How to Adjust a Pressure Washer
A pressure washer cleans the accumulated dirt from sturdy surfaces such as driveways, siding, and garage floors. Because they force water at high pressure, pressure washers can clean surfaces quickly in comparison to the conventional garden hose.
The main parts of the pressure washer include the motor, hose, hose reel, nozzle, detergent injector, unloader, valves and pressure washer gun. The motor is the most important part of the pressure washer pump. It connects to the power supply to run the machine. The motor controls the pressure of the machine.
The hose is a flexible, hollow tube made of either rubber or fiber. The water pumped by the engine passes through the hose. The hose reel is a cylindrical rotating shaft that organizes the hose pipe.
The nozzle helps in adjusting the water pressure. The smaller the nozzle angle, the higher the pressure. Detergent injector helps in evenly mixing detergent with water. The unloader removes pressure that builds up in the machine. The pressure washer gun connects to the hose and fires bursts of water onto the surface.
Need for Pressure Adjustment
Pressure is expressed in terms of a bar. The pressure level you want depends on the type of surface and extent of cleaning required. A lighter task, such as cleaning a car, requires pressure in the range of 100 to 110 bar. Heavier tasks, such as cleaning a garage floor, require higher pressure.
Test the water pressure on a small area before attempting to clean the surface. Jetting water on a less durable surface with too much force could damage the surface beyond repair. Adjust the pressure washer according to the nature of the surface you want to clean.
Many detergents are customized for use with pressure washer pumps. Detergents can reduce the cleaning time and assist in removing tough stains. Apply the detergent mixture on the surface and allow it to soak up the stain or dirt for some time. The water can then easily clear off all the dirt.
Methods to Adjust the Pressure
You may control the pressure of the water stream the machine generates. The first method of control is to adjust the motor valve of the engine. Some machines include regulator knobs that can adjust the pressure in the machine.
The next best option is to adjust the nozzle angle and control the spray pattern. Hold the nozzle at a distance in order to uniformly spray water on the surface. Start operating the nozzle at a wider angle; later on, narrow the angle to obtain the maximum pressure. While you adjust the nozzle, you should also regulate the speed of the engine.
