Choosing the best pressure washer for your desired application may be daunting. Going through the technical specifications sheet of each machine may seem overwhelming especially if you know nothing about the mechanics of it. Now the question begs, How do you choose the machine that is right for you? Which of the technical specifications should you consider based on your application? 

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    Common Considerations When Choosing a Pressure Washer

    In order to gear yourself with the proper knowledge prior to purchasing your very own pressure washer, we have listed down the essential considerations you need to think of before investing your hard-earned money in a pressure washer. 

    When purchasing a pressure washer, you must first consider which application you will be needing your pressure washer for. Consumer-grade washers are mostly used for residential purposes. On the other hand, an industrial-grade washer will benefit you the most if you choose to do daily cleaning jobs. If you notice, most pressure washing contractors use industrial grade pressure washing machines because it is designed for heavy use. It can handle daily usage with minimal breakage. Another benefit of industrial pressure washers is that it is low maintenance when it comes to repairs; Spare parts are usually standardized and easy to source out.

    This is by far the top consideration of most, if not all people when purchasing. At this point, you should at least be able to set your budget range; How much you are willing to shell out when purchasing your pressure washer? 

    For your information, for as low as 100 bucks, you can buy your very own portable pressure washer. It’s compact, lightweight, and easy to use. However, pressure washers at this price point tend not to last very long because both your engine and water pump are crammed into a tiny space. Cheap portable pressure washers tend to break easily, with a life span of more or less a year. If you need a reliable machine that will last you a lifetime, then we suggest you read on further. 

    To give you an idea, you will be looking anywhere between 300-500 dollars for a low-end consumer-grade pressure washer but just like the portable ones, they break down easily. A decent consumer-grade pressure washer would cost you between 1000-1500 dollars. This is the best value you can have considering the best consumer-grade pressure washer your money can buy. At this price point, you will be able to perform low to high-pressure cleaning jobs like stripping off old paint, removing grease from concrete driveways, and cleaning your wooden patio.

    You need to consider the surface and the types of stains you will be cleaning when choosing the right pressure washer for you. Keep in mind that tougher stains will require higher water pressure and thus, you will need a pressure washer with the right specifications for efficient cleaning. 

    You should also be careful with the water pressure while cleaning. Remember that a higher pressure can damage your paint. For softer stains, you can go anywhere between 1300-2000 psi. Anything above 2,000 psi may cause paint from stripping off, so use your pressure washer with extreme caution.

    In order to maximize your pressure washer build, educate yourself on the different types of spray nozzles and attachments that can be attached to your machine. Various nozzles serve different cleaning purposes based on the angle at which the water is sprayed. The maximum water pressure that your pressure washer can handle can be achieved using a 0-degree nozzle. As the angle increases, the pressure decreases as well. 

    It is important to know the sufficient pressure rating you need for various cleaning jobs because the pressure is critical; it can make or break your cleaning job. 

    Light Duty Cleaning – 2,000 psi and below

    A general-purpose pressure washer with a rating of 2,000 psi and below is mostly used for automobiles. It’s strong enough to remove debris and grease from the surface without removing the paint. Light-duty cleaning is typically required if you wish to clean surfaces with pressure that is a bit stronger than your average garden hose. Most portable pressure washers in the market are able to do light duty cleaning. 

    Low-Pressure Cleaning – 2,001 to 4,000 psi 

    Water pressure between 2,001 to 4,000 psi is enough to clean dirt from concrete and wood surfaces. Keep in mind that paint starts to strip off at around 3,000 psi, which is why you should make sure that you keep your distance when washing at high pressure. To make sure that you don’t accidentally damage the surface, you could also consider using a nozzle with the lowest pressure while working your way up. 

    High-Pressure Cleaning – 4,001 to 6,999 psi 

    Pressure washers with these specifications are normally used by contractors and are typically used for commercial and industrial purposes. This pressure range is great for removing stubborn grease and grime usually found in pavers and driveways. Working with high water pressure is advisable for surfaces like concrete and brick. 

    Most people disregard flow when choosing their pressure washer. Flow rate, measured in GPM (gallons per minute) is used to measure the amount of water that flows per minute. In pressure washer jargon, a higher GPM would typically finish a job faster and easier.  

    Hot water pressure washers are typically sold with an addition of a heater in the system and come with an added cost. In cleaning applications that will require the removal of grease and grime, it is best that you consider adding a heater to your system.   

    Last but not the least, power. In order to achieve a certain pressure, your machine needs to be backed up by an engine that can deliver power that is enough to drive pressure. This is where horsepower comes into play. It is important to build your pressure washer with the consideration of power because it will help create an efficient pressure washing system that will not break easily. Choosing an engine that is lower in terms of power output will limit your machine’s ability to blast water at high pressures. 


    Putting It All Together: Customize Your Pressure Washer Based on Your needs with Sirocco BullDogPro Water Blasters

    Now that you understand the considerations that come with choosing your pressure washer, it is now time to choose the pressure washer that’s right for you. Sirocco BullDogPro water blasters offer a wide range of pressure washers that are customized based on your specific needs. From light-duty cleaning to ultra high-pressure Jetting, BullDogPro has it all for you. 

    There are a lot of factors that need to be taken into consideration when building a pressure washer, and building one is not easy. Pressurewasher.net, the sole manufacturer of BullDogPro water blasters, has extensive experience in that department. The great thing about Sirocco BullDogPro water blasters is that everything is customized using the best pieces of machinery in the market. From the best engine, to the types of nozzles and accessories you will need, understanding the technical specifications will help you decide on a build that is right for you.

    With Sirocco BullDogPro’s help, it will be easy to mix and match parts that work well together. Building a pressure washer is actually similar to building a computer; you need to make sure that all parts are compatible with one another in order to make sure that you come up with an efficient machine. Same is true for pressure washers and with Sirocco BullDogPro, you will not be sorry. 

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    Match with pressure washers near you to help you with your project.
    Editorial Contributors
    avatar for Matt Greenfield

    Matt Greenfield

    Matt Greenfield is an experienced writer specializing in home improvement topics. He has a passion for educating and empowering homeowners to make informed decisions about their properties. Matt's writing focuses on a range of topics, including windows, flooring, HVAC, and construction materials. With a background in construction and home renovation, Matt is well-versed in the latest trends and techniques in the industry. His articles offer practical advice and expert insights that help readers tackle their home improvement projects with confidence. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a seasoned professional, Matt's writing is sure to provide valuable guidance and inspiration.

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