How To Add Hot Water to a Pressure Washer

In today’s fast-paced world, pressure washers have become an essential tool for maintaining cleanliness. They are powerful, efficient, and versatile, capable of handling a wide range of cleaning tasks. However, for certain tasks, cold water just doesn’t cut it. You need hot water to effectively remove grease, grime, and stubborn stains. But how exactly do you add hot water to a pressure washer? That’s what we will be discussing in this comprehensive guide.

Understanding Hot Water Pressure Washers

Before we delve into the process of adding hot water to a pressure washer, it’s important to note that not all pressure washers are created equal. Some are specifically designed to handle hot water, while others are not. Cold water pressure washers, for instance, are not built to withstand temperatures higher than 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Using hot water in such a washer can potentially melt the seals in the pump and overheat the unit, causing irreversible damage.

Hot water pressure washers, on the other hand, are designed to handle high-temperature water use. They are equipped with a heating element that heats the water to a desired temperature, making them more effective for cleaning tasks involving oil, grease, and stubborn dirt.

How to Add Hot Water to a Pressure Washer

Now that we’ve established the difference between cold water and hot water pressure washers, let’s go through the steps to use a hot water pressure washer:

1. Ensure you have the right equipment: Before you begin, make sure you have a hot water pressure washer. Brands such as BE, Delco, Dirt Killer, Easy-Kleen, Hot2Go, Hotsy, and Cam Spray offer a variety of models designed for high-temperature water use.
2. Connect the water supply: Attach the water supply hose to the pressure washer and the water source.
3. Turn on the water supply: Ensure there are no leaks in the connections.
4. Start the engine or motor: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to start the pressure washer engine or motor.
5. Turn on the burner switch: If your hot water pressure washer has a separate burner switch, turn it on to heat the water.
6. Adjust the thermostat: Set the thermostat to the desired temperature. Most hot water pressure washers can heat water up to 200º F or even 311°F.
7. Start spraying: Squeeze the trigger gun to start spraying hot water.

Remember, using hot water in a cold water pressure washer can damage the pump and other components, so it’s essential to use a pressure washer specifically designed for hot water use.

Safety Measures

When using a hot water pressure washer, safety should be your top priority. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

• Use protective gear: Always wear safety goggles, closed-toe shoes, and protective gloves.
• Avoid hot surfaces: The engine, muffler, or heat exchanger can be extremely hot and cause burns.
• Operate in a well-ventilated area: Ensure there’s adequate ventilation to prevent the buildup of harmful fumes.
• Never point the pressure washer at people or pets: Pressure washers are powerful tools and can cause serious injuries.

The Downside of Using Hot Water in a Pressure Washer

While hot water pressure washers are highly efficient, they do have their drawbacks. These include higher costs, increased maintenance, and the risk of burns. Additionally, hot water pressure washers are typically bulkier and less portable than their cold water counterparts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, to add hot water to a pressure washer, you need to have a hot water pressure washer specifically designed for this purpose. Cold water pressure washers are not built to withstand high temperatures and can be damaged if hot water is used. Always ensure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take necessary safety measures when using a hot water pressure washer. Happy cleaning!