How to Correctly Use a Commercial Pressure Washer
In the automotive industry, pressure washers are indispensable tools, as they provide powerful and efficient means to clean vehicles. That said, cleaning cars with a commercial pressure washer requires a certain level of understanding to ensure that vehicles are properly cleaned without being damaged. It’s for this reason that we’ve put together this comprehensive guide, in which we’ll delve into the step-by-step process of using a commercial pressure washer.
Selecting the Right Commercial Power Washer
Before jumping into the cleaning process, you need first to select the right pressure washer for the job. For instance, commercial pressure washers come in a number of sizes and power ratings, which are generally measured in pounds per square inch (PSI) and gallons per minute (GPM). Ideally, commercial pressure washers should have a pressure ranging from 1200 PSI to 1900 PSI and a flow rate ranging from 1.4 to 1.6 GPM. Be aware that high-pressure washers above 2000 PSI could damage the car’s paint if they’re not properly handled.
Preparing the Area for Commercial Pressure Washers
Once you’ve chosen your pressure washer, you need to make sure that your vehicle is parked in a suitable location that isn’t close to delicate objects or surfaces. It’s also a good idea to remove any loose debris or contaminants from the vehicle’s surface using a microfibre cloth or soft brush.
Pre-Treating the Vehicle for Commercial Pressure Washing
Lower body panels, wheel arches, wheels, and other heavily soiled areas should be pre-treated with a suitable automotive detergent or degreaser. Make sure you apply the product evenly and let it sit for a few minutes to loosen stubborn dirt and grime.
Adjust the Commercial Pressure Washing Machine Settings
After pre-treating your vehicle, you can then get started with the pressure washing. Before starting the pressure washer, you should adjust the settings to suit the task at hand. This will likely include using a wide-angle spray nozzle, such as a 25- or 40-degree one, to disperse the water evenly without concentrating it too much in one area. Similarly, you should set the pressure washer to a moderate pressure setting to prevent damage to the car’s paint.
Maintain a Safe Distance and Angle from Professional Pressure Washers
It’s important to maintain a safe distance of at least 12 to 18 inches between the nozzle and the vehicle’s surface. Additionally, holding the wand at an approximate 45-degree angle will help to minimise the risk of causing paint damage as the direct force of water on the surface is reduced.
Use Your Commercial Car Wash Pressure Washer in Sections
Dividing the vehicle into manageable sections helps to ensure thorough cleaning without missing any spots. Start from the top and work your way down to prevent dirt and soap residue from drying on the surface, which can create streaks and water spots.
Rinse Thoroughly Using Commercial Pressure Washer Equipment
Once you’ve applied detergent or degreaser and agitated the dirt with a soft brush or mitt, you can rinse the area thoroughly with the pressure washer. Make sure you wash away all traces of soap and contaminants before proceeding to the next section. Similarly, you should pay close attention to crevices, wheel wells, and other hard-to-reach areas in which dirt and grime typically accumulate.
Dry the Vehicle
After the car has been cleaned and rinsed, you need to dry it to prevent water spots and streaks. This involves gently blotting the surface with a clean microfibre cloth to absorb excess water. You should avoid rubbing the cloth vigorously, as this can potentially cause swirl marks or scratches on the paint.
Inspect the Vehicle After Cleaning
Once the car is dry, you should inspect the vehicle’s surface for any remaining dirt, streaks, or water spots. If necessary, you can spot clean any missed areas using a gentle car detailing spray or quick detailer and a clean microfibre cloth.
Maintain Equipment Properly
Last but not least, even after the car washing process is complete, it’s vital to maintain your pressure washer for optimal performance and longevity. This involves thoroughly rinsing the pressure washer wand, hoses, and nozzles to remove any soap or detergent residue. Similarly, you should store the pressure washer and accessories in a clean and dry location, away from extreme temperatures and humidity.
Shop the Best Commercial Pressure Washers at Frogchem
Frogchem is home to some of the best pressure washers on the market, allowing both car enthusiasts and automotive professionals to get their hands on professional-grade products. You can browse our range of car wash equipment here to find the best commercial pressure washer for you. What’s more, if you require further advice and guidance regarding our pressure washer collection, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re always more than happy to help our customers optimise their car cleaning practices and give their vehicles the TLC they need.