Many people use the terms “pressure washing” and “power washing” interchangeably. You might be surprised to hear that this is incorrect.
But even if you are experienced in using this type of hardware, it can be easy to miss the difference.
Time to set the record straight:
So, What is the Difference?
The only difference is heat.
A pressure washer uses high pressure to output water powerfully in order to wash away grime, dirt and even paint.
A power washer does the same thing, but uses heated water.
Both are suitable for very similar uses, but the heat in a power washer increases the efficiency and helps to get rid of seriously hard to remove dirt, such as mildew, grease and aged stains.
Pressure washers can be acquired for relatively cheap, whereas power washers are the more heavy-duty version that is most commonly used in industrial or commercial settings and for cleaning concrete surfaces.
Power Washing Services vs Pressure Washing Services
Now that you know the difference between power washing and pressure washing, which is best suited for which jobs?
If you’re looking to buy a high power cleaner for your home, pressure washing is certainly the way to go. This will allow you to thoroughly clean services without too much risk of damaging them.
It’s less harsh on surfaces, and a power washer has a higher risk of removing paint accidentally or cracking tiles.
For larger jobs, however, a power washer is a necessity due to the increased efficiency and speed of cleaning. The heated water shakes dirt free more easily and even helps with removing weeds and similar.
Since power washers are a little more dangerous than pressure washers, it’s usually best to stick to professional services for those.
Professional Pressure Washer Services
The outside of your building is a crucial first impression for partners, visitors, clients and employees. At phs group we have operations centres in cities and towns across the UK, meaning we are your local pressure washer surface cleaner provider, regardless of where you are!
Our highly trained team deliver the highest standard of cleaning and are even able to enter your premises, carry out any required jobs and leave without disturbing your day to day tasks.
For pressure washing prices, options and more info, please click here!
FAQ
Q: Is power washing a house good or bad?
A: Power washing can be both beneficial and potentially harmful for a house. When done correctly, it can effectively remove dirt, mold, and mildew. However, if used with too much pressure or the wrong technique, it can damage siding, strip paint, or even damage the structure of the home. It's essential to use the appropriate settings and techniques suitable for the surface being cleaned.
Q: What are the power washing methods?
A: There are primarily three methods for power washing:
- Cold Water Pressure Washing: Uses regular cold tap water under high pressure to clean surfaces.
- Hot Water Pressure Washing: Uses heated water and is especially effective at removing oily or greasy stains.
- Steam Pressure Washing: Uses steam and is highly effective for sanitizing surfaces and removing stubborn grime.
Q: Can you pressure wash brick?
A: Yes, brick can be pressure washed, but it's crucial to be cautious. Brick is porous, and using too much pressure can damage the mortar or the brick itself. It's recommended to use a lower PSI and possibly a wider spray angle to ensure safe cleaning.
Q: Do you pressure wash from top to bottom?
A: Yes, it's generally recommended to pressure wash from top to bottom. This ensures that the debris and dirty water flow downwards, preventing dirty water from dripping over areas you've already cleaned.
Q: Can you power wash windows?
A: While you can power wash windows, extreme caution is required. High-pressure water can break the glass or damage the seals around windows. If you choose to power wash windows, use a low-pressure setting and stand at a safe distance to prevent any damage.
Q: Do you turn on the water or the pressure washer first?
A: Always turn on the water first, ensuring that there's a steady flow of water going through the pressure washer. Once the water is flowing, you can then turn on the pressure washer. This order prevents the pump from running dry, which can cause damage.
Q: Is it better to pressure wash with or without soap?
A: The decision to use soap depends on what you're cleaning. For general dirt and debris, plain water might be sufficient. However, for more stubborn stains, algae, mold, or mildew, using a detergent or soap can help break down the dirt more effectively. Ensure you use a soap designed for pressure washers and suitable for the surface you're cleaning.
