How Does a Power Washer Work?

There are some stains that a garden hose, even with some scrubbing, is unable to remove. Whether it is a house, deck, driveway or sidewalk, dirt and mold that has built up over time will not all come off through a simple clean.

Instead, property owners turn to power washers. With the press of a trigger, water accelerates out of the power washer at a rate of up to 75 times faster than a garden hose to remove stubborn and unsightly stains. But how does a power washer work?

How a Power Washer Works

Power washers take in water from a source such as a garden hose and then accelerate it out of an attachment that directs the pressurized water. The process involves the following steps/parts:

• Water inlet: The water inlet connects the power washer to its source of water, usually filtering debris before the water enters the power washer.
• Engine: The gas- or electric-powered engine powers the water pump. Its speed depends on its source of power — gas or electricity.
• Pump: The pump, powered by the engine, pushes the water out at a much faster rate than a garden hose. Its inlet ports receive water and then accelerate it out the other side of the port.
• Hose & Gun: The water travels from the pump through the hose to an attachment called the gun. The gun further concentrates and directs the water when the trigger is pressed, releasing a high-powered stream of water. There are numerous types of cleaning attachments available, depending on the type of surface being cleaned.

Electric Models vs. Gas Models

Beyond how the engine is powered, electric power washers and gas-powered power washers are, for the most part, the same tool using the same fundamental design with similar parts.

Electric models tend to have lighter water pressure. They are generally used for decks, patios, and furniture, where the focus is less on removing tough stains and more on giving the surfaces a fresh clean. Most people performing do-it-yourself power washing choose an electric model.

Gas models are convenient in areas where users are unable to connect to electrical power. They also can drive higher pressure for the hardest stains. This high pressure increases the risk of injury and is one of many reasons why you should consider hiring a professional power washer.

Gas-powered washers are commonly used for larger surfaces such as siding, even though it has the potential to remove paint from houses. They are also used to remove stubborn stains and other problems — such as gum — from sidewalks, decks and patios that electric-powered washers lack the pressure to remove.

Hire a Professional Power Washer

Though understanding how a power washer works may leave you opting for a do-it-yourself solution, there are risks associated with operating the equipment on your property — both to your property and your own safety.

To ensure your property remains in top condition and the job is done in a safe and efficient manner, contact UPC to schedule a professional power wash.