Cold Water Pressure Washers
When thinking about pressure washers, cold water pressure washers are what usually first comes to mind. These units connect to a cold water faucet with a garden hose for the water supply used to clean surfaces. The water is pressurized and will do the work in clearing away dirt and grime. You can also add detergent to aid in washing. Cold water pressure washers are available in cordless, electric and gas-powered models to provide the right amount of cleaning power.
What Do Cold Water Pressure Washers Clean Best?
Cold water pressure washers are best suited for general cleaning tasks and dirt removal. The lower water temperature keeps it from being too abrasive on surfaces like wood decks and fences. Cold water washers for home use have pounds per square inch (PSI) from 1100 to 5000 PSI. Some common chores that cold water pressure washers are great for are:
- Cleaning wood or composite decks and railings
- Washing house siding
- Washing cars, trucks, boats and trailers
- Cleaning patios, sidewalks and driveways
- Cleaning off patio furniture
Always follow the manufacturer's instructions. Some electric pressure washers must be plugged directly into an outlet using the machine's built-in cord, while others allow the use of an extension cord. This will determine how much area you'll be able to clean.
If your pressure washer works with an extension cord, use the type specified by the manufacturer. See Power Cord Safety Tips.
Hot Water Pressure Washers
Hot water pressure washers, more commonly referred to as power washers, use heated water and pressure to clear away hard to clean surface dirt and grime. The hot water is better suited for stains like oil and grease in driveways and parking lots. Hot water power washers are also good for house washing, especially if the home has multiple stories.
Water is heated to a high temperature (up to 250°) via a heating element in the washer. By adding detergent or degreaser, the hot water combines to make a potent cleaning agent for grease and grime. Because of the need for more power, most hot water washers are gas powered and feature engines from manufacturers like Honda and KOHLER.
Hot water pressure washers are designed primarily for commercial cleaners rather than a regular homeowner. They also have industrial uses as they are great for sanitation jobs. The added power also makes the larger work tasks go faster than a cold water pressure washer would.
What Do Hot Water Pressure Washers Clean Best?
Thanks to the extra cleaning power of hot water and increased pressure of up to 4000 PSI, hot water pressure washers are able to tackle jobs that cold water pressure washers can’t do. Here are chores best matched for hot waster power washers:
- Cleaning grease and oil from asphalt and pavement
- Cleaning large concrete driveways and walks
- Paint stripping and removal
- Removing mold and mildew
- Commercial-grade cleaning
- Cold weather cleaning like salt removal
Comparing Hot and Cold Pressure Washers
Now that we have discussed the differences between cold water pressure washers and hot water power washers, let's compare each in several important areas.
Cleaning Force
Cold water washers can handle most everyday cleaning chores around the house like washing the car and cleaning decks and patios. Hot water washers are used primarily for commercial and industrial cleaning due to the heated water and extra cleaning force. Most homeowners can rely on a cold water pressure washer.
Cleaning Speed
One of the main features of pressure washers is their ability to cut down on the time spent cleaning an area or object. While it may be more than most DIYers need, the speed that a hot water power washer can deliver will make quick work of most chores.
Expense
There is a sharp difference in cost between cold water and hot water washers. Cold water washers can range from $150 up to $2,000 or more, however most homeowners will not need to spend that much for their washer. Hot water washers, designed for heavy-duty work, typically start around $3,000 and go up from there.
Maintenance
If you aren’t too mechanically inclined, a cold water washer is the choice for you. Most of these models are exceptionally low maintenance, with just general cleaning needed periodically. Hot water washers will require oil changes, filter changes, draining of tanks and valves, and caring for the heating element.
Operational Safety
Using a pressure washer can be highly effective for cleaning, but it's important to follow safety guidelines to avoid injuries. Always wear eye protection, ear protection, proper footwear, gloves, and a dust mask to protect yourself from debris and noise. Hot water machines can heat water up to 250°, so extra caution is needed to avoid personal injury and property damage.
Always follow the manufacturer's instructions. Cold-water pressure washers are designed for use only with cold water. Hot water can damage the pump. To avoid injury and damage, make sure you’re using the correct nozzle for the job.
Cleaning With a Pressure Washer
Whichever type of pressure washer you decide on, it is important to know how to operate it correctly to clean without damaging your property. See our additional how-to articles for instructions on how to pressure wash everything from your siding to your car with your new pressure washer: