Hot water pressure washers are units that heat the water and deliver it under high pressure. The uniqueness of hot water pressure washers is given by their ability to degrease different types of surfaces quickly. These units are suitable for removing grease stains, algae, and bacteria from concrete and other surfaces but also for cleaning mechanical systems.
Best hot water pressure washer brands are AR Annovi Reverberi, Easy-Kleen, SIMPSON, and NorthStar. The pros and cons of each brand’s products are presented in the hot water pressure washer reviews.
Before purchasing a hot water pressure washer, factors such as heating system, construction frame, water pressure output, hoses, spray wands, and spray nozzles need to be analyzed. This hot water pressure washers buying guide discusses them in detail.
The best hot water pressure washers are listed below:
- AR Annovi Reverberi Hot Water Pressure Washer Total Stop System
- Easy-Kleen 4000 PSI Hot Water Pressure Washer Honda Engine
- SIMPSON 1500 PSI Diesel Fired Hot Water Pressure Washer
- NorthStar 3000 PSI Gas Hot Water Pressure Washer
- NorthStar 4000 PSI Electric Hot Water Pressure Washer Module
- NorthStar 2700 PSI Hot Water Pressure Power Washer Portable
Best Hot Water Pressure Washers Comparison Chart
PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
---|---|---|---|
AR Annovi Reverberi Hot Water Pressure Washer Total Stop System |
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Easy-Kleen 4000 PSI Hot Water Pressure Washer Honda Engine |
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SIMPSON 1500 PSI Diesel Fired Hot Water Pressure Washer |
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NorthStar 3000 PSI Gas Hot Water Pressure Washer |
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NorthStar 4000 PSI Electric Hot Water Pressure Washer Module |
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NorthStar 2700 PSI Hot Water Pressure Power Washer Portable |
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Best Hot Water Pressure Washer Reviews
1. AR Annovi Reverberi Hot Water Pressure Washer Total Stop System
Annovi Reverberi is an Italian brand established in 1959 that has been producing reliable pressure washers since 1986.
The AR Annovi Reverberi Hot Water Pressure Washer AR630TSS-HOT is a hot water cleaning unit that is designed for professionals, but can be used by occasional users, as well. This cleaning unit does not heat the water itself but can handle high water temperatures directly from the source.
The Annovi Reverberi AR630TSS-HOT’s core strength is the total cleaning performance it provides, as it combines hot water with pressure and detergents. This power washer is supplied with o-rings and a hot water seals kit that allows the unit to use water heated to temperatures up to 180°F.
The AR Annovi Reverberi Hot Water Pressure Washer AR630TSS-HOT costs around $800-$850.
The Annovi Reverberi AR630TSS-HOT Hot Water Pressure Washer is equipped with a powerful engine that can generate a maximum pressure of 1900 PSI at 2.1 GPM. This induction engine is long-lasting due to the motor thermal protector that it is supplied with.
The pump of the Annovi Reverberi AR630TSS-HOT is protected by an automatic safety valve system designed to let out overheated water in order to expand the pump’s lifespan. This AR triplex pump has ceramic plungers and a forged brass head that make it durable and reliable.
The accessories of the AR Annovi Reverberi Hot Water Pressure Washer AR630TSS-HOT are a 27.1-foot power cord, a 25-foot high-pressure hose, a wand, a Vari-spray nozzle, and a trigger gun.
The Annovi Reverberi AR630TSS-HOT weighs 20.5 pounds and can be moved around easily due to its compact design.
The warranty period of the Annovi Reverberi AR630TSS-HOT pressure washer is 2 years.
The advantages of the AR Annovi Reverberi Hot Water Pressure Washer AR630TSS-HOT are as follows:
- The Annovi Reverberi AR630TSS-HOT comes with 3.990 CU, which is high power considering that the cleaning performance can be enhanced by the use of detergents and hot water.
- The Annovi Reverberi AR630TSS-HOT pressure levels are adjustable.
- The Annovi Reverberi AR630TSS-HOT is equipped with a trigger gun safety lock.
- The Annovi Reverberi AR630TSS-HOT is long-lasting due to the total stop system.
- The Annovi Reverberi AR630TSS-HOT’s engine automatically stops when the water temperature is too high.
The disadvantages of the AR Annovi Reverberi Hot Water Pressure Washer AR630TSS-HOT are as follows:
- The Annovi Reverberi AR630TSS-HOT is not easy to assemble.
- The Annovi Reverberi AR630TSS-HOT has to be carried around because it is not equipped with wheels.
2. Easy-Kleen 4000 PSI Hot Water Pressure Washer Honda Engine
Easy-Kleen is a renowned brand in the commercial pressure washer industry specialized in the manufacturing of heavy-duty cleaning units. This brand has been on the market since 1982 and has become a pro when it comes to providing powerful and reliable power washers.
The Easy-Kleen 4000 PSI Hot Water Pressure Washer is a powerful commercial unit equipped with a gas-powered engine that can generate 4000 PSI at a maxim water flow rate of 3.5 GPM. The total power of this unit is 14000 CU.
The Easy-Kleen 4000 PSI Hot Water Pressure Washer stands out among similar products due to its high levels of portability. This unit weighs 400 pounds and can still be moved around easily due to its 4-wheel design. This power washer has a powder-coated fully-welded frame equipped with 13-inch pneumatic wheels that make it easily maneuverable.
The Easy-Kleen 4000 PSI Hot Water Pressure Washer costs around $3500.
The Easy-Kleen 4000 PSI Hot Water Pressure Washer has a 13 HP Honda motor that has an electric start. The pump powered by this engine is a triplex power model.
The Easy-Kleen 4000 PSI has a heating coil that can increase the water temperature by adding 150° F to the initial one. The Schedule 80 heating coil is covered with a ceramic coating blanket that heats the water in less time and saves fuel.
The Easy-Kleen 4000 PSI hot water pressure washer features a 36-inch gun/wand assembly, 5 quick connect nozzles, a 50-feet high-pressure hose, and downstream chemical injection. This unit also has a 10-gallon onboard poly fuel tank and a 200-gallon water tank.
The Easy-Kleen 4000 PSI Hot Water Pressure Washer is backed by a 3-year commercial warranty.
The advantages of the Easy-Kleen 4000 PSI Hot Water Pressure Washer are as follows:
- The Easy-Kleen 4000 PSI comes with high CU levels.
- The Easy-Kleen 4000 PSI can heat water to higher levels than competitors.
- The Easy-Kleen 4000 PSI is highly portable.
- The Easy-Kleen 4000 PSI comes with a performant professional-grade spray gun.
- The Easy-Kleen 4000 PSI has a sturdy, long-lasting frame.
The disadvantages of the Easy-Kleen 4000 PSI Hot Water Pressure Washer are as follows:
- The Easy-Kleen 4000 PSI does not have a water temperature adjustability feature.
- The connection seals of the Easy-Kleen 4000 PSI are not that durable, which might lead to leaks.
3. SIMPSON 1500 PSI Diesel Fired Hot Water Pressure Washer
SIMPSON is a cleaning unit manufacturer renowned for its industrial approach when it comes to powerwashers.
The SIMPSON 1500 PSI Diesel Fired Hot Water Pressure Washer MB1518 is a unit designed for commercial use that is powered by a gas engine in order to provide 2700 CU. This machine is also called the Simpson Mini-Brute and is recommended for farm cleaning tasks, job sites, or detail specialists.
The SIMPSON 1500 PSI MB1518 Mini-Brute is a vertical direct hot water power washer that stands out among competitors due to its durability. This unit comes with a welded steel frame construction covered by a powder coating which prevents corrosion and increases the lifespan of the frame.
The SIMPSON 1500 PSI MB1518 Mini-Brute is supplied with a 120V induction engine that generates a maximum pressure rate of 1500 PSI at 1.8 GPM. This unit also comes with a triplex axial cam pump that is protected by a safety relief valve. The engine has an automatic stop system that turns the motor and the pump off when the trigger is released.
The SIMPSON 1500 PSI MB1518 Mini-Brute costs around $2800.
The SIMPSON 1500 PSI MB1518 Mini-Brute is equipped with a control panel that has ON/OFF switches for the burner and for the pump, and onboard nozzle storage. This unit adds 100° F to the initial water temperature, leading to a used water temperature of around 150-160°F.
The SIMPSON 1500 PSI MB1518 Mini-Brute weighs 255 pounds, is portable, and comes with 2 wheels attached to the frame, and a support bar on the opposite side.
The accessories of the SIMPSON 1500 PSI MB1518 Mini-Brute included in the package are an Armor 50 feet long steel-braided hot water high-pressure hose, 5 quick-connect nozzle tips, a spray gun, a siphon tube with filter, and a 35-feet power cord.
The SIMPSON 1500 PSI MB1518 Mini-Brute comes with a warranty that covers 1 year for the motor, 5 years for the pump, and 10 years for the frame.
The advantages of the SIMPSON 1500 PSI MB1518 Mini-Brute are as follows:
- The SIMPSON 1500 PSI MB1518 Mini-Brute comes with a 48-inch wand that eases the removal of hard-to-reach spots.
- The SIMPSON 1500 PSI MB1518 Mini-Brute has long warranty periods compared to its competitors.
- The SIMPSON 1500 PSI MB1518 Mini-Brute requires no additional equipment, which means no further investment.
- The SIMPSON 1500 PSI MB1518 Mini-Brute is equipped with high-quality heavy-duty 13-inch pneumatic tires.
- The SIMPSON 1500 PSI MB1518 Mini-Brute has an ergonomic spray-gun grip.
The disadvantages of the SIMPSON 1500 PSI MB1518 Mini-Brute are as follows:
- The SIMPSON 1500 PSI MB1518 Mini-Brute is a bit heavy considering the low 3060 CU it provides.
The SIMPSON 1500 PSI MB1518 Mini-Brute adds only 100° F to the initial water temperature, which is less than other similar products.
4. NorthStar 3000 PSI Gas Hot Water Pressure Washer
NorthStar is an international company with headquarters in Sweden and North America that provides some of the most durable and reliable hot water pressure washers.
The NorthStar 3000 PSI Gas Hot Water Pressure Washer is a machine that delivers high-performance levels in less time for most hard-to-tackle cleaning jobs. This unit is designed for professional use and also for DIY jobs that involve stubborn dirt and grease.
The NorthStar 3000 PSI Gas Hot Water Pressure Washer’s key strength is its high capacity to heat water. This cleaning unit can bring temperature levels up to 250° F. These high temperatures along with the 3000 PSI and the 4 GPM maximum water flow rate place this unit among the heavy-duty pressure washers.
The NorthStar 3000 PSI Gas Hot Water Pressure Washer costs around $2300.
The NorthStar 3000 PSI Gas Hot Water Pressure Washer is equipped with a professional-grade Honda GX390 engine that has an electric start. This engine is very powerful, easy to start, and highly reliable. This power washer has a Premium Cat triplex pump with adjustable pressure levels and ceramic plungers.
The NorthStar 3000 PSI Gas Hot Water Pressure Washer weighs 600 pounds and is supplied with four 14-inch pneumatic tires.
The accessories of the NorthStar 3000 PSI Gas Hot Water Pressure Washer include a quick-connect industrial rear gun, a 36-inch wand, 5 quick-connect nozzle tips, 1 quick-connect steam nozzle, a chemical injector, and a 50 feet long gray non-marking hose.
The warranty for the NorthStar 3000 PSI Gas Hot Water Pressure Washer covers 24 months for commercial use.
The advantages of the NorthStar 3000 PSI Gas Hot Water Pressure Washer are as follows:
- The NorthStar 3000 PSI Gas Hot Water Pressure Washer is accessorized with a steam nozzle tip.
- The NorthStar 3000 PSI Gas Hot Water Pressure Washer has adjustable pressure levels.
- The NorthStar 3000 PSI Gas Hot Water Pressure Washer comes with dual burner fuel tanks.
- The NorthStar 3000 PSI Gas Hot Water Pressure Washer has adjustable temperature control.
- The NorthStar 3000 PSI Gas Hot Water Pressure Washer is equipped with anti-vibration rubber V-mounts.
- The NorthStar 3000 PSI Gas Hot Water Pressure Washer works on diesel, fuel, or kerosene.
The disadvantages of the NorthStar 3000 PSI Gas Hot Water Pressure Washer are as follows:
- The NorthStar 3000 PSI Gas Hot Water Pressure Washer is a bit heavy.
- The NorthStar 3000 PSI Gas Hot Water Pressure Washer is relatively expensive.
5. NorthStar 4000 PSI Electric Hot Water Pressure Washer Module
NorthStar is a company that started its activity by manufacturing batteries and, over the years, has extended its niche to the production of hot water pressure washers.
The NorthStar 4000 PSI Electric Hot Water Pressure Washer Module transforms a regular cold pressure washer into a hot water power washer. This unit is an external boiler that heats water to up to 250° F, and not a power washer itself.
The NorthStar 4000 PSI Electric Hot Water Pressure Washer Module is unique due to its versatility, as it can be added to pressure washers that come with maximum PSI levels of 4000, and have a maximum water flow rate between 2 and 4 GPM.
The NorthStar 4000 PSI Electric Hot Water Pressure Washer Module costs around $1600.
The NorthStar 4000 PSI Electric Hot Water Pressure Washer Module is suited for professional and DIY cleaning jobs. This module is supplied with a 4-gallon fuel tank that allows the user to engage in longer cleaning tasks without interruptions.
The NorthStar 4000 PSI Electric Hot Water Pressure Washer Module has a durable steel tube frame that is accessorized with handles for extended mobility. This unit weighs 253 pounds, and the frame has 2 wheels attached to it that ease maneuverability. The main component of this unit is the fully encased coil assembly.
The NorthStar 4000 PSI Electric Hot Water Pressure Washer Module includes only one accessory, a 5-feet long hot water high-pressure hose.
The NorthStar 4000 PSI Electric Hot Water Pressure Washer Module comes with a 2-year limited warranty.
The advantages of the NorthStar 4000 PSI Electric Hot Water Pressure Washer Module are as follows:
- The NorthStar 4000 PSI Electric Hot Water Pressure Washer Module can heat water to up to 250° F, which is far more than what other hot water pressure washers provide.
- The NorthStar 4000 PSI Electric Hot Water Pressure Washer Module comes with a steam feature that can help sanitize surfaces without the use of chemicals.
- The NorthStar 4000 PSI Electric Hot Water Pressure Washer Module has a large fuel tank.
- The NorthStar 4000 PSI Electric Hot Water Pressure Washer Module comes with a temperature control feature.
- The NorthStar 4000 PSI Electric Hot Water Pressure Washer Module has Parker-Pradifauses closures that expand the lifespan of the unit.
The disadvantages of the NorthStar 4000 PSI Electric Hot Water Pressure Washer Module are as follows:
- The NorthStar 4000 PSI Electric Hot Water Pressure Washer Module is not an actual pressure washer.
- The NorthStar 4000 PSI Electric Hot Water Pressure Washer Module comes with relatively short wheels which make it harder to move around.
6. NorthStar 2700 PSI Hot Water Pressure Power Washer Portable
NorthStar is a leader in the hot water pressure washer market because it manufactures high-quality heavy-duty cleaning units that are long-lasting and reliable.
The NorthStar 2700 PSI Hot Water Pressure Power Washer is designed to do its job using cold and hot water, as well as steam. This unit is designed for medium and heavy-duty cleaning tasks and can be used for both commercial and DIY jobs.
The NorthStar 2700 PSI Hot Water Pressure Power Washer stands out among similar products because it is sturdy and long-lasting. This unit is powered by a Briggs & Stratton 203cc Vanguard engine that is horizontally shafted and 5 times more durable than vertical shaft ones. This motor has an integrated cyclonic air filtration that also expands its lifespan.
The NorthStar 2700 PSI Hot Water Pressure Power Washer provides 2700 PSI and 2.5 GPM. The total power of this unit is 6750 CU.
The NorthStar 2700 PSI Hot Water Pressure Power Washer has a coil assembly that comes with a refractory combustion chamber with low thermal conductivity. This chamber is also resistant to thermic shocks and is made of ceramic.
The accessories of the NorthStar 2700 PSI Hot Water Pressure Power Washer are an industrial rear gun, a 36-inch wand, 5 nozzle tips, a downstream chemical injector, and a 50 feet long hose.
The NorthStar 2700 PSI Hot Water Pressure Power Washer has a NorthStar 2-year limited warranty for both consumer and commercial use. The warranty for the engine is 2 years for consumer use and 1 year for professional use.
The advantages of the NorthStar 2700 PSI Hot Water Pressure Power Washer are as follows:
- The NorthStar 2700 PSI Hot Water Pressure Power Washer comes with adjustable water temperatures settings and can heat water to up to 250° F.
- The NorthStar 2700 PSI Hot Water Pressure Power Washer is equipped with a 4-gallon fuel tank that is designed to use one of 4 types of fuel: #1 oil, #2 oil, diesel, and kerosene.
- The NorthStar 2700 PSI Hot Water Pressure Power Washer has a long hose that increases mobility.
- The NorthStar 2700 PSI Hot Water Pressure Power Washer comes with indicator lights that warn the user in case of malfunction.
- The NorthStar 2700 PSI Hot Water Pressure Power Washer‘s main components are easily replaceable.
The disadvantages of the NorthStar 2700 PSI Hot Water Pressure Power Washer are as follows:
- The NorthStar 2700 PSI Hot Water Pressure Power Washer is not easy to store if used for occasional residential tasks.
- The NorthStar 2700 PSI Hot Water Pressure Power Washer weighs 367 pounds, which is a bit much considering the power of this unit.
Why Use Heated Pressure Washers?
Heated pressure washers should be used for cleaning extremely stained, greasy, and oily areas in the garage, on the patio, driveways, and other surfaces where applying cold water and detergent is inefficient, no matter the pressure applied.
Hot pressure washers can loosen the bits of grease off almost any surface while the pressure these units deliver can easily remove long-term deposits and reduce elbow grease. Hot water pressures can be used for cleaning automotive parts, engines, construction machines, removing chewing gum and road salt from driveways as well. The efficiency of hot pressure washers can be maximized if surface-appropriate detergent is used.
Hot Water vs Regular Pressure Washers
Unlike regular pressure washers that use cold water because high temperatures would damage the internal parts of the machine, hot water pressure washers use hot water for cleaning surfaces. The differences between hot water pressure washers and regular pressure washers are explained in detail down below.
1. Temperature Difference
Hot water pressure washers can heat the water by about 130 to 140 degrees. Combined with the starting temperature of regular tap water, which typically ranges between 40 and 55 degrees Fahrenheit, the output temperature of a hot water pressure washer is just below the boiling point.
Hot water pressure washers are different from steam cleaners because the water coming out hot water pressure washers doesn’t evaporate but stays liquid. Hot water pressure washers combine high temperatures and the kinetic force of pressurized water, which maximizes their cleaning performance.
A regular pressure washer can only handle water temperatures up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, with most manufacturers recommending using water colder than 60 degrees. High temperatures can severely damage the pump, valves, and equipment of regular pressure washers because they weren’t made out of materials that can withstand high temperatures.
2. Disadvantages of Heated Power Washers
Hot water pressure washers feature on-board water boilers that make these machines bulkier and heavier compared even to the biggest gas-powered washers. The compound construction and size make hot water pressure washers more expensive, so that even professional pressure washers usually cost less than a domestic-use hot water pressure washer.
3. Which Should You Pick?
Hot water pressure washers should be picked if regular and frequent cleaning of dirty, greasy, and large surfaces is needed. Regular pressure washers should be picked for simpler, less demanding cleaning jobs.
3.1. Greasy Business
Professionals such as mechanics, people in the food industry, those who operate big construction machines and vehicles, and other people working with grease and oils should use hot water pressure washers for cleaning and degreasing tools and surfaces. Hot pressure washers can also be used for removing chewing gum from walkways because they melt the gum and remove it from the surface without the need for further scraping.
3.2. Simple Cleaning Jobs
Electric pressure washers can be used for multiple household cleaning tasks, such as cleaning vinyl siding, washing cars, patio and concrete driveway cleaning provided there are no heavy stains and overly greased areas. Hot water pressure washers can be overly powerful and too expensive for simple cleaning jobs.
3.3. Portability
Portable pressure washers are compact units that can be easily moved and carried around, which can be of great help when cleaning areas where there is no water or electricity supply. However, portable pressure washers use cold water only and thus, aren’t as efficient with grease and stains the way hot water pressure washers are. When used with the right degreaser, hot water pressure washers can remove the hardest stains and oils.
Hot Water Pressure Washer Buying Guide
When buying hot water pressure washers, factors such as heating system, construction frame, water pressure output, hose, spray wand, and nozzles should be considered, all of which are listed below.
1. The Heating System
The water heating system is the feature that maximizes the washing power of hot water pressure washers. The water heating system consists of a water boiler and a fuel tank that provides energy for the heating process. Most regular-sized hot water pressure washer water heaters turn water hot almost instantaneously, and can deliver warm or hot water for 4 or more hours of continuous spraying.
The heating unit warms up the water until it almost reaches the boiling point, so most hot water pressure washers can deliver water at 180 and 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Hot water pressure washers need to heat the cold water for around 1-2 minutes before being able to reach 140 degrees or more.
Hot water pressure washers are equipped with dials used for controlling the output water temperature, which makes it possible to use the machine for spraying both hot and cold water.
1.1. The Boiler
The boiler is the biggest and the heaviest part of a hot water pressure washer. The boiler’s cylindrical tank is made out of sturdy, stainless metals, and on the inside, the water is heated by a wrapped coil and a burner.
Hot water pressure washers are equipped with vertical or horizontal boilers that perform similarly but affect the unit’s size and storage options. Hot water pressure washers with vertical boilers are more common and fit narrow spaces better.
1.2. The Coil
The burner warms up the coil through which water travels and gets heated up. Most commercial hot pressure washers are equipped with stainless steel 80 coils, which is the most common pipe schedule. It is also possible to find 40 and 160 pipe schedules, depending on the needed output pressure. The inner coil diameters are typically 3/8, 1/2, or 3/4 inches. The thicker the wall of a coil, the better the inside of the boiler will be protected.
1.3. Burner Fuel Tank
The burner warms up the coil, responsible for heating the water, while the fuel tank that is located outside the water boiler fires up the burner. Gas pressure washers, same as most hot water pressure washers, have two fuel tanks, one for the motor, and another for the boiler burner.
Most hot water pressure washer burner tanks use diesel, kerosene, natural gas, or liquid propane as fuel. Some hot water pressure washers can use both the fuel recommended by the manufacturer and alternative fuel.
Hot water pressure washers have a fuel tank size between 4 to 10 gallons. Large fuel tanks require more frequent refills and reduce the hot water pressure washers’ portability.
2. Construction Frame
Some hot water pressure washers weigh up to 600lbs, which is why they need sturdy and durable construction frames that can withstand the weight.
2.1. The Frame
Similar to gas pressure washers, the construction frames of hot water washers are most commonly made out of sturdy metals – steel or aluminum. The weight of the hot water pressure determines how sturdy the frame should be.
2.2. The Wheels
The wheels are an important part of hot water pressure washers because they increase the machine’s mobility. The type of wheel and the number of wheel sets are the two main factors to consider when buying hot water pressure washers.
There are 2 types of wheels – pneumatic and never-flat wheels. Pneumatic wheels, the more common choice, are filled with air and made out of very thick, layered rubber. Pneumatic wheels offer good suspension which protects the essential parts of the hot water pressure washer, however, may burst sometimes. Never-flat wheels can make the hot water pressure washer shake a bit when it is moved around, but since the wheel is fully made out of durable and sturdy plastic, there is no chance of bursting.
Frames with one set of wheels come with metal legs on the side that make the machine easier to steer. However, the hot water pressure washer should be tilted back during transpiration so the frame and the wheels can fully support its weight. Bulkier hot water pressure washers may need two sets of wheels on the frame that are more difficult to steer but don’t need tilting and provide more stability to the hot water pressure washer.
3. Water Pressure Output
Water pressure output is a feature that is universal across all types of pressure washers, including hot water power washers. Water output pressure represents the strength of the hot water pressure washer and describes how much pressure the machine can blast. PSI and GPM are the two main measurements tightly related to water pressure output.
3.1. PSI
PSI stands for “pounds per square inch”, and it represents the amount of pressure generated by hot water pressure washers. Hot pressure washers with around 1,100 PSI can be used for maintaining vinyl siding, cars, and garage doors. Powerful hot pressure washers can deliver up to 7,000 PSI and can be used for most demanding cleaning jobs, but can strip paint off if not used correctly. When working with painted surfaces, it’s best to use a sandblasting kit.
3.2. GPM
GPM stands for “gallons per minute” and represents the volume of water that comes out of the hot water pressure washer every minute. Hot water pressure washers with higher GPM are more powerful but use more water.
3.3. CP – Cleaning Power
CP or cleaning power is calculated when PSI is multiplied by GPM. Hot water pressure washers that deliver around 2,000 PSI can be enough for regular household cleaning while units with PSI higher than 4,000 PSI and 3.5 GPM feature 14,000 CU and can be used for commercial purposes. The most powerful hot water pressure washers use more electricity or gas and more water and detergent, which is why it is best to look for machines with adjustable power settings.
4. Hose, Spray Wand, and Spray Nozzles
The hose, wand, and nozzles should be able to handle the water pressure hot water pressure washers deliver. Long pressure washer hoses should be used with heavy-duty hot water pressure washers with lower portability. However, longer hoses are prone to bursting, except for hoses reinforced with steel braids that make them withstand extremely high pressure and temperature.
Hot water pressure washers are equipped with wands made out of sturdy, stainless metals. Because of the temperature and pressure hot water pressure washers deliver, wands with plastic guns that don’t get overly hot during operation should be picked.
4.1. Spray Nozzles
Spray nozzles are tips that control the shape of the water stream and, to some extent, the pressure hot water pressure washers deliver. Different spray nozzles are designed to withstand different pressures and temperatures. Most pressure washer nozzles are made with a quick-connect system that makes it convenient to easily change nozzle tips.
Most pressure washers come with a selection of five different spray nozzle tips, which usually come color-coded.
- Red = 0-degree opening
- Yellow = 15-degree opening
- Green = 25-degree opening
- White = 40-degree opening
- Black = Soap
The smaller the opening of the nozzle, the more directed and more pressurized the stream of water it can deliver. Red nozzle tips are used for focused streams that don’t get dispersed at all and are mostly used for impacting small surfaces.
The nozzle with the 15-degree opening can deliver a focused and powerful stream most suitable for removing tough stains and grime buildups. The 25-degree nozzle delivers a less focused, still powerful stream suitable for regular cleaning jobs, such as car cleaning and washing. The 40-degree white nozzle is most commonly used for rinsing detergents and soaps and delivers the least focused stream. The blacktip nozzle has a 65-degree opening and it is designed to create suds and deliver loads of foam.
Hot Pressure Washer Maintenance Tips
The basic hot pressure washer maintenance rules are listed below.
1. General Precautions and Maintenance
- The pump and engine oil levels should be checked before starting the hot water pressure washers.
- Starting the hot water pressure washer with the heating switch turned on is not safe. Hot water pressure washers should provide a steady stream of water first, then the water heating should be turned on.
- The hot pressure washer’s heater should be turned off before the machine stops spraying water. The metal part of the hot pressure washer’s sprayer wand should be cold and cool and the water should flow out of the machine before it is turned off. Allowing the heating coils inside the boiler to cool down after using the hot water pressure washer reduces the machine’s maintenance costs.
- If the hot water pressure washer is not used for longer than 3 minutes, it should be turned off. Leaving the hot water pressure washer to operate without spraying water can damage its pump and make its replacement necessary.
- As a result of burner exhaust, soot may start building up on the pipe exterior surface of the hot water pressure washer. The burner assembly should be removed from the coil jacket every couple of months and soot should be removed. Hot water pressure washers with fuel tanks that use kerosene don’t have a lot of soot issues, and other fuel types create more soot.
- The moisture from the heating coil should be drained regularly. The drain valve on the boiler should be left open for 1 to 2 hours every week.
- Any liquids, including water and chemicals should be drained thoroughly from the hot water pressure washer, then the machine should be filled with anti-freeze before being stored.
2. Fuel, Oil, and Filters
- Pump oil should be replaced after 3 months or after the hot water pressure washer has been working for more than 250 working hours.
- Engine oil should be changed every 3 months or after the hot water pressure washer has been working for more than 100 hours. The oil used should be clean and recommended by the hot water pressure washers’ manufacturer.
- The air filter of the hot water pressure washer should be checked every month so it doesn’t get clogged and replaced every 6 months.
- The burner fuel filter of the hot water pressure washer should be replaced every 3 to 6 months.
- If water starts accumulating in of the hot water pressure washer’s fuel tank, the tank drain should be opened for 3 to 4 hours.
FAQ About Hot Water Pressure Washers
1. Can I use cold water with my hot water pressure washer?
Yes, cold water can be used with hot water pressure washers. The heating system can be shut down and other parts of the hot water pressure washer’s assembly can be used. Some hot water pressure washers require leaving the burner switch off or turning off the temperature control dial when using cold water.
2. Why shouldn’t I leave my pressure washer running without spraying?
If a hot water pressure washer is left running without spraying for more than 3 minutes, it could cause damage to the seals of the pump. The hose directs the hot water towards the bypass, where the pressurized water starts turning to heat. Not spraying the water will make its temperature increase rapidly and possibly cause the seals to break.
3. Can I convert my regular pressure washer into a hot water model instead of getting a brand new hot water pressure washer?
A regular cold water pressure washer can be converted to a hot water pressure washer using a heating module or modular water heater that can be easily attached to the hot water pressure washer or its fame.
4. Can you run hot water through a pressure washer?
Hot water shouldn’t be run through a cold-water pressure washer if a modular water heater is not installed. Warm water between 65 and 150 degrees Fahrenheit can be run through both hot water pressure washers and cold water pressure washers if they are rated for it. If the manufacturer doesn’t recommend running warm or hot water through a pressure washer, doing so could make the machine overheat and severely damage the unit, and possibly melt the pump and seals.