fix the old one! You never have to worry about downtime when you put your trust in us.

Final Thoughts on Why Your Pressure Washer Soap Dispenser Doesn’t Work

Why won’t my pressure washer dispense soap? You now know a few of the most likely reasons your pressure washer soap dispenser doesn’t work. We’ve provided not just the potential causes, but accompanying solutions so you can get back to work quickly – with as little downtime and wasted time/resources as possible.

If you find that the remedies we’ve provided don’t work, don’t stress. Just visit a Hotsy retailer in South Texas near you. Or, give us a call. We’re so much more than a San Antonio pressure washer store – we’re your one-stop-shop for all things commercial cleaning.

Remember – many of the problems people experience with pressure washers is caused by user error. Be sure to read the user manual carefully during setup and prior to actually using the unit. When in doubt, reach out – Hotsy pressure washers are as good as it gets. But only if you use them correctly!

by Keval Shah

Hotsy Cold Water Pressure Washer, Hotsy Hot Pressure Washer, Hotsy Parts & Accessories

What Kind Of Oil Does A Pressure Washer Use?

If you are wondering what kind of oil a pressure washer uses, keep reading. This guide will show you which oil to use – and how much. You’ll also learn how often a pressure washer needs its oil changed, along with other tips to keeping your unit running smoothly and efficiently. Most importantly, you’ll learn how to actually change the oil in your pressure washer.

This guide will help prevent overheating and other forms of damage to the internal elements of your machine. This is not something you want to miss out on – so keep reading to preserve the life of your power washer!

Does It Matter What Kind Of Oil Goes In Your Pressure Washer?

Yes. It does matter what kind of oil goes in a pressure washer. The wrong kind will cause your engine to not function at all.

To begin, you don’t want to add motor oil to your pressure washer. The reason for this is that most machines do not have oil filters. The impurities found in motor oil can cause damage to the inner workings.

Before you know it, you’ll be finding a pressure washer repair shop that will have to fix the issue. That alone will cost you plenty of money on the service. That’s why you want to pay close attention to this guide so you can be able to tell which oil is suitable.

Another thing that can cause your pressure washer to not work well is neglecting to change the oil on time. For this reason, you want to make sure you get it serviced on a regular basis. Using your pressure washer on the regular will require you to check to see if it’s in good shape. A huge part of that is checking up on the oil and keeping it topped off. You’ll also need to routinely change the oil altogether, flushing the system.

You may not be using it often, yet you still want to check the oil and give it the proper maintenance it needs. The oil may build up over time and it can be less than effective when it’s sitting in the same place for a long period of time.

So, What Kind Of Oil Does A Pressure Washer Use?

So, what kind of oil does a pressure washer use?

One of the most common options for oil when using a pressure washer are SAE 10W-30 and SAE 10W-40. You want to keep in mind that the manufacturer of your pressure washer may suggest that you use something specific . Make sure you consult your owner’s manual to see if there is a specification. This is your best bet.

SAE 10W-30 or SAE 10W-40 are oils that are useful in both hot summer and cold winter days. For example, if you are looking to use your pressure washer and the temperatures are about 40 degrees (F) or less, SAE 10W-30 will be your failsafe option.

Anything about 40 degrees, it can still be your best option. Remember that you do have an alternative in the SAE 10W-40. Both are synthetic and all purpose oils, which are needed for something like a pressure washer.

Most of the modern pressure washers will not have an oil filter. That’s why it is important to change the oil regularly. You’ll find out how to do that later on.

How To Determine Which Kind Of Oil Goes In Your Pressure Washer

As mentioned before, you’ll want to consider a synthetic oil since it’s compatible with most pressure washers. However, you’ll want to consult your owner’s manual to determine the best option. You will find the most compatible synthetic oil option according to their recommendation.

Also, determine if your pressure washer has a pump. If it does, a non-detergent oil will be useful. The reason for this is due to the fact that they don’t have oil filters the way engine-run pressure washers do.

Remember, there is a difference between synthetic and motor oil. Read the labels carefully before you choose the oil you need. The last thing you want to do is be in a hurry and accidentally grab motor oil instead of the synthetic stuff you need to properly run your pressure washer.

It won’t matter what brand it is. As long as it has the SAE 10W-30 or SAE 10W-40 on the label, that’s exactly what you’re looking for. Now, let us teach you how to change oil in pressure washer.

How To Change Oil In Pressure Washer: Step By Step

Ready to learn how to change oil in pressure washer? Here’s what you need to know:

Changing the oil is part of the maintenance process. Doing this is a must for those who own a pressure washer. Failure to do this can lead to performance issues and it may not work as well as you hoped it would. When it comes to your business, efficiency is everything – and neglecting to change your oil can cause performance problems. So, read carefully!

Even if you are not using your pressure washer very frequently, it still needs to be maintained. We’ll talk about how often you need to do that shortly. For now, let’s take a look now at how you can change the oil in your pressure washer:

Put a catch basin underneath where the drain hole is (if present). The oil may miss the drain, so it would make sense to use a catch basin that will catch any spills that may happen
Remove the cap and let the oil flow out
The drain plug will be found at the low point of the washer’s engine. Make sure to rinse the area first before going any further. Remove the bolt that secures the plug using a wrench or a socket wrench. The size you need may vary on what washer you’re using
Continue to let the catch basin collect the oil (and also on the metal plate). After the flow ends, wipe the area and reattach the bolt
Place a funnel into the fill hole and add new oil to it. Close the pump when finished

There you have it. Before you do anything else, you want to clean the area of any spills just in case. You now know how to change the oil in pressure washers from start to finish. So, the real question is how often should it happen?

How Frequently Should You Change The Oil In Your Pressure Washer?

As a rule of thumb, you’ll want to change the oil in your pressure washer every three months. This is only if you are using it on a frequent basis. Otherwise, you can change it every 30 to 50 hours of operation.

At some point, the frequency will change to about every 300 hours of use or every three months regardless if you are using it on a regular basis or not. Making sure you take on the preventative measures that will help keep it running is important.

The debris that builds up in your engine may cause your pressure washer to overheat. It can get to the point where your engine may malfunction and it will stop working altogether. From there, your option will be to get a new one.

Of course, you don’t want to spend a lot of money replacing one outright. Depending on several factors, you may have to spend thousands on a pressure washer. The more diligent you are in sticking with your pressure washer, the better your pressure washer will perform. Similarly, it will last longe.

What Kind Of Oil Does A Pressure Washer Use? Wrapping Things Up

The good news is that Hotsy has hot water pressure washers for sale. Whether you’re operating a construction or contracting business or you run a car detailing service, we’ve got the units you need at prices that work for you. You’ll even find cold water units, electric models, and more.

No matter your intent and purpose, Hotsy is your go-to place to buy a commercial pressure washer San Antonio that will help you find the right one. If you need something larger, a pressure washer trailer just might be exactly what you’re looking for.

If you don’t have a pressure washer and need one for a quick task every now and then, we’ve got a pressure washer rental service available for you. This is the most affordable, desirable option for those who only need sporadic cleaning. If you have any questions regarding pressure washers that you can buy or rent, contact Hotsy today at 210-224-4906. We’re excited for you to experience the Hotsy difference for yourself. After all, nothing cleans like a Hotsy!

by Keval Shah

Hotsy, Hotsy Cold Water Pressure Washer, Hotsy Hot Pressure Washer

How To Service A Pressure Washer: Maintenance Tips & Tricks

If your pressure washer is a key component of your business, you need to learn how to service a pressure washer the right way. This will protect your investment for the long haul and ensure you keep your power washer running in tip-top shape. But let’s face it – your expertise lies in your business – not in servicing or maintaining a pressure washer!

That’s where we come in. You can find a Hotsy near you and enjoy a professional pressure washer service or get any routine repairs done. We’re the #1 choice in all things commercial pressure washers – and servicing is no exception. But if you’re looking to go the DIY route, we can lend some advice to help you understand:

What goes into servicing a pressure washer
General maintenance with each use
The ideal pressure washer maintenance schedule
And much, much more.

As you can see, we’ve got quite a bit to cover in this article. Let’s start by addressing the question so many business owners ask us – do you really need to service a pressure washer professionally, or can you do this yourself?

Do You Need To Service A Pressure Washer Professionally?

We know you like to get things done yourself. So this begs the question – can you learn how to service a pressure washer yourself, or do you need to bring your unit in for professional maintenance on a routine basis? This sort of depends on a few factors:

Is your time worth being spent on pressure washer maintenance?
Do you have the expertise to service and maintain your pressure washer?
Are you conducting routine maintenance like changing the oil or replacing nozzles, or is there something more serious wrong?

In our opinion, business owners and their employees should work on what they do best – and chances are, that is not servicing a pressure washer (unless you work at Hotsy – this is what we do best!). You should request professional service so that you can continue to allocate your time and energy toward more important areas.

Now, that’s not to say you can’t conduct routine maintenance here and there if it’s something simple – like changing the pressure washer pump oil, replacing filters or nozzles, etc. But if your pressure washer isn’t working as well as you’d like, and you’re not sure why, don’t even bother trying to diagnose the machine yourself. These units – especially commercial pressure washers – can be very complex. You may end up doing more harm than good trying to rectify the issue if you aren’t sure what you’re doing.

All of this is to say that when it comes to servicing your unit, you are far better off bringing it into a licensed Hotsy location. We can conduct the service fast and repair any issues that are holding it back from peak performance. Typically, we can get parts in just a day or two and have your machine back up and running in no time. If need be, we may even be able to get you a pressure washer rental in the meantime!

Having said all this, we know many of our readers are the DIY type and just want to handle this themselves. If you have the know-how, it is totally possible to service your unit yourself. And we’ll walk you through the basics. First – let’s talk about the ideal pressure washer maintenance schedule.

Pressure Washer Maintenance Schedule

Think of your commercial pressure washer like a vehicle. Just as your car needs to be brought in for routine maintenance, so too does your pressure washer. From oil changes to filter replacements, there are varying timelines for when you need to conduct this routine maintenance.

But, just as recommendations vary within cars from make to make, model to model, trim to trim, so too do recommendations vary across pressure washers. That means in order to develop your ideal pressure washer maintenance schedule, you need to consult the manufacturer’s recommendations for your unique make and model. This type of information will likely be readily available in the user manual you received. It’s important to find a user manual for your specific unit because you’ll find different protocols in terms of frequency (along with the type of maintenance) from gas vs electric pressure washers, hot vs cold water pressure washers, etc.

With all this said, we have a few recommendations you can use as a general guideline. Keep reading the next section to discover how to service a pressure washer on the ideal maintenance schedule.

How To Service A Pressure Washer Yourself

This section is not going to be a universal guide on how to service a pressure washer because as we just discussed – recommendations vary from unit to unit. With that said, this section will guide you through the different types of maintenance procedures you should take care to implement – and when you need to do them.

When in doubt, consult your manufacturer directly to determine what exactly servicing your unit entails, along with the ideal frequency. We’ll start by talking about what to do before each use:

Before Each Use:

There are a few things you should do before each use of your pressure washer. Get in the habit of doing these and you’ll eventually start doing the pre-use procedures on autopilot. To make sure you don’t miss any steps, it’s not a bad idea to keep a checklist attached to your unit (or nearby where you store it). Here are some of the crucial steps to follow before operating your unit:

General Inspection: quickly look over the unit and identify any leaks. This includes oil, fuel, or water. If there is a leak, there is a problem – and you’ll need to conduct further analysis to determine the source and cause.
Check Fuel & Oil Levels: This one is important to prevent you from running your unit dry. But it’s also important to prevent downtime from your unit dying in the middle of a project because you run out of fuel. If you operate an electric pressure washer, there won’t be any fuel to check. But a gas pressure washer needs to have both the fuel and oil levels checked prior to use.
Check Screens, Filters, & The High-Pressure Hose: the final steps in your pre-use maintenance are to double-check that your screens, filters, and high-pressure hose are all in order. If you see any issues, you’ll want to remedy them before attempting to operate your unit.

After Each Use

Just as you’ll need to follow a strict pre-use regimen, you should conduct a post-use regimen as well. This will prolong the life of your unit while ensuring it’s ready for the next task when the time comes. This type of maintenance is pretty simple. There are just a few things you need to do before putting your unit away for the day:

Empty Detergent & Water Tanks: you don’t want to store your unit full of pressure washer soap or even water, for that matter. You want to fill up your unit with fresh soap and water prior to each use. So, use the remaining detergent and water to clean off the area you’ve been working in. Then, run clean water through your high-pressure hose and spray gun for a few minutes to fully purge the unit.
Relieve Pressure In The Unit: as you can imagine, pressure washers generate a good deal of pressure. It’s your job to relieve that pressure after each use. Turn off the pressure washer and disconnect from the water supply. Simply point the spray gun in a safe direction and hold the trigger until nothing comes out.

Routine Maintenance & Servicing Procedures

Along with quick maintenance before each use, there are other forms of maintenance you’ll need to conduct on a set schedule. From changing the engine oil out altogether to cleaning your air filter, replacing spark plugs, and much, much more – here are some recommendations:

Change Engine Oil: When you first get your pressure washer, you’ll want to change the engine oil after the first 5 hours of use (depending on your specific brand and unit). You also must regularly change engine oil after 50 hours of use or once a year – whichever comes first.
Clean Air Filter: To help prevent your unit from overheating and damaging itself, while also preventing contaminants from entering the motor, you need to regularly clean your air filter. This will vary depending on the conditions you work in. However, recommendations are to clean or outright replace your air filter every 25 hours of use – or, once a year.
Inspect and Clean Spark Arrestor and Muffler: Every 75 hours (or once a year) you should do an inspection of the spark arrestors and muffler. Look for cracks, residue, and other signs of damage. Similarly, you’ll want to check, clean, adjust, and replace spark plugs every 100 hours of use or once a year.
Replace Air Filter Fuel Filter: Even if you do a great job cleaning your air filter, you should change it altogether every 200 hours or every 2 years. The same goes for your fuel filter. This is also a good time to check your fuel lines and ensure they’re clog-free and undamaged.

To Be Safe, Get Your Pressure Washer Serviced At Hotsy

Well, there you have it – all you need to know about pressure washer maintenance. One final piece of advice we want to leave you with is that if you’re putting your unit away for an extended period, you need to learn how to winterize a pressure washer. We wrote a complete guide to help you prepare for prolonged storage and keep your unit in tip-top shape for when it comes out of hibernation.

This has been just a short introduction to how to service a pressure washer in San Antonio. Because remember – our best advice is to only perform routine maintenance yourself. For more serious servicing and repairs, allow a professional like Hotsy to handle everything for you. The last thing you want is to do more harm than good – contributing to more expensive repairs down the line.

Spend your time on more important work while the fine folks at Hotsy get your gas pressure washer or electric pressure washer serviced fast and back up and running. We’ll have your unit cleaning as good as it did when you first got it!

by Keval Shah

Hotsy, Hotsy Cold Water Pressure Washer, Hotsy Hot Pressure Washer

Are Electric Pressure Washers Worth It

When it comes to pressure washers, there are two main types to choose from: gas and electric. Gas pressure washers have typically been the go-to choice, both for residential and commercial applications. But today, electric pressure washers are becoming more and more common for both home and business use.

If you’re thinking about getting an electric pressure washer for your business, you might find some conflicting information on the Internet about which is better. Are electric pressure washers worth it? Or are people hyping them up for all the wrong reasons?

Today, we will get to the bottom of this and help you decide if an electric pressure washer is the right fit for your business. First, let’s define what electric pressure washers are:

What Are Electric Pressure Washers?

Electric pressure washers are powered by–you guessed it–electricity! They use an electric motor or pump to blast pressurized water from the nozzle gun, with pressures going as high as 3,500 pounds per square inch (psi). This kind of pressure is more than sufficient for most general cleaning jobs, such as removing dirt, old paint, mildew, and oil. Hence, it is a common choice for both commercial and residential applications.

Not sure how much pressure you need? Check out our previous blog to better determine how much pressure washer psi you need.

Are Electric Pressure Washers Worth It?

Whether it’s going to be used for residential or commercial applications, we can say with confidence that an electric pressure washer is definitely worth it. From a business standpoint, an electric pressure washer would make an invaluable addition to your arsenal of cleaning tools, especially if you belong in a grime-prone industry like foodservice, automotive, or commercial cleaning. Here are the specific reasons why:

Advantages Of Electric Pressure Washers

Electric pressure washers are known to be affordable, low-maintenance, highly portable, environmentally friendly, and quiet. Let’s discuss each of these advantages in deeper detail:

Affordable

The average price for an electric pressure washer is around $250, whereas gas pressure washers can go for about $380, on average. So, if you’re looking for affordability, electric pressure washers take the cake.

Low Maintenance

While electric power washers are not maintenance-free, they do require far less maintenance than gas pressure washers. Aside from general cleaning and occasional pump lubrication, you rarely have to change its parts–and you definitely don’t need to refill it with fuel, unlike a gas-powered washer.

Highly Portable

Electric pressure washers typically weigh between 15 to 60 pounds, which is a far cry from the average weight of a gas pressure washer, which can easily go over 100 pounds. Even if your machine’s weight is on the higher end of the spectrum, it will still be easy to carry around and load onto vehicles for transport.

Environmentally Friendly

In comparison to gas pressure washers, electric pressure washers are far more environmentally friendly. This is because, unlike gas power washers, electric-powered units do not use fuel and subsequently emit fumes into the air.

Quiet

Even with high amounts of pressure, electric pressure washers are known to be far quieter than gas-powered washers. This combined with the fact that they don’t emit fumes, gas pressure washers are ideal for both outdoor and indoor use.

Drawbacks Of Electric Pressure Washers

From the advantages that we’ve mentioned above, it is easy to see why electric pressure washers are worth it. But, of course, you must also consider the drawbacks in order to make an informed buying decision.

So, what are the potential disadvantages of electric power washers?

Must Be Plugged In

Perhaps the biggest drawback of an electric pressure washer is that it needs to be plugged in at all times. This can make it difficult to use if you’re working in a space with electrical outlets spaced far away from each other. For example, if you’re washing a car with a pressure washer, you will likely need an extension cord or a longer power cord to do the job.

Less Durable

When it comes to durability, gas pressure washers trump electric pressure washers. Gas-powered units can last for ten years, easy. Electric pressure washers, on the other hand, tend to only last 3 to 5 years, depending on the maintenance. This is the reason why many people view electric pressure washers as “disposable.” Nevertheless, you can make your washer last much longer with proper care–and with a good warranty!

How Do Electric Pressure Washers Stack Up Against Gas Units?

So, what is better? An electric pressure washer or gas pressure washer? The answer depends on your business’ needs, preferences, and ultimately–where your priorities lie.

An electric pressure washer is a great option if you’re looking for a practical tool for general cleaning jobs. As we’ve explained earlier, electric machines are powerful enough to clean off most dirt and grime, including old paint, mold, grease, plant residue, and much more. That said, having an electric pressure washer for your business will save you a lot of headaches–and for the right price.

More than that, you don’t have to worry much about maintaining it–no fuel, no oil, and no major replacements. With just enough cleaning and lubrication, you can easily make your investment last long enough for it to be worth it.

All things considered, an electric pressure washer is a great choice if you want good functionality for a reasonable price.

Are Electric Pressure Washers Worth It? Wrapping Up

Not all electric pressure washers are made equal, so if you want to get your money’s worth, stick to one of the most reliable suppliers of commercial pressure washers in the country: Hotsy Equipment Company! From electric to gas pressure washers and cold to hot water pressure washers, we’ve got every solution for your business needs–all made with the best quality materials and top-notch innovation that you won’t find elsewhere.

Don’t waste time on short-term solutions. Browse our collection today and invest in the highest-quality pressure washer that your business deserves!

by Keval Shah

Disinfecting and Sanitizing Equipment, Hotsy, Hotsy Cold Water Pressure Washer, Hotsy Hot Pressure Washer

Pressure Washer Safety: Are Pressure Washers Dangerous?

At first glance, a pressure washer in action doesn’t look all that dangerous. After all, it’s just a blast of water, albeit more powerful than what you get from a regular garden hose–right?

Wrong.

A pressure washer–just like any other power tool in your garage–can become dangerous with improper use. Think about it: if a pressure washer can remove paint from a surface, just imagine what it can do to bare skin! You’re lucky if all you get is a bruise or a wound. But with a pressure washer’s powerful spray, it is very likely to have water injected into your skin, which can easily cause a deep-layer infection.

As a business, you are responsible for your employees’ safety and your own. With that in mind, knowing about pressure washer safety is crucial before you attempt to use a pressure washer without prior experience.

Keep on reading to learn more about the potential dangers of using a pressure washer and–more importantly, how to prevent serious injuries or damage from happening.

Are Pressure Washers Dangerous?

The short answer is yes, pressure washers can be dangerous. But the real question you should ask is, how dangerous are pressure washers?

A pressure washer can be just as dangerous as any other power tool, but the injuries that they can cause are definitely less severe than, say, a power saw. However, this doesn’t make them any less hazardous. At the very least, getting hit by the spray of a pressure washer can cause minor bruising or wounds on your skin. In worse cases, however, the pressurized water can penetrate deep into the skin and where it’s not supposed to be, which can lead to an infection. Let’s say you get sprayed in the eyes – you could be at risk of losing your vision permanently.

We say all this not to scare you, but rather to make you aware of the reality you face when you use a pressure washer.

These types of deep-tissue injuries can appear to be no big deal at first glance, which can increase the risk of not seeking medical help until it’s too late. In the absolute worst cases, a pressure washer injury where the water ended up deep inside the skin can lead to disability and even amputation.

So, to answer the question, “are pressure washers dangerous?” Yes, they can be–unless you employ proper pressure washer safety practices. This brings us to our next topic:

At What Pressure Are Pressure Washers Dangerous?

To be able to use a pressure washer safely, you must know the level of pressure at which pressure washers can become dangerous. More specifically, you need to know the pounds per square inch (psi) level at which the jet of water can cut through the outer layer of skin, which is 1,160 psi.

General cleaning applications call for 1,500 to 1,900 psi of pressure. Pressure washers that can emit pressure between 1,500 to 1,900 psi are considered “light-duty”. That said, an average pressure washer with a “light” spray can be strong enough to cause serious injury if you’re not careful.

Having said that, just imagine how much damage a higher psi level can cause (pressure washers can go up to 3,300+ psi!). In any case, it is important to practice proper pressure washer safety at any pressure.

Speaking of psi, check out this guide on how much water pressure psi you need for different types of applications!

Pressure Washer Safety Tips

Before you attempt to use a pressure washer, take note of these important safety tips to minimize the risk of accidents:

Learn How To Use a Pressure Washer Before Using One

It is imperative that you know the correct pressure washer techniques before even touching an actual machine. A pressure washer is a very powerful tool that can easily cause serious injuries and damage to property when placed in the wrong hands. Therefore, if you are inexperienced, it is crucial that you know how to use a pressure washer properly, at least in theory.

Pro tip: Watch video tutorials on how to use a pressure washer, ideally with the same type of washer that you have. There are plenty of sources online that you can use to learn before you give your pressure washer a go.

Once you learn what you need to do, you can start practicing with your pressure washer at a low psi. Set your pressure washer at the lowest psi it can go, then work your way up as you learn how to maneuver the nozzle properly. In any case, work in an abandoned area where there is less risk of injuring someone or damaging property.

Wear PPE

When using a pressure washer, be sure to wear clothing that covers your skin i.e. pants and a long-sleeved shirt. Similarly, wear shoes that cover your entire foot; work boots with metatarsal guards are the best option, but regular sneakers will do as long as they are thick enough.

Eye and ear protection are also an absolute must. Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from the mist and other particles, as well as to prevent accidents caused by something flying into your eye. If you are using a gas-powered pressure washer, which can be very loud, don’t forget to wear ear protection, too.

It is also recommended to wear waterproof safety gloves to protect your hands in case they accidentally get in the way of the pressurized spray. Waterproof gloves will also prevent your hands from getting wet, which minimizes the risk of you losing grip on the nozzle gun.

Another important tip: if you are using a hot water pressure washer, opt for insulated waterproof gloves!

Clear The Area Before Spraying

The powerful spray of a pressure washer can not only pose a risk to humans but inanimate objects as well. That said, always make sure to clear the area before you start working. Get rid of any obstacles that can get in the way of your spray; cover up windows; barricade the walkways (if you are working in a public area), and cover surrounding greenery with a tarp if necessary.

Never Aim The Wand at Anyone

How dangerous are pressure washers? Dangerous enough that you should treat your pressure washer wand like a firearm! Never aim it at anyone or anything that you don’t intend to clean. When the water is off, always point the wand downward and keep your fingers off the trigger.

Don’t Use a Gas Pressure Washer in an Enclosed Space

A gas-powered pressure washer emits fumes as it burns fuel for power. As a result, it is only ideal for outdoor use. If you try to operate a gas pressure washer inside an enclosed space, the carbon monoxide can remain trapped indoors, and you will be at risk for carbon monoxide poisoning. If a cleaning job needs to be done indoors, use an electric pressure washer instead.

Cover Electrical Outlets

Before cleaning an area, make it a point to check for and cover electrical outlets. You already know what can happen if you accidentally spray water into one.

Start With a Wide Nozzle

All pressure washers come with 3 to 4 nozzle tips. The widest angle nozzle tip is the 40-degree nozzle, which sprays a gentle fan of water on a surface. The smallest and strongest nozzle tip is the 0-degree nozzle, which sprays a jet of water the size of a quarter. Whenever you work on a new surface, always start with the 40-degree nozzle first, then work your way down until you find the nozzle tip that is strong enough to do the job.

Maintain Your Equipment Properly

This is a safety tip that a lot of business owners tend to forget. Proper maintenance is not only necessary to save money on your pressure washer–it’s also important for the safety of whoever uses it.

To illustrate, a poorly-maintained pressure washer has a higher risk of failing, which can lead to accidents. In the unfortunate event that it does cause an accident, you are legally obligated to pay for damages and medical expenses because maintaining the machine is your responsibility as a business owner. If it is your employee that sustains injuries, they are also entitled to workers’ compensation.

Final Thoughts On Pressure Washer Safety

With all the points that we’ve made here, you should be able to understand how important it is to employ all the necessary safety precautions when using a pressure washer. Don’t put your workers, yourself, and your business at risk–always make safety your #1 priority!

More than that, invest in a top-quality commercial pressure washer san antonio that has all the features you need to increase user safety. With a reliable unit from Hotsy Equipment Company, you won’t have to worry about your hot water pressure washer spraying scalding water everywhere for no reason–or perhaps your electric pressure washer suddenly malfunctioning. As long as you do your part in maintaining your machine, you can rest assured that a Hotsy pressure washer will remain fully functional and safe for years to come.

by Keval Shah

Hotsy, Hotsy Cold Water Pressure Washer, Hotsy Hot Pressure Washer

How Much Pressure Washer PSI Do I Need?

Pressure washers are the most popular, effective solution for getting rid of any serious messes. They’re great for getting rid of grease, debris, graffiti, you name it. But before you go buying or renting a pressure washer, you need to take into consideration how much PSI you need to get the job done—but what is PSI, anyway?

If you’re new to pressure washers, you might not be familiar with what PSI is. It stands for “pounds per square inch” and is the unit of measurement for pressure. The higher the PSI, the stronger your pressure washer is.

The reason why people love pressure washers so much is that they’re powerful enough to get rid of almost any gunk. But without proper knowledge and use, your pressure washer can easily damage your property instead of cleaning it. To avoid damages and effectively get your cleaning job done, we’ll be helping you choose the right pressure washer PSI for you.

As you’ll soon discover, pressure is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to selecting the right power washer. So, we’ll even go over all the other factors you must consider before you go about selecting your power washer. Keep reading to the end – because we’ll even give you a recommendation on where you can start your shopping journey!

Why It Is So Important To Consider How Much Pressure Washer PSI You Need?

If you buy a pressure washer without considering how much PSI you need, there are two possible outcomes. If you buy a pressure washer that puts out too low of pressure, you end up cleaning inefficiently.

But if you buy an overtly powerful pressure washer—too powerful for your particular project—you could end up damaging your property. In this second instance, you also may waste your money on way more equipment than you actually need.

Some people like to say that if you aren’t sure how much PSI you need, you should start small and work your way up to a higher PSI. Although this advice is valid to a certain extent, this could just lead to overbuying, which is a waste of money.

Don’t worry, though, we’ve got you covered. This guide will help you identify the exact pressure washer PSI you need for a certain cleaning job so you can avoid cleaning inefficiently, damaging property, and wasting money.

So – How Much Pressure Washer PSI Do I Actually Need?

Different cleaning projects require different PSI’s. Some surfaces are only capable of handling very low pressure. Then, there are others that require extremely high pressures to be fully cleaned. Still, some surfaces and materials can take all kinds of pressure from 500 to up to 3000 PSI.

It’s easy to see how this can get really complicated, really quickly. We haven’t even begun to address situations where you need different PSI for different jobs!

To make this as simple as posisble, here are the different PSI ratings and the common cleaning jobs suitable under these ratings.

Light Duty 1500-1900 PSI

For regular maintenance and light household cleaning jobs, a light-duty pressure washer will do. These feature PSI ranging from 1500 to 1900 and would be enough to get rid of dirt and mild stains. This is the safest pressure washer PSI rating for all surfaces, but it isn’t ideal for getting rid of tough stains.

Low pressures are best for cleaning delicate surfaces around the exterior of the house. The gutters, soffits, and windows tend to be more fragile than your deck or driveway, for example. As such, they require more attention and care than the rest of the house’s exterior.

A light-duty pressure washer is also ideal for cleaning trash cans, cars, vans, and trucks. These pressure washers are also great for cleaning outdoor patio furniture, particularly wooden and wicker ones, without causing the wood to splinter or warp.

Medium Duty 2000-2800 PSI

Medium-duty pressure washers do a better job at cleaning dirt buildup and oil stains than low-duty pressure washers. This classification ranges from as low as 2,000 PSI to as high as 2,800 PSI. You can use a medium-duty pressure washer for almost any surface. They’re great for cleaning concrete, brick, and wood. They work especially well for cleaning patios, sidings, roofs, decks, and fences.

The medium-duty power washer is best for getting rid of stubborn stains and dirt that a low-duty pressure washer can’t clean. You can also use this on wooden surfaces without chipping the wood and creating splinters. Do not use a medium-duty pressure washer on your windows or vehicles as this may crack your window or cause a dent in vehicles.

Heavy Duty 2900-3200 PSI

Moving on, you can also consider a heavy-duty power washer with PSI ranging from 2,900-3,200. If you own a boat or yacht, a heavy-duty pressure washer is great for blasting away any algae and barnacles that might’ve got stuck on the bottom of your boat.

These are also the most commonly used pressure washers for cleaning driveways, sidewalks, and pathways. They are also used to prep different surfaces for painting.

Extra Heavy Duty 3300 and higher PSI

For heavily stained driveways and caked-on dirt, you might need an extra heavy-duty pressure washer. If you plan to use this on painted fences, walls, or floors, do take note that at around 4000 PSI, a pressure washer can strip paint off of surfaces. Although this is a bad thing if that’s not your intended use, these pressure washers work perfectly for getting rid of graffiti on walls.

If you’re looking for an industrial cleaning solution – whether you’re in the construction, food service, trucking, or any other industry – this is probably the right option for you.

But like we said at the start, it isn’t all about power. There are a few other factors you should consider before you decide on the right power washer for you.

Other Factors To Consider Before Buying A Pressure Washer

Although it’s very important to look at the PSI rating when choosing a pressure washer, there are a couple of other things to consider when choosing a pressure washer as well—such as the GPM, CPU, and the different types of pressure washers and their uses.

GPM or Gallons Per Minute

Gallons Per Minute (GPM) is also known as the “flow rate” of water. It’s the amount of water that flows out of the pressure washer per minute. If the PSI is the amount of power needed to break up the dirt and grease, the GPM is the volume of water used to flush away the dirt.

Both the GPM and the PSI are important. The higher the GPM, the faster the water comes out, which ultimately affects how fast you can get your cleaning job done. The only downside to a higher GPM is that you end up spending more on your utility bill due to the higher amount of water being used. You also may have to consider the environmental concerns of all this extra run off.

CPU or Cleaning Power Units

The Cleaning Power Units (CPU) or Cleaning Units (CU) is the PSI multiplied by the GPM. It is also known as “effective cleaning units” and is used to compare the effectiveness of one pressure washer to another. The higher the pressure washer CPU is, the better the performance.

In the end, it still depends on the type of cleaning job you need to do. A high PSI, GPM, or CPU doesn’t always equal better performance if it ends up destroying the surface being cleaned instead.

Hot vs Cold Water

Aside from the PSI rating, water flow, and effective cleaning units, you also have to consider whether a hot or cold water pressure washer is more ideal for your cleaning job. Both hot and cold water pressures have different uses.

They can have the same PSI ratings, GPU, and CPU, but you might find that one works more efficiently than the other depending on the water temperature. You can learn all about the difference between hot water and a cold water pressure washer in our blog.

Gas vs Electric Pressure Washers

An electric pressure washer tends to have a lower PSI than a gas pressure washer. They’re great for cleaning everyday items, such as your vehicles, BBQ grills, outdoor patio furniture, decks, and equipment.

They are often cheaper than gas pressure washers and are portable. The only downside is that there’s a limit to which areas you can reach since an electric pressure washer has to be plugged in while cleaning.

A gas-powered pressure washer typically has higher PSI ratings than an electric one. They tend to be larger in size and are more durable too. However, they’re also expensive, more high maintenance, and noisier than the electric pressure washers.

Commercial vs Residential Pressure Washers

Commercial pressure washers were initially used by businesses to keep their equipment, storefronts, and workstations clean. But nowadays, even homeowners are using commercial pressure washers for cleaning hard household surfaces.

The main difference between commercial and residential pressure washers lies in the amount of power they have, the materials they’re made out of, and their run time. For more in-depth information on the differences between a commercial and residential pressure washer, take a look at our blog post. It will give you a more in-depth understanding of which is right for you.

Is it better to rent or buy your pressure washer?

One of the most common questions we get is whether it’s better to rent or buy a pressure washer. The short answer is it depends. If you’re the type who uses a pressure washer three or more times a year it’ll be worth it to invest in your own.

But if you have tons of cleaning jobs to do and it can’t just be completed with one power washer, it might be best for you to find a rental.

If you still aren’t 100% settled on the idea of buying a pressure washer, don’t worry. We created a complete guide on the things to consider to help you decide whether you should rent or buy a pressure washer.

Ready To Find Your Next Pressure Washer?

If you’re looking for a pressure washer store that offers a wide range of pressure washers with different PSI ratings, you’re in the right place. Hotsy Equipment Company is the go-to store for all your pressure washer needs.

Commercial pressure washers in San Antonio come in all PSI ratings, from low-pressure to extra heavy-duty pressure washers—we’ve got it all!

We have all types of pressure washers, such as electric pressure washers, gas pressure washers, cold water pressure washers, and hot water pressure washers for sale. And if you aren’t ready to commit to a pressure washer just yet, we offer a pressure washer rental as well!

So, what are you waiting for? Head over to the site to learn more and take a look at our catalog. We even wrote up a list of the best commercial pressure washers currently on the market if you need a recommendation. Or, reach out to us via email, phone, or chat. We’ve got just about 50 years of experience in this industry and can get you set up with exactly what you need!

by Keval Shah