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Oil Rig Pressure Washing Equipment: Keep Your Site Safe & Clean With These Tips!

There’s no question that working on an oil rig can be one of the dirtiest jobs out there. From oil spills to drilling mud, it seems that each sequence brings a new mess. Thus, you need a fast, effective means of keeping your job site clean and safe. And for that, there’s no better solution than oil rig pressure washing equipment.

Today, we’re going to introduce you to the benefits of pressure washers in San Antonio and a quality detergent can offer in your cleaning regimen. You’ll learn how oil rig pressure washing equipment stands up against other cleaning methods. And then, we’ll guide you through choosing the right equipment for your unique needs.

Towards the end, we’ll actually guide you through using the equipment so you can feel confident empowering your team with the equipment, supplies, and knowledge necessary to keep the rig looking pristine. Let’s not waste any time!

Why Cleaning Oil Rigs is Not Something You Can Take Lightly

Working on an oil rig is a notoriously messy job. From the crude oil you’re trying to extract to the drilling mud and other byproducts that come up during drilling, it seems like there’s always something making a mess.

Beyond just being unsightly, having a dirty oil rig is a liability. For example, spills can create slipping hazards that put your workers at risk for injury. And if left unchecked, debris and corrosion can cause equipment failures. This is not just costly in terms of replacements – but also in terms of lost productivity through downtime.

In other words, cleaning your oil rig is not just about keeping things tidy – it’s about maintaining a safe work environment. It also helps preserve expensive equipment and supplies to maximize the ROI. That’s why it’s important to have a fast, effective means of cleaning up any messes that occur.

And while there isn’t much you can do to prevent these messes, there is a way you can make quick work of cleaning them. Let’s take a look at your options below.

Why Oil Rig Pressure Washing Equipment is the #1 Solution to Keeping Your Site Clean

So – cleaning oils rigs is important. You probably knew that already…but what is the most effective, efficient process for cleaning oil rigs? First, you need to know what not to do. The most common method of cleaning oil rigs is also the least effective. Manual scrubbing involves using a brush and detergent to clean surfaces by hand.

This process is very labor-intensive, which makes it both time-consuming and expensive. Moreover, it’s not always effective at removing all the dirt and grime – especially if the mess is set in or difficult to reach. When you consider what you’re paying your employees, surely there has to be a more efficient approach to cleaning up messes…right?

That’s where oil rig pressure washing equipment comes in.

The pairing of a high-powered hot water pressure washer and a quality degreasing detergent is unmatched in efficacy and efficiency. You can keep either an electric or gas pressure washer on hand and be prepared to clean up messes as they arise – whether it be mud from the pre-drilling, sequence, crude oil spills from production, or just the accumulation of equipment grease from facilities operation.

Whether you’re working in an oil field or offshore, there is a type of pressure washer out there that can help. And, there are also types of soap to use in pressure washers specifically designed to address these hard-to-clean compounds.

But – to truly unlock all the benefits this dynamic duo has to offer, it’s imperative that you carefully choose the right equipment and supplies. So – allow us to help you choose your lineup…

Choosing the Right Oil Rig Pressure Washing Equipment & Supplies

There’s a lot to unpack when trying to choose a pressure washer. There is the hot water vs cold water pressure washer debate, and you also must ask yourself – what PSI pressure washer do I need? Of course, there is also the issue of determining what GPM for a pressure washer is necessary, too.

And don’t even get us started on how to use a pressure washer with detergent – this is another key consideration. Not all soaps will work for this type of cleaning job.

All of this can lead to decision overwhelm – but we’re here to simplify things for you. Let’s start by going over the essentials of a pressure washer for oil rig cleaning.

Get a Commercial Hot Water Pressure Washer With Ample PSI & GPM

First and foremost, you need a quality pressure washer. This is non-negotiable if you want to achieve optimal results. And while there are many different types and brands of pressure washers on the market – not all are created equal.

For oil rig cleaning specifically, you’re going to want a commercial hot water pressure washer. These models have much more power than your standard home-use machine – making them ideal for taking on tough messes like oil spills and equipment grease buildup. When choosing a model, look for one with at least 3,000 PSI and 4 GPM. This will give you plenty of power to clean even the most stubborn messes quickly and easily.

Also, make sure the machine you choose is durable and built to last. After all, it will be working overtime in some pretty tough conditions. You should also consider your water source. In certain instances, you will need to bring in a water source to your field in remote locations – and building a pressure washer trailer is one option. But, there’s actually a better way…

If you’re in the South Texas area or nearby, you can look no further than Hotsy.

Our collection of commercial hot water pressure washers for sale & pressure washer trailers for sale consists of a diverse range of options – no matter your needs. And you don’t have to stress over choosing the right one – we’ve been doing this for decades, and can get you set up with exactly what you need! And if you’re just interested in commercial pressure washer rentals, we can help you out there, too.

But – even the best commercial pressure washer will fall short of expectations if you don’t pair it with the right detergent – so let’s talk about that next.

Pair With a Pressure Washer Detergent That Can Handle Oil Spills & Grease Buildup

As we mentioned earlier, not all soaps are created equal. In fact, using the wrong soap in your pressure washer can actually damage the machine – so don’t even think about using homemade pressure washer detergent!

Instead, stick with the carefully crafted formulations we have at Hotsy. We have the best pressure washing soap in the industry. In fact, we have certain formulations designed specifically for cutting through caked-on grease and tough oil messes. Here are some specific recommendations straight from our catalog:

  • Hotsy Brown
  • Ripper I or II
  • Breakthrough!

Along with the actual detergent, make sure you also have the right soap nozzle for pressure washer. For this particular job, we recommend a 0° or 15° nozzle. A 0° is best for removing oil stains, while the 15° can handle both oil stains and general cleaning.

And finally, don’t forget about safety! Let’s talk about PPE next.

Don’t Forget About PPE Gear

Pressure washer injuries and accidents are rare. But even those that do occur could have been avoided if the user simply wore the proper PPE! Of course, other safety measures should be taken as well – like clearing the area before working and never pointing the nozzle at another person.

But in terms of PPE gear, you need at least the following:

  • Safety goggles that fully enclose the eyes
  • Heavy-duty waterproof gloves (insulated, ideally, to protect against hot water)
  • Heavy-duty raincoat (insulated, ideally, to protect against hot water)
  • Slip-proof rubber boots

It’s also essential that you train your operators on safe pressure washer use. Our article on how to operate a power washer is a great introductory resource. We also have a guide on safely starting a pressure washer. And finally, you can review our guide on advanced pressure washer tips and tricks to start cleaning oil rigs like an expert. 

Speaking of which – we feel it’s fitting to provide a quick overview of how to actually pressure wash an oil rig! Let’s take a look…

Cleaning Oil Rigs With Pressure Washing Equipment: Tips & Tricks

Actually cleaning oil rigs with a pressure washer is as simple and straightforward as it gets. Simply plug the unit into an electrical outlet or fill it with gas – depending on which model you go with. Then, you can connect to a water source and fill the unit with the pressure washer degreaser soap you bought. 

At that point, it’s as simple as spraying the floors and equipment of your job site as necessary. If you are tackling a tough, caked-on stain, you should let the detergent sit and soak for a bit. The active pressure washing soap ingredients will work their magic to break the grime free from the surface it’s attached to. Then, you can come in and blast the suds away to reveal a like-new shine.

Our advice is to keep your pressure washer on-site ready to go at a moment’s notice. This way, you’re able to quickly clean up messes as they arise in each sequence. Tackling spills and grime in this manner prevents the substance from taking hold and hardening off – allowing for more effortless cleaning.

With that said, you do want to make sure you know how to store a pressure washer when it’s not in use at the end of the workday. You should unplug it, empty the detergent tank and clear the hose lines. We also encourage you to protect your investment by learning how to service pressure washers.

Final Thoughts on Oil Rig Pressure Washing Equipment

There you have it – our complete guide to using oil rig pressure washing equipment on your job site. 

Whether you’re in a field in the middle of nowhere or somewhere offshore, this will be one of the best investments you make in your cleaning process. You won’t have to stress about accidents or equipment degradation from oil, mud, and grease ever again. 

At this point, there’s only one thing left to do – visit us in person or give us a call. As the premier choice for pressure washing equipment in San Antonio and throughout South Texas, you can trust that we’ll get you set up with everything you need to take your cleaning process to the next level. 

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The Best Pressure Washer Accessories & Attachments for Business Owners Right Now

A Hotsy pressure washer is an incredibly effective, efficient cleaning tool on its own. With detergents, even better. But with the right accessories and attachments? It’s the most powerful cleaning solution a business can have!

That’s why today, we’ll help you take your cleaning process to the next level by unveiling the best pressure washer accessories and attachments we have to offer. These will supercharge your efficiency when cleaning and help you make fast work of tough messes. From specialty nozzles to surface cleaners, variable pressure wands, remote controls – and a whole lot more, we’ve got some incredible pieces of equipment in store for you today.

First – let’s talk about why getting the best pressure washer attachments is so important in the first place.

Why You Need the Best Pressure Washer Accessories

There’s no question that Hotsy offers the best commercial pressure washers. Whether you’re looking for an electric vs gas pressure washer or hot water vs cold water pressure washer – nothing cleans like a Hotsy. And, you likely already know the power of learning how to use detergent with a pressure washer.

Many jobs can be completed with just this powerful duo of pressure washer and detergent alone. But what about those jobs you come across where you can’t quite reach the surface that needs to be cleaned? Or, what about those time-consuming floor cleaning jobs – what if there was a way to optimize your pressure washer specifically for this use case?

The point is, there are ways to make your pressure washer work faster and more effectively – you just need to add the best pressure washer attachments to your arsenal. These accessories will accomplish a few things:

  1. Faster cleaning
  2. More effective cleaning
  3. Safer cleaning

And in the section below, we’re going to unveil the best pressure washer attachments we have in our pressure washer store.

What are the Best Pressure Washer Accessories?

It’s time to take your cleaning process to the next level with the best pressure washer accessories. Whether you’re a business owner who constantly needs to clean job sites or you’re the owner & operator of a pressure washer business, adding these to your repertoire will change the way you approach certain jobs, saving time while improving the clean.

Let’s start with the accessories everyone needs on hand: specialty nozzles.

Specialty Nozzles for Different Jobs

Have you ever wondered which soap nozzle for pressure washer to use? Or, if you need a different nozzle for using a pressure washing on a car vs pressure washing a commercial building exterior? The answer is yes – different jobs call for different nozzles.

Having a variety of nozzle attachments on hand allows you to remain versatile in how you clean – and what you’re capable of cleaning. Each type is designed for a specific job. For example, the 0-degree nozzle has the highest pressure per square inch – perfect for cutting through tough dirt or caked-on grime. With that said, it can be too abrasive on certain surfaces – like wood. The 25-degree nozzle will work best to clean large surfaces quickly without damaging them. And the 40-degree nozzle is best for gentle cleaning jobs that don’t need maximum power.

Also, be sure to keep an eye out for variable pressure nozzles with adjustable settings that give you more control over the water output rate and can help reduce water waste during certain types of cleaning jobs. The point is, you need to stock up on all the different nozzles so you have the right tool for any job – no need to run out to the store and delay a job because you aren’t prepared!

Variable Pressure Wands

Just as you need different nozzles for different jobs, having variable pressure wands can help you optimize your pressure based on the specific job. These are some of the best pressure washer attachments to have on hand. You simply twist the handle to adjust the spray pressure – it’s that easy. No need to swap out wands or nozzles on the fly!

Better yet, you can optimize the manner in which you pressure wash with detergent. You can twist the nozzle to alter between detergent and water – allowing a surface to suds up before rinsing it down. This type of nozzle also helps protect your equipment from the dangers of chemicals working through the high-pressure pump.

Beyond just allowing to adjust pressure, there are specially designed wands for reaching tough, hard-to-get areas – like the fiberglass telescoping wand we offer. There are also “push and pull” wands that are perfect for gutters, fenders, trucks, and other heavy equipment.

All of this is to say that if you’re using the standard straight-through wand, you’re working harder than you need to. Speaking of which, allow us to introduce the best pressure washer accessory for those who clean flat surfaces…

Flat Surface Cleaner

Cleaning huge commercial warehouse floors is time-consuming and inefficient. So too is pressure washing asphalt or pressure washing parking lots. Walking in a straight line up and down the rows to clean the floor is also very tiring. What if you could make this type of job easier? That’s what the flat surface cleaner attachment does.

This accessory has a built-in spinning bar that helps you clean large flat surfaces quickly, evenly, and more efficiently. The powerful jet of water cleans the surface while the spinning nozzle spreads the pressure out evenly. And because it’s spinning, it can cover far more surface area than your standard straight-through wand.

Using one of these instead of a typical pressure washer wand would be similar to using a commercial lawn mower rather than an edge to trim your lawn. It just makes more sense! And, the operator will love how much it eliminates fatigue. It can be used on not just the surfaces we mentioned above, but tennis courts, garage floors, decks – you name it.

Foam Cannon

Many pressure washers have a detergent tank built in. But, the Hotsy Foam Cannon takes your cleaning process to the next level, particularly for vehicle cleaning. However, trucking fleets or car detailing services aren’t the only businesses that can benefit from it.

The rich lather it creates helps the pressure washer degreaser stick to surfaces longer, so the pressure washing soap ingredients have an opportunity to really work their magic.

It also allows you to be more efficient with how much detergent you use, getting more bang for your buck. The best pressure washer soap isn’t cheap – so you want to get your money’s worth. The Foam Cannon helps you do just that.

Remote Controls

This particular attachment is a huge relief for those who want their pressure washer located in a separate area from what’s being cleaned – such as wash bays. You can start up and shut down the unit at the press of a button without having to touch the pressure washer itself. You can get really crazy here by adding a soap injector remote control kit.

The beauty in this attachment is how it prevents walking back and forth to manually adjust the unit. It also protects your investment by keeping the unit away from corrosive chemicals or the harsh dust/debris you’re cleaning. 

Hose Reels

There’s nothing worse than finishing a long, hard day of cleaning – only to remember you’re not quite done. You still have to wind up all your hose! But with a hose reel mounted on the wall, you can easily & quickly get the hose wound back up. There are fixed hose reels and 360-degree pivot reels, which allow more freedom in how you move around with your hose.

This doesn’t just make your life easier. It also protects the hose itself by keeping it off the ground and away from the mess you’re cleaning. You also don’t have to stress about the hose being stepped on or run over by vehicles/equipment.

Additional Hoses

We’ve talked about different nozzles and different wands – but we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention the value of having various hoses on hand. There are standard hoses, which work great for most people. However, for higher pressure, you want a stronger hose.

We offer hoses that go as high as 6,000 PSI – so if your pressure washer PSI exceeds this, a different hose is a must. There are also hoses rated at 3,000 PSI, 4,000 PSI, and 4,500 PSI.

Brushes

Oftentimes, your pressure washer will blast away any mess – leaving a like-new surface behind. However, you may need to provide additional agitation to extra-tough messes with caked-on mud and grime. That’s where our brush attachments come in.

These are ideal for high-up, hard-to-reach places so you don’t have to over-extend yourself. Just add one of these to the telescoping wand! They can help you scrub the top of trailers, lifted trucks, tall equipment, you name it.

And, they’re specially designed to eliminate the risk of scratching the surface being washed. And because the brushes don’t “matt-down” (go flat), you can get a really effective scrub.

Pump Oil

In our complete guide on how to service pressure washers, we talked a lot about the importance of having the right pressure washer oil on hand. This will allow you to prevent downtime as your oil reserves start to drop – just top off the levels and get back to work! No need to risk blowing up your engine.

If you let us handle your pressure washer repair or service, this isn’t something you need to worry about as much – but it’s still good to have on hand for peace of mind.

Honorable Mentions

We could go on and on about all the best pressure washer attachments at Hotsy – we have so many different ways to optimize your cleaning process! Here are a few honorable mentions:

  • Chemical resistant sprayers
  • Undercarriage cleaners
  • Squeegee blades
  • Sandblasting kits
  • Gunjets & triggers
  • Drum pumps
  • Floor clamps
  • And more!

Get the Best Pressure Washer Attachments at Hotsy Today!

These are just some of the best commercial pressure washer attachments in San Antonio. Whether you need nozzles, wands or cleaners – we have what you’re looking for in stock and ready to ship today! Shop our selection today to find out why businesses across America trust Hotsy for all their pressure washer needs.

Remember, the best pressure washer attachments can make a big difference in how effective your cleaning process is – so don’t skimp on quality! So what are you waiting for? Take your cleaning process to the next level.

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When to use a pressure washer

When it comes to cleaning equipment, a pressure washer is something you need to have in your cleaning arsenal. Why? Simple – the instances when you can use a pressure washer are endless! This will be one of the most versatile cleaning tools you own.

Dirt, grime, oils, and other messes can be extremely challenging to get rid of. You can try to scrub your mess with baking soda, vinegar, or borax as much as you want—but nothing cleans as efficiently and effectively as a pressure washer does. And, pressure washers aren’t limited just to “cleaning up messes” these days. They can also help you with restoring your deck, stripping paint off the wall so you can start fresh, sterilizing areas, and much, much more.

However, don’t just grab the pressure washer and start cleaning anything in sight. There are some instances where a pressure washer might do more damage than good. Keep reading to learn when to use a pressure washer – and how to use it properly.

Why Every Homeowner Should Have A Pressure Washer

Pressure washers are incredibly diverse. They can be used in both commercial and residential cleaning jobs. They also come in hot and cold models. If you’ve been holding back on getting a pressure washer all this time because of its price—we get it. But it will pay for itself tenfold over the course of its life.

You won’t have to spend as much on cleaning chemicals or other cleaning equipment. A pressure washer gets the job done much faster and easier than the traditional scrub and brush. But money is not the most important thing you’ll save by investing in a pressure washer – it is time. You can blast through even the toughest jobs much quicker through pressure washing.

Plus, there are tons of different uses for a pressure washer. From cleaning your house to cleaning your car, and everything in between. Without any further ado, let’s take a look at all the different instances when you can use a pressure washer.

The Different Instances When To Use A Pressure Washer

You can adjust a pressure washer’s power to fit different cleaning tasks. To ensure that you use your pressure washer properly and avoid damaging your property, we’ve included tips and advice for each instance. Let’s start with cleaning your sidings.

Sidings

A yellow 15-degree nozzle is best for cleaning sidings. Start from the top and work your way to the bottom. Stay 3 to 4 feet away and use the low-pressure setting to avoid damage. This applies to wood, aluminum, and vinyl siding. Higher pressure can strip paint and accidentally damage the siding – so you use caution.

To get rid of heavy grime and dirt build-up, you may need to use detergent. If so, switch to the black pressure washer nozzle and apply the detergent to the siding starting from the bottom. Remove the detergent from the injector and switch back to the yellow nozzle. Rinse the detergent in the opposite direction to avoid streaking.

Make sure to rinse off all the detergent, especially for wood siding. You want to avoid drenching your wood sidings. If they soak up too much water, it may become a breeding ground for mold. It may also damage your insulation and your electric wiring. This can all be avoided by keeping the pressure low.

Soffits & Gutters

Our soffits and gutters can get easily clogged by leaves, dirt, and all kinds of debris. This can lower the value of your property and lead to damages that require expensive repairs. To keep your home in tip-top shape, maintain and clean your soffits and gutters regularly. Good news – you can rely on your trusty pressure washer here, too!

Like sidings, soffits and gutters are delicate surfaces. So, make sure to use a low-pressure nozzle here too. Using high pressure will damage them and cause water to leak into your attic.

Avoid standing directly under your soffits and gutters while they’re being cleaned. And, wear protective gear to prevent falling debris from getting onto you. Stand a few feet away and aim the pressure washer nozzle ahead and away to one side to keep yourself dry.

Be cautious when using a ladder and avoid placing them on slippery surfaces. It’s best to have someone assist you and hold the ladder as you clean.

Decks

The deck is probably one of the most satisfying areas to pressure wash. When cleaning wood decks, you can use a gas or electric pressure washer. Just make sure to use a 25-degree or 40-degree nozzle. Spray two to three feet away from the surface and try not to get closer than 6 inches to avoid chipping the wood.

Use a sweeping motion as you clean the deck and keep the distance of the spray wand consistent. Start cleaning nearest to the house and move outwards. Spray along the grain parallel to the deck boards. This approach will help avoid leaving any noticeable cleaning edges or hot spots on the wood.

To remove tough stains, you can use a chemical stripper to brighten up your wooden deck. Make sure to read the manual of your pressure washer and only use a chemical stripper fit for your model. Remember to rinse the chemical stripper and sand your deck once it’s dry if needed.

Driveways

Enhance your curb appeal by getting rid of any caked-on dirt on your driveway. A pressure washer with 1,300 to 2,300 PSI is enough to wash a driveway. But using a 3,100 PSI pressure washer will get the job done faster.

Use a 25-degree pressure washer nozzle and attach it to your garden hose. Go over your driveway once with plain water to loosen any debris. Switch to a low-pressure soap nozzle and spray your driveway with detergent. Again, make sure to use a cleaner fit for your particular machine.

Let the cleaning solution sit to break down any mildew and built-up dirt. Once the cleaning solution has worked its magic, blast it away with your pressure washer using a 15-degree nozzle.

Garage

The garage is probably one of the dirtiest places in your home. This is especially true if you actually use your garage beyond just parking your car and storing things. Many people use this space for hobbies and crafts, or for work.

As such, all kinds of oil stains and dirt accumulate on the garage floor. Hot water pressure washers are ideal for getting rid of oil stains as they can break up the oil molecules more effectively than a cold pressure washer. For more tips, read our guide on the best uses for hot water pressure washers.

You should give your garage floor a good cleaning with the pressure washer at least once a year. You might as well include your garage door while you’re at it. If a hot pressure washer still isn’t enough to eviscerate the oil, don’t lose all hope just yet. You might have to use degreasers to get rid of stubborn stains. Use a 15-degree nozzle for the garage floor and a 25-degree or 40-degree nozzle for the garage doors.

Fences

If your white picket fences are starting to look a bit off-white, or even gray, a good pressure washing might be able to restore their original color. For wooden fences, make sure to use a 25-degree nozzle and stand at least two feet away to avoid damage to the wood itself.

A cold water pressure washer is safer for wooden fences. If you plan to use a detergent, make sure that it’s safe for wood. Use the black 65-degree nozzle for spraying the soap and rinse with the 25-degree nozzle afterward. Let your fence dry before adding sealer, if needed.

Chimneys

Brick chimneys get dirty very quickly, but they’re also extremely delicate. Before you do any pressure washing to a brick chimney, make sure to inspect the brickwork, both external and internal.

If there are any cracks in the brickwork, you have to use low-pressure—no higher than 400 PSI. Use a fan spray or a 40-degree pressure washer nozzle. Start from the top and work your way down to the bottom with a side-to-side motion.

Outdoor Furniture

Although outdoor patio furniture is built to withstand the elements, it still needs some routine cleaning now and then. If you have metal patio furniture with rust, a power washer is strong enough to blast away the rust. Some people advise against power washing outdoor patio furniture made from wicker as this can cause the wicker to warp. But, sturdy wooden furniture will survive with low-pressure cleaning.

Pools

Pools require regular maintenance, and there’s no better way to clean pool tiles than with a pressure washer. Before you begin to pressure wash your pool, make sure to drain it out completely. Go over the entire pool with a low-pressure wash using a 25-degree nozzle to loosen up any algae build-up on the tiles.

After going over it once, use a 15-degree nozzle to go over smaller surfaces that need extra attention. A pressure washer with 1200 to 2600 psi is ideal for washing pools. Anything over that may damage the tiles. Make sure to wear protective clothing and shoes when cleaning a pool. A long spray nozzle may come in handy for cleaning pools.

Windows

Pressure washing your windows can leave them looking squeaky clean. But, you must be careful in selecting your pressure and nozzle. If you don’t use the correct nozzle and pressure level, you could end up breaking your windows.

When pressure washing your windows, make sure to use a 40-degree nozzle or fan spray. Use a second-story nozzle kit or extension wand when cleaning a second or third-floor window to avoid using a ladder.

Grills

Cleaning your outdoor grills every two months can help them cook better and last longer. You can use both gas or electric pressure washers for grills. Just make sure the pressure washer is around 2,000 PSI.

Make sure to disconnect your grill’s gas or tank line before doing any pressure washing. If you’re using an electric starter, unplug it. For charcoal grills, remove the charcoal and remove the grill from the stand.

Pressure washing a grill can become messy. To avoid getting gunk everywhere, you can move your grill to the driveway or yard and clean it there. If your grill is built into one spot, cover the surrounding floors with a tarpaulin or paint drop cloth. Cover any surrounding furniture and plants as well.

Grills are most definitely going to be greasy, so you may end up needing a degreaser. Let the degreaser sit for 3-5 minutes before rinsing it off with a 40-degree nozzle spray wand.

Vehicles, Bikes & Boats

When it comes to vehicles, bikes, and boats, you need to use a pressure washer with a PSI below 2000. Anything higher than that will chip the paint. When washing cars, use a 25-degree nozzle for the wheels, then switch to a 40-degree nozzle when washing the rest of the car’s surface. Keep in mind the six-twelve rule—stay at least six inches away from the paint and 12 inches away from trim to avoid damage.

For bikes, only use a 40-degree nozzle for the entire bike. Make sure to dry and lubricate your bike to avoid rusting. Wipe off any excess lube as it can cause more dirt build-up, which will only take you back to square one.

Outdoor Play Area

If you have an outdoor play area at home for your kids, pressure washing it at least once a year can help get rid of any debris and dirt that may have accumulated over the months. It also protects your child from any possible microorganisms or fungi that might be growing on the surface. Contrary to popular belief, fungi don’t only grow on wood. They can survive on any surface—even plastic. To avoid giving your child ringworm, give their outdoor play area a good pressure wash.

Looking For Your Next Pressure Washer?

Now that you know all the different uses for a pressure washer, you’re probably sold on the idea of owning one yourself. Fortunately for you, we know just the place. For the best online pressure washer store, look no further than Hotsy Equipment Company!

Both homeowners and businesses alike love our collection of Hotsy Pressure Washers. Whether you’re looking for a pressure washer for your residence or your business, our pressure washers are sure to leave you satisfied.

We have cold water pressure waters and hot water pressure washers for sale. Want to know the difference between the two? We have a complete guide on the different uses for a hot and cold pressure washer.

Get a Hotsy pressure washer today and experience easy and faster cleaning. Not sure which pressure washer to get? Contact us, and we’ll gladly give you a recommendation to best fit your budget and your needs.

All Hotsy pressure washers are backed by a 7-year warranty on the high-pressure pump & a 5-year warranty on the heating coil. Get yours today!

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How to Start a Pressure Washing Business

Want to learn how to start a pressure washing business? You’ve come to the right place. As the #1 supplier of industrial pressure washers in the industry, we’ve seen the rise and fall of many pressure washing companies. There are a few things that separate those who succeed from those who struggle – and today, we’ll explain how you can get started on the right foot and build a thriving pressure washing business.

We’ll answer a few common questions we get:

  1. Should you learn how to start a pressure washing business?
  2. What do your need to start a pressure washing business?
  3. What steps stand between you and your first customer?

We assume you already have some experience using a pressure washer (if not…maybe consider a different business model?). However, we’ll point you towards some great resources on how to use a pressure washer for different business purposes – whether you want to clean houses or wash cars. 

We’ve got a lot to cover in order to help you take that leap of faith and start your business. So, let’s get started with a simple yet important question…is this the right business for you?

Should I Start a Pressure Washer Business?

We know you’re eager to start your pressure washer business. But first, we want to help you set your expectations and determine whether or not this is truly the right business for you. Commercial pressure washers aren’t cheap – so, you are going to need to fully commit to this investment if you decide to pull the trigger and get started.  But, what does that look like?

For starters, let’s dispel a common myth – you don’t need to have a lot of money saved up in order to start your pressure washing business. In fact, many people finance their pressure washers and other startup costs. However, we do recommend having some sort of financial safety net in place before starting any business – especially if you’re quitting your day job to pursue this full-time. There are always going to be unexpected costs when starting a business – so it’s important to have some savings set aside to cover those.

Now that we’ve got that out of the way…let’s talk about what type of person succeeds in the pressure washing industry. First and foremost, you must be passionate about what you’re doing. If you don’t enjoy pressure washing, it’s going to be very difficult to run a successful business. It’s not all glamorous – there will be long days and early mornings. You’ll spend a lot of time in the sun.  But, if you truly love what you’re doing, those long days won’t feel so long. And for what it’s worth, there will likely reach a point where you no longer perform the pressure washing service. If you scale your business successfully, you’ll have employees work in the business so you can work on the business.

When first starting your business, you may deal with rejection as you seek those initial customers. This can lead to many people quitting early – resulting in wasted time and money. But, each rejection means you’re one person closer to that first customer. You need to be persistent and committed to the big picture. In addition, being detail oriented and having a strong work ethic are both essential qualities for success in this industry.

So…if after reading all of that you still think starting a pressure washing business is right for you…congrats! You’ve taken the first step towards becoming your own boss and building something great. Now let’s move on to what type of pressure washing business you should start…

What Type of Pressure Washing Business Should You Start?

You may be thinking…should I start a residential or commercial pressure washing business? The answer to that question largely depends on what type of customers you want to work with and what equipment you have.

If you’re starting your business on a tight budget, we recommend beginning with a residential pressure washing business. You can use this time to build up your customer base and perfect your processes. Once you have some money saved up, you can then invest in commercial-grade equipment and begin targeting commercial clients. And, it’s important to note that many people who start pressure washing businesses clean both residential and commercial properties. It’s also worth noting that from what we see, the real money is in commercial pressure washing services. You can secure a single commercial contract with one business that exceeds the value of an entire roster of residential clients.

If you have your heart set on starting a commercial pressure washing business, that’s great! You can begin by reaching out to small businesses in your area – like car dealerships, restaurants, or apartment complexes. These types of businesses are typically in need of regular pressure washing services.

No matter what type of pressure washing business you decide to start, you’ll need to make sure you have the right equipment. And that’s what we’re going to cover next – what do you need to start a pressure washing business?

What Do You Need To Start A Pressure Washing Business?

If you came here wondering what you need to start a pressure washing business, this section is for you. We mentioned that one of the advantages of starting a pressure washing business, in particular, is the low investment capital needed. And it’s true – you don’t need a whole lot:

  • A Hotsy commercial pressure washer
  • A water tank
  • A generator (optional)
  • Pressure washing detergents
  • Hoses and nozzles
  • Safety gear (gloves, goggles, etc.)
  • Persistence & work ethic

Of course, you’ll also need a vehicle to transport your pressure washer(s) and other equipment. Many people use pickup trucks – but vans or trailers can work well too. Just make sure you have enough space to store everything when it’s not in use!

However, you want to perform the best service possible – so, you need the best equipment. You may be tempted to skimp on quality to save a few dollars. Trust us when we say that you’ll pay for it in the long run. Replacement parts, poor efficiency, premature machine failure, and unhappy customers are not worth saving a few hundred or even a few thousand dollars on your startup costs. So, stick with the best commercial pressure washers. Our yearly review consists of recommendations for any use case – so check it out if you’re not sure where to start.

Or, reach out to us at Hotsy San Antonio – as the #1 provider of pressure washers in San Antonio, we can help you get exactly what you need to set out on the right foot. We have industrial hot water pressure washers, cold water pressure washers, pressure washer trailers, and a whole lot more. We even have the quality pressure washer soap you need to really cut through grime.

Remember – you can always add on to your pressure washing business as it grows. So, don’t feel like you need to have everything on this list before getting started. Just make sure you have the essentials: a Hotsy commercial pressure washer, water tank, and soap. Everything else can be added later!

How to Start a Pressure Washing Business: Step by Step Guide

Ok – we’ve covered the basics and explained what do you need to start a pressure washing business. But now, we want to give you a step-by-step guide on how to start a pressure washing business. Keep in mind – this is a very broad overview of the process. There is much more that goes into actually getting your business off the ground. However, we’re simply here to point you in the right direction – the rest is up to you! Let’s start with choosing your business model.

Step 1) Determine Your Business Model

As we mentioned earlier, you can either start a residential cleaning business or a commercial cleaning business. Determining the specific type of business you want to start will dictate the next steps – such as securing your startup equipment. Now, we recommend you niche down as much as possible. The business we’ve seen succeed start with a single offering: maybe it’s pressure washing house exteriors in affluent neighborhoods. Or, perhaps it’s cleaning road grime off trucking fleets.

Whatever you do, niche down as much as you can. There are a few benefits to this:

  1. You’ll earn a reputation as the “go-to source” for your offering.
  2. You’ll have lower start-up costs, as your equipment will be so specialized (no need to stock up on different nozzles, different soaps, etc.)
  3. You’ll truly become the best at what you do by repeating the same service over and over again.

Once you determine exactly what you do – and who you’re going to do it for – it’s time to get your equipment.

Step 2) Get Your Pressure Washing Equipment & Supplies

Think back to what we said in the section “what do you need to start a pressure washing business?”. It’s time to secure all your equipment and supplies. The specific type of pressure washer (hot water vs cold water pressure washers & gas vs electric pressure washers) will depend on the business model you came up with. You’ll want to use a cold water pressure washer if you’re doing less intense residential jobs. But, if you’re looking to tackle the toughest cleaning jobs, you’ll want the power of hot water. Similarly, you’ll want to choose a gas pressure washer if you do remote cleaning jobs where power may not be available. Other important considerations include your budget and what’s available in your area.

If you’re starting a mobile pressure washing business you’ll need to decide whether or not you want to invest in a pressure washer trailer. These can be expensive – but they make life much easier (and increase profits by cutting down on travel time). We have a guide explaining how to build a pressure washer trailer if you want to go the DIY route. But ultimately, we recommend you purchase a trailer that’s been designed and manufactured by the pros here at Hotsy.

And, of course, you’ll need to stock up on pressure washer detergent. This is arguably the most important part of starting your business – as it’s what will allow you to deliver quality results time and time again. We recommend only using Hotsy pressure washer soap in your machine. And, we recommend choosing the right pressure washer soap for the job. This goes back to becoming a “specialist” rather than a “generalist”. Be sure you have the correct pressure washer nozzle for soap as well.

Step 3) Perfect Your Technique Before Offering Services

The last thing you want is to finally get that first client, and end up performing a lackluster service. Not only will you lose that customer, but your reputation is damaged from the jump. That’s why we say it is so important to be good at pressure washing before you even try and get your first customer. We have a guide on how to use a pressure washer for beginners. And, we also have a resource covering more advanced pressure washing techniques. Both of these are excellent resources for those looking to hone their skills in before conducting outreach.

Step 4) Get That First Customer!

Now comes the fun part – hunting down your first customer. The necessary steps here will vary depending on your business model. If you’re offering residential pressure washing services – such as cleaning house siding or washing cars, you can find an affluent neighborhood near you and go door to door. Or, leverage the power of social media. You can run paid ads in your area if you’ve got some budget left over. Craigslist and local job boards are also a good, gritty way to get started. There are so many ways to get residential customers – you just have to get to work and stay consistent. Don’t get discouraged.

Now, if you’re seeking commercial clients, you’ll want to be a bit more strategic in how you conduct outreach. It will be more difficult to get in touch with decision makers at businesses. Find ways to get past the receptionist and to the person who holds your fate in their hands.

Tips for Getting Your Pressure Washing Start-up off the Ground and Running

Before we wrap up our guide on how to start a pressure washing business, we want to leave you with a few more tips to get your company off the ground. First things first – get insured! This is critical. You do not want to be held liable in the event that something goes wrong while you’re on a job.

Next, we recommend joining pressure washing associations and trade groups. These are excellent places to network with other professionals in your field – and they can help you stay up to date on industry news, changes, etc. You may even gain some referrals.

And finally, don’t forget to market your business! Get some lawn signs made, design a killer website and make sure your branding is on point. You want potential customers to see you as a top-tier pressure washing company in your area – and that all starts with marketing. Collect reviews from happy customers and offer incentives for referrals. Eventually, you’ll get to the point where you need to bring on some help to service all your clients. But, that’s a discussion for another day.

Final Thoughts on How to Start a Pressure Washing Business

Well, there you have it. We’ve covered all that you need to know on how to start a pressure washing business. We’ve explained what do you need to start a pressure washing business, and you’ve gained insights into what separates successful companies from the rest. At this point, the only thing left to do is take action. Start brainstorming your business model – identify the needs in your community and determine how you’ll fulfill them. Then, get your equipment and supplies and get to work! Best of luck.

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Restaurant Pressure Washing: Cleaning a Restaurant’s Interior & Exterior 

You no doubt recognize the importance of a clean restaurant – not just for attracting customers & offering a positive experience. It’s a matter of safety and compliance – cleaning a restaurant is not something owners or managers can overlook!

But, what is the best way to clean a restaurant? How often should it be done? What specific areas need to be cleaned? If you’re new to this responsibility, it can seem overwhelming – but it doesn’t have to be. The experts at Hotsy are here to help.

We’re the premier choice for pressure washers in San Antonio and throughout south Texas. And today, we’ll guide you through restaurant pressure washing: the fastest, most effective way to get your restaurant dialed in.

In the sections to follow, you’ll learn why pressure washers are the premier choice for restaurant cleaning processes. We’ll also explain what specific equipment and supplies you’ll need to invest in to reap all the benefits this tactic has to offer. Then, you’ll discover the actual steps that go into cleaning the interior and exterior of your restaurant.

First, let’s start with an overview of why cleaning a restaurant is so important.

The Importance of a Clean Restaurant – Inside & Out

There are two key reasons you need to keep your restaurant looking pristine at all times. And we’re not just talking about the dining area or your entryway. We’re talking about the parking lot, the exterior of your building, the kitchen, bathrooms – all of it.

It all comes down to building a positive reputation with local customers and keeping your facility safe and compliant.

Cleaning a Restaurant Leads to Happier Customers & Improved Reputation

We likely don’t have to tell you how damaging it can be to be known as the dirty restaurant in town. No one wants to eat at a place that’s known for being gross – and news like that travels fast. On the other hand, a clean restaurant is more likely to get positive reviews, word-of-mouth marketing, and repeat customers.

Customers are willing to pay more at a restaurant they perceive as clean. And that’s not all. They’re also more likely to return more often and recommend the restaurant to others. In other words, cleaning your restaurant can directly impact your bottom line in a very positive way!

Cleaning a Restaurant Keeps Your Facility Safe & Compliant

The other major reason you need to keep your restaurant clean is to maintain safety and compliance standards. No one wants to get sick from eating at a restaurant – and if your facility is not up to code, you could be putting your customers at risk.

There are all sorts of bacteria that can grow in a restaurant if it’s not properly cleaned and maintained. From foodborne illnesses to respiratory infections, there are many ways your customers could get sick if you’re not careful. And if they do get sick, you could be facing some serious legal consequences.

Not only do you need to worry about making your customers sick, but you also need to worry about employee safety. A dirty restaurant is a hazard for your employees, who could slip and fall or cut themselves on dirty surfaces. There is also the risk of grease fires from dirty, dusty hoods.

All of this is to say that cleaning a restaurant cannot be overlooked. And if this responsibility falls on your shoulders, you may be wondering what the best way forward is. Allow us to explain why restaurant pressure washing is the #1 choice in this day and age.

Why Restaurant Pressure Washing is the Most Efficient, Effective Choice

A pressure washer is a high-powered cleaning machine that sprays water at very high pressures to remove dirt, grime, and other buildups from surfaces. It can be used on both the interior and exterior of your restaurant – and it’s by far the most efficient, effective way to clean all areas of your facility.

There are many reasons pressure washing is the best choice for restaurant cleaning. First, it’s fast. You can cover a lot of ground quickly when you’re using a pressure washer – and this is especially important when you’re trying to keep up with a busy restaurant schedule. Second, it’s very effective. The high pressure gets rid of all the built-up dirt, grease, and grime – and it can even remove things like chewing gum and graffiti. With a quality detergent, the capabilities of your pressure washer will be supercharged.

Third, pressure washing is safe. When done correctly, there is no risk of damaging surfaces or harming people or animals. And fourth, it’s affordable. The initial investment in a good quality pressure washer pays for itself very quickly when you consider how much time and money you’ll save by not having to hire outside help or rent expensive equipment.

Now that we’ve gone over some of the reasons why restaurant pressure washing is such a great choice, let’s take a look at what you need to get started.

What You Need for Cleaning a Restaurant With a Pressure Washer

If you’re going to be restaurant pressure washing on your own, there are a few supplies and pieces of equipment you need to invest in. Some of these are obvious, and some you may not have even considered – which is why we’ll cover all your necessities below. Let’s start with the start of the show as we guide you through how to choose a pressure washer.

Industrial Hot Water Pressure Washer

There are quite a few different types of pressure washers you can choose from. There are gas powered vs electric pressure washers and hot water vs cold water pressure washers. Ultimately, we recommend you go with one of the hot water pressure washers for sale at Hotsy. They say nothing cleans like a Hotsy – and it’s true. We have a complete guide on how a pressure washer works when paired with hot water, explaining the extra power the heated capabilities offer.

Now – once you’ve narrowed down your unit to a heated pressure washer, the question becomes: what PSI pressure washer do I need? For restaurant pressure washing in particular, 2,000 PSI is a good estimate. You can also consider what GPM pressure washer will suit your needs best. 

If you’re looking for a specific recommendation, our article on the best commercial pressure washers is a great resource. You can also reach out directly to us – we’ll point you in the right direction. And if you feel that you only need to pressure wash your restaurant once or twice a year, you can rent a pressure washer, too.

Pressure Washing Detergent

Next, you’ll need to pair your unit with the best soaps for pressure washing. This will allow you to power down your pressure washer to prevent damaging equipment in your restaurant while pressure washing. The specialized detergent you use will also offer sanitization and disinfecting benefits.

But – what type of soap do you use in a pressure washer for your restaurant? It’s likely you’ll use a different formulation for the interior and exterior as the goals are different. With that said, what you DONT want to do is use a homemade pressure washer detergent. Stick with a specialized formulation made by the pros at Hotsy. Our pressure washer degreasers are proven to work and are ultra-cost-effective. Most importantly, they’re safe. Here are a few options that will work great for your facility:

  • BreakThrough!
  • Ripper I & III
  • Carbochlor
  • Miracle Wizz
  • Floor Wash

Scrub Brushes & Other Cleaning Supplies

It’s very likely that you’ll get your restaurant’s interior and exterior clean with just a pressure washer and detergent alone. However, there may be times when you need to manually agitate surfaces to remove caked-on grease.

So, you may want to consider having a few scrub brushes or other cleaning supplies on hand. You can also purchase restaurant pressure washing wands that have rotating nozzles and bristles built-in, making the process even easier. On that note, it’s also important to make sure you have the right soap tip for pressure washers!

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Finally, you need to make sure you’re safe while restaurant pressure washing. This means having the proper PPE, or personal protective equipment. Depending on what you’re cleaning and how long you’ll be doing it, this could include anything from gloves and goggles to a full-face respirator.

At a minimum, we recommend wearing long pants, closed-toe shoes, and gloves while restaurant pressure washing. You should also avoid skin contact with any cleaning solutions, as they can cause irritation. In some cases, you may want to wear a respirator mask to avoid inhaling chemicals or particles. While you’re at it, be sure to read our guide on pressure washer safety – this will help you avoid accidents and injuries in the workplace.

How to Get Started With Restaurant Pressure Washing: The Interior

once you’ve got all the essential supplies and equipment on hand, you can move on to the fun part – actually getting started with restaurant pressure washing! We’ll start with the interior of your facility – as the process is quite a bit more intricate in the kitchen and dining area than outdoors.

Here, we’ll talk about how to pressure wash a restaurant hood, duct, ovens, dining tables/seating, and of course, the floor. We’ll also talk about cleaning out the bathrooms. Step one is prepping the facility.

Clear the Area & Put On Your PPE 

Before you even turn on your restaurant pressure washer, you need to do a bit of prep work. This includes clearing the area of any loose items and putting on your PPE. Once you’ve done that, you can start setting up your pressure washing equipment.

If possible, we recommend moving all restaurant equipment to one side of the room. This will make it easier to clean and will help prevent any damage to your equipment. If you can’t move everything, be sure to use caution when pressure washing around restaurant equipment.

Next, take a look at the area you’ll be cleaning. Are there any pre-existing cracks or holes in the walls or floor? These need to be filled in before you start pressure washing, as water can seep through and cause further damage. Once everything is prepped and ready to go, you can start setting up your pressure washer.

Set Up Your Pressure Washer & Add Soap

If you’re using an electric restaurant pressure washer, plug it into a nearby outlet. If you’re using a gas-powered restaurant pressure washer, be sure to add oil and gasoline as directed in the owner’s manual. Our guide on starting a pressure washer is a great resource if this is your first time. And, we also recommend our article on pressure washer tips and tricks.

Once your restaurant pressure washer is set up and ready to go, it’s time to add soap. Your specific unit will have a soap tank to which you can add the detergent – it should be fairly straightforward. However, we also have a resource discussing how to use a pressure washer with detergent if you want a bit more guidance on this step.

After your pressure washer is set up, you’re ready to start cleaning your restaurant. We recommend beginning with the hoods, then the walls, and finishing up with the floors.

Clean The Hoods First

Your restaurant’s hoods see a lot of use – and as a result, they can get pretty dirty. Over time, grease and grime will build up on the surface. If not cleaned properly, this can lead to serious problems like fire hazards or health code violations.

Fortunately, cleaning restaurant hoods is fairly simple with a pressure washer. Use the right soap, and allow the suds to sit on the surface for a while working their magic. Then, follow up with a water-only rinse to blast away the dirt and grime. For best results, we recommend using a 0° or 15° nozzle. Here’s a deeper look at how to pressure wash a restaurant hood:

Start at the top of the hood and work your way down. Be sure to move the pressure washer nozzle in a back-and-forth motion as you work. Pay close attention to any nooks and crannies, as grease can build up in these areas. Use a brush attachment if needed to loosen stubborn grime.

Follow Up With the Walls

After you’ve cleaned the restaurant hoods, it’s time to move on to the walls – which can also develop quite a grease mess. Start with a low-pressure setting and work your way up as needed. Again, be sure to use a back-and-forth motion as you clean. You may need to use a brush attachment on tough spots.

For restaurant walls, we recommend using a 25° or 40° nozzle. These nozzles will give you a bit more power to blast away grease and grime – and you’re less concerned about damaging the walls as you are with the hoods.

Finish With the Floors & a Spot Cleaning

Your floors are dirty and greasy as is. But after cleaning off the hoods and walls of your restaurant, the floors will be in serious need of cleaning.  restaurant pressure washing is the best way to clean restaurant floors – and it’s much easier than you may think.

For restaurant floors, we recommend using a 0° or 15° nozzle. These nozzles will give you a powerful blast of water that can break up grease and grime. Be sure to move the pressure washer nozzle in a back-and-forth motion as you work. You may need to use a brush attachment on tough spots.

After pressure washing the floors, be sure to rinse off any soap residue. Then, let the floors air dry or mop them as needed. You can walk through after and finish up with a spot cleaning on those hard-to-reach areas that your pressure washer didn’t quite get. You may want a spray bottle and a rag for corners, the tops of your hoods, and any other aspects of your kitchen or restaurant floor that were missed.

Next, Pressure Wash the Exterior of Your Restaurant

Getting your kitchen and dining room clean is just half of the battle – you cannot overlook the importance of keeping a clean building exterior, parking lot, and sidewalks. Fortunately, this is far easier and faster than cleaning the intricacies of your restaurant’s interior. There are three resources we want to point you toward for this part of the process:

  • Pressure Washing Concrete: you can learn how to keep your sidewalks clean in this article. Customers often spill food or drink on their way out – and other sources can muck up your walkways, too.
  • Pressure Washing Parking Lots: messes in the parking lot will convey a negative image of your restaurant. Whether they be the result of spills, oil leaks, road grime, or anything else, using a pressure washer to clean your parking lot is fast and easy.
  • Pressure Washing Commercial Building Exteriors: finally, finish up by pressure washing the exterior walls and windows of your building. This is something that you’ll only need to do once a year or twice a year at most. It helps restore the original shine of your building’s exterior and helps you make a great first impression.

Final Thoughts on Restaurant Pressure Washing

We hope this resource on restaurant pressure washing provides you with the confidence needed to take charge of this project for your own business. As you can see, it’s not as complex as you may have originally thought. 

And with the equipment and supplies available at Hotsy, you can restore a like-new look to your kitchen, dining area, and building exterior. Improve the appearance of your restaurant and watch customer satisfaction rise while business booms!

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How To Choose A Pressure Washer For Your Business: Buying Guide

“What kind of pressure washer do I need?” 

We see this question all too frequently. And today, we’re going to answer it once and for all.

You know you need a powerful cleaning solution, but you’re not sure what kind of pressure washer you need. These machines can be a sizable investment for your business, and you want to get it right the first time. After all, choosing the wrong type of machine can result in inefficiency or overkill – neither of which is ideal.

Your business has unique cleaning needs – and you need the perfect solution for the job. And by the time you finish reading our commercial pressure washer buying guide, you’ll be just a few clicks away from your ideal machine. We’re going to explain exactly how to choose a pressure washer.

In this in-depth buying guide, you’ll gain a better understanding of why choosing the right machine is so important. You’ll also learn about the different types of machines available on the market – gas, electric, hot water units, cold water units, etc. More importantly, we’ll help you plan out your next steps to actually getting your perfect match. Stick around to the end as we’ll provide you with a recommendation on where to start your journey to secure the most efficient, effective machine for your unique needs! First things first – why is choosing the right machine so important?

Why Learning How To Choose A Pressure Washer Is So Important

Before we can answer the question “what kind of pressure washer do I need?” we have to explain why this isn’t something you should take lightly. Your business has unique needs – and not all pressure washers are created equal. Choosing the right machine is vital to getting the job done quickly, efficiently, and without any problems.

For example, if you’re looking for a machine to clean delicate surfaces – like vehicles – you’ll want something with less power. On the other hand, if you need to remove thick layers of grease and grime – like in a commercial kitchen – you’ll need a machine with more power, or PSI as it is referred to in this industry.

Not sure what PSI or GPM mean? Don’t worry, we’ll explain all of that in just a bit. For now, just understand that choosing the right machine is vital to your business’ success. Now that we’ve established why finding the perfect pressure washer is so important, let’s move on to discussing the different types of machines available.

What Are The Different Types Of Pressure Washers?

Part of the problem with choosing your ideal pressure washer is that there are so many different types out there. From gas to electric models and commercial to residential styles, and even hot water vs cold water machines. All this variety can get overwhelming – at least if you don’t know the differences. Once we break it all down for you, you’ll feel far more confident in choosing the right machine for your needs. Let’s start by breaking down the commercial vs residential differences.

Commercial Units vs Residential Units

Commercial pressure washers are built for more intense, regular use than their residential counterparts. They’re also generally more expensive as a result.

If you only need to clean surfaces occasionally – like around the house – a residential machine will likely suffice. Say you want to make your Sunday car wash sessions more simple and effective – a small residential machine will be perfect. Or, maybe you want to clean your house siding every year – choose a residential machine.

On the other hand, if you need to regularly clean thick layers of grease and grime – like in a commercial kitchen – you’ll need a machine that can handle that level of intensity. And those are what we call commercial pressure washers.

This is the first major distinction you need to make when learning how to choose a pressure washer. If you’re still here reading this guide, we’ll assume you’re after a commercial pressure washer. You can learn more in our breakdown of commercial vs residential pressure washers. With that out of the way, let’s move on to discussing gas units vs electric units.

Gas Units vs Electric Units

The next major distinction you need to make is between gas and electric units. Both have their pros and cons, which we’ll outline for you now.

Gas units are more expensive up front – but they’re also more powerful. If you need a machine that can handle heavy-duty jobs quickly, a gas unit will be your best bet. They’re also more mobile than electric units since you’re not tethered to an outlet.

Electric units are less expensive upfront and slightly less powerful. But, they’re also much easier to maintain and operate. If you don’t need a machine with a ton of power, an electric unit will likely suffice – especially if you don’t plan on moving it around much. If you want to learn more about the distinction between these styles, our article on gas vs electric pressure washers is a great resource.

Now that we’ve discussed the major distinctions between different types of pressure washers, let’s move on to discussing PSI and GPM.

Hot Water Units vs Cold Water Units

Finally, you must consider the difference between hot water vs cold water pressure washers. This is perhaps one of the most important considerations, too.

Hot water units are more expensive and require more maintenance. But, they’re also much better at removing tough grease and grime. If you need a machine that can handle the toughest jobs quickly and easily, a hot water unit is your best bet.

Cold water units are less expensive and require less maintenance. But, they’re not as effective at removing tough grease and grime. If you need a machine that can handle light-duty jobs quickly and easily, a cold water unit is your best bet.

Now that we’ve gone over the major types of pressure washers, let’s move on to what you came here today – to find an answer to the question, “what kind of pressure washer do I need?”.

How To Choose A Pressure Washer For Your Business

Ready to learn how to choose a pressure washer? We’ve covered the various machines, but which is right for you? And moreover, how do you choose the right specific model? In this section, we’ll provide you with everything you need to know to make the right decision. To kick things off, we’re going to discuss PSI – one of the most important factors in determining which kind of pressure washer you need.

What Is PSI And How Does It Affect My Pressure Washer?

PSI stands for “pounds per square inch” – and it’s a measure of the water pressure coming out of your machine. The higher the PSI, the more powerful the machine.

If you need a machine that can handle light-duty jobs quickly and easily, you’ll want a machine with a lower PSI. If you need a machine that can handle heavy-duty jobs quickly and easily, you’ll want a machine with a higher PSI.

You may be under the impression that the more PSI your unit has, the better. After all, why not choose the most powerful machine possible? Well, if you don’t need that extra PSI, it could end up doing more harm than good. For example, if you’re shopping for your detailing service and want to go about washing a car with a pressure washer, too much PSI can damage windows or even strip paint.

That’s why we encourage you to carefully consider your specific use case, and then read our guide on what PSI pressure washer do I need? Now that you know the basics of PSI, let’s move on to GPM.

What Is GPM And How Does It Affect My Pressure Washer?

GPM stands for “gallons per minute” – and it’s a measure of the water flow coming out of your machine. The higher the GPM, the more water your machine is capable of flowing.

If you need a machine that can handle light-duty jobs quickly and easily, you’ll want a machine with a lower GPM. If you need a machine that can handle heavy-duty jobs quickly and easily, you’ll want a machine with a higher GPM.

You may be under the impression that the more GPM your unit has, the better – just like PSI. But similar to what we said in the previous section, you’ll just end up wasting water – and thus, money – if you get more GPM than you need. So, how do you choose your ideal GPM?

As a general rule of thumb, we recommend choosing a machine with a GPM that’s at least double the PSI. So, if you’re looking for a machine with 2000 PSI, you’ll want a unit with at least 4000 GPM.

Now that we’ve gone over the basics of PSI and GPM, let’s move on to one more important factor – duty cycle.

What Is Duty Cycle And How Does It Affect My Pressure Washer?

Duty cycle is a measure of how long your machine can run before it needs to take a break. The higher the duty cycle, the longer your machine can run without needing a break.

If you need a machine that can handle light-duty jobs quickly and easily, you’ll want a machine with a higher duty cycle. If you need a machine that can handle heavy-duty jobs quickly and easily, you’ll want a machine with a lower duty cycle. Simple enough, right?

As with PSI and GPM, there’s no need to get a machine with a higher duty cycle than you need – it’ll just be wasted money. How do you choose the right duty cycle for your needs?

It really depends on how you’re going to be using your machine. If you only need to use it for quick cleanup of light-duty jobs, then you can get away with a lower duty cycle. However, if your cleaning tasks can last hours upon hours – all that downtime from a lower duty cycle will start to lead to inefficiency and wasted manpower. Downtime is your enemy – and finding a machine that can run longer without breaks will lead to higher efficiency, and thus, profitability. Our guide on how long can you run a pressure washer is a great resource on this topic.

Now that we’ve gone over the basics of PSI, GPM, and duty cycle – let’s move on to our next topic. How do you choose between a gas and electric pressure washer?

Do You Need Mobile Cleaning Capabilities?

Another factor that some business owners don’t consider until it’s too late is where your cleaning jobs will take you. If you are constantly near a water and power source, then this is not as concerning. But what if you have a remote cleaning job? How will you get water and power out there? That’s where a pressure washer trailer comes in. These have a water source and power source on board, and make it easy to bring cleaning power anywhere you need it.

These are definitely geared towards the most high-level, commercial cleaning jobs out there – but they’re a great option to know about. You can even rent a pressure washer trailer for the weekend if you only need it every so often – at least, at Hotsy you can!

Consider Whether You Need A Pressure Washer That Can Incorporate Soap

If you’re in the market for a pressure washer, chances are good that you’ve considered whether or not you need a machine that can handle pressure washer detergent. We’re here to tell you that, yes – soap can be a gamechanger when it comes to pressure washing.

Adding soap to your pressure washing routine can help loosen tough grime and dirt, making your job easier. Not to mention, it can also help protect surfaces from being damaged by the high pressure of the water.

If you’re not sure whether or not you need a machine that can handle soap, think about what kind of jobs you’ll be using it for. If you’re mostly going to be cleaning surfaces that are just lightly dirty, then you probably don’t need soap. However, if you’re going to be cleaning surfaces that are caked with dirt and grime, then soap can be a lifesaver. Learn more about how to use soap with a pressure washer in our blog.

Wrapping Up Our Pressure Washer Buying Guide

We hope this guide has been helpful in getting you started on the right foot. You now know how to choose a pressure washer. In summary, consider your unique cleaning needs – what type of jobs will you be doing? How frequently will you do them? The type of cleaning you need will dictate whether you should go with a gas or electric model, or hot water vs cold water unit. It will also determine your ideal PSI, GPM, duty cycle, and detergent capabilities. 

We didn’t touch on it much, but your budget will also dictate your ideal choice. And if you want to stretch your budget as far as possible, there is only one place to shop – our pressure washer store San Antonio. Those who have used our machines say nothing cleans like a Hotsy, and it’s true – we have the best commercial pressure washers on the market! With so much variety, you’ll have no problem choosing the right machine at Hotsy. We’ve got both hot water pressure washers for sale and cold water pressure washers too. If you’re not quite ready to invest in your own machine, we offer pressure washer rental.

So, what are you waiting for? Reach out and let’s get started choosing the right pressure washer for your unique needs!

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How to Use a Pressure Washer: A Comprehensive Guide for Businesses

What do a car detailing service, commercial trucking operation, and construction business all have in common? They have serious cleaning needs! And these are just three types of businesses that will require the use of a pressure washer – the #1 way to clean tough messes fast.

Commercial pressure washers are an essential piece of equipment for many businesses. They can be used to clean everything from sidewalks and driveways to cars and trucks. In this guide, we will teach you how to use a pressure washer like a pro! We’ll start by helping you choose the right machine for your needs, then walk you through how to use it safely and effectively. Towards the end of this article, we’ll explain where you can find the top commercial pressure washers on the market. Let’s not waste any more time!

Does My Business Really Need A Pressure Washer?

We know what you’re thinking – learning how to use a pressure washer is a lot of work. Do I really need one of these units? Or, can I get by with a standard garden hose and a high-pressure nozzle?  You might be surprised how many businesses can benefit from using a pressure washer. Here are just some of the industries that commonly use pressure washers:

  • Automotive
  • Construction
  • Food and beverage
  • Hospitality
  • Manufacturing
  • Retail

Really, any business that needs to clean large areas or deal with tough stains will find a pressure washer to be an invaluable tool. If you’re still not sure if your business needs a pressure washer, consider how often you find yourself cleaning the following:

  • Sidewalks
  • Parking lots
  • Driveways
  • Machinery
  • Trucks or cars
  • Warehouse floors

If you are constantly cleaning any of the above, then a pressure washer is a wise investment. Not only will it save you time, but it will also do a better job than any other cleaning method – even power washing by hand! The benefits of a pressure washer include more effective, efficient cleaning that contributes to substantial savings in labor. Sounds like something your business could use, right? Let’s discuss the next topic – why it is so important to learn how to use a pressure washer correctly.

Why Learning How To Use A Pressure Washer Correctly Is So Important

If you’re under the impression that you can just invest in a commercial pressure washer and turn it on and get started cleaning, you are sorely mistaken. Learning the proper use of a power washer is important for not just businesses, but anyone using one of these units. Here’s why:

Pressure washers are powerful machines. If not used correctly, they can cause serious damage to property – and even people! Using a pressure washer correctly will prolong its lifespan. Improper use will lead to costly repairs down the road.

You’ll get the best cleaning results if you know how to operate your machine properly.

Now that we’ve discussed some of the importance of learning how to use a pressure washer, let’s move on to our next topic – how to choose the right machine for your business needs. After all, there are many different types and models of commercial pressure washers on the market today! How do you know which one is best for your business? Keep reading to find out…

How To Choose The Right Pressure Washer For Your Business

Not all pressure washers are created equal! When choosing a machine for your business, it is important to consider the following factors:

  • The type of surface you’ll be cleaning most often
  • The frequency of use
  • The severity of the dirt and grime you’ll be dealing with
  • Your budget

Once you’ve considered all of the above, you’ll be able to narrow down your options and choose the best machine for your needs. If you’re still not sure which one to choose, don’t hesitate to reach out to the pros at Hotsy for advice. We can help you find the perfect match for your business! Or, for a few recommendations, take a look at our review of the best commercial pressure washers currently on the market.

Now that we’ve covered how to choose the right pressure washer, it’s time to move on to the next topic – how to use a pressure washer correctly and safely. After all, these are powerful machines – and if not used properly, they can cause serious damage. So, let’s get started!

How To Use A Pressure Washer Correctly & Safely

Now that you know how to choose the right pressure washer for your business, it’s time to learn how to use it correctly and safely. Here are some tips to get you started:

Begin By Reading The Owner’s Manual

Read the owner’s manual before using the machine. This seems like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people don’t do this! The owner’s manual will provide important information on how to operate the machine safely and effectively. All machines vary at least a bit, so it is important to consult your specific unit’s recommendations.

Don’t Forget The PPE

Of course, the next step is getting all your PPE together. As we discussed in our complete guide to staying safe with pressure washers, this is not a step you can skip. This includes protection for your eyes, ears, and even hands – especially when pressure washing with hot water.

If you have a highly caustic soap in your machine, then you may even want to wear full-body protection on your arms and legs as well. Of course, your footwear should provide good traction and protection as well. You can learn more in our article discussing pressure washer safety.

Preparing Your Pressure Washer For Use

Once you’ve got your gear on, you can get your pressure washer ready for cleaning. Start by hooking it up to a water source. There will be a connection for a standard garden hose fitting to connect to the pump and another connection for the pump to a high-pressure hose. This is where the spray will actually come from, as you can probably tell.

Before you actually turn your unit on – whether it is electric or gas – ensure that all fluid levels are topped off and your machine doesn’t have any leaks or problems that could prevent you from cleaning safely and effectively.

While you’re preparing your pressure washer for us, you should take a few minutes to prepare the area around where you’re cleaning if necessary. That means moving any vehicles out of range, taping off the area from people entering your cleaning zone, and covering up glass windows if necessary.

But, this step also entails general cleanup. Remove any debris, sweep up loose dirt and leaves, and do a quick cleaning to ensure that the pressure washer isn’t fighting an uphill battle. At that point, you can fire up the machine and get to work.

Actually Using Your Pressure Washer

Now, in terms of actually using the pressure washer, it’s pretty simple. Once you’ve read through your manual, put on all your essential gear, and prepared the unit for cleaning, it’s time to actually get to work.

Start with the nozzle tip about 18″ away from the surface you’re cleaning. This will give you time to get a feel for how the machine works before you start cleaning. While cleaning, keep the nozzle moving. This will also prevent damage to the surface you’re cleaning – while helping evenly distribute the cleaner or detergent you’re using. If you find that 18″ isn’t quite enough, you can move the nozzle closer to add more pressure – but avoid getting closer than 6″ from the surface. If you find that this isn’t enough, you can add a higher-powered nozzle.

Work your way from top to bottom when power washing surfaces like walls or siding. This will prevent streaks and ensure that all dirt and grime are removed. It’s also important to avoid staying in one spot too long – this can damage the surface you’re attempting to clean.

Be careful of obstacles like flower beds, trees, cars, etc. Pressure washers are powerful machines – and can cause serious damage if not used properly!

Learn How To Use A Pressure Washer For Different Types Of Jobs

Using a pressure washer isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach across different jobs. Your recommendations for pressure washing house siding will vary from washing a car with a pressure washer. So, before you break ground on any specific job, make sure you know what recommendations are for that type of job. This is important not just to achieve an effective, efficient clean, but also to prevent damage to certain surfaces – such as a vehicle’s paint.

Advanced Pressure Washing Techniques For Faster, More Effective Cleaning

In the section above we just barely scratched the surface of how to use a pressure washer. Now, we want to share some advanced pressure washing techniques for faster, more effective cleaning. This advice will have you working like a power washing pro in no time!

Add Soap When Pressure Washing

One of the best pieces of advice we can offer is to learn how to use soap with a pressure washer. A quality pressure washer soap will help you cut through even the thickest, most caked-on dirt and grime you come across. Even a powerful hot water pressure washer alone may not be enough for certain messes – you need to use a proper detergent.

As we covered in our complete guide linked above, there are different types of soaps for different types of messes – read through to learn which type is best for your unique situation. Then, head over to Hotsy and get the best detergents available! Unlike most detergents, ours prolong the life of your machine rather than compromising it.

Use The Right Nozzle & Hose For The Job

Just as there are different types of pressure washing soap for different jobs, so too are there different nozzles for different jobs. You also have to factor in the type of hose you use – because as you’ll discover in our blog, pressure washer hoses aren’t universal.

Fortunately, we have a plethora of resources to help you mix and match nozzles and hoses with ease. Take a look at our article discussing which pressure washer nozzle to use for soap if you want to get the most bang for your buck with your cleaning.

For more advanced pressure washing techniques, take a look at our complete guide.

Final Thoughts On How To Use A Pressure Washer

Well, there you have it – how to use a pressure washer. You now know everything you need to get started cleaning with no prior experience.

Remember – the hardest part about using a pressure washer isn’t actually using it. It is choosing the right type of machine for the job and preparing the proper soaps, nozzles, and hoses. Clear the area, put on your PPE, and follow the pressure washing techniques we recommended above. You’ll find that over time, pressure washing gets easier and easier as you gain more experience.

But to truly unlock the most efficient, effective cleaning capabilities? You need the best pressure washers for the job. And for that, look no further than Hotsy’s online pressure washer store. We have come to be known as the #1 choice for all things pressure washing – from pressure washer trailers to pressure washer rentals, gas and electric units, hot and cold water units, soaps, and spare parts. To see our full catalog and take your cleaning game to the next level, head over to the site!

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Is It Better To Rent Or Buy A Pressure Washer?

Are you trying to decide between renting or buying a pressure washer? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Today, we’ll weigh the pros and cons of renting vs buying a pressure washer so you can make the best decision possible for your unique situation.

There really is no blanket answer we can give here – it mostly depends on how frequently you will use the unit. This is something that comes down to ROI. Don’t worry – we’re the experts on all things pressure washers, and we’re going to help you with this complete guide!

Let’s start out by looking at some of the reasons people prefer to rent pressure washers.

What Are The Advantages Of Renting A Pressure Washer?

Renting a pressure washer is a great option if you’re just going to use the pressure washer for a quick project, and then don’t anticipate needing it again anytime soon.

This allows you to take advantage of all the benefits pressure washing has to offer without having to fork over a lump sum investment in your very own piece of equipment.

It also means you don’t have to worry about paying for any sort of maintenance on the unit down the road. Pressure washers are just like your vehicle – they need to be cared for with routine maintenance. And every once in a while, you’ll experience a malfunctioning part that needs to be replaced. If you just rent a pressure washer, you aren’t liable for any repairs or maintenance! You also won’t have to worry about winterizing your pressure washer.

When renting a pressure washer, you also have the advantage of using a machine specifically built for whatever job you need. After all, there are so many things you can use a pressure washer for.

For example, say you need to strip the paint off a wall – there are electric pressure washers built specifically for that. You can rent one, and then later on down the road when you decide you need to pressure wash your deck, you can get a cold water pressure washer. This type won’t damage the deck while cleaning away months of dirt and grime.

There are even pressure washer trailers for super big, intensive jobs! It wouldn’t be feasible for you to own one of these unless you owned a business where mobile cleaning was a huge part of your operation.

If you were to buy a pressure washer, you’d be stuck with one specific unit that couldn’t do everything you need it to.

What Are The Advantages Of Buying A Pressure Washer?

Now, let’s talk about investing in your very own electric pressure washer rather than renting one every time you need one. You’ll get some pretty nice perks by owning your own machine.

For one, you’ll have it whenever you need it. You won’t have to worry about calling up the rental store when duty calls. You’ll save yourself a lot of time and hassle if you frequently need to use a pressure washer.

Speaking of which, owning a pressure washer makes the most financial sense for those who use these frequently. At a certain point, choosing to rent a pressure washer more than 2-3 times a month is a bad way to use your money. You’ll save a lot of money in the long run by biting the bullet and investing in your pressure washer today.

So – Is It Better To Buy Or Rent A Pressure Washer?

For the most part, choosing to buy or rent a pressure washer comes down to numbers. How often are you going to use it? What will it cost you to rent the unit? What will it cost you to buy the unit?

Once you know the answers to these three questions, you can easily determine whether it makes more sense for you to rent or buy your pressure washer.

We’ve found that for the most part, if you use pressure washers more than three times a month, it makes the best financial sense to invest in your own. While this is just a rule of thumb, that’s about what it takes for you to see savings from buying.

It also depends on what exactly you’re looking to use the pressure washer for, and the specific type of pressure washer you need. You can’t always rent certain kinds of gasoline-powered pressure washers, so your options may be limited when it comes to renting.

Rent Or Buy Your Next Pressure Washer At Hotsy!

Whether you decide to buy a commercial pressure washer or rent a pressure washer, one thing is for sure – there is no better option than Hotsy! With over 40 years of experience in this industry, we’ve earned a reputation as the absolute #1 pressure washer store – and for good reason.

We offer the best selection of gas-powered and electric pressure washers, so you’ll find exactly what you need – be it a hot water pressure washer or cold water pressure washer. We even offer Hotsy detergents to help you get the best cleaning power possible out of your unit, along with pressure washer parts to keep your unit running as needed if you choose to buy.

If you choose to rent pressure washers through us, we handle all the pressure washer servicing so you don’t have to stress about anything. Should a problem occur with your unit while you’re renting it, we’ll send a team out to replace the washer and get you back to cleaning – with minimal downtime.

So what are you waiting for? If you’re in south Texas, visit a Hotsy retailer near you, visit our online shop, or give us a call today! We can help you find the perfect unit for whatever situation you’re dealing with. Need a recommendation? Take a look at our article discussing the best commercial pressure washing units of the year.

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Can You Rent A Pressure Washer?

Perhaps you just need a pressure washer for one general cleaning day at your business. Or maybe you want to test out a certain model before you bite the bullet and buy a brand new one. Any time you’re in a situation where buying a new pressure washer may not make financial sense, renting is the way to go.

But hold up–can you rent a pressure washer? And if so, what are the benefits of renting instead of buying one? The potential drawbacks? Today, we will answer all the questions you may have about renting a pressure washer, so keep on reading!

Can You Rent A Pressure Washer?

If you’ve ever been hands-on with the cleaning operations at your business, you’ll definitely know when to use a pressure washer. Certain jobs require the cleaning power that only a pressure washer can provide. For instance, say you have deep oil stains on your workshop’s floors or years’ worth of grime on your business’ storefront. You will need to use a pressure washer in order to remove dirt, grime, grease, and other contaminants quickly and efficiently.

But what if you only need a pressure washer, say, once a month? Or maybe a few times a year? Or what if you have a one-time project that calls for a pressure washer? In cases like these, you have the option to rent a pressure washer instead of buying one. Yes, just like any other major power tool, you can rent a pressure washer.

However, you may ask yourself this question: “Is it really better to rent a pressure washer instead of buying one?” To be able to come up with a solid answer, you must know the advantages and disadvantages of renting a pressure washer:

What Are The Benefits Of Renting A Pressure Washer?

You wouldn’t buy a car if you’re only going to use it once a month. The same logic applies to renting a pressure washer–or any other tool, for that matter.

Renting a commercial pressure washer is a good idea if you’re only going to use it for a quick project and you don’t expect to need it anytime soon. You won’t have to shell out a significant amount of money for a unit of your own, and you won’t have to worry about financing (read: business loans) an expensive piece of equipment. In other words, the cost to rent a pressure washer is a very small fraction of what it would take to buy a whole new unit.

More than that, renting a pressure washer means you don’t have to worry about maintenance–that’s the rental company’s job. Pressure washers need regular maintenance just like any other tool, and this can be cumbersome if you don’t have the time or money to maintain your own unit. Plus, pressure washers will need replacement parts over time, which is another added cost of owning one. 

When you rent one, all you have to do is use it properly, and then give it back. No cleaning, repairing, or part replacements needed.

Another major benefit of renting a pressure washer is that you have the freedom to select whichever unit you need for a particular job. Pressure washers come in many types; there are hot water pressure washers, cold water pressure washers, electric pressure washers, and gas-powered pressure washers. There are even pressure washer trailers that are bigger and more powerful than the average unit, which are used for the toughest cleaning jobs.

What we’re trying to say here is that you are not limited to just one type of pressure washer as opposed to when you buy one of your own. For example, if you need a pressure washer that can remove rust, you can rent a unit that is powerful enough to blast away corrosion. When you own a pressure washer, you will need to spend more money on renting if you have a job that calls for a different kind of power washer.

In conclusion, here are the benefits of renting a pressure washer:

  • More cost-effective for infrequent projects
  • No maintenance is required on your end
  • Freedom to choose different types of pressure washers

What Are The Drawbacks Of Renting A Pressure Washer?

Of course, there are also potential disadvantages of renting a pressure washer. For one, you won’t have a pressure washer on hand whenever you need it. You will have to call up the rental store, ask for availability, and schedule your delivery. In addition to the hassle, there is also a risk of the pressure washer you need being unavailable at the time you need it. 

This is why it is better to rent a pressure washer only if you don’t plan to use it frequently. In contrast, it would be impractical to rent a pressure washer if you need one regularly; it might seem cheaper to rent, but in the long run, you will end up paying more if you’re renting every week.

All that said, is it better to buy or rent a pressure washer?

The general recommendation is to invest in a pressure washer of your own if you use it more than three times a month. With this kind of frequency, it is impractical and logistically difficult to keep renting when you could just have a unit ready to use whenever you need it. 

Can You Rent A Pressure Washer? Closing Thoughts

So, can you rent a pressure washer? Yes, you definitely can. And it’s a great option if you only need a pressure washer once or twice a month. You don’t need to invest a significant amount of money on a new unit; you won’t have to worry about maintenance, and you can pick any type of pressure washer you want, depending on your project. 

However, keep in mind that not all rental companies are made equal. If you want to make the most out of the commercial pressure washer rental fee, pick the best of the best units from Hotsy, one of the top pressure washer store in the country!

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What Is Better – Electric or Gas Pressure Washer?

Before you pick your unit, you’ll have to address this important question – what is better, electric or gas pressure washer? A seemingly never-ending debate, both home users and commercial cleaners alike still can’t agree on which type of pressure washer is the best.

So, which is it?

The reality is that this question doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer. It will depend on what you’re looking to use the unit for. Thus, you have to understand the pros and cons of each type of. Only then can you determine which option is the best one for your needs. Today, you’ll discover the differences between an electric pressure washer vs a gas pressure washer. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly which one you need to go with.

But before all that, let’s talk about why it is so important to choose the right pressure washer.

Why Is Choosing The Right Pressure Washer So Important?

The difference between a gas pressure washer and an electric pressure washer might seem straightforward and insignificant, but it’s anything but.

Each type of pressure washer has unique features, advantages, and drawbacks. Some jobs are easier to do with an electric pressure washer, while others may require the power that a gas pressure washer provides. More than that, these pressure washers also have varying skill requirements. Depending on the user, one type of pressure washer may be safer to use than the other.

That said, choosing the right pressure washer is crucial to not only ensure that you’re doing the job right – but that you’re also doing it safely.

What Is An Electric Pressure Washer?

Electric pressure washers use an electric motor or pump to shoot pressurized water from the hose. They can be very powerful, with some commercial pressure washers even going up to 3,500 psi. But even with that kind of power, electric pressure washers tend to be quiet, which is important for residential use. They are great for cleaning small to medium-sized spaces/surfaces, such as patios, grills, and cars. If you need more power, many electric models can fit pressure washer accessories to boost your power or efficiency.

Another great thing about electric pressure washers is that they require very little maintenance. In fact, this is the main reason why some people prefer electric over gas. You don’t have to buy gas or oil, and you won’t have to replace any major parts. The only maintenance that an electric pressure washer needs is lubrication for the pump and, of course, general cleaning.

Now comes the downsides. An electric pressure washer is cheaper than a gas pressure washer. For some people, this is an upside. But if you want a machine that can last you for more than just a few years, choosing a cheaper machine won’t give you the durability you’re looking for.

Another possible disadvantage of an electric pressure washer is the power cord. You will be limited to cleaning areas with an outlet nearby – which can be inconvenient.

To summarize, here are the pros and cons of an electric pressure washer:

Pros

  • Can go up to 3,5oo psi
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to start
  • Can be used in enclosed spaces
  • Quiet
  • Inexpensive
  • Little maintenance required
  • Ideal for general cleaning tasks

Cons

  • Less durable
  • Less portable
  • Must be plugged in at all times

What Is A Gas Pressure Washer?

Gas pressure washers have gas-fueled engines that power the water pump. They are more powerful than their electric counterparts, with an average psi of 2,800. More powerful models can go up to 4,200 psi – enough pressure to tackle the toughest of cleaning jobs.

Hence, gas pressure washers are suitable for both residential and commercial applications.

Since gas pressure washers don’t need to be plugged in, they are highly portable. Although they are heavy, gas pressure washer models typically have wheels to make them mobile. You can take them anywhere, as opposed to an electric pressure washer that requires a power source.

When it comes to durability, gas pressure washers take the cake. These machines are built to last for decades, which is why most professionals prefer them over electric pressure washers.

On the flip side, some people don’t like gas pressure washers because they require more maintenance. You have to constantly monitor the oil level so that the motor and pump remain cool. Plus, you may need to replace parts more frequently. And, of course, you need to keep it topped of with gas.

Because of their durability, gas pressure washers also tend to be more expensive – a downside to people looking for affordability. But if you want quality that lasts for years, the higher price point is definitely worth it.

Moreover, gas pressure washers make a lot of noise and produce harmful emissions. With that in mind, it is generally unsafe to use a gas-powered pressure washer in an enclosed space. You also need to wear proper ear protection if the noise levels go beyond 85 decibels (according to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration or OSHA).

To summarize, here are the pros and cons of a gas pressure washer:

Pros

  • Can go up to 4,200 psi
  • Highly portable
  • Extremely durable; can last for 10 years and beyond
  • Ideal for large, tough cleaning jobs

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Loud
  • High maintenance
  • Harmful emissions
  • May be dangerous for inexperienced users

So – What Is Better, Electric or Gas Pressure Washer?

So, what is better, electric or gas pressure washers?

Now that you know the pros and cons of each type, you can probably already tell which one is the best for you. If you need a pressure washer for small cleaning jobs and don’t mind the limited portability, an electric pressure washer may be the more cost-effective choice. After all, you don’t need to invest in an expensive machine if you’re only going to use your pressure washer a few times per year.

But what if you need something more powerful, durable, and portable? Well, a gas pressure washer ticks all those boxes. Investing in a gas pressure washer will allow you to clean large surfaces and the toughest stains with higher psi. Not sure how much pressure washer psi you need? We wrote a complete guide to help you decide.

Additionally, you can take a gas pressure washer anywhere. So, you won’t be limited to cleaning jobs with a nearby power source.

Here’s a snapshot of the differences between each option:

Power

Gas pressure washers are more powerful, making them the better choice for very tough cleaning jobs and large surfaces. Some gas pressure washers can even remove rust.

Portability

Since gas pressure washers do not need to be plugged in, they trump electric pressure washers in portability.

Weight

Electric power washers are lighter. Hence, they are easier to use and transport. Gas power washers are heavy, but they have wheels to make up for this and allow for easy mobility.

Affordability

Electric power washers are generally cheaper than their gas counterparts. If you only need a machine for general, infrequent use, an electric power washer may be just what you’re looking for.

Durability

An electric pressure washer can last for a long time with proper care. However, they are not as durable as gas pressure washers, which can easily last more than ten years.

Maintenance

Electric pressure washers require little maintenance, which is a key advantage if you don’t have a lot of time. Gas pressure washers, on the other hand, need constant maintenance in order to function properly.

Safety

If you don’t have much experience with pressure washers, an electric model will be the safest option. Gas pressure washers are way more powerful and, therefore, require more skill to operate safely.

Noise

If noise is an issue, an electric power washer is quieter than a gas-powered one. You will need ear protection when using the latter. All that said, the better choice depends on your personal needs. So, only you can answer which is the best pressure washer for you!

Final Thoughts On Which Is Better: Electric or Gas Pressure Washers

Now that you know what is better – an electric or gas pressure washer – there is just one thing left to do – pick yours!

Electric pressure washers are ideal for general cleaning jobs that only require moderate psi. As long as you have a power source, you can use an electric pressure washer without any problems. This type of washer is quiet, lightweight, and low maintenance. Plus, it’s safe to use even for inexperienced homeowners.

Gas pressure washers are the better choice if you need more power and want to clean something far away from an electrical socket. Durable and long-lasting, you can expect your gas pressure washer to last for decades!

The final answer? It all boils down to your needs and preferences. Now that you know the differences between each type of washer, you can make the best choice for you and your home. You should also read our article discussing hot water vs cold water pressure washers – as this is an important consideration, too. And if you’d like a specific recommendation, take a look at our year-end review of the best commercial pressure washers. When the time comes to buy yours, head over to Hotsy – the most trusted pressure washer store in San Antonio!

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