Gas Pressure Washer Essentials | A Detailed Overview

Gas Pressure Washer Essentials | A Detailed Overview

09/ 11/ 2024 by Jeff

Blog banner presenting gas pressure washers and pressure washing gun being used.

Gas  pressure washers are a crucial element for professionals looking to succeed in the pressure washing business.

At Spraywell, we've seen firsthand how gas units outperform electric models in nearly all heavy-duty tasks.

In this guide, we’ll highlight why gas pressure washers are the ideal choice for business owners or advanced DIYers, offer key maintenance tips, and provide troubleshooting advice.

Why Choose a Gas Pressure Washer Over Electric?

Gas pressure washers deliver more power, which makes them ideal for large-scale or tough cleaning jobs. Here’s why professionals often choose gas over electric:

  • Higher PSI: Gas washers typically offer greater pressure, perfect for removing tough stains like oil, grease, or mildew.
  • Portability: No need to stay near an outlet, making them easier to use on large sites.
  • Faster Cleaning: More pressure means faster cleaning, which can boost productivity.

At Spraywell, we’ve noticed that businesses appreciate the durability and time saved with gas washers, especially when cleaning larger surfaces like driveways and commercial spaces.

Best Practices for Pressure Washing Business Owners

Using a gas pressure washer properly is key to maximizing efficiency. Here are some tips we recommend:

  • Match PSI and GPM to the task: For light jobs, use lower PSI to avoid damaging surfaces. Reserve high PSI for tough stains or industrial tasks.
  • Train your team: Ensure all team members know how to safely operate the machine and which nozzles are best for the job. Property damage or even injury can be avoided by simple training protocols.
  • Invest in quality gear: So often we hear owners lament about downtime due to faulty equipment. Investing in top quality pressure washer units and accessories will pay off in the long-run.

Another great tip is to have a trusted equipment rental provider on call and ready to supply a rental unit in case your equipment fails. Spraywell has an excellent rental department if you're in the Orlando area; we'll help minimize your downtime.

Remember, it’s just plain smart to have safety protocols in place before employees even start using this equipment. A well-trained team can operate efficiently and safely, which equates to less liability for business owners.

Gas Pressure Washer | Essential Maintenance Tips

Man doing pressure washer maintenance.

Routine maintenance is often overlooked, and yet it is key to extending the life of your gas pressure washer. Here are some essential steps to create an effective maintenance schedule:

  • Check oil and air filter regularly, especially after multiple uses.
  • Flush out the system after every job to prevent clogs and mineral buildup.
  • Inspect hoses and fittings for leaks to maintain consistent pressure.
  • Check the spark plug regularly: Clean or replace the spark plug at least once a year to ensure reliable engine ignition.
  • Replace the fuel: If the washer has been sitting unused for more than 30 days, drain the old fuel and refill it with fresh gas. Stale fuel can cause engine issues.
  • Inspect the air filter: A clogged air filter reduces engine efficiency. Clean it every 25 hours of use and replace it if damaged.
  • Winterize your washer: Before storing the washer in cold weather, run an antifreeze solution through the pump to prevent freezing and cracking.
  • Tighten all connections: Regularly inspect and tighten any loose bolts, fittings, or hoses to avoid leaks or pressure loss.
  • Lubricate the O-rings: Apply lubricant to the O-rings and seals to prevent wear and tear, ensuring a proper seal for hoses and attachments

We’ve seen that taking just a few minutes for maintenance after each use can significantly extend the life of your equipment, preventing downtime.

Choosing the Right Spray Tip for Each Job

Using the correct  spray tip is key to getting the best results without damaging surfaces.

Gas pressure washers are extremely powerful machines, and tip choice makes all the difference when avoiding damage and achieving great results.

Here’s a quick pressure washer spray tip guide:
  • Red (0-degree): Use for extreme power on tough stains; handle with caution to avoid surface damage.
  • Yellow (15-degree): Ideal for stripping paint or cleaning hard surfaces like concrete.
  • Green (25-degree): Best for general cleaning jobs, such as patios or outdoor furniture.
  • White (40-degree): Suitable for washing delicate surfaces like cars or windows.
  • Black (soap nozzle): For applying detergents and cleaners.

At Spraywell, we always recommend having a full set of nozzles on hand, as switching between them can save time and ensure a perfect finish on every job.

Troubleshooting Common Issues With Gas Pressure Washers

Problems can arise, but many are easy to fix. Here are some common troubleshooting tips:

  • Low or no pressure: Check for clogged nozzles or trapped air in the pump.
  • Engine issues: Inspect the spark plug, air filter, and fuel levels.
  • Leaky hoses: Regularly check for cracks or kinks to maintain proper water flow.

We’ve found that keeping spare parts, like extra spark plugs or hoses, helps minimize downtime and keeps your business running smoothly.

Conclusion

At Spraywell, our goal is to help professionals get the most out of their gas pressure washers. By following these tips, you’ll keep your equipment in top shape and ensure smooth, efficient operations.

Related Posts