In the market for a pressure washer? Here are four factors to consider.
1. Cleaning units
Gives the contractor a measure of unit performance (efficiency) to compare one unit to another. Cleaning units is calculated by multiplying PSI and GPM. Example: 3200 PSI x 2.4 GPM = 7680 cleaning units, while 4000 PSI x 3.5 GPM = 14000 cleaning units. The 4000 PSI unit cleans 50 percent faster than the 3200 PSI unit. Not better, but faster.
Cleaning units do not determine quality of the unit. Quality is determined by the type of pump and the components of the pump.
2. Belt drive
A belt-driven pump is ideal for cleaning applications requiring 20 or more hours of use per week. The belt connecting the engine or motor with the high-pressure pump dissipates the heat and vibration, minimizes the wear and thus the repair on key components, and extends the life of the pump by reducing the RPM demand.
3. Direct drive
For applications not requiring more than 20 hours of use per week, direct driven pumps are more commonly used. The pump is directly coupled to the engine or motor causing the pump to spin twice as fast as the belt drive models. Although not recommended for heavy, consistent usage they are a lower cost alternative to more expensive, belt driven models.
4. Is time a factor?
A heavy-duty pressure washer can cut cleaning times in half. Shorter cleaning time means less labor, which equals more productivity.
Our pick for paint pros
Built for up to 20 hours of use per week, the Mi-T-M® Job Pro Aluminum 4000 PSI contractor-duty pressure washer is the ideal model for paint preparation, concrete and brickwork, heavy mold and mildew removal, and large deck and surface restoration.
The lightweight, corrosion-resistant aluminum frame makes this powerhouse extremely mobile and durable.
This article was originally published in the Summer 2021 issue of Pintor Pro magazine. Get a full list of equipment and supplies for your painting projects at the Sherwin-Williams contractor website.
