Knowledge Base: Pressure Washing Industry

What Water Blaster UHP Accessories Should I Choose?

2011-02-24T09:53:00.001-05:00

Ultra high pressure blaster accessories are used with UHP hoses and pressure washers and are designed with efficiency and safety in mind. UHP blaster accessories are generally coupled with European fittings. However, these accessories can be adapted for any number of various connections. Depending on the tool you decide to utilize, these accessories can handle pressures between 7,250 to 40,600 PSI.

It is important to double check your connection requirements and pressure threshold needs before selecting which tools you might purchase. Heavy duty vehicle cleaning, graffiti removal, cleaning roads, airport runways and buildings are just a few of the applications that these tools are used for. They can also be used with heavy duty pressure washers for prepping concrete and other hard surfaces for coating by roughing them up.

There are many industries that use ultra high pressure blasters such as agriculture, traffic, and transport. These ultra high pressure blaster accessories can be used in conjunction with pressure washers and ultra high pressure hose to clean pipes, or even clean live wells for fish and other marine farms. Plus, there are many, many other applications for these accessories tools.

One particular type of UHP accessories is high pressure guns and their attachments. These guns are the ultimate when it comes to high pressure cleaning. Rigid lances attach to the guns in order to focus a super strong stream of water.

This stream makes cleaning extremely caked on debris off of equipment and masonry a breeze. These units are very powerful so you might want to consider also getting side handles for your gun. These handles can be attached in a position that makes it easier for you to hold, and most are customizable.

Flexible lances are another type of ultra high pressure blaster accessories that you can use with your pressure washer. These flexible lances are made to handle chemical applications that metal lances simply cannot. These accessories are also, as the name implies, flexible so if you need to bend them to really get at the task at hand, you can. These lances are perfect for heat exchange tube cleaning.

Another type of ultra high pressure blaster accessories is rotating turbo nozzles. These end attachments can be used to focus water to a pressure of up to about 11,000 PSI. Turbo Nozzles are ideal for removing thick coatings off of many types of equipment and tools. There are many, many more UHP blaster accessories out there. In fact, there are almost as many accessories as there are jobs that you use them for. Knowing the needs of your job will help you select the perfect accessories to suit the job.

The Benefits of a Kranzle Gas Powered Pressure Washer

2011-02-24T09:35:00.001-05:00

Today’s pressure washer industry offers a great number of choices as to what type of pressure washer to purchase. There are both electric and gas powered models available. By far, one type of pressure washer stands out above the rest – Kranzle gas pressure washers. These are some of the most versatile, and you do not have to worry about having a power source on site in order to use these machines. This being said, these machines should be looked at by anyone deciding to purchase a gas powered pressure washer.

Kranzle gas pressure washers are unique in many ways. One of these reasons is that the Kranzle Company was founded by a man names Josef Kranzle in 1974. Kranzle worked in the pressure washer business for many years and wanted to provide a machine that was different from other machines on the market. Designed and manufactured with strict quality control standards, the Kranzle pressure washers are built with quality and performance in mind. This is radically different for the mere fact that profits are not the sole concern of this company.

Another great reason to choose Kranzle gas pressure washers is the fact that they can do things, and run in a way, that most other brand pressure washers cannot. Namely, these pressure washers can start dry, and run dry for an extended period of time without worrying about costly and irreversible damage being done to these units.

Theses pressure washers also can run in bypass mode so that if there is a body of water available the tank can be bypassed and water can be pumped from a body of water such as a pond, lake, or even a swimming pool. This is another area this brand of gas powered pressure washers shine above all these rest. Unlike many other brands, you can even use salt water with these outstanding pressure washers.

Normally freezing conditions spell disaster for a pressure washer with a tank, but with the Kranzle gas pressure washers this is not such a problem. These great units come with both freeze resistant tanks and parts. This gives you the peace of mind of knowing that if something did happen and you were not able to secure your gas powered pressure washer at the onset of a freeze damage will not be as severe or maybe even nonexistent.

Of course, this depends on the time of exposure when dealing with extremely low temperatures. When considering these reasons it is easy to see how Kranzle gas pressure washers are a great choice for anyone who needs a versatile, dependable, and quality pressure washer. With these great units come a variety of pressure washer parts, which can really boost the performance of your machine.

Car Wash Vacuums Made Easy

2011-02-07T11:59:00.001-05:00

Car washes offer coin or power operated vacuums meant to clean out the interior of the customer’s cars. With lower maintenance, they offer benefits for customers and carwash owners alike. Car wash vacuums come with either two motors or three. At high altitude, three is best for higher suction.

Coin operated car wash vacuum systems are meant for public use, offering car wash owners long lasting and dependable revenue generation. With easy maintenance and an appealing design, the engineering and components for car wash vacuum systems offer lower total ownership costs with increased profits. With double door car wash vacuum systems, which contain a lighted poly dome, the carwash owner receives an exterior channel which encloses the wiring, a single dome piece which prevents leaking, an assortment of colorful hoses with claws, a choice of decal selections, stainless steel construction, a water lift, security system, and four filter system. Double door car wash vacuums provide stainless steel domes, unique four filter systems which increase the life of the motors, a single piece design for the dome which prevents leakage, as well as an exterior channel which encloses the wiring. These also come with a myriad of decal options, a rest-free anti-jam coin acceptor, a pin-lock security system, as well as upper and lower door access for easy cleaning.

Dual car wash vacuums come with variety of car wash vacuum accessories such as face plate, a security channel, four service doors, two vacuums with one save island space, large central service compartments, redesigned coin boxes, as well as lighted dome colors. Commercial vacuum systems without coin boxes are equipped with on and off switches. They also come with unique four filter systems, heavy duty toggle switches, exterior channels, upper access doors making filter cleaning simple, lower cleanout doors for easy cleaning on the remainder of the unit, as well as top grade stainless steel.

Vacuum hoses for commercial use feature ultraviolet-resistance bases for any conditions outdoors. The hoses for the car wash vacuums are kink proof as well as crush proof offering greater durability. The polymer materials which makes up the hoses on the car wash vacuums stands up to even the worst outdoor conditions. The outer shell on the hoses for the car wash vacuums is abrasion resistant, providing you with a longer life span. The internal bore is smooth, offering a clog-free lifespan for both self-serve car wash vacuums. There are two inch blue car wash vacuum hoses, two inch red hoses, two inch yellow hoses, two inch rainbow hoses, or two inch black and beige vacuum hoses. There are also tapered hoses for car wash vacuums.

There are numerous hose tools for commercial use as well as adaptors for commercial use. These adaptors and connectors offer features such as polyethylene construction. The claws are twelve inches in length while the cuffs and the couplers are constructed out of a polymer material. The material used is abrasion resistant, providing a longer life span. The sizes range from one and one half inches to two inches for the vacuum claws, crevice tools, cuffs, swivel cuffs, reducing swivel cuffs, or hose couplings.

Car wash vacuums offer a variety of options to fit your different needs. They make vacuuming out vehicles much simpler and less time consuming. They can be a wonderful addition to a carwash or great for industrial use for commercial vehicles as well! No matter what the application is, you can find a car wash vacuum that will fit the job perfectly!

Use a Sandblaster for Removing Graffiti

2011-01-14T14:35:00.001-05:00

Industrial Sandblaster

A sandblaster is the perfect tool for removing graffiti and paint from a wide range of surfaces. They’re the perfect attachment for your pressure washer when it comes to removing just about any type of finish from just about any type of surface.

There a wide variety of different sandblasting equipment available for medium, heavy duty and industrial jobs. Medium duty sandblasters can handle pressure ratings of up to 3,500 PSI and flow rates of up to 4 GPM. The quick attach nozzle and 20 foot hose easily attach to most electric or gas pressure washer. Heavy duty units can handle pressure ratings of up to 5,500 PSI and flow rates of 10 GPM. These sandblasting equipments feature an adjustable sand intake, a sand blast head, and ¼” quick connect plug with hose clamp. They also come standard with 20 feet of ¾” inch diameter hose. Industrial sandblasting equipment is the perfect choice when you need to use extremely high pressure ratings. These units are capable of handling pressure ratings of up to 7,250 PSI to tackle the toughest jobs. This particular model includes 4-IMEG nozzle, 5° spray angle, sizes 3, 4 5, and 6.

Using sandblasting equipment for removing paint not only requires the right sandblaster attachment but also requires the right type of sand to use as well. There are several terms and factors you should familiarize yourself with before selecting the right type of sand. The sand mesh refers to the size of sieve through which a grain of sand will pass. Therefore, a 16/50 mesh means that most particles will pass through the No. 16 sieve and a small percentage will pass through a No. 50 sieve. There are also different types of sand blasting media to choose from such as round and angular. Round sand is usually found in rivers and has smooth edges. Angular sand is usually comprised of crushed rock and has sharper edges.

Operating any type of sandblaster requires the proper safety equipment to avoid serious injury. Always make sure you wear the proper eye protection such as safety goggles as well ask masks. It’s also important to read the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the recommended blasting distance and angle. This will prevent any injuries to the operator and damage to the surface. As an added safety precaution it also helps to wear a protective safety suit which will help prevent skin irritation as a result of exposure to the sand particles.

The Many Uses of Vertical Plastic Poly Tanks

2011-01-07T16:40:00.001-05:00

Vertical Plastic Poly Tanks

Vertical plastic poly tanks are a must have if your day to day operations require the storage of large amount of liquid. Whether it’s for agriculture, industrial or municipal use there are dozens of uses for these valuable pieces of equipment. These storage tanks are also a great way to keep large amounts of water to supply a pressure washer in remote locations.

Each and every vertical plastic poly tank is constructed with high grade medium or high density poly to stand up to the most rigorous use. UV inhibitors are used during the construction of these tanks allowing them to be used both indoors and outdoors. Sizes range from 175 gallons all the way up to 500 gallons depending on your needs. All tanks are constructed with a flat bottom but tank stands that can support up to a 265 gallon tank are available. These capacities are more than sufficient to supply a light to heavy duty pressure washer.

When considering using vertical plastic poly tanks what you’re actually storing in the tank plays a major role in the life of the tank. For instance, if the tank is going to be used to store chemicals then the composition and storage temperature are major factors. The thickness of the tank as well as its size also plays a role in its durability. Make sure you check with the chemical manufacturer’s storage recommendations before selecting the right tank.

An Environmental Stress Crack Resistance rating helps buyers determine which of the many vertical plastic poly tanks are right for them. This method is designed to test the stress crack resistance of processed polyurethane when exposed to a specific chemical for an extended period of time. You can measure this by calculating the liquids specific gravity which is the ratio of the chemical weight per gallon divided by the weight of water per gallon. Even though certain chemicals will not directly affect the polyurethane the pressure exerted within the walls of the tanks can. Higher storage temperatures can also affect the rating under these conditions. All polyurethane resins will eventually crack but some types are more resistant than others. You can reduce the effects of environmental stress cracks by reducing the stress at tie downs, bands and lugs.

All vertical plastic poly tanks are manufactured to FDA standards using FDA compliant resins. The standard color of most tanks is a translucent white but there are other colors available depending on the application. Translucent white tanks are ideal for use with pressure washer applications since you can easily judge the water level. Other colors, such as yellow, are commonly used for crop care tanks, septic tanks and liquid feeders. Standard stocking tanks are usually green in color but black is available as well.

For a portable water storage tank for pressure washing, car washing or any business on the go, you can use 15 to 300 gallon pressure washer water tanks.

The Advantages of Acoustic Sound Curtains

2010-12-16T14:45:00.001-05:00

Acoustic sound curtains are perfect for prevention of hearing related problems in industrial use or anywhere that a sound barrier curtain is necessary. Hearing related injuries in the workplace is an ongoing problem for many companies. There are regulations that have to be met by these companies and the sound barrier curtains can be a solution.

Acoustic sound curtains have the ability to be moved and placed were needed. This is really great for preventing problems that can arise from more permanent type barriers. This is especially true for things like air compressors and electric power washers that can be moved from one area to another when working. One place that it is exceptionally useful is in pressure washer applications due to the high level of noise that can be produced when using the unit.

Acoustic sound curtains are easy to clean as well as oil and chemical resistant. They are made up of a non-porous fiberglass material that makes them lighter in weight and easy to maneuver to area needed. The sound curtain frames are aluminum and come with casters that assist with moving them as well as getting them into the right position around the equipment.

How Much Sound is Blocked
An acoustic sound curtains sound barrier decreases the sound transmission by 47 db. That is a standard transmission coefficient of 27-29. This makes them highly efficient in protection of hearing loss from work equipment. That is good news for you and your employees where the long term effects of this type of sound can be detrimental to hearing.
The makeup of these sound curtains is a high mass vinyl that contains no lead. This is what makes them waterproof and have the ability to tolerate temperature ranges between -20 and 180 degrees. These sound barrier curtains are fire safe and meet the regulatory codes in this area.

Gas or electric air compressors sound barrier curtains have an approximately seven inch gap from the floor to the bottom of the curtain. This allows air to circulate and assist in preventing a high build up of heat when the equipment has the curtain around it.

Acoustic sound curtains are an economical means of protecting and preventing hearing loss. They assist in meeting the regulatory requirements of noise in the work place. They are easy to care for to keep them in shape. Being able to move them to other areas means not having to build extra structures that would be used for this equipment thus saving valuable floor space. With so many different uses, you can easily see what benefits this type of protective equipment has to offer.

The Basics of Hydraulic Pressure Washers Operation

2010-12-03T15:38:00.001-05:00

Hydraulic Pressure Washer

Hydraulic pressure washers pack a powerful cleaning punch in a lightweight and compact unit that is no larger than a shoebox. By combining these units with a hydraulic power source you can achieve remarkable pressure ratings and flow rates from such a small unit. All of units available feature high quality construction and premium seals to for maximum durability.

Despite their small size hydraulic pressure washers can produce pressure ratings 2000 to 4000 PSI and flow rates of up to 8 GPM. The entire unit weighs less than 50 pounds and features a triplex plunger pump with ceramic plungers and stainless steel valves. These durable materials allow the manufacturers to provide a 1 year warranty for the motor and 5 year warranty for the pump. Each unit comes with 50 feet of non-marking pressure washer hose as well as an assortment of nozzles ranging from 0° to 40°. Each of these nozzles is interchangeable with the trigger wand, which also comes standard.

Hydraulic pressure washers works by converting the hydraulic pressure into water pressure. By converting the pressure from an external hydraulic power source, you can greatly reduce the size of the motor and pump on the pressure washer unit. This is how the manufacturer is able to produce units that measure 10” x 10” x 10” without sacrificing the power you’d get from gas power pressure washers. It’s important to remember to check the pressure ratings of the hydraulic power source in conjunction with the pressure ratings of the hydraulic pressure washers. Exceeding the maximum ratings for the hydraulic pressure rating will damage the pressure washer. These pressure washers can handle hydraulic pressures ranging from 1500 to 2200 PSI and hydraulic flow rates of up to 12 GPM.
Most people would wonder what benefits using a hydraulic pressure would offer over using a standard pressure washer. Besides their lightweight and overall compact design these units are incredibly efficient to operate. With smaller engines and pressure washer pumps, you can greatly reduce your utility and operating costs by reducing the amount of fuel and water consumed during your cleaning operations. Hydraulic liquid can also be reused time and time again reducing the need to purchase new liquid. By using hydraulic pressure you’re going to use less fuel. Lower fuel and utility costs means higher profit margins and lower overhead. Two things every business owner likes to hear.

How to Work with Sandblasting Media

2010-11-05T16:30:00.001-04:00

No matter what type of job, there is a sandblasting media that can get the job done in less time. This material is used in conjunction with a pressure washer to efficiently remove a variety of finishes. There are different mesh sizes available that allow the product to be used in surface preparation as well.

One of the best sandblasting media to use in a number of different cleaning applications, weather it be dry or wet sandblasting, is sodium bicarbonate. This water soluble material is environmentally friendly and non-toxic so it can be washed directly into the soil. You can use this product to effectively clean, degrease, and remove paint in a multitude of applications thanks to its abrasive composition. Some of the more common applications are stone and marble cleaning, soot removal, graffiti removal, cleaning factory floors, and mold remediation, just to name a few. The product has a 2.8/pH = 7.0 on the Moh’s Hardness Scale.

A similar sandblasting media product that is also environmentally friendly, non-toxic and can be used for wet or dry sandblasting, is magnesium sulphate. As with sodium bicarbonate, this product is water soluble but is much more abrasive for tackling tougher applications. Although abrasive enough to remove heavy duty paints and finishes its also gentle enough to use around rotating equipment such as bearings, and sliding mechanisms. It’s also formulated so that it won’t corrode aluminum jacketing and brass or copper electrical enclosures. Ideally, this product is suited for removing bottom paint from boats, tile restoration, and medium to heavy rust scale removal, graffiti removal and mill scale removal. The following mesh sizes of 20-40, 40-60, and 64-80 are available allowing the user to choose the grit that’s right for their application. The product also has a 3.5 / pH = 7.0 on the Moh’s Hardness Scale.

For wet sandblasting media applications there is a variety of sandblaster to satisfy these needs. One of the more popular pieces of equipment is the profiler nozzle system. This low cost system can offer speeds that exceed that of traditional dry and wet blasting systems. Some of the more common uses of this equipment are in new construction, re-coating and shipyard production. The high pressure output of this equipment helps reduce abrasive consumption by up to 75%.

Safety should be a top priority when working with sand blasting media applications. Although these products are environmentally friendly and non-toxic, the intense pressures combined with the sandblasting media will cause serious bodily harm. Making sure the proper safety equipment is used is essential with any of these applications.

Maintaining Small Engines and Small Engine Parts

2010-10-29T10:50:00.000-04:00

Small engines are susceptible to many problems. Sometimes replacing small engine parts is all it takes to get an engine to run like new again, but it can save time and money to learn just exactly what could be causing the issue in the first place. An engine that seems too far gone at first may not be, and purchasing a new mower, pressure washer, golf cart or other small engine machine is not necessarily the only option.

Two of the most common troubles with small engines and are engines which fail to start, and engines that do not work properly after they have been started.

An engine carburetor is the first culprit if an engine will not start. The engine could be flooded, blocking the carburetor or preventing it from operating correctly.

The ignition could be shorted as well. The plug gap could be offset, the spark plugs could have become soiled, or the ignition's lead could just be faulty. These starting issues are not difficult to repair with the right repair kit.

Fuel lines could also be clogged, and it sounds simple, but be sure there is fuel in the tank and that the fuel is not too old, and close the shut off valve.

Lastly, if there is a compression problem it could very well keep an engine from starting. The valves, pistons and cylinders could be damaged or stripped, and even dirty parts can be all it takes to cause engine failure.

If your machine is experiencing trouble after you have started the engine, it may be more serious. Consequences of an engine that is overheating from lack of attention can lead to even greater damage and eventually destroy the engine altogether.

The most frequent cause of an overheating engine is when it has run low on oil. As most of us know from tending to our cars, running without oil is a surefire way to ruin an engine fast. Besides this, a cooling fan could be broken or missing.

Burning oil could also cause smoking in small engine parts, particularly if the smoke is white or blue. Another cause of an engine that is giving off smoke could be a dirty or obstructed small engine air filter.

Being aware the importance of small engine parts and their upkeep can mean the difference between extensive repairs and the still more extensive costs of replacing the entire engine or the machine itself. The more you learn and the more you understand about Kohler, Vanguard, Briggs & Stratton, Honda small engine parts (or any other brand), the easier engine ownership will be.

Purchasing a Hydrostatic Line Tester

2010-10-15T16:15:00.002-04:00

Even if you know what a hydrostatic line tester is, this piece will give you a refresher just in case there is anything you are forgetting and in case there are some benefits that you were previously unaware of. Basically the purpose of the hydrostatic line tester is to detect leaks regardless of how small that leak is. It tests for leaks in pipes that transmit any kind of fluid regardless of whether that fluid is a liquid or gas. These testers can be used in a variety of environments such as the home and industrial related applications and they come in different kinds of designs. Each design is usually structured to enable you complete a particular task or the other depending on what you intend to use the line tester for.

Various kinds of hydrostatic line tester are usually equipped to cope with a variety of pressures so you should first understand what sort of piping system or systems you intend to test. The testers available come in different price ranges and you do not want to make the mistake of paying for the wrong kind of tester and losing a huge amount of money because you went for the wrong thing. Some people have general needs and others have much more precise needs so you should determine which category you belong to beforehand.

Most hydrostatic line testers tend to be built for maneuverability so they usually come with wheels or at least options for them. They are options however that come without wheels but these sorts of testers are usually portable anyway so they serve individual purposes.

Some testers have tanks while some are created for you to directly hook them up to the fluid source. Most vendors will usually give you an indication of what you can test using these products, if not you are always free to call or email and ask the necessary questions before you make your purchase.

A standard feature across all hydrostatic line testers is a strong rigid frame that is built to last and built for use in very challenging environments. This will also help in ensuring that you enjoying many years of performance from these devices. Most testers offer you the option of including additional options which can be purchased when you initially get the tester or later on as you progress with the use of such testers.

Read more hydrostatic test pumps.

The Many uses of Industrial Curtains

2010-10-08T13:42:00.005-04:00

One of the quickest and easiest ways to separate sensitive work areas involves using industrial wall curtains as temporary partitions. This versatile equipment can be used in a wide range of applications and facilities. Once you experience their flexibility and ease of use you’ll wonder how you ever functioned without them.

Depending on your needs there are industrial curtains that can handle just about any situation. Every curtain is constructed of high-grade vinyl materials and feature welded seams. The top and bottom opaque sections are 14 ounces per square and feature a polyester denier weft inserted scrim. This is then laminated into the fabric of the curtain to give it unrivaled tensile strength. There is also a 20 mil double polished clear window located between the opaque sections. All curtains also feature hook and loop fasteners which allows multiple sections to be joined together. The heavy duty track and rollers make installation a breeze while the lower hem features chain weighting for added stability.

Industrial curtains are available as single curtains, two-sided, three-sided, and four-sided curtains depending on your needs. Single curtains are available in lengths of 6, 12, and 24 and heights that reach up to 12 feet. These curtains are especially well suited for the construction industry where they can serve as temporary barriers to isolate construction areas. They’re easier to install, remove and store than other methods such as plywood.

Multi-sided industrial curtains are suited for a wide range of applications and industries. Auto body repair shops can use combinations of these curtains to setup spray areas. They can also use them to isolate welding areas to prevent damage from errant sparks. Agricultural operations can use them as well since they’re designed for outdoor use. The rugged construction of these industrial wall curtains makes them ideal for outdoor use.

Industrial wall curtains are great for use in creating temporary partitions in just about any situation imaginable. Whether it’s in a warehouse, wood shop, mobile detailing, pharmaceutical manufacture these useful partitions give you the flexibility to change your workspace to fit your needs. That’s comforting to know as you grow and expand your operation. The alternative of constructing partition walls out of studs and drywall or plywood is much more time consuming. Not to mention a lot more costly when you factor in the labor and material costs. It’s no wonder that industrial curtains are gaining popularity among a wide range of business owners.

How to Choose the Right Sewer Nozzle for Sewer Cleaning

2010-09-24T15:51:00.004-04:00

When it comes to sewer nozzles, there are literally dozens of basic designs with each having its own particular use in mind. Whether you will be cleaning small bore sewer pipe openings or are looking for something that can handle large bore sewer holes, you should be certain that you have chosen the right nozzle for the job.

The first step is the easiest: knowing what size pipe you will be cleaning. Having determined this, you will then be better prepared to select the part that will help get the job done right the first time. In order to get the highest degree of effectiveness out of your pressure washer, make sure you select the sewer jetting nozzles that will provide the best penetration and spray pattern to meet your needs.

Typically, these high pressure nozzles come in three main styles which include the rotary jet, the jet, and the button nose. The most basic is the button nose nozzle. The short body helps it to navigate the various turns and corners that can be found in most all sewer lines. This allows it to avoid getting hung up in such turns unlike other styles of sewer nozzles. It also means that it excels when used in industrial applications alongside heavy duty pressure washers and or pulsating drain cleaners for drain cleaning and more.

The rotary jet style of nozzle is a somewhat specialized tip in that it is suitable after initially using another nozzle to break loose large deposits. This will allow the rotary jet nozzle the proper clearances to then thoroughly clean the left over residue. Rotary jet nozzles work by creating a solid sheet of water which cleanses in a single pass rather than relying on the back and forth movements that can be required with other nozzle styles.

When looking to clear a sewer line that is heavily blocked, a round head will not suffice. This is where the jet nose design comes in handy. The length of these sewer nozzles combined with the angle of the tip help to pierce even heavy build ups. Another benefit is the forward facing openings that allow fluid to be blasted directly where needed. Many sewer lines suffer from grease build up from the fats used in many products. This tip will quickly piece such plugged lines.

No matter what sort of application you have in mind, it is important that you choose the correct sewer nozzles to suit your needs. Make sure to know what sort of job you will be approaching, and the job will be much easier than you first thought.

Utilizing Collapsible Water Tanks for Liquid Containment Transfer and Storage

2010-09-17T16:24:00.004-04:00

No matter where you plan on using your heavy duty pressure washers, one thing you will need is a steady water supply. When you are facing a situation where a water source is not readily available the best solution is to make sure you have collapsible water tanks available. These tanks can be transported from place to place with ease and are simple to set up with only two people.

It doesn’t matter whether you are planning on using it for storing liquid or will be transferring the liquid to another holding tank when it comes available, collapsible water tanks can fill a wide variety of roles. Whether you will be spraying down heavy equipment, wetting dusty back roads during construction or even pressure washing construction sites, there is no end to the variety of uses for these tanks than elliptical storage tanks.

They are also excellent when used in areas of low water pressure as they offer water on demand that can then be pumped through your washer to where you need it most. Another outstanding benefit to collapsible water tanks is their ability to be transported quickly and efficiently. There is no need for an air supply to pump them up, and their hinged steel frames make stowing them a breeze.

The material of choice for the tank itself is heavy duty PVC, or vinyl. This means that these collapsible water tanks are puncture resistant, stand up well to repeated use in harsh conditions, and repair easily in the unlikely event of a tear or puncture. This alone may be the very reason why they make the perfect industrial solution for water storage or transfer. It is no wonder firefighters rely on these tanks for expanding their fire fighting capabilities.

There are other bonuses to choosing from the various models of these tanks as well. Many different models offer various accessories that can help to extend tank life or protect the fluid supply. These include portable dams and drain covers, fast connect fittings for those with exterior hose connections, and more.

Collapsible water tanks make excellent investments and should be treated as such. It will help to insure that your tanks are ready to go every time rather than having to worry over whether or not it might fail. If you find yourself in need of a convenient and dependable tank for your water supply or tank for fluid transfer, then these are definitely the tanks of choice.

Telescoping Pressure Washer Wands

2010-09-10T16:48:00.004-04:00

Pressure washer telescoping wands can increase your reach, your cleaning capabilities and your possible profit margins, while making your job safer and even more convenient. While we offer some great accessories for our pressure washers, not many accessories can make all those claims, and certainly not for under $150.

Our telescoping wands basically extend the same quality you have come to expect in our Karcher hose and nozzles another 18 to 24 feet into the air. These telescoping wands are lightweight, tough, and can handle any cleaning solutions or pressure levels that our pressure washers can deliver. The happy result of this is that you can direct a pressurized stream of hot or cold or soapy water against the top of a two story wall while keeping both feet on the ground. If you combine our telescoping pressure washer wands with our quality made gutter cleaner wands, and you enjoy the same convenience when cleaning gutters, roofs, and under your eaves and even awnings cleaning.

As you already know, if you can reach it, you can clean it, but if you can reach it easier, you can clean it more often. Perhaps you are a homeowner who just wants the gutters to keep flowing, or perhaps you’re a professional cleaner who wants your business to take off. Either way, a quicker, more effective and safer cleaning method should do the trick. Telescoping wands can provide that method. A property owner could maintain a beautiful and structurally sound home because the maintenance has become easier than ever. Even more impressive, a professional cleaner can do a job in less time with fewer people and still produce the same result.

These telescoping pressure washer wands are made to fit any Ultimate Pressure Washer product, and you can special order them to connect properly to any Karcher or Troy-Built pressure washer. Most of our telescoping wands come with convenient belt kits which allow you a bit of extra control over the wand, therefore making the pressure washing job even more convenient. Our extension wand control kit allows for more control with even less effort, and can speed your job up even further. Finally, to add the ultimate convenient accessory, a ball valve kit can provide you with a way to stop the water flow without shutting down the machine. This will allow you to switch nozzles, wands and other attachments in no time at all.

Our telescoping pressure washer wands can’t open your business or clean your roof by themselves, but they can make nearly every aspect of your pressure cleaning jobs easier.

A Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner for Home or Industrial Use

2010-08-30T15:16:00.005-04:00

A pressure washer surface cleaner is a great investment for any homeowner as well business owners alike; in a matter of minutes you can clean large areas including driveways and walkways, parking lots, roofs, decks and more.

Powerful electric or gas power washers in conjunction with a surface cleaner can make a cleaning job more efficient which means they save both time and money. Though there are certainly several pressure washers on the market that are geared towards home owners, you should invest in one that is more durable and powerful – and geared towards the professional or commercial user.

Commercial pressure washer surface cleaners are designed for different uses; you can buy 8” surface cleaners and all the way up to 38” inches! There are also roof surface cleaners designed specifically for roof cleaning; with adjustable wheel width and height it is geared directly towards this application.

For larger businesses, you may have a need to own multiple surface cleaners, while the homeowner may be able to only purchase one size and use it for a variety of purposes. Efficiency is the key to making your final purchasing decision. Business owners know that time is money which is why buying a pressure washer surface cleaner in multiple sizes and for multiple applications may be the best economic decision. Make sure your pressure washer is capable of powering the selected surface cleaner; as many surface cleaners have minimum operating requirements.

As the competition in the power or pressure washing industry continues to get tougher, you need to give yourself a competitive advantage. The more efficient you are able to operate the more profitable you will be overall. Additionally, you will be able to stay competitive with your pricing knowing you have the proper equipment to get a job done quickly. Whether it is your current business or a new service you want to offer, the equipment you choose will have an incredible impact on the success of your business.

Reliability and performance are equally important; you should be certain that you buy your pressure washer surface cleaner from a company that understands your business and your needs. You should ensure that your ultimate purchase is from a company that offers a warranty on the surface cleaners, as well as after purchase guidance and replacements parts, should you require it. Stocking pressure washer surface cleaner accessories and parts just in case your surface cleaner broke just right before your job would be a good idea.

An efficient power washer can cut a once lengthy job into a fraction of the time; for example, a 400 square foot area can be cleaned with a surface cleaner in 10 minutes or less. That same job done with a nozzle will take over 80 minutes; this means that you can do eight times as much in the same amount of time!

If you are a homeowner or business you definitely want to save time and money; surface cleaners can help you do exactly that. Know what your exact requirements are so that you can purchase the best pressure washer surface cleaner for your needs.

Guide: How to use surface cleaner.

Everything you need to Know about Diaphragm Pumps

2010-08-23T16:34:00.003-04:00

Diaphragm pumps are the ideal choice for agricultural and gardening applications. Depending on the size of your operation, there are a number of different models available to choose from. These pumps are designed and constructed to the highest standards without forcing you to sacrifice your budget.

Smaller diaphragm pumps with flow rates of 1.6 to 3 GPM (gallons per minute) are the ideal size for pest control and gardening applications. These pumps are designed to handle medium pressures and low volumes associated with this work. Some of the technical specifications of this pump include a maximum pressure rating of 220 PSI (pounds per square inch) and a maximum speed of 1450 RPM. The two semi-hydraulic diaphragms are capable of pumping liquids that reach 140° Fahrenheit.

Medium duty diaphragm pumps are capable of producing flow rates of 9 to 11 GPM and are intended for large scale agricultural applications. There are similarities between these pumps and their smaller cousins. For one, both have the same maximum temperature rating of 140° Fahrenheit. Both can be constructed of polypropylene or anodized aluminum as well. However, medium duty pumps are capable of handling much larger pressure ratings that can reach up to 580 PSI. To accomplish this, these pumps are designed with three diaphragms instead of two.

Heavy duty diaphragm pumps are some of the largest and produce flow rates of up to 36 GPM and pressure ratings reaching up to 725 PSI. These pumps are constructed of brass manifolds and heavy duty ball bearings to withstand the rigors of everyday use. To achieve such high flow rates new valve technology was developed which also allowed for fewer diaphragms. Believe it or not, these pumps use the same amount of diaphragms as their medium duty counterparts.

There are many more pumps available with flow rates and pressure ratings that fall between the ratings from the three types noted above. When operating any one of the many types of diaphragm pumps available today it’s extremely important to keep safety in mind. That is why most pump manufacturers recommend using shaft protectors with your pump. These simple devices consist of a metal plate that covers the main shaft drive preventing entanglements with the 550 RPM shaft. Any object that would come in contact with an exposed shaft in operation could cause a catastrophic failure of the pump itself.

If you are looking for transfering large amount of water, trash pumps and, water pumps, diesel water pumps are ideal for that applications.

Oil Spill Cleanup

2010-08-16T11:13:00.004-04:00

“The fish in the water is silent, the animal on the earth is noisy, the bird in the air is singing. But man has in him the silence of the sea, the noise of the earth and the music of the air”.

Rabindranath Tagore

The world consumption of oil in 2006 was more than 3.5 billion gallons per day, according to U.S. Dept. of Energy. Sixty percent of that is transported by sea. Fortunately, improved ship designs and stricter penalties have lessened the oil spills since the oil shipping flourished in 1960s. Unfortunately, still we haven’t got rid of them completely. An average of 150,000 tons of oil spilled each year into the world's waterways between 1990 and 1999 according to National Academics.

Then it was March 1989, when Exxon Valdez a tanker the size of three football pitches crashed onto a reef spewing millions of gallons of heavy crude, was enough to open the eyes of American public to the problem of oil spills. The crash resulted in death of hundreds of thousands of birds, and thousands of sea otters died alongside harbor seals, whales and brown bears. Most severe condition was when five spills occurred within the same week in 2001. A similar situation has taken place in the Gulf of Mexico that has reminded the environmentalists of Exxon Valdez oil spill.

The interesting fact is that supertankers aren't the only cause of oil spills. Many other factors are there having the potential to accidentally release crude oil into the water including underwater pipelines, offshore oil drilling rigs, and coastal storage facilities and refineries, operator error, equipment failure, natural disasters and acts of terrorism have been contributing factors to oil spills in the past.

People began to wonder just how the oil spill cleanup will be done. Environmentalists started to worry because of these situations and steadily the initiatives were taken by agencies for oil spill cleanup.

As it is said that necessity is the mother of invention; thanks to technology that many new types of equipment have been introduced for oil spill cleanup, they are not only for the cleaning and helping wildlife and our environment but also for the safety of workers/volunteers.

That is the reason Safety gears are a significant choice for protecting oneself from any harm. Safety accessories including hand gloves, ear muff, safety cone, Rain suit, and first aid kit. These all accessories come in different sizes and different models with reasonable prices. With the use of pressure washers like Karcher pressure washers, the use of these safety gears are important as well. You need to inform your workers / volunteers about power washing safety tips.

Gloves:
To keep your hands safe and secure, it is necessary to wear gloves. Now different kinds of gloves have been introduced in the markets which are helpful not only for general purpose work but for chemical handling, Resisting alkaline, acids and even works well as a sandblasting glove.

Ear Muff:
Using ear muff is a sensible step to defend your ears from heavy noises. Super seal ear cushion that gives long term comfort with soft cushion headband is easily available that can reduce 28 DB NRR noise.

Rain Suit:
Rain suits including jackets and pants are accessible that are in bright safety yellow color. The workers/volunteers should wear it as it assists in venting for air flow.

Safety Cone:
Safety cones are used widely for the safety purpose. They are light weighted and in red/orange color with black base. Direct traffic or prevent access with these highly visible traffic cones.

First aid kit:
First aid kit is also vital for quick medical treatment. The workers/volunteers should keep first aid kit. The first aid kit for oil spill cleanup carries all the necessary accessories that can be required in clean up accidents.

Advancement in Oil spill cleanup is compulsory because oil spills impacts very badly on the environment, animals as well as humans’ lives.

NOTE: If you would like to volunteer / work for agencies with oil spill cleanup, it is good to know on how to use pressure washer or other clean-up products such as water containment system, wash water recylcing systems, generators and more.

Concrete Cleaning – The Right Equipment Makes all the Difference

2010-08-03T10:14:00.003-04:00

When operated correctly, concrete cleaning is a potentially lucrative business; there are many homeowners and business owners that take great pride in their homes and business locations. Cleaning the concrete on the structure, as well as concrete in and around the structure shows pride of ownership; if you reliably offer a good service at the right price you can become the cleaning service of choice in your area.

A pressure washing business can offer professionally cleaned concrete that is done well and done at a reasonable rate. When offered a great service at a good price, consumers are more likely to sign a contract. We all know that the buying cycle for power washing has been extended as the economy tightened wallets; one effective way to break through that is by offering a superior service at a very fair price.

The only way to offer professional cleaning services at a fair price is to have the right equipment to do the job; the right equipment will let you work more efficiently which means you can offer the service at a lower price. Chances are you can offer a superior service at a price below the competition.

For effective concrete cleaning you should definitely invest in a surface cleaner and a chemical injector, perhaps even a rotating turbo nozzle / karcher dirtblaster; pressure washer surface cleaners are the most efficient way to clean a large area. You can clean 400 square feet in 10 minutes or even faster if you buy one of the larger surface cleaners. The chemical injector is used to spray pressure washer chemicals in conjunction with the power washing, while a turbo nozzle adds an often much needed scrubbing power for those tough concrete stains.

If you are going to offer your customers professional concrete cleaning, then you should be sure to mention graffiti removal, stain removal, deep cleaning, gum removal, paint and rust removal. All of this can easily be done with the right power washing equipment and will also help you impress the potential client with how thorough and professional a job they can expect from you.

Whether you are new to professional concrete cleaning, or have done it as part of your business for years, you can make it more profitable by having the right equipment for the job. Invest in the best equipment your budget allows for and you will earn that money back by being more efficient and offering a superior service at a better price. With quality equipment at your disposal, and the drive to succeed, you can dominate the concrete cleaning market in your area.

How to Select the Best Rubber Floor Squeegees

2010-06-21T11:57:00.004-04:00

When it comes to moving large amounts of water easily and quickly, or any other loose material for that matter, nothing beats a rubber floor squeegee. There are a variety of rubber floor squeegees available in a number of sizes to suit any cleaning application imaginable.

The basic construction of rubber floor squeegees consists of a sturdy aluminum frame which houses the squeegee blade or in some cases, double blade. The user controls the squeegee with the use of a fiberglass or wooden pole. The material that makes up the squeegee can differ from foam rubber to synthetic rubber. Each material has its benefits and drawbacks. Foam rubber blades are ideally suited for working with materials that have a low temperature rating. Their also ideal for moving acids, alkali and do an adequate job of moving grease and petroleum based products. These blades, however, offer poor resistance to abrasives, scratches or solvents. Synthetic rubber blades, on the other hand, offer excellent resistance to abrasive materials and scratches. They also do a good job of moving acids, alkali, grease, and petroleum based products.

Rubber floor squeegees are available in a number of widths from 14 inches wide all the way up to 48 inches wide. You can also select the shape of the squeegee blade depending on the intended use of the squeegee. Straight blades are ideal for moving large volumes of material over larger areas. Curved blades are better suited for directing the material to drains and other surface inlets. Both types offer affordable replacement blades that can easily be obtained from local suppliers.

Some of the common uses of rubber floor squeegees are on construction sites, plants, factories, loading docks, outdoor arenas, and food processing plants. These squeegees can be used on coated and uncoated, smooth and rough floors such as concrete, asphalt or vinyl composition tile (VCT). Ideally, these squeegees can be used in conjunction with power washing after the clean-up process has been completed. Their wide blades make them ideal for directing the excess water that remains to the appropriate floor drains.

The rubber floor squeegee, although a simple designed tool, can be a great tool in your inventory to quickly deal with large volumes of water and other liquids. When used in conjunction with gas power washers or pressure washers, you can effectively clean larger areas in a relatively short period of time.

For cleaning residential or commercial windows, you can use window squeegees.

The Basic Facts about Honda Power Generators

2010-03-31T09:57:00.004-04:00

A Honda power generator, much like their cars, is synonymous with dependability and affordability which is a major plus for homeowners and business owners alike. Understanding the basic facts about the different power ratings for these generators will help you make the right decision when it comes to purchasing for your business or portable home generators. A Honda power generator can be used for a wide variety of uses provided you calculate the correct load for your generator.

The first step is determining the anticipated load on your Honda power generator. To properly calculate the load you’ll need to understand the difference between reactive and resistive loads. A resistive load requires the same amount of power to start and run the equipment they’re providing power to. A few good examples of resistive load equipment would be light bulbs, toaster ovens or common house fans. A reactive load, on the other hand, requires more power to start the equipment than it takes to run it. Most reactive load equipment includes an electric motor which accounts for the additional power during the start-up stage. Some good examples of reactive load equipment would be refrigerators, air conditioning units and compressors. A general rule of thumb is to multiply the power to run the equipment by three to determine the starting power.

Now that you know the difference between resistive and reactive loads, you can get an accurate total to select the right Honda power generator. If you plan to use the generator as an emergency back-up for a residential home than you should figure on a generator that can handle 3000-6500 watts. This should be sufficient to power key appliances, light fixtures, and receptacles. Generators that are to be used to supply power to boats and camping trailers should figure on a slightly smaller power load. These vehicles will usually require 1000 – 2000 watts. Whatever application you use it for; your generator is a great piece of equipment to have in emergencies or to provide power in remote locations.

No matter which Honda power generator you select each one comes with a 2 year warranty for the engine. To help prevent catastrophic damage, most models come equipped with a low oil warning system. With fuel tanks that range in size from 1 to 3 gallons these generators are capable of continuous run times that can last from 4 to 15 hours.

Learning on how to do generator maintenance is a plus.

The Environmental Benefits of Water Quality Testing Kits

2010-03-22T11:55:00.001-04:00

Water quality testing kits are a must have in any responsible business owners inventory. These kits are essential for testing acid levels, alkalinity levels, and detergent levels. There are also kits available for testing corrosion, wastewater and storm drain monitoring as well. To combat expensive off-site testing, water quality testing kits are specially designed to give you accurate on-site results without expensive lab support. These kits are ideal for municipalities and contractors or any other organization that needs to monitor the presence of harmful chemicals in water supplies.

Water alkalinity levels vary depending on the number of dissolved compounds such as hydroxides, carbonates and bicarbonates. The alkalinity level can be a critical factor in many water treatment applications. High alkalinity levels can result in aggressive or overly corrosive water conditions which can prematurely damage piping. Alkalinity water quality testing kits use titrations with standard acid to the phenolphthalein and/or total alkalinity endpoint to determine their results.

Caustic water quality testing kits produce their results by causing a reaction between a water sample and barium. The resulting carbonates are then titrated with a standard acid to the phenolphthalein endpoint. This simple reagent kit is perfect for testing caustic levels for bottle and can cleaning operations as well as the cleaning of storage tanks. A similar method is used in acid water quality testing kits but a different reagent is used to determine hydrochloric, sulfuric, or phosphoric acids. These kits are most commonly used at water treatment facilities.

Detergent water quality testing kits use a different set of chemicals to determine the detergent levels in water. These kits use anionic surfactants that are then extracted with toluene which then breaks up an ion pair. The break-up of the ion pair releases bromphenol blue into the water layer. The addition of a reagent determines the concentration layer. These kits are ideal for use where cleaning operations are in close proximity to a water source.

For applications that require multiple test there are waste water kits which are similar to miniature self-contained laboratories. A waste water testing kit comes with a wealth of standard equipment including a one liter Imhoff Cone with stand. In addition to critical PH tests, this unit also includes Dissolved Oxygen and Chlorine test kits. Storm drain testing kits were specifically designed to meet US EPA requirements for field testing. All of the equipment that comes standard with both of these kits is housed in rugged portable carrying case to bring on site with you anywhere.

The Best Methods for Tile Grout Cleaning

2010-03-12T12:20:00.004-05:00

Tile grout cleaning projects can be quite labor intensive if you don’t have the right equipment. In the past, the best methods involved a stiff bristle brush, a specially formulated cleaning solution, and a lot of elbow grease. Today, however, there are other methods and equipment to make the job much easier to complete.

Tile grout, much like cement and mortar, is a porous material by nature. Although it has many positive characteristics one of them is not the ability to repel dirt and stains. Grout lines that have not been sealed can quickly look dirty and stained especially if a light grout color is used. Dirty grout lines can take away from even the most beautiful tile design so it’s best to keep them looking clean with regular tile grout cleaning.

One of the best ways to go about tile grout cleaning is using a pressurized hot water cleaner. The steam and pressurized water can penetrate the grout to remove the dirt without damaging the grout or tile. Electric powered cold or hot water power washers capable of producing 1000 psi are the ideal piece of equipment for cleaning shower wall tile. However, their only suited for shower stalls or bathtub enclosures since there’s a significant amount of water runoff.

Before cleaning any tile with a power washer it’s important to choose the best pressure washer and karcher nozzles. Choosing a power washer that has too high of a pressure rating will ruin your tile. The same principle can be applied to selecting the right power washer nozzle. Choosing a nozzle with a small angle will cause serious damage to the tile as well. Ideally, a 30° or 45° nozzle is the right choice to effectively remove the dirt from your tile. By keeping these simple facts in mind, you’ll be able to select the right equipment to get the job done quickly and cheaply.

Cleaning floor tiles or wall tiles in completed and furnished bathrooms requires a delicate touch with a low pressure power steam cleaners. The natural cleaning power of the steam combined with a strong bristle brush should be more than enough to remove tough stains from grout. This process requires a little more physical effort than the pressure washer but less than older methods. As with a power washer, a steam pressure washer allows the use of detergents and additives to enhance the cleaning process.

The Importance of Liquid De Icers

2010-03-05T12:38:00.003-05:00

Liquid de icers are an important tool for keeping sidewalks, steps, ramps and other foot paths safe in cold weather, especially near places that are already prone to falling accidents, such as hospitals, schools and nursing homes. Liquid de icers make winter storms less threatening.

Liquid de icers are typically used to prevent the accumulation of ice when freezing temperatures are anticipated. Once ice has bonded to a surface, it is very difficult to remove, therefore, this method of "anti icing" is usually preferred. Also, the energy and resources needed for preventing this icy bond are much more modest than that of the energy and resources needed for breaking it.

Some liquid de icers work by applying a solution that slow the bonding process of ice. This is achieved by lowering the necessary temperature for layers of ice to bond together and freeze onto a surface. With this method, conditions may be frequently monitored to assess whether or not solutions should be reapplied. Occasionally, a solution will need to be reapplied to a surface several times before, during and after a storm takes place. Ice may still have to be removed in the end, but it will be a great deal easier since precautionary measures were taken.

Another benefit to using liquid de icers rather than solid de icers is that they are gentler and more environmentally friendly. Granular de icers–for example, rock salt–leave a residue that can be harsh and damaging to surfaces, not to mention they have a likeliness to contain toxins dangerous to plant and aquatic life that could potentially be nearby. Sand as a de icer has also been proven to increase air pollution in various cases.

Where solid de icers commonly use sodium chloride, liquid de icers use magnesium chloride, which is available in two different forms. Ordinary magnesium chloride is best used on surfaces above 16 degrees Fahrenheit. Combination magnesium chloride uses a bi product to lower the freezing point of water and is optimal for temperatures under 16 degrees.

Approximately $1.5 million is spent on snow and ice removal from roads each year. Subsequently, the statistics show a definite decrease in the percentage of vehicle accidents since liquid de icers have been employed. It is safe to say that de icing plays a critical part in maintaining both pedestrian and driver safety in those colder of months, and certainly in regions where ice is an element that can be foreseen in any season.

For snow cleaning for partios, sidewalks, and driveways you can use snow throwers that are available in gas or electric snow throwers.

Infrared Heaters: Various Uses in Conjunction with a Pressure Washer

2010-02-23T12:20:00.003-05:00

Infrared heaters, when used in conjunction with best pressure washers, can be valuable and time-saving tools. Particularly in cold or damp climates and environments, the necessity to clean-up and eliminate the residual liquids from a power washing project can be critical.

From a safety/liability standpoint, the removal of a potential slip and fall hazard can be accomplished by the use of generated heat to quickly and efficiently dry the floors, stairs, ground areas, etc. affected by the power washing project. This can also eliminate the time required to restore the area to proper use; infrared heaters versus air drying of the area can restore, for example, normal business operations, necessary retail traffic, employee productivity, and general usage of the area affected, much quicker. A shorter down-time of the area can, in some cases, mean the difference between profit and loss. Additionally, the use of a fuel or electric-powered machine, with its radiant or fan-forced heat, will dry the surfaces quickly and completely, without the possibility of water stains, mold proliferation, mildew, and other problems associated with the air-drying of moisture.

With the combination of pressure washing and power-assisted drying, a business can maintain a neat, professional and safety-conscious appearance of all areas, while minimizing the downtime associated with regular cleaning and maintenance operations. Whether retail, warehouse, or manufacturing/production environments, post-cleaning recovery periods can be minimized, or eliminated altogether, by employing one of these powerful drying tools to rapidly restore equipment and area usefulness, safety, and worker productivity.

From an aesthetics standpoint, for the homeowner, the use of infrared heaters can quickly return your living space to its original appearance. The brick or aluminum exterior of your home, awnings and gutters, trim, the driveway, the wooden deck or fence, patio furniture, tools and equipment, automobiles, trucks and recreational vehicles/equipment will all benefit from the direct-line drying of this device. This is radiant heat, which does not rise into the air like fan-forced heat, but instead travels in a straight line from the source to the problem (moisture).

In addition to the above-mentioned applications, portable space heaters can be useful, in business, manufacturing, and homeowner environments, for the purpose of keeping people warm. In warehouses, factories, outdoor work sites, garages, and many other places, the efficient and cost-effective use of infrared heaters can provide comfort and warmth to personnel in a variety of situations, such as: Open-space warehouses, unheated factory areas, outdoor staging areas and municipal street work areas, remote locations (woods, mountains, and forestry work, logging), refrigerated environments, etc.

Ease of use and transport, efficiency of fuel consumption, quick-drying capabilities and cost-effectiveness—all of these advantages make one of these machines an indispensible addition to your business or home operations.

Boat Washing with a Pressure Washer

2010-02-05T14:46:00.003-05:00

Boat washing on a regular basis does not have to be an expensive or difficult task. With a pressure washer, you can keep your boat looking great all on your own at little to no cost.

It is important that boats be washed after each use to prevent any damage from the elements. Depending on your location and the location of your boat, there can be even more harmful effects such as ozone exposure, so protect your boat and clean it often.

Certain types of pressure washers are more appropriate for some boats than for others. Industrial or commercial pressure washers work well for smaller boats, but if you’d just like to have a washer handy for a larger boat, a non electric, easily portable diesel pressure washer is sufficient. Use pressure washer accessories to enhance your performance.

To wash your boat, first be sure to plan ahead. Know what you will do to drain the water from the boat, and make sure to remove any objects that may be damaged or get in the way of your boat washing.

The dock is the place to start when cleaning your boat. For best results, aim the pressure washer directly downward at the dock. When you are done, move on to the highest point of the boat and work to the bottom, so you are not left having to wash the same section twice.

Always rinse as you go. Most of the solutions you may use are not safe to leave sitting for long periods of time, and it becomes more and more difficult to rinse as time passes. For dock lines, it is best not to use any solution. Water from the pressure washer will be enough to remove any dirt or grime that may have built up from ocean salt water.

The topsides of the boat can be left for last. Dirty water overflowing from this area will not come into contact with any other parts of the boat which have already been cleaned.

Now you can drain the water from your boat using whichever method you decided on before you began. Pumps, buckets, and heavy duty squeegees are all acceptable options for this step, or if your boat happens to have them, you could just pull the plugs and allow the water to drain. Apply any finishing touches you desire: clean the boat’s windows or give it a polish, and you’re done.

You have finished your boat washing, and without employing an expensive boat maintenance crew. With a power pressure washer, you can do it yourself, and you won’t ever have to use another brush or rag again.

Purchasing the Right Air Duct Cleaning Equipment

2010-01-29T09:49:00.002-05:00

Air duct cleaning is something most people view as a rather difficult chore, even companies whose main business is built on offering such services to the general public. The truth of the matter however is that getting the job done right and done easy is a matter of whether you are using the right tools for the job or not, When you think of cleaning air ducts easily, think of the game of golf where you have different golf clubs for different situations, the right combination coupled with other factors such as proper use help you achieve the desired goals. It’s the same idea with cleaning air ducts, using the wrong tools for the trade gives you lesser results for much more effort.

Standard duct cleaners are usually water powered and fitted out with hot or cold best pressure washer and will usually come in the fixed or adjustable category. However, another variation of cleaner exists and it is based on a mobile cart design. Mobile duct cleaners of this kind work wonders for horizontal air duct cleaning. Duct cleaners also vary in diameter size and the size you choose should be a function of the width of the vent of the air duct. Most online vendors usually offer you a chart that shows you the size of duct cleaner you should buy based on the diameter of your air duct vent. This helps a lot when you are trying to make a purchase decision.

Duct cleaners are also outfitted with power washer spray nozzles in order to improve their performance and the nozzle you use with your cleaner for air duct cleaning depends on a number of things including the pressure of your device. The nozzles are usually of two kinds, the spray nozzles and the meg nozzles. Most devices come with spray nozzles included but meg nozzles have to be purchased as an additional accessory. If you are making a purchase from an online vendor you can include these with your duct cleaner purchase as it tends to cut down the total cost of things because most vendors will offer you a discount for air bulk cleaning equipment and accessories purchased together.

Alternative nozzles for cleaners that perform air duct cleaning are also available. Nozzles such as the rotating spray nozzle that allow for maximum coverage can also be purchased too in order to ensure that regardless of air duct type and coverage area, the job gets done properly every single time. Before you purchase however, always make sure you determine your requirements first as this will help when deciding which products to buy and any other accessories you might need to consider before making your purchase.

Use and Care of Parts Washers

2010-01-22T13:56:00.001-05:00

Parts washers are used on an extensive variety of machine parts, big and small. Parts that you never thought were able to be washed can be with a parts washer, even computer parts! Of course, with equipment like this, many questions arise. A parts washer is a large tank which uses chemical solvents to remove dirt, dust, grease and other grime commonly found on machine parts. Detergents and hot water can also work just as well and do not leave a residue. Since the detergents used are environmentally safe and biodegradable, disposal is inexpensive. Chemical solvents are not always cost efficient in this way as they can cause damage and incur further disposal fees.

To wash a part, the part is simply placed inside the washer tank, the door is closed and a timer is set. The process is quite like washing laundry. The solvent or water which is stored in the top of the tank is expelled at a low rate of pressure and onto the base where the part sits. In some parts washers, the part is placed on a conveyor.A more interesting technique for industrial parts washing is the use of ultrasonic waves. The frequency of these waves is too high for human beings to hear so that is not a factor to be considered. These ultrasonic waves utilize cavitation to break down contaminant particles on parts. Cavitation takes place when negative pressure causes liquid to crack causing air bubbles. When the ultrasonic waves hit these bubbles, they create positive pressure, consequently causing the bubbles to vibrate, thus loosening any undesirable matter of contamination. Cavitation is not always necessary however, as some particles are more easily removed and may be so merely when met with the ultrasonic waves themselves.

Care in operating parts washers should be seriously considered. As stated before, not all parts washer solvents are safe to the environment, and when it is time to dispose of chemical waste, it cannot be discarded just anywhere. There are many laws in each area regarding such hazards which should foremost be researched. Not only can these cleaning solutions be potentially dangerous pollutants, but they can also be flammable under the heat of a running parts washer, so be sure to exercise caution when working with one. Parts washers surely save money, effort and time, and allow you to keep all kinds of parts clean and sanitary. Now that you are educated on operation and safety, you can go out and get yours today.

Investing in Sewer Jetters

2010-01-11T10:51:00.002-05:00

Drain sewer jetters are specialized pressure washers which use high pressure water to blast through clogs in residential or industrial sewer lines. The practice of sewer jetting is a fairly low-tech and effortless job, and does not need to be performed by licensed plumbers. If you already have a pressure washing business, sewer jetting could become an additional or off-season revenue stream for your business. Blocked drains are an almost inevitable part of home ownership, so sewer jetters will continue to be a sound investment for many different business owners.

Sewer jetters are available in about the same size and power plant options that you will find with any pressure washer. There are two-wheeled portable electric units which can pulse water at up to 1450 PSI to ease clogs out of residential drains less than 2.5 inches in diameter. At the other end of what’s possible, you will also find trailer-mounted diesel powered monsters with 350 gallon tanks which can shoot 18 gallons of water at 4000 PSI through a drain up to 12 inches in diameter. These larger machines can be used as hydraulic reamers for the purpose of cutting through roots and mineral deposits.

Sewer jetters are available as cold or hot water sewer jetters systems, because some types of blockages will be worn down more quickly with heated and pressurized water. Many models are available with chemical injection systems which can often help break down some kinds of blockages without disintegrating the pipes as well. The addition of a sewer camera with any of these sewer jetter packages can afford the technician an opportunity to identify the type and location of the blockage before beginning the job, and often increases the appreciation of homeowners who now know what you removed and how quickly the job was done.

Obviously, if you are thinking of adding sewer jetters to your fleet of power washing equipment, you will want to aim your equipment purchase and subsequent marketing at a target customer base. If you have already established a residential customer base for your cleaning business, you may want to offer your services not only for unclogging drains, but also for routine drain maintenance. This can regulate your income stream as well as allow you to deal with customers who aren’t already annoyed by a plumbing problem.

We offer sewer jetters in a variety of useful sizes, as well as different sizes of sewer jetter high pressure hoses and specialized nozzles. Foot valves and sewer cameras are also available to boost your effectiveness and save your business some valuable time. So, would sewer jetters be a good investment for your expanding business?

Commercial Wet Dry Vacuums

2010-01-05T09:41:00.002-05:00

Commercial wet dry vacuums are rather peculiar critters; they are more powerful than the average residential vacuums, but not quite as specialized or expensive as water recovery systems or carpet extractors. Most homeowners are familiar with a wet dry vacuum or a shop vacuum. These handy appliances are a bit tougher than the average home vacuum cleaner and have the added advantage of being able to pick up water or wet debris without ruining the filtration system or shorting out the motor. In a residential garage or basement, a 3 or 4 hp motor and a 4 gallon tank should be sufficient to deal with any mess short of natural disasters or crime scenes. If, on the other hand, you make a living in part by cleaning up your own or other people’s messes, then commercial wet dry vacuums may be called for.

Commercial wet dry vacuums are generally more powerful and have larger tank capacities. 5 to 6 hp motors provide the power that commercial cleaning situations call for, whether it is standing water or other liquids, or waterlogged debris. A 2 to 4 gallon tank capacity is usually enough to clear out a basement or garage, but many commercial situations involve either larger areas or more debris, so a larger tank will allow you to keep working until the job is completed. Commercial wet dry vacuums have tanks ranging from 5 gallons to a very respectable 14 gallons, enough capacity for a truck bay full of mud and debris.

The hoses and power cords on these models must be longer than would be required for home use, partially because a commercial cleaner often must cover a wider area than a homeowner. The other reason for a longer hose or power cord would be that the size and weight of commercial wet dry vacuums makes them less easy to transport. One of our commercial models has a 5 gallon tank and a 5 hp motor, and the combined weight of the two can make moving the thing around a bit tricky, especially at the end of a task when the tank is full. Fortunately, with 21 feet of vacuum hose and a 20 foot power cord, you will not have to move the unit very often, or hunt for extra outlets halfway through a job.

Commercial wet dry vacuums do not sacrifice convenience for brute force, though. All of our commercial and industrial models are offered with the same range of accessories that homeowners have come to expect; on-board accessory storage, blower functions and highly visible controls are standard. In addition, our larger models also offer larger drains, noise diffusers, and washable cartridge filters.

You may be a commercial cleaning contractor, or you may just be homeowner with larger than normal holdings. Don’t wait until after the flood or sandstorm to invest in one of these commercial wet dry vacuums – have them on hand to save the day when needed.

Important Facts about Boat Cleaning

2009-12-02T09:52:00.003-05:00

Boat cleaning is a tough and unglamorous job that is essential to maintaining the integrity of a boat’s hull. The hull of a boat is subjected to some pretty harsh conditions from salt water to docking to basic wear and tear. Given the conditions that boats endure it’s no wonder you’ll need one of the more powerful pressure washing systems to effectively clean them. There are both portable and stationary models to choose from depending on your applications.

In order to remove bottom paint, barnacles, algae, and salt water stains from boat hulls you need an ultra high pressure washing system. There are several models to choose from each with their own pressure ratings that reach some remarkable levels. Portable water blasters are available with pressure ratings that range from 7,500 to 40,000 psi and produce flow rates of up 8 gallons per minute. The diesel engines used to power these units range can also be used to power a heat exchange resulting in water that can reach 200°F. These units are available as trailer models to make for easy transport and come equipped with everything you need to perform boat cleaning operations.

For larger marinas and boat yards there are stationary power washer units that offer up to 250 HP and produce incredible pressure and flow rates of 40,000 psi and 16 gallons per minute. These heavy duty units are perfect for the constant boat cleaning required by a large boat yard or marina. There are also heavy duty units on tandem axel trailers that produce similar pressure and flow rates.

The ultra high pressure blaster accessory nozzles are one of the most important pieces of equipment when it comes to boat cleaning since they control the spray angle of the stream. All boats hulls are treated with a clear gel coat and some are even coated with bottom paint, especially if they’re to be left in the water for extended periods of time. The right angled nozzle coupled with the extreme pressures produced by these power washers can strip both the clear coat and bottom paint down to the bare fiberglass material of the hull.

With so much attention paid to the hull of the boat the deck is often overlooked when it comes to boat cleaning. The deck can accumulate oil and hydraulic fluid stains as well as rust and other unsightly blemishes. Deck power washing makes quick work of these stains as well.

No matter what application you intend to use it for, these ultra high pressure washers can tackle any challenge you can serve up. It is highly recommended to use water blaster safety equipment when operating these water blasters.

Water Filtration Systems – The Environmentally Friendly Choice

2009-11-13T12:50:00.002-05:00

Today people have become more and more environmentally conscious and the use of water filtration systems is on the cutting edge of this trend. For car wash owners, these systems not only make sense financially, they can also make a positive contribution to the environment.

One of the biggest issues that owners of power washer equipment face are the complications of dealing with the waste water produced by their operations. More and more local municipalities are enforcing stricter regulations when it comes to dealing with wastewater. The days of letting your runoff makes its way to the storm drain down the street are long gone.

Fortunately, there’s water filtration systems designed to eliminate waste water while also making your operation more efficient. These systems use a six stage process to filter the water and make it suitable for re-use by the pressure washer. The filters are extremely efficient and remove particles as small as 5 microns. Some units are also capable of running off a 12 volt battery.

Portable Water Filtration Systems

These filtration systems are designed for use with power washers, auto / mobile detailing equipment, and graffiti removal systems. They’re easily transported with the largest units weighing in at less than 300 pounds. Most units are capable of interchangeable filters ranging from 75 to 5 microns. These systems can handle 7 to 11 gallons of waste water per minute while running on standard 110V power. State of the art materials attract the oil to the filters and coalescing plates. The filters, whether you select a model with two or four, are easily reachable on the outside of the unit making maintenance a snap.

Fixed Filtration Systems

These units contain 3-tank separation systems making them somewhat more complicated than their portable cousins. The basic design of these systems consists of a six stage filtration process coupled with a three tank separation system for oil, water and solids. These powerful pumps can process 6 gallons per minute of waste water while providing the option of a chlorine injector. With up to a 185 gallon tank these units offer an endless supply of recycled water. At over 400 pounds though, these units are not easily transported.

Water filtration systems offer business owners the added flexibility of being both environmental and business savvy. The fact that you can help the environment while saving your business money should be an easy decision to make.

Important Facts about Swimming Pool Cleaning

2009-10-22T16:04:00.002-04:00

Your swimming pools can give you months of enjoyment so it only makes sense to give your yearly swimming pool cleaning the attention it deserves. The last thing any pool owner wants to do is spend precious weekends at the beginning of the summer cleaning their pool. Fortunately, there are quick and easy methods for getting your pool spic and span for the upcoming summer season.

One of the best ways to tackle swimming pool cleaning is with a pressure washer and multiple attachments. After all, using a pressure washer has got to be a better proposition than scrubbing your pool walls and floors by hand. A medium duty pressure washer is the best model for this type of application. Look for a model capable of producing between 2500 and 4000 psi at flow rates of 3 to 5 gallons per minute. One that is easily transported would be a good idea as well.

In addition to the pressure washer there are a number of handy accessories that can help you complete your swimming pool cleaning. The first is to make sure you have a pistol grip, trigger gun which will ensure the most control. Next, make sure you select the right nozzle for cleaning your pool. Regardless of whether you have a Gunite or vinyl pool a 25° and 40° are the best nozzles for this application. Use the 25° nozzle for the general cleaning and the 40°nozzle for rinsing applications. A surface cleaner is another great accessory for swimming pool cleaning. This will allow you to easily clean the floor of you pool while the trigger wand and nozzle combination will handle the walls.

If your pool has accumulated any unsightly amount of algae stains during its dormant offseason than there are a number of cleaning solutions that can assist in this task. Choosing the right one is as easy as visiting your pressure washer manufacturers website. That’s the best place to look since they’ll recommend the right solution that’s compatible with your pressure washer. There are regular cleaning solutions and chemicals specifically formulated for dealing with algae.

A pressure washer can be a great asset in getting your swimming pool cleaning done quickly and effectively. Their powerful cleaning capabilities coupled with their handy accessories make them the equipment professionals choose when tackling these jobs. Now you can spend more time enjoying your pool instead of cleaning it.

Tennis Court Maintenance vs. Tennis Court Repair

2009-09-24T16:55:00.002-04:00

The need for tennis court maintenance is obvious for anyone who regularly plays tennis. A clean tennis court has better traction, is safer to play on, and looks great. On the other hand, a buildup of mildew or algae, or even a strategically placed wet leaf can lead to a fall, and falls can seriously take the fun out of the game. Ground in dirt and debris will wear down the surface of a tennis court, which can cause the players to lose traction easily. Finally, as the surface deteriorates, you will find cracks developing in the concrete below the surface. Now, how many people do you know that will want to play on a cracked, slippery, dirty tennis court where you can barely see the lines?

The math is pretty easy to do. Once or twice a month, for a few dollars worth of electricity and water, and perhaps an hour of your time, you can maintain your tennis court for years. On the other hand, if you neglect your regular tennis court maintenance, the court could deteriorate quickly, and it may cost you as much as $5000 to resurface the court.

Tennis court maintenance is easy enough when you have the right equipment. A residential-style pressure washer machine with a 100 foot hose should meet your needs for one tennis court. If you or your organization has more than one court to clean, or if you are just interested in saving time and energy, you may consider purchasing one of our water brooms to help you get back in the game sooner.

Pressure washing is a large part of tennis court maintenance, and it is fairly easy to accomplish. As with most pressure washing jobs, a bit of preparatory moving and sweeping is required to clear the court of furniture, equipment and debris. Once you are looking at a bare tennis court, you could pre-treat the area with a bit of water and pressure washer chemical to soften the dirt. Then turn on your pressure washer and clean the court using a medium-duty pressure washer, capable of between 2000 and 2600 PSI. Light, even passes with the nozzle / rotating spray nozzle should be enough to clean the grime off of the court in about 20 minutes or so; less if you are using one of our water brooms which offer you more jets of pressurizes water and a job completed in less time.

Whether you have your own tennis court, are being paid to maintain one, or would like to offer your services to a club or municipality, knowing a few things about tennis court maintenance – and water brooms – can make your day easier and your game more enjoying.

The Basic Facts about a Chemical Sprayer

2009-09-17T16:53:00.001-04:00

For facilities and professional contractors that need to use chemicals in their operations than a chemical sprayer is the ideal piece of equipment to combine with your pressure washer. They allow you to safely and quickly move chemicals around the facility or jobsite.

Chemical sprayers are available as either grass powered or electrically powered units depending on your needs and uses. The gas powered models are capable of producing up to 220 PSI at 3 gallons per minute. All this can be accomplished using a 5 HP engine mounted on a lightweight aluminum skid. The combined settings allow this sprayer to reach up to 35 feet. Most units come with a chemically resistant hose, wand and gun.
For agricultural facilities there are pesticide sprayer kits that function much in the same way a chemical sprayer works. These units come equipped with a 5 HP engine and 50 gallon tank and can produce 500 psi at 10 gallons per minute. This allows the operator to cover a lot of area without having to constantly re-fill the tank. At 200 pounds and equipped with aluminum tie-downs, these units are easily transported in the bed of a pickup truck or could be towed by an ATV.

For smaller applications and pre-prep applications there are electric powered chemical sprayer models that can handle these jobs more efficiently than their gas counterparts. Most units run off 12 V power but some are capable of running off standard 110V power as well. The larger of the electrical powered units produce 60 PSI and is wall mountable. It comes equipped with a 100 foot hose giving the operator plenty of room to maneuver. Smaller units are portable and are available with either a 15 or 25 gallon tank. The 12V pump produces 1 gallon per minute which is perfect for misting applications while the 15 foot hose gives the operator access to hard to reach spaces.

Most manufacturers of this equipment offer all the accessories and many types of chemicals required for your chemical sprayer. As an added bonus many companies have strived to become more environmentally friendly and now offer environmentally safe chemicals.

It’s also important to select the right sprayer hose with your sprayer since most chemicals can cause corrosive damage to standard hoses. Using a specially designed and constructed braid reinforced PVC hose will ensure that it can stand up to repeated use with whatever chemicals you use.

Water Containment and Capture Systems

2009-08-10T16:41:00.005-04:00

With the problem of environmental pollution, it is essential in some businesses that a water containment system be used to help reduce the amount of chemicals that are released. Water containment and capture systems help hold the wastes until it can be released in a manner safe for the environment. This containment system is important in businesses where chemicals and other waste is given off through normal production, due to strict environmental regulations.

Water containment is an essential requirement for businesses, due to the environmental laws and regulations today. Allowing chemicals and certain wastes to get into the ground and then move into the water is dangerous for the animals, people, and other parts of the environment. By installing a water containment and water recycle system, this waste can be captured and then disposed of safely and properly to keep the impact upon the environment law. There are several different types of water containment systems and, depending upon your needs, you will find the right one for you.

For both industry and commercial buildings, it is often necessary to use water containment and capture system of some sort. One such system, called a vacu-boom, consists of a hollow tube that is placed on a hard surface to form a sort of dam on a down slope of flooring, so that the waste can be contained. The small openings in the tube that is connected to a vacuum hose help to capture the waste, so that it can be disposed of properly. You can even arrange the tube in a circular pattern to contain a spill or waste from washing equipment. This is a portable method of water containment that is very helpful in homes and in smaller applications.

This water containment system is used widely for many different applications. This can include on boats and ships, cleaning equipment indoors, cleaning planes and automobiles, and more. Both industrial and commercial businesses use water containment and capture systems to help keep wastewater from storm drains and the ground. By using these water containment systems, you can do your part to help keep chemicals from the environment as much as possible.

From inflatable containment systems to the Vacu-boom to portable dams to water and sand dams, you will find all of the pieces that you need to contain and capture waste and chemicals for your particular needs. EPA laws will be met and you will be meeting your environmental responsibility. These dams and containment systems can allow you to capture the waste so that it can be disposed of properly and easily. By using them for your commercial or industrial enterprise, you will be able to do your part in keeping the environment clean and safe.

Keeping hazardous materials from being released into the environment is very important. Laws have been passed against the releasing of chemicals into the environment and businesses that ignore these laws have to pay stiff penalties for harming the environment. By taking advantage of these water containment and capture systems, you can meet the regulations and help make an impact upon the environment.

How to Connect Trailer to Our Vehicle

2009-08-03T17:18:00.003-04:00

In order to comply with all safety standards both tow vehicles and towing trailer pressure power washers must be well-matched with all systems including wiring, braking, and hitching.

In regards to the hitching system the classification system that is in place must be followed. It makes a distinction between hitches by how much they are capable of actually towing in terms of both total and tongue weight. It is important to note that a number of manufacturers have hitches that clearly fall into each classification.

Ordinary hitches would include the weight-distributing hitch, are the weight-carrying hitch, and the fifth wheel hitch. Each has a different design and therefore a different function. For example, the weight carrying hitch is capable of carting every bit of a towing trailer’s tongue weight. Weight distributing hitches are used by means unique parts a receiver hitch. They work together to allocate the tongue weight between the tow vehicle and towing trailer axles. The fifth wheel hitch is made strong enough so that the hitch can attach to the tow vehicle and offer more strength. It connects with a king pin that locks into place securely.

Prior to buying a hitch it is important that one manufacturer’s reference guide to determine the weight and type that can be safely used. Confirm that safety chains can be used safely and correctly when mandated by law.
All brake systems must be fine tuned to accommodate towing needs according to the tow vehicle that is being used and how much weight is on the towing trailer when it is completely loaded. Be advised that often states will require different laws for towing axle utility trailers that have a weight of over 1,500 pounds. Some require a break away switch or a separate braking system as a safety precaution if the two vehicle and the trailer separate.

Towing trailers generally function on one of two brake systems. Electronic brakes and surge brakes are the two systems that can be used. Electronic brakes will depend on a control box that can be reached by the driver. They also make automatic and manual control available. There must be extra wiring done to provide electrical power.
Surge brakes are usually put in by the manufacturer of the trailer. They start when the trailer pushes ahead adjacent to the hitch while the trailer is slowing down.

Surge brakes are set in motion by a master cylinder at the joint of the hitch and trailer tongue. The tow vehicle’s hydraulic system should never be dependent on the brake system’s hydraulic fluid.

It is important to know and follow the manufacturer’s advice in regards to your brake choice. A number of states call for braking systems on every axle of a trailer. Information is available on this topic by getting in touch with the motor vehicle administration for your state.

Federal law mandates that all towing trailers must have operating brake lights, turn signals, side and rear reflectors, taillights, and side marker lights. Often back up lights are also necessary. These lights are powered by a minimum of four connectors that make up part of the tow vehicle’s electrical system. It is not uncommon for manufacturers of the two vehicles to actually provide seven way connectors that exceed the basic functions. It is important to note that to ensure accuracy the signals on both the trailer and the tow vehicle match.

Several tow vehicles make use of isolated wires for turning and stopping signals. If this is the case then you will have to buy a convertor for your taillight. The job of the convertor is to unite the isolated wires. Most of the tow packages that are factory-installed will come equipped with this feature.

How to Start a Car Wash Business

2009-07-28T13:49:00.009-04:00

Starting a car wash business can be lucrative indeed and current projections suggest that a 15-20% ROI is a safe estimate over a 5-7 year period. You must consider certain factors to guarantee greater success when you start a car wash business. This will act as a “how to guide” to simplify your venture.

Choosing your lot

It is imperative that you select the perfect lot to start a car wash. The best measure to follow regarding lot size is dependent on the number of bays that you would use. A standard self serve car wash would utilize four bays. Follow this: 100-120 feet deep times 75 feet wide. Consider location and if the area that you are considering will allow easy access from all directions while offering an uninterrupted flow of traffic. The desired and posted speed for this area should not exceed 40mph. Research has indicated that a car wash business that offer a drive thru design are more profitable then those that require customers to make other maneuvers getting in and out. The best areas for success would be adjacent to residential areas, busy traffic areas, and near apartment complexes. Finally, consider the cost factor and that your monthly payment for the lot is not more than 15% of the car wash monthly gross income.
Size of the bays and building

The best size for bays is an inside measurement of 16 x 28 with the exception of bays for trucks which should be 18 x 28. The car wash pump station room should be between 10 and 15 feet wide by 28 feet long. Car bays should be 10 feet in height and truck bays should be 12-14 feet in height.
Placement of the building

It is important for your car wash business that your building is positioned in a way that cars can be in line waiting to wash their vehicle. There should be sufficient room for at least two cars to be waiting. You can use this room for the car wash vacuum systems however it should in no way hinder the flow of traffic. Areas that are designated for vacuuming and drying should be conveniently out of the way. Finally, if at all possible the bays should be open on the south side of your car wash so that when cold weather approaches there will not be as much ice accumulation.
Inside bays or outside bays?

Especially in bucolic areas, some car washes use an outside bay which is often easier access for trucks, tractors, and trailers to get washed. You should know in advance that outside bays usually make half or less of what an inside bay will make so figure that into your projections. It is a better option to enlarge one bay specifically for that purpose. Only do this if there is reason to believe that you will have to accommodate these types of vehicles.
Anticipated revenue for bays

To start a car wash business there has to be 1000-1500 customers that can sustain it. Therefore, the national average of revenue for each bay would be about $1,350.00 monthly but it could be greater or less than.
Anticipated revenue for vacuums

To determine the number of vacuums that will suffice when you start a car wash consider one and one half vacuums per bay. Each vacuum will generally show revenue of just over $200.00 per month.
Anticipated revenue for vending

Assuming that vending machines offer a minimum of four diverse products, one should expect monthly revenue of about $350.
Anticipated operating costs

As of 2006 operating costs for a car wash business averaged just above 50% of the gross income. This figure reflects a possible 13% for labor. However, fees for income tax, depreciation, or lease payments were not reflected in this figure. These figures will differ by area.
Options

Hot wash
Hot rinse (cold climates)
Cold rinse (warm climates)
Hot or cold wax
Soapy brush Rinse/ Spot-free (increases revenue)
Tire Cleaner
Pre-soak methods
Instantaneous Tank less water heaters as opposed to conventional water heaters
Heat systems in floor (colder climates)
Radiant tube heaters (Above-head)
Meters / Bill changers (increase gross revenues by 10%)
Vending products (i.e. towels, Armor all, fragrance trees and window cleaner)

The Maze of Pressure Washers

2009-07-20T16:07:00.001-04:00

Most people assume that purchasing pressure washers is a simple matter of going to the store and choosing one, but they do not consider that there are many types and styles of pressure washers that they need to choose from. This decision can be quite a difficult and overwhelming one if you don’t prepare before you visit the store. By learning more about the types of pressure washers that are available, you can choose the right one for you and your needs. What are the differences in pressure washers?

Hot or cold pressure washers. This difference is whether you are going to use cold or hot water to do your cleaning. Hot water cleaning is more for areas that are greasy or oily, while cold water cleaning is for other uses. A hot water pressure washer should not be used on surfaces that may be heat sensitive, including plastic, rubber, and some types of paint. Consider where you are going to be using your pressure washer to determine which type that you will need for your particular use.

Pressure differences. A certain amount of pressure is needed to break the bond between the surface of the item that you are cleaning and the dirt or other thing that you are trying to remove. There are many different degrees of pressure available on pressure washers, so you need to find the right one for your use. If you are planning on using a pressure washer for over 20 hours a week or for work, then a higher pressured commercial washer would be a better choice, because it works more efficiently. If you are only going to use it periodically to wash your deck, boats, or other things around your home, then a lower pressured washer may be the right choice for you.

Gas, electric, diesel, and hydraulic pressure washer. The next decision that you will have to make is whether you want a gas or electric pressure washer. A gas powered pressure washer is more mobile than an electric pressure washer. It is great for using around the home or other area where you need the added mobility to wash cars, boats, homes, and more. An electric pressure washer is a good choice for a factory or shop where you are more able to keep it plugged into an electrical source. Diesel pressure washers are more expensive than gas or electric models, but they will also outlast these models, so you will get maximum value for the added expense. A hydraulic pressure washer is a very economical choice that is both light and efficient to use.

How do you use pressure washers? Are they hard to use? The main goal when using pressure washers is to break the bond between the surface and the dirt. This process is made quicker and more efficient by using a pressure washer. The combination of the pressure, water flow, and detergent can help to break the bond between the surface of the item and dirt. You are letting the machine do the work for you, rather than you having to scrub a surface to get it clean. That is the best part of a power washer. From using it on cars, houses, boats, decks, and other surfaces, you can help to clean the surface or to prepare it for paint or other treatment. Let one of the many different types of pressure washers work for you. You will be glad you did.

Water Blasters

2009-07-17T12:29:00.003-04:00

Imagine if your garden hose could deliver water with 100% more pressure than it does now. That is just the very beginning of what a pressure washer can do for you. These water blasters shoot out water pressure that is capable of cleaning things that otherwise would not have been able to be cleaned for many reasons such as reach or pressure. Grime and dust from places unimaginable can be washed away with ease using a pressure washer.

Water blasters or pressure washers are very popular for heavy duty industrial and commercial use and many industries have come to rely on pressure washers to do the jobs that otherwise could not be accomplished. These are heavy duty cleaners that rely on insurmountable water pressure to get rid of such things as dirt, grease, grime, paint, and hardened deposits.

There is a special need for the use of water blasters in industries such as construction, machinery plants, automotive, agricultural, farm equipment, and food processing plants. There are many types of industrial pressure washers on the market today. These come equipped with many different capabilities and capacities in regards to PSI (pounds per square inch), water pressure, gallons of water per minute (GPM) that the pressure washer can deliver, water flow and horsepower.

Ranging from 1000 PSI to 4000 PSI and 2 GPM to 11 GPM, there are also other factors to consider such as voltage which can range from 115-575 in single or three phases. Another key factor is price which is generally based on the above features. Advancements in technology have placed some water blasters in very high end markets. For example, there are various models of pressure washers available today, direct drive, belt drive, and trailer mounted are just a few of the models of commercial power washers that are available today.

Water blasters will vary significantly depending on various options and accessories that are included. There are several options that are dependant on your own specific needs. Using pressure washers for concrete repair restoration is becoming more in demand for various reasons. Water blasting can remove any coating so that new coatings can be applied. Pressure washers for concrete restoration will remove paint, water stains, and all types of dirt that might be embedded in the concrete. Pressure washers have a way of making things look brand new again which can be a lot more affordable in the long run than consistent replacement.

Investing in a pressure washer is a wise investment for any business as it will be something that can be used for multiple jobs and will always add new market value to your business regardless of its nature. Even if the interior of your business is not one that regularly accumulates grease, grime, and stubborn stains, surely the outside could be well maintained with a machine of this magnitude. There are multiple uses for this and you are likely to think of new uses each time you go to use it. Remember, this is not a purchase, this is an investment.

Gutter Cleaning with Gas Power Washers

2009-07-10T16:16:00.002-04:00

Every year a homeowner or business owner is faced with the dreaded job of gutter cleaning. No one wants to do it because it is both time consuming and a tough job. There is good and bad news! The bad news is that it MUST be done, yes, the gutters have to be cleaned or the repercussions will be bleak. The good news is that the use of a gas power washer with gutter cleaner wand will turn this dreaded task into one that is much more effective and efficient.

It is imperative that your gutter remain free of clogs so that proper drainage can be ensured. Leaves, trash, dirt, among other unwanted things can actually cause your gutter to break as well. So, you have to get that stuff out of there. If you don't you will likely end up with roof problems in the very near future such as leaks and shingles needing replacement.

When using a gas power washer the job is literally a breeze. The time that it used to take to clean the gutters with a standard garden hose is chopped into quarters when using the gas power washer because the force combined with the pressure break up anything and everything that is inside of the gutters, even the stuff that is stuck inside.

People that own gas power washers are likely to be the first on the block to get outside and clean their gutters. The reason for this is because it isn't as dreaded as it is for the poor guy that embarks on the task with a ladder and a hose. You do have other options that will allow you to pack away the ladder and the hose route and move along with advancing technology. You can hire an outside company to do the job for you or you can save the money and buy a cart type gas power washer. You will be able to use this for a lot more than just cleaning the gutters as it works awesome for deck, house, patio, and even fence cleaning.

Gas power washers are the perfect device for cleaning those gutters. It is important to note that you don't want to bust out the pressure washer when temperatures are teetering around the freezing mark or you might find yourself living in an ice castle. Fall is a perfect time to perform this task.

While you are washing you may decide to pressure wash the whole exterior of your home. There are extra attachments that can be purchased for any type of problem that you could encounter. If your home is surrounded by trees it is a guarantee that the gutter will be clogged with leaves and needles. A gas pressure washer is just about the only way to ensure that this problem is taken care of properly. If you are cleaning the gutters and notice that the amount of water coming out does not seem adequate then there is likely still a clog present. You would then simply increase the GPM volume which will increase the pressure, ensuring a clean spout.

What to consider when buying Gas Power Washers

2009-06-26T15:09:00.004-04:00

Buying a power washer is not quite as simple as just buying a power washer. There are choices and those choices should be made depending on your needs and your specific situation. The first decision you will be faced with is buying an electric or a gas power washer. The difference between the two is the electric will not be as big, it will be quieter, easier to handle and it will be easier to maintain. Gas power washers will cost more and they will be much more powerful.

How will you know which one will be best for you depend on what you are planning to do with it? Do you just plan on washing such things as decks, patio furniture, and maybe your car, if so an electric power washer will likely do? If you are considering this purchase because you plan to clean concrete, your roof, or to strip paint then you will surely need the gas power washer.

It isn't really necessary to concern yourself with the power washer's spray or its PSI (Per Square Inch) coverage unless you have intentions to tackle some bigger jobs with it. If you purchase a gas power washer that has 3,000 PSI and plan to just wash your car with it then you should be aware that it will probably take the paint off of your vehicle. However, if you intend to pursue bigger jobs then you may be better off buying a gas power washer to be certain that it can handle the job.

The units that have the most PSI, are designed with the biggest reach, and can be used where no electricity is available are the gas powered washers. These are more industrial; they clean faster, and offer higher performance. Power washers are designed for heavy duty cleaning. They can be used on most any surface including steel, glass, wood, fiber, and concrete. Gas power washers can eliminate grease, dust, grime, and oil.

The power of the unit is dependant on both the pressure and the water volume. Consider that most industrial jobs would require 2,000-3,000 PSI. That may help form a foundation for your decision based on your needs. Next you should determine about how often that you might use your unit. Obviously, a residential user would not utilize their machine as much as a commercial user would so take that into consideration before buying.

Power washers that are designed for residential usage are expected to use less than 100 hours annually. When taking these factors into consideration it is much more likely that you will buy a washer that is best suited for you. Make sure that you buy quality regardless of the style of washer that you will buy. Another thing that is good to check out is the cost and availability of pressure washer parts and accessories down the line.

The advantage of buying gas is there is no need for electricity, more power, you will use less time and effort to do the job and they last a lot longer. On the down side they do usually require more maintenance, they are louder and heavier, and can only be used outdoors.

Tips for Using your Pressure Washer

2009-06-16T16:26:00.002-04:00

Your pressure washer is a great tool for cleaning up small messes as well as taking on the task of cleaning large projects. If you are in to four wheeling and love to run through the mud, you might relate to the disgust that comes after, trying to remove the hard crusted mud from your vehicle. The pressure washer is a great device for taking off the hard to remove chunks of mud from underneath your vehicle.

If you have taken your truck or jeep to the car wash after a good day of mudding, you know how frustrating it can be to try and remove the mud, as the drain starts to clog and you get the dirty looks from the owners. You can now do the clean up in the privacy of your own home, with the same amount of pressure and power.

Your pressure washer will come in handy for removing dirt, grime, bird droppings, and many other items from your driveway, patio, home, and even car. You can spend hours with a sponge and a bucket trying to go around and remove all the small messes that are left behind from birds, animals, storms, and spills. Your arm may begin to feel like jell-O and you might even end up with a touch if tendonitis in your shoulder from all the scrubbing.

A power washer makes the job easy, you simply turn it on, aim, and the job is done that quickly.

A pressure washer is a mechanical device that uses water from your ordinary garden hose hookup; the motor will push the water through the pump and create pressure that can be in excess of 5000 PSI.

You can use your power washer for many jobs around the home:

Cleaning your garage floor
Removing stains from your brick home
Cleaning and restoring siding on your home
Stripping paint from wood siding or a deck
Cleaning a patio or front porch
Make your vehicle rims shine
Wash your car
Clean patio furniture
Restore a wood deck
Cleaning screens

The list goes on and there is no end to the amount of projects a pressure washer will come in handy for.

You have to ensure that your pressure is set appropriately for the job at hand. You won’t want to use high pressure or a lower degree tip for softer materials such as canvas, painted surfaces, or wood. You can easily shred wood and dent metal, remove paint, or even crumble concrete if you have the pressure set to high or allow a direct hit to the surface with the nozzle too close.

A power washer is used for personal and commercial use and even though the commercial grade style power washer is available to the public, does not make it right for everyone and every job. Read the instructions and learn to use your pressure washer before attempting to operate it.

Buying a Power Washer for Your Job Applications

2009-06-08T12:21:00.002-04:00

Buying a power washer is not quite as simple as just buying a power washer. There are choices and those choices should be made depending on your needs and your specific situation. The first decision you will be faced with is buying an electric or a gas power washer. The difference between the two is the electric will not be as big, it will be quieter, easier to handle and it will be easier to maintain. Gas power washers will cost more and they will be much more powerful.

How will you know which one will be best for you depend on what you are planning to do with it? Do you just plan on washing such things as decks, patio furniture, and maybe your car, if so an electric power washer will likely do? If you are considering this purchase because you plan to clean concrete, your roof, or to strip paint then you will surely need the gas power washer.

It isn't really necessary to concern yourself with the power washer's spray or its Per Square Inch (PSI) coverage unless you have intentions to tackle some bigger jobs with it. If you purchase a gas power washer that has 3,000 PSI and plan to just wash your car with it then you should be aware that it will probably take the paint off of your vehicle. However, if you intend to pursue bigger jobs then you may be better off buying a gas power washer to be certain that it can handle the job.

The units that have the most PSI, are designed with the biggest reach, and can be used where no electricity is available are the gas powered washers. These are more industrial; they clean faster, and offer higher performance. Power washers are designed for heavy duty cleaning. They can be used on most any surface including steel, glass, wood, fiber, and concrete. Gas power washers can eliminate grease, dust, grime, and oil.

The power of the unit is dependent on both the pressure and the water volume. Consider that most industrial jobs would require 2,000-3,000 PSI. That may help form a foundation for your decision based on your needs. Next you should determine about how often that you might use your unit. Obviously, a residential user would not utilize their machine as much as a commercial user would so take that into consideration before buying.

Power washers that are designed for residential usage are expected to use less than 100 hours annually. When taking these factors into consideration it is much more likely that you will buy a washer that is best suited for you. Make sure that you buy quality regardless of the style of washer that you will buy. Another thing that is good to check out is the cost and availability of accessories and replacement parts down the line.

Water Pumps 101: Everything You Need to Know About Transfer Pumps

2009-06-05T17:11:00.001-04:00

You may be wondering if installing a water pump is really necessary. After all, what is a water pump and how can it enhance your power washing capabilities? Water pumps are the perfect way to transfer water from a storage unit or even a hose or faucet to your power washer with ease. Available in a variety of sizes, transfer water pumps can be used for virtually every job, although they are know to offer the most benefit when used on bigger jobs that require continuous equipment refilling or at job sites where water tanks are needed due to a lack of a permanent water supply.

Choosing the right water pump for your needs can be a bit intimidating considering the number of styles and sizes available to the average consumer. However, there is one important element to keep in mind: regardless of the water pump’s model, they all contain these basic design features:

A three-chamber pump head
Priming capabilities
12 VDC battery
Temperature maximum limit
Fitting options

Transfer water pumps usually run on gasoline, diesel, or an AC or DC motor for their power source. They are designed to suction water from the filling agent (usually a hose or water tank), and force it through the exit valve, into your power washing equipment.

When choosing your new water pump, be sure to carefully consider what it will be used for; what type of job site it will be used in; what size you will need (bigger is not always better); what restrictions the model you choose features; and more. Not every water pump is equal. When purchasing a pump for your business, you must be sure that it is intended for use in the exact manner you will likely need it. For instance, some water pumps are designed to transfer flammable liquids, while others are made to transfer water only. If you will be adding cleaning compounds or chemicals to the water you run through your power washer, make sure that any water pump you use is designed to handle that sort of chemical or you risk causing damage to your unit.

The height of the water spray may also be a consideration when feeding into power washing equipment. To determine exactly what size pump you will need, consider the amount of water that must be continuously transferred from your holding tank to your power washing equipment.

Next, consider the size water pump you will need. Certainly, larger ones are great for big jobs, but ask yourself if you really need the biggest one available? The right sized pump will make your power washing job easier; while the wrong size may be a hindrance.

Another important factor to consider is the types and sizes of fittings you will need to connect your equipment to your new water pump. Again, the correct accessories are extremely important to utilizing all of your cleaning equipment properly – and in the safest way possible.

If you have a question about which water pump models will work best with you, check with a trained salesperson at UltimateWasher.com. Otherwise you may find yourself with a water pump that you can use in the way you need to.

Gutter Cleaning Made Easy Using Your Power Washing Equipment

2009-05-26T13:05:00.001-04:00

It is the job most homeowners hate: cleaning your debris-filled gutters. Unclogging your gutters and freeing them from the leaves, sticks, bugs, twigs and other garbage that collects in their crevices throughout the year can be a messy and tedious job. But wait! There is no need to spend your entire weekend perched atop a ladder, unclogging your gutters with rags, a broom and your garden hose. Make gutter cleaning quick and easy by using a pressure washer.

Simply attaching a telescopic wand and a gutter cleaner wand that can get inside of those tough to reach gutter and downspout crevices, to your power washer, you will be able to flush out those gutters in no time, leaving them free of the debris that can damage your roof and leave your home vulnerable to wind and water damage during the next bad storm.

Your power washer can be a terrific cleaning aid when trying to clean your home’s gutters. The first thing you will need to do when cleaning your gutters with a power washer is to check the top part of your gutters for loose debris. Remove any leaves or sticks by hand, then use your power washer to rinse out any remaining garbage left stuck to the inside of the gutters.

Continue your gutter cleaning regime by flushing out your downspouts with your pressure washer and gutter cleaner wand. The best way to do this is to point a stream of water with a high GPM through the downspout. The power of the water should force any sticks, leaves or other debris that may be stuck through the spout. As soon as you see that the water is running through the spout easily, you will know that the spout is clear and can move onto the next one.

The final step to your gutter cleaning job is to re-run the power washer through the gutters to take care of any leftover debris that could be stuck in them. Once you notice that the water being poured into the gutters is running through the newly cleared downspouts, you will know that they are all cleared of any remaining debris.

There are two times every year when you should take the time to clean your gutters:

The early spring after the harsh winter winds have left debris in them
The late fall after the leaves have all fallen off of any nearby trees

Making sure all of your gutters and downspouts are cleared will leave you with the peace of mind to know that your home will not be susceptible to water damage that is often caused when debris blocks ice from melting properly, which can damage to the roof, and when rainwater is not drained properly, and is left to seep through window cracks and roof seems.

Keeping your gutters clear of any type of debris is the best way to keep the exterior of your home in tip-top shape, and using your power washer to clean your gutters is the most time effective way to get the job done quickly and easily.

General Pump for Power Washer Equipment

2009-05-18T15:12:00.005-04:00

Pressure washers have two main components—the engine and the pump. The high-pressure pump is the core of the system and a good quality pump, such as a General Pump, will last for years with minimal maintenance.

Any pump that puts out pressure over 150 PSI (pounds per square inch) is considered a high-pressure pump. The most common high-pressure pump is the positive displacement reciprocating plunger/piston type pump. General pumps are of this design, using solid ceramic plungers. General Pumps come in two basic designs. For medium to heavy home use, the most popular is the GPEZ series 44 with a triplex plunger pump and direct-drive system. They start at about $300.00. The General Pumps GPT series 47 solid shaft pump series 66 is a high flow triplex pump for belt-driven equipment. This General Pump is preferred in pressure washer applications and start at about $500.

There are duplex and triplex plunger pumps, but the triplex creates a smoother flow and is used most often with today’s pressure washers. Axial pumps are sometimes found on cheaper consumer models of pressure washers, and serve the purpose for homeowners who only use them occasionally, but they are usually just thrown away and replaced when broken. If you plan to keep and use your pressure washer regularly, you are better off with the triplex, ceramic plunger models such as the General Pump Series 66 high flow triplex pump.

Positive displacement pumps work with the positive displacement of fluid and fixed volume. The fluid is mechanically pushed through the channels on a regular cycle. The pressure and volume remain constant. Pressure is created when this flow is pushed through the restrictive nozzle orifice. The size of the nozzle orifice is chosen for the desired pressure at the desired flow. If you notice a decrease in pressure, check the nozzle for wear before thinking the pump is failing. High-pressure pumps today, such as General Pumps, are very robust and when properly maintained, can be virtually trouble free.

What size pump do you need? Pressure washer power is calculated by multiplying the pressure per square inch (PSI) by the Gallons per minute (GPM). The easiest way to determine the right pump size for your engine is to multiply the engine horsepower by 1100. This gives the cleaning units (CU’s) that your engine is made to deliver. (Cleaning units are figured by multiplying GPM x PSI.)

To keep your General Pump in top shape for years to come there are some things you should be careful to do. You should change the oil every 3 to 5 months or after 500 hours of use. This schedule should be maintained AFTER the initial oil change, which should be done after the first 50 hours of break-in.

You should always flush your General Pump with clean water after each use and use an environmentally friendly anti-freeze. Never store your General Pump with water left in it, and be careful to check the manufacture recommendations when using strong chemicals in the pump.

General Pump has been in the high-pressure pump business for over 30 years. They use forged brass manifolds, guaranteed for life. General Pumps have oversize connecting rods and wear resistant solid ceramic plungers with continuous lubricating packing.

Understanding Rotary Spray Nozzle

2009-05-13T12:41:00.006-04:00

Pressure washer rotary nozzles are each marked with a specific number that will usually be stamped into the nozzle itself. The purpose of this mark is to determine the angle of the spray and the orifice size. This is usually a four or five code or number. The first couple indicates the spray angle in degrees; the later of the numbers indicate the size of the orifice. You must be very careful when you are using these rotary spray nozzles as they are spraying at a pressure that could seriously injure someone.

A rotary spray nozzle relies upon centrifugal force which is what pushes the extreme force from the nozzle and designated the spray pattern. There are different nozzle types and each has its own defined use. It is the pattern in which the spray is emitted that breaks down the dirt and debris.

By using a rotary spray nozzle, you will have the ability to remove rust, to clean plastic or metal, remove paint, including graffiti, strip the paint from walls, concrete washing, removal of gum, boat cleaning, cleaning dirty garage floors, removing mud and clay from highway and construction equipment, and stripping paint from wood exterior. There are many other tough jobs as well that can be accomplished via these methods.

The type of nozzle will determine the distance of coverage. Rotary spray nozzles come in various sizes for this exact purpose. Ranging from small to a stainless steel super heavy duty rotary nozzle the possibilities are endless. The smallest nozzle generates about 2,500 PSI and can withstand a temperature of about 140 degrees. They are generally ceramic and lightweight.

The medium nozzle offers a maximum pressure of 3,000 PSI but a higher temperature endurance of 217 degrees. It is ceramic and weighs less than one pound. The large nozzle offers a maximum PSI of 4,350 and a maximum temperature of 185 degrees. To offer cleaning even deeper and faster the large size rotary spray nozzle offers an amazing 4,000 RPM.

For the biggest jobs you should look at the super large rotary nozzle. This nozzle is specially designed for use with pressure washer models that produce 5,000 PSI and 4.5 GPM. It withstands a hot 130 degrees; it’s ceramic and weighs almost 2 pounds. For the very toughest jobs look to the stainless steel super heavy duty rotary nozzle. This is the big guy when it comes to nozzles. Handling a maximum PSI of 7,350 and a maximum temperature of 130 degrees this is the nozzle that handles anything.

There is nothing quite like the turbo nozzles and they are a very sought after accessory. It turns standard pressure into powerful scrubbing power using a jet stream of rotating water; it works great for scrubbing large and flat areas similar to patios or driveways. These nozzles actually have the ability to improve the cleaning efficiency of the pressure washer itself. The rotation is at such a high speed that it increases both the cleaning area and the intensity of the pressure washer too.

Gas Pressure Washers for Commercial Use

2009-05-04T10:51:00.004-04:00

Pressure washers are becoming increasingly popular as homeowners find all kinds of uses for them, and others start thriving business’s offering services from cleaning to stripping paint and unclogging drains.

The biggest choice is whether to power the washer with an electric or gas motor. For light duty, cleaning patio furniture, cars, etc., the typical homeowner is often better off with the electric type as they are quieter, lighter, and cheaper to operate. They also are cleaner than gas pressure washers. However, if you have larger projects in mind, or are going commercial, you will need the power of a gas pressure washer.

The unit used in determining power of pressure washers is cleaning units (CU). This is calculated by multiplying the pressure per square inch (PSI) by the water flow rate in gallons per minute (GPM). Most home faucets deliver 5-8 gallons of water a minute. This equals 10 pounds of pressure per square inch (PSI). When you add a spray nozzle to a garden hose, you increase the pressure about 4 times giving you 40 PSI. A gas pressure washer can boost this pressure exponentially to anywhere between 1,000 – 9,500 PSI. No longer are you simply pushing dirt around—with a gas pressure washer you have real cleaning power in hand.

Gas pressure washers are noisier and more polluting than electric power washers, but the fact is that the smallest gas pressure washer is stronger than the largest electric models and can save you time on bigger jobs. Electric pressure washers can be used inside, don’t require oil, fuel, or spark plugs, while gas pressure washers can be used in any remote place and usually come with more durable pumps. Most Honda motors and some Briggs and Stratton models are already meeting the stricter emission standards due to go into effect by 2012.

How much pressure do you need? For light household items, you can do with 1000-1500 PSI. For patio furniture and decks, 1400-1850 PSI will get the job done faster. For large areas, and cleaning house siding, you will need 2000-3000 PSI to be happy with the washer. For commercial use, or heavy jobs such as stripping paint or cleaning concrete, a gas pressure washer that can deliver 2800-9500 PSI is needed.

Think of it this way, the difference from 1 GPM to 3 GPM will actually cut your cleaning time in half. Homeowners often over-buy and it is recommended to really consider your needs. If you are the average homeowner, you will only use your washer about 20 hours a year, for light cleaning. It may be more cost effective to buy a light duty electric washer and then rent a gas pressure washer on the occasion you may need one.

With a large array of pressure washer parts and accessories available, gas pressure washers can do many jobs. Along with the basic cleaning applications of toys, cars, furniture, patios and decks, siding, and more, there is the removal of gutter debris, cleaning of bricks and concrete, flushing of clogged drains, and even paint removal. There are hot-water tank add-ons (check manufacturer’s specs), and chemical infusion kits as well as sand/water blasting kits all of which make your gas pressure washer more versatile than ever.

Industrial Use - High Pressure Water Blasters

2009-04-24T16:09:00.003-04:00

Water blasters offer versatile and extreme cleaning solutions for all types of industrial and small business demands. With units offering up to 40,600 PSI, the applications are endless.

Water blasters can be used to clean paint, stain, oil build-up, rust, hard-water deposits, mold, as well as pipes, tubes, and lines of all kinds. When used without chemicals, water blasters clean with virtually no negative environmental impact. Even with the need for added abrasives, dry ice, baking soda, and river sand are often used and there is still zero environmental impact as these are non-toxic. In many applications, cleaning can be achieved with pressure alone, which can be a big money saver. Water blasters go well beyond cleaning, too. There are water blasters that polish, cut, prepare material for re-surfacing, and remove debris as heavy as concrete.

The machinist industry has found that using high-pressure water jets of a water blaster to de-burr and clean machined parts is an ideal method to use. It not only cuts down on inconsistencies and intensive manual labor, but it removes these burrs and other particles, and cleans at the same time. Water blasters get into the hard-to-reach internal features of the parts for superb cleaning.

The water blaster systems on the market today offer a lot of choice for individual needs. Complete water blaster units come with everything required for basic application, such as the pressure generator, abrasive injectors, nozzles or wheels, dust collectors and cabinets. Components can also be purchased separately to build your own water blaster system or replace worn parts.

The purchase of a water blaster will depend on many things, but the basic primary considerations are size, mounting, and how it is powered. Water blasters come with either electric or diesel motors with 45 HP up to 250 HP. Electric units are ideal for jobs in fixed locations. Size and mounting offer more choice and you must evaluate your needs. Do you need hand held portability, or a larger mobile unit such as those mounted on a trailer for getting to large industrial jobs? There are trailer-mounted units in several sizes that are capable of pressures from 8,000 PSI up to 40,600 PSI. For even higher levels of performance, there are stationary models with up to 250 HP that give 40,600 PSI with delivery rates up to 16.6 GPM (gallons per minute).

There is also a water blaster called a “crawler.” This unit is built on tracks and is made to scan over a surface using magnetic (or vacuum) feet, which are mounted on the tracks. The tracks guide the jet cutter head as it crosses the surface.

The specific components of the water blaster system are the pressure generator, abrasive injectors, water tank and nozzles or wheels. The pressure generator increases the pressure of the unit and operates with either a plunger-type intensifier pump, or a crankshaft driven plunger pump. Intensifiers are more commonly used, as crankshaft pumps tend to wear down the seals faster. Crankshaft driven pumps are smoother and cost less to operate however.

Increase Company Profits By Offering Customers Duct Cleaning Services

2009-04-17T12:50:00.001-04:00

In today’s struggling financial environment, savvy business owners know the importance of offering their clients a multitude of services in order to maintain – and even increase – profits.

Take a good look at your pressure washing equipment. If you have been satisfied to offer standard cleaning services, than you may be missing out on a great opportunity to gain more customers and make more money.

Duct cleaning is a great way to increase business – and profits – in a sagging economy. As more and more homeowners and businesses realize the importance of keeping their heating and cooling systems clear of debris and mold for a safer (and healthier) environment, they are looking to professionals like yourself to offer the duct cleaning services they need.

Requiring little investment and the purchase of a few small accessories to affix to the pressure washing equipment you already own and use, duct cleaning can increase your business almost immediately for a fraction of the cost of adding other services.

By investing just a few hundred dollars in duct cleaners, you will be able to market your cleaning services to clients in a whole new way by adding these important cleaning services to your business repertoire:

Cleaning heating and air conditioning ducts in both residential and commercial/business sites
Cleaning out trash chutes in manufacturing plants, hotels, and other businesses
Vents (all types and sizes)
Restaurant hoods
Tanks
and more … much more

In addition to providing you with a way to offer your customers and clients these important services, adding Air Duct Cleaners to your power washing equipment can also allow you to clean Pipes, Kegs, Chutes, Chimneys, Gutters, Barrels, Containers, Drains, and Hoods quickly and easily.

The perfect accessory for any hot or cold pressure washer, duct cleaners are made of a corrosion-resistant material, and feature a state-of-the-art carbide swivel made of the highest quality Swiss made craftsmanship.

With so many different duct cleaners available on the market today, you may be wondering which one(s) will best suit your needs. Here is a quick rundown of the most popular accessory models:

The Fixed Duct Cleaner

Designed especially for use with water and cleaning additive at high r.p.m., the fixed duct cleaner is perfect for vertical chutes since it does not offer an adjustable arm.

Adjustable Duct Cleaner

The adjustable arm on this model allows the user to spray at different angles for a perfect 360° cleaning.

TYR Mobile Unit

The perfect tool for cleaning horizontal ducts, this mobile cart unit features side to side and height adjustments which keep the duct cleaner from bouncing against the walls and possibly causing breakage or damage to the duct while cleaning it.

Vertical Silo Cleaner

This handy unit is a self-guiding cleaning device that can be used on virtually any surface. Adjustable guides and interchangeable spray arms, make this the perfect tool for cleaning silos ranging from 7'-12' in Diameter.
In order to offer your customers the most comprehensive cleaning available to keep their heating and cooling systems working at peak capacity, be sure to contact Ultimate Washer about the tools and accessories you will need in order to offer this highly-sought-after cleaning service.

Electric Pressure Washers Can Be Used For a Variety of Jobs

2009-04-13T11:31:00.007-04:00

It does not matter if you are a homeowner looking for an easier way to wash your windows and vinyl siding; a business owner trying to make it faster and easier to handle those tough cleaning jobs; or a power washing company on a quest to save time and money in your day-to-day operations, investing in a state-of-the-art pressure washing system is bound to reap the rewards and benefits you seek. Of course finding the right electric pressure washer make and model will take some experience, so why not ask the experts at Ultimate Washer for help?

No matter what the job, Ultimate Washer can steer you toward the right electric pressure washing equipment. From the smallest, most cost effective unit on the market, to those high-powered ones being used by contractors worldwide, you will be amazed at the time and money you can save by adding an electric pressure washer to your garage or equipment shed.

Heavy duty pressure washers can help you get rid of the dirt, grime and tough stains found on those hard to reach awnings; fleet vehicles; buildings; floors; garage space; and more. Ultimate Washer offers its customers only the best in electric pressure washing equipment in order to help them create a dirt free job site or business environment. Flat surface cleaners, for example, provide a more general way to eliminate dirt from a variety of surfaces and are great for any business; while turbo tips can handle those tough cleaning jobs by clearing away debris and removing tough stains in walls, floors, sidings, awnings, decks, patios and more. Hot water pressure washers are also available for those who prefer the deeper cleaning action of steam and temperature compared to cold water usage.

Worried about space limitations? That too is easily remedied with smaller units that can be wall mounted, saving storage space for average sized businesses and those with limited storage capabilities.

Still not sure if adding an electric pressure washer to your equipment list is worth the overall investment? Consider the many cleaning jobs an electric pressure washer can handle throughout your home and business:

Duct cleaning
Garbage shoot clean outs
Vent cleaning
Restaurant hood cleanings
Awnings and vinyl siding
Walls, garages, cement floors and more

Electric pressure washers offer two other main advantages: they can be used indoors and they are ultra quiet. This can be a real plus for the professional power washer (and even the residential owner) who needs to tackle a tough cleaning job indoors, but doesn’t want to expose the home’s inhabitants with a lot of chemical fumes, smalls or noise. With an electric pressure washer there are no fumes and very limited noise distractions to deal with, making it both safer and more pleasant for those remaining in the house during the cleaning process.

There is plenty of dirt everywhere. Chances are you have some dirt and grime right now that you are finding hard to remove. Invest in an electric pressure washer today to get rid of unsightly stains everywhere on your property or job site. With hundreds of makes and models available to meet every personal or business budget, electric pressure washers may be one of the easiest, fastest and most cost effective ways to get any cleaning job done in your home, business or construction site. Not sure which make or model will best suit your needs? Ask a qualified Ultimate Washer sales representative for help. They will be happy to review the types of electric pressure washers the company offers and find one to get your job done right.

Use of High Pressure Pump

2009-04-06T09:33:00.004-04:00

Most high pressure pumps are designed specifically for commercial and industrial situations. They will move air or liquid at a smooth, even pace. Depending on the model, a high pressure pump may be programmable or come with a timer, flow rate display, stop function, multifunction valves and other features. There are certain things that should be considered before purchasing a high pressure pump. Look at the output flow rate, measured in milliliters, liters, quarts or gallons per minute or hour, output pressure, measured in pounds per square inch, and applicable substances, as corrosive liquids require corrosion-resistant high pressure pumps. Know what you need from a high pressure pump. High pressure pumps are made to work effectively but only when they are utilized as the manufacturer intended. This means that you need to know your jobs.

The uses of high pressure pumps are almost limitless, and so are the options available. Check out the right high pressure pump for the type of product you need. Maintain your high pressure pumps. A small investment in maintenance and repair can prevent pump failure, saving you big bucks. Use a consumer-safe grease to maintain high pressure water supply pumps. Keep your pumps on a regular maintenance schedule to get the most out of your investment. High- pressure liquid pumps are known around the world as dependable, continuous duty, long-life pumps. The high-pressure pumps are used in thousands of applications. Their corrosion resistant liquid-ends and heavy-duty drive-ends are essential features in continuous-duty, high-pressure applications including carwash, pressure cleaning, reverse osmosis, chemical and oil processing, DI water misting, CO2 and foam firefighting.

The high pressure pumps are suited for high pressure cleaning and reverse osmosis. The triplex pumps operate at low stroke rates. The pumps can be used for various types of fluids since the pump wet end is available in nodular cast iron, stainless steel or bronze. Large valve diameters ensure uniform flow and minimal pulsation. A variety of accessories and drive types are available. COMET manufacturers a fantastic and durable line of high pressure pumps in a variety of series. CAT offers the Triplex plunger design which offers a very smooth flow. Maximum seal life is protected by high pressure seals and ground ceramic plungers. Triplex pumps provide 3 GPM at pressures up to 2500 PSI. AR Triplex Plunger Pumps are used in many diverse applications. Composed of die cast bodies and brass heads they offer extreme life expectancies. Over-sized bearings also assure precise shaft alignment.

Proper care and maintenance will also guarantee that you get the most from your high pressure pump. Prevent your high pressure pump from freezing by using only environmentally friendly or RV antifreeze. This is always something that should be done faithfully before any type of storage is done. Every few months the oil must be changed or after every 500 hours of use. The owner manuals will indicate that the first oil change should take place after only 50 hours of operation. Flush water valves and detergent injectors with plain water on a regular basis after use. Never store pump with any water in it. Check before using any chemicals in your high pressure pump and always use a line strainer (50 mesh minimum).

What a Karcher Pressure Washer Can Do For Your Business

2009-03-27T13:03:00.005-04:00

There are a lot of different types of power washing equipment on the market today, which can make it difficult for companies to decide which manufacturer’s supplies will best meet their service needs.

For many who have been in the power washing business for awhile, there is no need to shop around. They prefer Karcher products for several reasons:

They offer high quality products
The company has extensive business know-how to share with their customers
They offer a variety of add on accessories to their power washing equipment
They have a wide range of equipment options available
They offer the unique ability to get a hold of replacement parts quickly and easily

Offering the highest quality equipment in the trade, Karcher products are preferred by business owners because of their reliability, and of course their business know-how.

Another major benefit to power washing businesses is the ability to find Karcher pressure washer replacement parts for their equipment quickly and easily, saving time and money. After all, if your pressure washing equipment breaks down, you are out of business until it can be repaired, so being able to get a hold of the parts you need fast is essential to staying on schedule.

With an inventory of more than 14,000 individual pressure washer parts available, Karcher’s customers are virtually guaranteed the ability to find whatever part they need, no mater which make or model power washer they use.

In addition to an extensive array of parts available to Karcher unit owners, the company also offers thousands of power washer accessories to help the big and small pressure washer business thrive. No matter what the job, there’s an accessory made to help you get it done ranging from specialized pressure hoses; drain plugs; trigger guns; and couplers to lances, and more.

For those looking for Karcher parts and accessories, an in-depth website lists every unit’s make, model and parts list using a simple Karcher diagram that can be downloaded in PDF for future reference.

One tip: since Karcher offers such a comprehensive listing of replacement parts and accessories, the parts breakdown diagram is quite large, so a high-speed internet connection is advised in order to make it faster to download the PDF file onto your own computer.

Pressure Washer Hose Reels Keep Tangled Hoses At Bay

2009-03-20T14:26:00.005-04:00

Tired of untangling your pressure washer hoses, or worse yet, having to replace them because they get damaged from all of the unraveling? It may be time to invest in a good quality pressure washer hose reel to keep your hoses in tip-top shape.

Pressure washer hose reels are a good investment for a lot of reasons including:

They make your hoses last longer. You spend a lot of money on good quality hoses in order to make your power washing jobs easier and more effective. Why let them get damaged or even ruined due to tangling or maintenance issues? Keeping them tangle free (and in order) on a pressure washer hose reel will help them last longer -- much longer – than simply throwing them in the back of your truck.
They save time and frustration. Stop wasting important work time untangling hoses or searching for the right size and length hose you need for a specific job. Keep all of your hoses organized with a hose reel. You will be amazed at how quickly your jobs go when the equipment you need is right at your fingertips.
They are easy to handle. There are a variety of pressure hose reel styles to make your job even easier including: trailer mounted reels that pivot and point to where you need the hose; wall mounted hose reels that save ground space; hand carry models that are easy and light to carry; and more.
They are durable. All pressure washer hose reels are made to withstand all weather and work conditions. Made from durable, powder-coated paint that creates a hard, smooth finish, they are designed to last for years.

When choosing a hose reel, there are several good models to choose from, however, the new UltraLife Swivel, may be the most popular one being used today. Featuring a revolutionary design that is unlike anything else in the industry, this unique hose reel is protected by a unique Loop n’ Clamp Design which helps to extend the life of all of your hoses.

When choosing a hose reel for your pressure washing hoses, be sure to consider all of the options available:

The Standard Hose Reel is designed to hold up to 100 feet of 3/8 inch hose. Rated up to 3500 PSI, it is used with machines over 200 pounds.
Tubular Base Mount Reels are designed to be mounted to any flat surface or wall plate. Made of welded-steel, this model offers exceptional strength and durability and is great for over-the-road flatbed applications.
Pivot Base Mount Reels, allow you to pull the pressure hose in any direction.
Spring Driven Hose Reels, allow the user to pull the hose out as normal, but give it a small tug in order to rewind it more quickly, using a spring-activated rewind system.

In addition to these systems, you will also have to decide between a hand-crank or electric hose reel system and a portable or standard pressure washer hose reel system.

For more information on the hose reels available, see your sales representative or check with the manufacturer.

Awnings Cleaning with Pressure Washer

2009-03-16T09:20:00.006-04:00

Awnings are beautiful and can make such a difference on any building. Besides the fact that they add a touch of professionalism and welcome to your business they also provide a purpose as well. They can keep the blinding afternoon sun out but they can also add a bit of shelter if a client happens to be waiting for a ride in the rain. There are so many types of blinds available today for both residences and for commercial purposes.

If you own awnings then you already know that without the proper care and awning cleaning your awnings will go from sheik to drab in no time. The only way to really clean your awnings is by way of pressure washing. Whether you live in a home with awnings, own an awning cleaning business, or own a business that happens to have awnings, power washing is really the only answer for meeting your cleaning needs.

Usually it is the elements and the weather that will age your awnings quicker than anything. Awnings get dirty grime that almost laminates them and without the proper awning cleaning it really is impossible to remove. Once these films deposit they are nearly impossible to remove.

Have you noticed any stains on your awnings, if so, awning cleaning by way of power washing is the only remedy for that. While you can conduct your awning cleaning yourself you will need certain things in order to accomplish the task such as the correct detergents and chemicals. This will be dependent on the material of your awnings. You will also need the power washer and possible attachments, depending on the style that you have.

There are plenty of companies that offer this service if it seems too time consuming for you or if you are unable to do it. They will use the same materials that have been mentioned to perform your awning cleanings and fees for this service are competitive, so shop around. Make sure though that who ever completes this task also pays attention to the underside of the awnings. They are just as important as the tops.

After the job is complete there are preventative measures that can be taken to ensure that your awnings don't need to be cleaned quite as often. Check out having them sealed, waterproofed, UV protected or any other measure that may be available as part of your awning cleaning service.

Make sure that your awnings get cleaned after business hours and if you happen to hire an outside company to do the job, keep in mind that often referrals will save you money in the future. It is fairly standard that fabric awnings should be cleaned two or three times per year and vinyl a bit more. Metal awnings only need to be cleaned about twice a year. Pressure washers are a great time saver for all kinds of cleaning. Cleaning awnings can be a very lucrative opportunity. Starting this type of business is one of the best marketable business ideas you could invest in.

The Importance of Using Water Softeners in Your Power Washing Business

2009-03-06T15:01:00.001-05:00

Power washing is an easy and fast way to get any cleaning job done. But, if you are running hard water through your power washing equipment, you may find that some jobs (especially those dealing with clear windows) are left looking streaky and spotted. The reason: hard water deposits do not permit cleaning soaps to either lather properly or get thoroughly rinsed off, which can leave car exteriors, windows and even some vinyl siding looking splotchy.

A simple way to alleviate this problem – and the need to redo some cleaning jobs -- is to add a water softener to your array of power washing equipment. Although this may seem like an unnecessary expense at first, consider the money-saving benefits a good quality water softener can offer.

Water Softeners Enhance the Power of Your Cleaning Chemicals
When the water you use in your pressure washer contains a lot of calcium or magnesium, it can leave a sticky scum behind. This makes it difficult for the soap to lather, thus reducing the effectiveness of the cleaning job.

Water softening systems can help reduce the minerals in the water, eliminating much of the spotting that may occur on the vehicles, windows and awnings being power washed. This can save you money in additional labor costs (for touch-ups) and even chemicals, since the cleaning supplies you use will work better. By using a good water softener, you can actually help to enhance the power of your cleaning chemicals, offering your power washing customers a much better job.

Water Softeners Can Save You Money
By softening the water you use in your power washing equipment, you may be able to eliminate the need to redo certain jobs, thus saving you money. The size and type of water softener unit you buy can also have a direct effect on your bottom line.

Sold in 5,000 to 30,000 gallon units, commercial water softeners are an economical way to power wash fleet vehicles and siding by removing at least 90% of the calcium and magnesium from the water being used, giving a streak free shine. Since they easily attach to your cleaning equipment, it really does not take any more time to offer your customers a cleaner job.

Ultimate Washer also offers a specialized hose that features pre-cut fittings that are designed to connect the water softener to your pressure washer from the outside of the bottle, at a more cost effective price than other commercial water softeners units. Working great on fleet vehicles, the company’s unit is very durable and much less expensive to run than most other de-ionization systems. A standard DI unit generally costs about $700 a month to recharge, while a PL series water softeners cost much less to maintain and operate.

For those dealing with hard water problems, a water softener really is the best way to save time and money without the hassle of touching up those streaks and spots that hard water can leave behind.

Cleaning Ducts, Chutes, Vents and More with Duct Cleaners

2009-02-27T16:13:00.001-05:00

Duct cleaners are designed in a way so as to clean Ducts, Trash-Chutes, Vents, Restaurant Hoods, and Tanks etc. This is an accessory that is used with a power washer, so as to help duct cleaning, which are otherwise so difficult to clean properly due to the design. Most duct cleaners can be used with both hot and cold pressure washer. Duct cleaners are usually made out of high resistance aluminum, or stainless steel, and usually have bearings made out of stainless steel. Many duct cleaners have self-lubricating stainless steel bearings, for easy use.

Offices, and public places like hotels, theaters etc have various ducts that are used for air conditioning, central heating, exhaust ducts, supply and return air ducts, diffusers, drip pans, fan motor and fan housing, air handling unit housing etc. These ducts need to be properly maintained or else they get contaminated with dust, particles of pollen etc. Also, if there is too much humidity in these ducts, then it could lead to growth of mold, and fungi. These are then circulated in the establishment where they are housed, and could affect the health of the people using that particular building, or facility. Hence such ducts need to be regularly cleaned, so as to not endanger the health of its inhabitants.

Duct cleaners made out of stainless steel can be used with water mixed with cleaning additives. The stainless steel does not react to such chemicals, and doesn’t get rusted, and thus such duct cleaners have a long life. There are different types of duct cleaners that can be used for different requirements. The non-adjustable duct cleaner is perfect for cleaning vertical chutes. The adjustable duct cleaners enable different spraying angles, and are very good for 360 degree cleaning. Then there are other mobile duct cleaners that can be used for horizontal duct cleaning. These duct cleaners can take high pressures, up to 5000 PSI, and can work in a large pH range of water, ranging from 3-12, for different cleaning additives. These duct cleaners can be attached to a regular power washer, and they thus ensure thorough cleaning of the ducts of various types, for any of the facilities. The duct cleaners, if used properly, have a long life, and thus this is a kind of investment, that once made, can benefit a person for years to come, and also ensuring a clean and healthy environment.

A Safe Way to Clean Your Gutters with Gutter Cleaners

2009-02-20T11:22:00.002-05:00

Cleaning the gutters of debris used to be a painful exercise, wherein you had to physically go up to the gutter, and take out all the leaves, twigs, and branches that clog the gutter, especially during the summer months. Calling professional gutter cleaners can prove to be costly, and it would be a recurring cost. The power washers can be effective for self-use to do this job. A jet of water emitted at high pressure can make this difficult and time-consuming operation into a seamless and easy one.

Using a power washer with a conventional wand still means that you need to reach into the gutter to make sure that it clears every nook and corners. This process can be messy and also gets you soaking wet. But with a range of new gutter cleaner wands available in the market, this process is made much easier, and completely mess-free. Gutter cleaner attachments can be easily fit into most of the power washer wand, for easy gutter cleaning.

The attachment is a U-shaped one, which reaches every nook and corner, and cleans the gutter efficiently when attached to the power washer wand. It can be used to clean from the ground, and also safely clean pitched roofs. Thus the power washer can be used with more efficiency and ease. The other type is a flexible attachment, which can be bent any way you want up to an angle of 90 degree. This will give much more flexibility to the cleaning operation, and will reach those nooks and corners that a standard wand does not. These wands are built in a way that it will retain its shape even at high pressure, for pressure as high as 5000 PSI, and a high water discharge of 8 GPM. Apart from gutter cleaning, these can be used to wash various equipment, and machinery in the house. These attachments come with easy connectors, and can be attached to the tip of any standard wand or a telescopic wand. These can considerably ease the cleaning operations.

Apart from these, the telescopic wand is an important attachment to be used with your power washer, as it can enable cleaning gutters even two stories high from the ground.

What You Want to Know About Steam Clean Pressure Washers

2009-02-13T11:42:00.001-05:00

Pressure steam cleaners are machines that clean surfaces using steam or hot water. The steam and the pressure behind the machine provide a very efficient way of removing dust mites, allergens, mold, fungus, and bacteria. This is the preferred way of cleaning in such places as hospitals, restaurants, pharmacies, and hotels. In the traditional sense, steam cleaner pressure washers are composed of a boiler, a collecting tank, a hose and brushes. Hot water is sprayed under pressure on the surface being cleaned.

The amount of pressure that you need or the flow rates are what will likely direct you to the machine that you will eventually purchase. The flow rate is the amount of water that you will be able to use to remove the debris. The pressure expresses how hard the water will approach the surface of what is being cleaned. When you are cleaning flat surfaces it is more important to have a high rate of flow as that will make it much easier to loosen, remove, and wash away the debris. When you are cleaning surfaces that are not flat or that might be vertical, pressure would be more likely what you would be interested in.

These units have advanced quite nicely and are more affordable than you may think. There are various styles and accessories that are available for power steam cleaners. Steam cleaner pressure washers are available in gas powered or electric powered capabilities. Obviously the gas powered versions are more portable and less constricting which is convenient for outdoor work. They are also more likely to offer a longer life expectancy with less repairs needed.

The electric powered steam pressure washers are not vulnerable to wet conditions and while they can be used outdoors they also can be used indoors as well. The gas powered steam cleaner pressure washers can not be used indoors as they omit carbon monoxide. Another benefit of the electric version is that it makes much less noise.

Commercial pressure washers and industrial steam cleaner pressure washer’s offer much more industrial equipment than pressure washers designed for use in the home. Many commercial users use poor judgment when buying home pressure washer machines because they are much cheaper. The problem is that they will never last as they are unable to endure the industrial workloads.

Steam cleaner pressure washers depend upon heating coils that reach temperatures past 300° F, and are much better than either cold or hot water pressure washers in regards to removing grease, dirt, concrete stains, food, chewing gum, unsightly graffiti, and numerous other types of debris. Stainless steel or heavy carbon heating coils are most reliable and also assist with creating the correct environment and ultra high temperatures that are needed.

Another perk of steam cleaner pressure washers is that they do not rely on chemicals like cold water pressure washers do. The high steam pressure that is omitted is excellent to clean better than hot water and cold water pressure washers. The method of powering a pressure washer is every bit as important as the heating method.

Honda Small Engine For Your Pressure Washer

2009-02-06T11:44:00.001-05:00

One of the highest-ranking small engines for sale in the industry is the Honda small engine. Known for its reliability and easy starting alone, the Honda small engine is extremely popular with the rental industry (which sees constant use), and is indicative of how hard they work and how easy they are to maintain. Not only does the GX series (the most popular of Honda small engines) stand up in durability tests, too, but also it features a slant cylinder overhead valve technology that offers great fuel efficiency and the ability to meet emission standards in the US.

There are Honda small engines for commercial use, such as the well-known, flagship GX series, designed in 1983, and for consumer use, such as the new homeowner’s version of the GX called the GC series. The GC series is still fuel efficient, and easy to start, but it is quieter and made for lighter use. For gas powered pressure washers, the Honda small engine is a good choice. You just need to decide your application. Homeowners use their pressure washer about 20 times a year. If you will basically be washing cars, bikes, and patio furniture, the GC series will suit your needs. If you are looking for an engine for larger jobs for your pressure washer, such as large decks, cleaning house siding, or even removing paint, then the GX engine would be a better choice.

The GX and GC series are single cylinder engines with between 1.1hp up to 13hp with both horizontal and vertical crankshaft designs. Some of the GX ‘s features are: an oil alert, electronic ignition, and cast iron cylinder sleeves. The GC features the new internal timing belt, has uniblock cylinder construction, is quiet, with no valve train noise, and has a minimal number of parts. It is very easy to work on. The unique feature of the GC Honda small engine is its internal timing belt. The belt is designed to allow for a lower profile and is made to last for the life of the engine. Like all Honda small engines, with regular maintenance, repairs should be few and far between, but if you find you need to repair or replace parts, they are easy to locate and obtain.

When maintenance is required, you want to be sure you get the right Honda small engine part the first time. All Honda small engine parts co-ordinate with an ID number stamped on the engine. When ordering, be sure to have the model, type, and serial number at hand. All three are needed in order to differentiate between Honda’s general purpose engines and their power equipment engines. Many Honda small engine parts are not interchangeable in these categories. If you do your own engine repair work, numerous web sites list parts. Getting a paper service manual, which will show and list all Honda small engine parts, will be a little harder—as Honda dealers no longer sell them. Dealer information all comes to them on a CD. However, you can find manuals available on-line.

Honda small engine parts are manufactured with the same quality Honda is known for. There are aftermarket replacement parts available, but you are not guaranteed of the same quality. Try to always use Honda small engine parts whenever you repair your Honda engine.

Tools For Cleaning Gutters

2009-01-30T15:30:00.001-05:00

One of the trickiest and most damaging elements to homes is water being where it shouldn’t be. While gutters and downspouts were designed to move water off and away from the roof and shingles, clogged gutters can actually cause water to find its way up under your shingles. If water can’t drain properly—due to built-up debris—then it will, as always, follow the path of least resistance…even if it means traveling up under your shingles! To combat this problem easily and safely, you should consider today’s modern tools for cleaning gutters.

With today’s pressure washers and available gutter cleaning tools, gutter and drain cleaning is no longer a backbreaking job. If you are a homeowner, there are many uses for a small pressure washer and you will be glad to have one at your disposal when you go looking for tools for cleaning gutters. If you are in the cleaning business, don’t forget to have gutter cleaning tools available, and offer this service to your customers.

To turn pressure washers into fantastic gutter cleaning tools, all you need are a few special attachments. Hot water and more GPM (gallons per minute) capability is nice, but not essential. (Remember, though, you will lose some pressure to height when working above the pressure washer unit.)

One of the gutter cleaning tools you will need is an extension wand. These are molded insulated wands, with attached gun, that come in lengths between 36” and 79”. They can have a maximum pressure of 4,000 PSI and a flow rate of 10.5 GPM. Extension wands typically can handle water temperatures up to 300° F, and, as far as tools for cleaning gutters go, they are a great investment. You can use them for any hard to reach area, up high, or on the ground, such as under-car cleaning.

Included in your list of tools for cleaning gutters should be extension lances that are used on extension wands. These turn regular wands into real gutter cleaning tools because they can be pushed and pulled into angles of up to 90°. The angle stays put until it is re-adjusted by you.

Gutter cleaning tools also come in the form of telescoping wands that can change from 6.5’ to 18’ or 9’ up to 24’. Some operate with minimum pressure loss and can be used with downstream chemical injectors making them versatile for other applications as well. Most telescoping wands come with a belt kit, which will take the stress of holding such long wands off your arms and body. Made of nylon, the belts clip on and off, are size adjustable, and fit most wands. Connectors for telescoping wands are either male/female quick connect (both included), or female M22 connectors which require a separate coupler.

Along with these tools for cleaning gutters is the gutter cleaner wand attachment tool. This tool attaches to any pressure washer wand on the market and allows you to clean gutters while staying on the ground, which is the safest place to be.

Tools for cleaning gutters can be used for many other cleaning applications, just use your imagination, and let necessity be your guide too!

Graffiti Removal Tips

2009-01-23T14:07:00.001-05:00

Graffiti comes in many textures, colors, and sizes. It is a societal issue that will always be with us and will always need cleaning up. From walls of buildings, to streets, sidewalks, rail cars, and storefronts, graffiti is rampant and graffiti removal can be a lucrative business.

Many smaller jobs around your community can be handled with the low-pressure capability of your pressure washer. Surfaces such as brick and wood are actually considered delicate and should be cleaned with a maximum of 700 PSI and usually 500 PSI is better. Too high a pressure can knock the mortar away from brick faces or etch marks into soft wood.

The spray nozzle is important also. A strong, direct, narrow blast of water upon these surfaces can easily etch marks into the surface. Make sure to use a wide spray nozzle on delicate surfaces, and keep it moving. Hot water will make the job go faster and will not harm these surfaces. It would benefit you to adapt your pressure washer with hot water capability.

For graffiti removal on other, tougher surfaces such as concrete, steel, asphalt etc., you can use pressures of between 2,000 – 3,500 PSI. Again, hot water is more effective to remove paint and oil substances and is recommended for graffiti removal on all surfaces. In fact, when hot water is used on metal surfaces, the heat helps to break the bond of the paint and removal is quick and easy.

Sand / water blasting is another method used for graffiti removal. Become familiar with the machine and its results before you take this service to your customers. The pressure and/or abrasives you will be dealing with can cause a good deal of damage. With sand / water blasting, it is especially important to keep the nozzle moving. Try to blend the scoured area with the untouched area.

Most pressure washers can be outfitted with sand blaster kits or water blaster kits. You can also purchase a unit specifically made for sand or water blasting. These machines will give you pressures of between 2,000 PSI and 40,000 PSI. With this type of cleaning power, you can move into high-end industrial cleaning and surface preparation.

There are various chemicals available to help in graffiti removal too. Wiping mineral spirits on paint-sealed wood will remove some unwanted marks, but be careful if the wood is weathered badly. Weathered wood will soak up the mineral spirits and the unwanted paint may seep deeper into the wood. Paint thinners and penetrating oil can be wiped onto glass and metal surfaces to remove paint.

Razor blades have long been the choice of window washers for paint removal. They simply lift and remove paint from glass. Always use a fresh blade, and if you keep the glass damp, and the razor at the right angle, removal will be clean and smooth with little effort. Paint will dull the blade quickly, so have plenty on hand to keep switching out.

When using water blasters for graffiti removal, you can add environmentally friendly abrasives to aid in cleaning. Baking soda is now being used, along with the choice of dry silica sand or river sand.

How to Buy a Pressure Washer

2009-01-19T15:51:00.001-05:00

When it comes to purchasing a pressure washer the choices are much greater than one might think. Likely the most important choice that will help you to narrow down a good selection is whether you want an electric pressure washer or a gas pressure washer. How to buy a pressure washer from there might be a bit simpler. If you decide to go electric then you should be aware that they will be smaller, easier to maneuver, and much quieter. They also don't require as much maintenance as gas powered machines do. Gas powered washers offer more power and do cost more.

For industrial purposes, a gas powered pressure washer will be the answer when the question is how to buy a pressure washer. One of the main other factors to consider is PSI which means per square inch. That is very important, especially in industrial usage. This is only an important and critical factor if you plan to clean large areas. Pressure washers are used daily by various commercial cleaning contractors. Commercial pressure washers are composed of industrial pumps, very heavy-duty components and motors. How to buy a pressure washer depends solely on the pressure washer application.

Pressure washers come in many various assortments and types. The standard styles are cold, hot, and steam pressure washers. You should be aware of how to buy a pressure washer before embarking on the journey. Cold water pressure washers are the standard for general cleaning jobs that do not require the strength that the others offer. If you generally will be removing such things as grease and oil then a pressure washer that emits hot water will work much better as their temperatures reach a high enough point where they have the capabilities to remove such debris.

The hot water systems are also much more effective for cleaning cars and trucks, places that have contact with food and preparation, and to clean construction equipment. The ultra high temperatures make all the difference when you are figuring out how to buy a pressure washer.

Steam clean pressure washers rely on propane, gasoline, or other types of heating oils to create wet steam. Dry steam only offers a small amount of the same pressure and does not have the flow to remove debris from most surfaces. Although dry steam still uses the PSI measurement, the best that they can stand up to is about 50PSI. There is also not much consistency at all with dry steam cleaners.

The application and pressure washing locations play a vital role in determining how to buy a pressure washer. If it will be used outdoors then there are general rules laid in place by the EPA that prohibit exactly how you will use your pressure washer. Simply allowing water flow and contamination to run down the storm drains will likely get you a hefty fine. For indoor use there may be standards in place by both the EPA and OSHA that have to be followed.

Trash Pumps Can Get the Water Out of the Way and Get Your Crew Back to Work

2009-01-12T10:53:00.001-05:00

Sooner or later it is bound to happen: standing water impedes your ability to get your power washing job done. How can you get the mess cleaned up quickly and get your crew back to work? A high quality Honda trash pump may be just the piece of equipment that can fix your problems and help you get back on schedule.

Available in a variety of sizes and types, trash pumps are designed to clear an area of standing water. This can be from draining water from lakes, ponds, streams, rivers, and city water supplies to simply cleaning up a big spill that is in your way.

Honda trash pumps are the best known units in the industry, preferred by crew masters for high volume and industrial use.

Most pressure washing businesses choose the Honda trash pump for the simple reasons that they are:

The most economical
Very dependable
Suitable for a variety of general purposes including de-watering, multiple-purpose de-watering, construction job sites, rental, municipal, and agricultural applications
Can be used anywhere a portable centrifugal pump is used
Are great for residential use in getting the water out of basements and even swimming pools.

Another benefit of the Honda trash pump: it’s Mounting ability for operation. Since the Honda trash pump can be positioned as high as 26 feet vertical prime (with water), above the liquid tank that is being cleaned, it is often the most versatile trash pump available.

Some other unique features offered by the Honda trash pump are:

An efficient design that helps keep weight down and flow up.
Peak performance engines that minimize fuel consumption.
A dependable Honda gasoline engine
Its light-weight
A protective powder coated steel wrap around the frame
Reliability
Affordability
Easily disassembled for quick field clean up

With so many different types of Honda trash pumps available on the market today you may be wondering which one will best suit your current needs. Here are a few of the most common models available:

The Honda General Purpose Water Well Pump. This heavy duty model is known for its portability and durability.
The Honda Trash Pump is ideal for handling larger solids and those big dewatering jobs.
The Commercial Duty Portable Trash Pump, is a high-volume, self-priming centrifugal trash pump that resists abrasion and features a "T" handle for easy cleanout.
The 3" Portable Trash Pump, featuring a stainless steel internal hardware, iron wear parts, built-in check valve, suction strainer and heavy-duty steel frame.
The Premium Engine Driven Trash Pump is designed to handle high flow efficiency jobs. This pump is made of heavy-duty sand cast components.
The 6" Engine Driven Trash Pump is used mainly for jobs requiring high volume flow and solid/debris handling capabilities. This impressive pump is made of heavy duty sand cast aluminum with cast iron and stainless steel internal parts. This gives it good wear resistance and durability.

Choosing the right trash pump may seem confusing at first, but rest assured that there is a pump model to fit your specific job needs. When considering a Honda trash pump purchase, keep in mind the type of job it will be used for; the amount of water it will have to handle; the type of job site it will be used at; as well as your space and budget limitations. By thinking through your pump needs carefully, you’ll have a better idea of which one will best suit your specific job needs and requirements.

High Pressure Hoses

2008-12-19T11:43:00.001-05:00

When it comes to outfitting your pressure washer with hose, there are innumerable choices available. High-pressure hose is made that can withstand up to 5,000 PSI and temperatures up to 300°F. There are hoses that will work with cold water—and hoses that can be used with hot water and detergents. (Unless the hose is rated for hot water or detergents, do not use it with these!) There is also combination hot water/steam high-pressure hose that is single high-tensile steel wire braided and has bend restrictors on both ends. With a seamless inner-tube and oil cover, this combination hose can be used as a pressure hose, up to 3,000 PSI at 250°F, or for steam applications with a maximum 350 PSI at 325°F.

A good high-pressure hose will have brass couplers that are wear resistant and prolong the life of the hose. Look, also, for high-pressure hose that has bend restrictors on both ends, which also extend the life of the hose. If you have high-pressure hose without bend restrictors, you can purchase vinyl or rubber molded restrictors that will snap snugly over your existing hose. Bare high-pressure hose, which has no connectors, can be purchased and outfitted by you for your specific needs.

Within the plethora of high-pressure hoses are special hoses for carpet cleaning, airless paint sprayers, and your everyday garden hose. Of course, there is the basic replacement high- pressure hose for most homeowner pressure washers of light duty. These are typically 25’ with 2,250 PSI rating and cost about $36.00.

Special non-marking high-pressure hose is also available in ratings of 3,000-4,000 PSI. They are oil resistant (a good feature if they come in contact with cleaning solutions), and the no-mark outside cover protects surfaces they run across from becoming marked up with the hose. Most companies also have small ‘jumper’ hoses from 20” to 7’ for connecting the pressure washer with the water tank or hose reel.

A good investment for versatility is to add a sewer jetter hose and special attachments. The special sewer jetter hose can be connected to your pressure washer and be used with either laser or corner spray nozzles. If you add the jetter pulse valve (about $90.00), it will make your pressure washer “cavitate” by disabling one of the valves on your pump. This provides added agitation and gives great cleaning results.

An important accessory for your high-pressure hose (and your professional image), is the hose reel. Hose reels keep you looking professional. No longer will you lose time dealing with uncontrolled hose feed or tangled hose. They also protect the hose and extend its life. Depending on your needs, you can save floor space with wall mounted reels, have travel and direction freedom with trailer mounted pivoting hose reels, or get into small areas with lightweight handheld models. Made weather resistant, with power-coat paint finishes, the constant-tension feature keeps unneeded hose from unraveling, and feeds you hose effortlessly when you need it. High- pressure hose reels come in standard or industrial models. Hose reels have their own line of accessories such as: locks, brakes, handles, swivels, and repair kits. There are hose guides, flanges and drums, tires, axles, bases and frames and all the miscellaneous hardware that is needed.

Sandblasters

2008-12-09T15:38:00.001-05:00

Sandblasting uses a process where a surge of sand is forced by a flow of compacted air or by water against a facade. This contrives an impressive erosive action that can leave untarnished and erode any surface placed under the jet of these rough fragments. Ample materials like powdered quartz, iron, and emery are normally used as the erosive materials in sandblasting. Sandblasting is often the method of cleaning casting iron in industries and is also used for preparing various areas for painting and galvanizing. Sandblasting is also appropriate in cleaning tough debris that has built up in the stonework of most commercial buildings.

A sandblasting operation can often be dangerous as the operators can be exposed to many dangerous fragments such as lead or zinc that are often the base of most commercial coatings. These operators can often be exposed to the dangers of the particles being utilized. Without the proper safety measures such as goggles to protect the eyes and protective suits to fend off flying particles, the sandblast crew could be exposed to serious injury. This is why there are safety regulations in place that must be followed before any sandblasting is started.

Sandblasters are for smoothing and cleaning certain surfaces by pushing tough particles over an abrasive surface at very fast speeds. Imagine that this procedure is very much like using sandpaper but a sandblaster provides a smoother finish with fewer efforts and is on a much bigger scale. Sandblasters can provide a finished product that is smooth and has clean surface with little effort. Sandblasters are often used for car body paint removal. Sandblasting is usually used on cars that are disassembled completely. Rust and paint will be removed instantly. Since this is a high pressure procedure, you have to check that you are using the right type of sandblaster for the material that will be blasted. After using this application on cars, you will notice the car looks as if it never had rust before.

Another common use of a sandblaster is to clean off brick. The blaster is a fairly inexpensive way to perform these tasks and it is less time-consuming than doing them by hand with sandpaper or even using a pressure washer. Before you buy a sand blaster, check out the components and make decisions on which will best suit your needs. If you need a blaster for one large job, then you probably do not want to spend as much as someone who will be using it on a monthly basis for major construction projects.

Sandblasters tend to come in certain strengths such as light, medium, heavy and industrial. Each is used for certain projects. Medium sand blasters are most likely what you want for household projects and heavy duty would be more for commercial use. Know what type and size nozzle you need. The nozzles on sand blasters are made of different materials. The main differences will be the strength of the spray and the durability of the nozzle over time. Find out the type of material the blaster will work best on.

Water Blasters

2008-12-01T16:53:00.001-05:00

Water blasters offer versatile and extreme cleaning solutions for all types of industrial and small business demands. With units offering up to 40,600 psi, the applications are endless.

Water blasters can be used to clean paint, stain, oil build-up, rust, hard-water deposits, mold, as well as pipes, tubes, and lines of all kinds. When used without chemicals, water blasters clean with virtually no negative environmental impact. Even with the need for added abrasives, dry ice, baking soda, and river sand are often used and there is still zero environmental impact as these are non-toxic. In many applications, cleaning can be achieved with pressure alone, which can be a big money saver. Water blasters go well beyond cleaning, too. There are water blasters that polish, cut, prepare material for re-surfacing, and remove debris as heavy as concrete.

The machinist industry has found that using high-pressure water jets of a water blaster to de-burr and clean machined parts is an ideal method to use. It not only cuts down on inconsistencies and intensive manual labor, but it removes these burrs and other particles, and cleans at the same time. Water blasters get into the hard-to-reach internal features of the parts for superb cleaning.

The water blaster systems on the market today offer a lot of choice for individual needs. Complete water blaster units come with everything required for basic application, such as the pressure generator, abrasive injectors, nozzles or wheels, dust collectors and cabinets. Components can also be purchased separately to build your own water blaster system or replace worn parts.

The purchase of a water blaster will depend on many things, but the basic primary considerations are size, mounting, and how it is powered. Water blasters come with either electric or diesel motors with 45hp up to 250hp. Electric units are ideal for jobs in fixed locations. Size and mounting offer more choice and you must evaluate your needs. Do you need handheld portability, or a larger mobile unit such as those mounted on a trailer for getting to large industrial jobs? There are trailer-mounted units in several sizes that are capable of pressures from 8,000 psi up to 40,600 psi. For even higher levels of performance, there are stationary models with up to 250 hp that give 40,600 psi with delivery rates up to 16.6 gpm (gallons per minute).

There is also a water blaster called a “crawler.” This unit is built on tracks and is made to scan over a surface using magnetic (or vacuum) feet, which are mounted on the tracks. The tracks guide the jet cutter head as it crosses the surface.

The specific components of the water blaster system are the pressure generator, abrasive injectors, water tank and nozzles or wheels. The pressure generator increases the pressure of the unit and operates with either a plunger-type intensifier pump, or a crankshaft driven plunger pump. Intensifiers are more commonly used, as crankshaft pumps tend to wear down the seals faster. Crankshaft driven pumps are smoother and cost less to operate however.