Pressure washing is a tough and exhausting job, even for seasoned professionals. There are ways to make the job easier, or harder, however. The right pressure washer can make clean faster and easier, while the wrong tool can make your job harder. Pressure washer users generally agree that the higher cost of a high-quality pressure washer machine is worth it.
The cheaper machines, while more affordable, will give you more headaches down the line. However, just because the pricier pressure washers are designed to be more durable doesn't mean that they don't need maintenance.
One might think that petrol pressure washers require expert care and lots of attention. In fact, pressure washers only require basic care and the bare minimum of attention. These machines are already designed to be durable and self-sufficient, and they only require the occasional inspection and touch up from their users.
However, many people, even cleaning professionals, still neglect or forget to perform basic care on their washers. Even the most durable pressure washer will break down if neglected, which is why basic maintenance is vital to its proper function.
Here is a quick maintenance guide for your petrol pressure washer.
Preparation
Prior to planning a maintenance program for your pressure washer, you must become familiar with the machine's different parts. Not all pressure washers are designed and built the same, but they all contain the same basic components. Some of these basic parts include the hose, nozzle, relief valve, unloader and pump. Another basic thing that you should also know is that a petrol pressure washer will have an engine, while an electric model will have a motor. Hot water washers, on the other hand, have more parts that are absent in cold water washers, such as the heating coil and a float tank. The best way to become familiar with a specific pressure washer machine is to read and understand the user manual.
Some types of pressure washers require more attention and maintenance than others. For example, some models of the cheapest pressure washers are basically disposable. These cheap washers were not built to have their oil changed or even have any type of maintenance performed. Once these cheap machines stop functioning, there is little to no hope for rehabilitation. On the other hand, the pricier professional washer machines have a longer service life.
Day-to-day maintenance
Here are the maintenance tasks that have to be performed daily or every time the pressure washer is used.
Make sure to inspect the pressure washer before use. Some of the things you have to look out for include signs of damage to the high-pressure and supply hose such as leaks, cuts and holes. If you have an electric model, you have to make sure that the GFCI drop cord is in working order.
Don't forget to check the level of the pump oil. If required, you should adjust the level to the correct one. If you have a petrol pressure washer, use this time to check the engine oil and petrol level as well.
Always flush the water system before connecting the pressure tip to dislodge any blockages that could lead to your machine malfunctioning. Similarly, always flush the water out after use, especially if detergent was added to the solution. You don't want the soap to dry up within the machine.
Periodic maintenance
Preventive maintenance performed every time the machine is used is the best way to lengthen the working life of your pressure washer, but that doesn't mean you should neglect other maintenance tasks that are done less frequently.
The maintenance procedure outlined below depend on the frequency of the machine's use. For instance, if your pressure washer is used daily, then you might have to do these things at least once a week. However, if you have a rarely used home washer, then you can just perform these twice or even once a year.
Check the nozzle and pressure hose for any signs of water leaks. It is important that you turn off the machine before performing any kind of inspection as the spray can seriously injure you. If you find any leaks or worn parts, replace it immediately.
As I've previously mentioned, all pressure washers possess a pump, but not all pumps work in the same way. A pressure washer pump is either driven by belt action or direct action. A belt-driven pressure washer lasts longer compared to their direct cousins. However, direct-driven pressure washers require less maintenance since the pump is coupled to the engine crankshaft.
Do not forget to clean the pressure washer unit after use. Wash off any mud and dirt before it dries and hardens. Always ensure that the tires are properly inflated and lubricated.