Pressure washing is one of, if not the, most effective ways to clean surfaces. But, not all pressure washers achieve the same results. In most cases, a commercial pressure washer is the best way to go.
Commercial Pressure Washer vs Residential Pressure Washer: The Differences
Property maintenance is an essential part of being a property owner and protecting your investment. In terms of cleaning, nothing beats pressure washing. But, there is currently a handful of options out in the market today. Between a commercial electric pressure washer, gas-powered pressure washers, and those designed for home use, how do you know which one suits your needs the best?
Here are the key differences between a commercial pressure washer and a non-commercial or residential pressure washer.
Power
First of all, a commercial grade pressure washer is simply more powerful than a residential one. A commercial pressure washing machine boasts a much higher pressure than your run-of-the-mill models. Commercial ones even go as high as 8,000 PSI (pounds per square inch). And you can also choose between a gas-powered pressure washer and an electric one.
On the flip side, non-commercial or residential pressure washers, like those you typically find at local home improvement stores, have less power. These usually come in the 1,300 to 2,000 PSI range. And while you can find the occasional gas-powered residential pressure washer, electric ones are more common.
Durability
In terms of durability, commercial pressure washing equipment always trumps residential pressure washers. Those designed for commercial and industrial use are built to last longer, perform better, and withstand extreme conditions. Most of these are housed in casings made of steel for a more robust finish. Residential pressure washers just don’t compare.
Versatility
Commercial pressure washing machines are also more adaptable than those designed for residential use. This is because manufacturers build commercial pressure washers with versatility in mind. You will find that a lot of commercial models are made for on-the-go use and can be mounted straight onto an all-terrain vehicle.
Temperature
Most residential pressure washers only have one temperature setting. And cold water does not clean as effectively as hot water, especially when it comes to grease and oil. In comparison, commercial pressure washers are able to produce both hot and cold water. There are even ones with tri-modes that allow you to blast steam water pressure.
Power also has a direct impact on temperature. As such, you will notice that a more powerful commercial pressure washer tends to heat water in as little as 20 seconds. Even if a residential pressure washer offers a heating option, it will likely take some time before the water is hot enough for use.
Use
Residential pressure washers are good for smaller cleaning jobs, such as washing cars and outdoor furniture. But, for larger and more complex cleaning jobs, a commercial pressure washer is beyond compare. A commercial unit can do paint stripping, graffiti removal, surface preparation, and fleet maintenance with water alone. It is also perfect for messier jobs, such as construction cleaning jobs.
Number of Operators
Another way commercial and residential pressure washers differ is in terms of operators. A model designed for residential use usually only comes with a single wand or hose. That means only one person can use it at a time.
On the other hand, a commercial pressure washing machine comes in different varieties. Some only have a single wand or hose, though there are others that come with two or three. With a pressure washer equipped with more than one wand or hose, you can get the job done twice (or even thrice) as fast.
Why Go for Professional Commercial Pressure Washing?
While it is no secret that commercial pressure washers are better than non-commercial ones, such equipment is best left in the hands of trained professionals. There are a lot of things that can go wrong when you try to take the DIY approach, including inflicting costly damages. Here are some of the top reasons why you should hire commercial pressure washer companies.
Access to Equipment
Commercial-grade pressure washers are typically not widely sold. You will only find these at large home improvement stores or online. But, professional pressure washing companies have access to the best commercial pressure washers. Not only that, but they know how to use them. Even if you manage to rent a commercial pressure washer, you might not know how to work it in a manner that cleans surfaces effectively without damaging them.
Expertise and Experience
Let’s face it — professionals are far more experienced in this field. They know how to work with every kind of surface and use the right pressure level and nozzle without damaging the material. They also know which cleaning solutions to use if any, and when to use hot water instead of cold.
Faster and Better Results
While you can certainly pressure wash your property yourself, professionals are more likely to complete the job faster and with better results. They already know what to do and how to do it, so when they arrive at your facility, they can get started right away. No time is wasted on reading manuals, figuring out how to work the machine, and which part goes where.
Cheaper in the Long Run
You might think that renting a pressure washer and doing it yourself is cheaper, but you’re not factoring in the cost of potential damages. There is a greater risk of causing damage when you take the DIY approach. And you have to pay for the repairs to these damages yourself.
But, when you hire a professional pressure washing company, you can be more assured of damage-free results. Even if they cause damage, a reputable company will have sufficient insurance coverage to pay for those repairs, thereby keeping your personal finances safe.
The Final Word
A commercial pressure washer is a versatile and durable piece of equipment that can achieve better results through a more powerful performance. When you place it next to a residential pressure washer, a commercial pressure washer is clearly superior. But, instead of using it yourself, it’s best to leave it in the capable hands of professionals.
If you need pressure washing services for your residential or commercial facility, Washh is your ideal choice. Call us today at 704.321.8000 or contact us online for a free estimate.
