It seems obvious that a pressure washer is just that. Variations in PSI ratings, motor types, and more are all available. There is a dizzying array of Giraffe Tools from which to choose the one that will serve your needs best. In order to help you narrow down your choices, our team of professionals has done the legwork.
What Kind of Pressure Should Your Washing Machine Have?
When it comes to the strength of pressure washers, we divide them into a few broad categories. The appropriate proficiency of Pressure Washer level depends on your intended use. It’s important to remember that a pressure washer with an underpowered nozzle can’t clean as quickly as one with a broader nozzle.
Is it powered by gas, electricity, or batteries?
Considerations should be given when selecting an engine type for your pressure washer. There can be multiple tradeoffs that need to be considered when making this decision.
Homeowners will appreciate the reliability and cheap upkeep of electric pressure washers. They produce fewer emissions and run more quietly. The problem is that you can’t acquire enough power or water to get the task done swiftly and effectively.
Loud, high-maintenance, and gas-emitting, gas pressure washers are not ideal. However, gas engines may generate significantly more pressure and water flow than their electric counterparts. Actually, about 2000 PSI is where the limits of electric pressure washers begin to show. Over that, you’ll need a 240V outlet.
Battery power is another option. While there are a few pressure washers in the 300-450 PSI range, it is the only battery-powered model with any real pressure. This costs a lot in terms of performance.
Risks
Even superficial cuts from a pressure washer’s powerful spray can quickly become infected and spread. Minor wounds that go untreated can lead to serious complications like infection, disability, or even amputation.
- A quick, powerful spray has the potential to hurl objects, potentially injuring bystanders.
- If the pressure washer is not operated correctly and all safety precautions are disregarded, an electric shock could result.
- Carbon monoxide poisoning can be caused by operating small gasoline-powered motors. Unless the gasoline engine can be relocated outside and away from air intakes, workers should not utilize equipment powered by gasoline engines within buildings or other partially enclosed environments.
Precautions
- You should never use the washer’s spray to push or move anything.
- Use extreme caution in operating a gasoline-powered washer indoors.
- Before utilizing a pressure washer, it is important to check the ground fault circuit interrupter (also known as a circuit breaker or electrical outlet).
- When using a pressure washer, make sure you only plug it into a grounded outlet.
Keep the power cord connection to the pressure washer above any standing water, and if an extension cord is needed, make sure it is heavy-duty and has components rated for usage in damp environments. Keep the plugs for the power source and the extension cord well away from the item being cleaned and the water drain.
- When operating a pressure washer, it is advisable to wear rubber-soled shoes with some form of insulation.
- The power cord and any extension cords should never be cut or spliced.
- The pressure washer’s power cable plug, as well as the grounding prong on any extension cord, must always be in place.
- After a pressure washer trips a breaker, it should always be checked by a licensed electrician to ensure no electrical problems exist.
- Never give a pressure washer to a kid to use. When an adult is using a pressure washer, make sure kids stay far away.
