Pressure washing and power washing are two terms that are often used interchangeably. But are they really similar? Not exactly.
Although the words look similar, there are some specific differences between these two cleaning techniques.
However, before delving into the details for a conclusive answer, let us first understand the basic principles of pressure washing and power washing.
High-pressure water spray is used to eliminate dirt, grime, algae, dust, mud, loose paint, and chewing gum, known as pressure washing.
How Is Pressure Washing Different from Power Washing?
Both pressure washing and power washing techniques use the force of water as a cleaning agent.
The use of strong and direct streams of water in these techniques helps clean stubborn grime and dirt.
So, What’s the Difference?
The main difference between power washing and pressure washing lies in the water temperature used for cleaning.
While the power washer uses heated water, the pressure washer uses normal water.
The advantage of power washing is that the heated water makes it easier to clean spaces with grime, especially mildew, salt, and grease, just like when we use heated water for doing the dishes or washing our hands.
Since power washing can easily clean spaces with dirt or grime, this is the preferred mode of cleaning outdoor surfaces like decks, driveways, sidewalks, patios, etc.
On the other hand, pressure washing is one of the most effective ways to upgrade any building’s appearance at a relatively low cost.
It is also one of the easiest ways to clean your property daily, monthly, or weekly.
Private homeowners can also use pressure cleaners occasionally to clean up their house, which also helps maintain your property’s value.
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Main Uses of a Pressure Washer
A Plunger-type pressure washer machine is used for pressure washing.
A pressure cleaner is used to efficiently clean up large surfaces with the help of high-pressure water spray while completely removing grime, mud, dirt, dust, salt mold, and sticky substances like chewing gum. Due to this, a pressure washer is ideal for cleaning:
- The exterior facades of commercial and residential spaces
- Pavements, driveways, stairs, patios, walkways, and alleys
- Public spaces such as arenas, open-air spaces, and garages
- Buses, boats, cars, bikes, trucks, and all other types of vehicles
How Does A Power Washer Work?
Power washer works on the simple science of combining ideal water temperature with ideal water pressure.
Equipped with a diesel-powered hot box, which can heat water for up to 150 degrees and a powerful hose for spraying the water with pressure, power washers effectively remove stubborn algae and tough oil stains.
Certain Applications, Best Suited Based on The Job
Now that you know about the basic differences between the two most powerful washing techniques, it is time to figure out which of the two suits your requirements the best.
Both work better in different instances, and it is up to you to ensure you pick one that works best for you.
For regular household washing, pressure washing is ideal since it is not very harsh on surfaces like masonry, bricks, and concrete.
However, if you want to get rid of those unwanted substances like mold or mildew, power washing can be your ideal option.
It helps remove these substances and prevents them from regrowing.
In industries or commercial spaces with big driveways or patio spaces, power washing is the best-suited cleaning method.
The heated jet of water helps loosen up dirt on hard surfaces like concrete and removes tough stains and grimes.
It is not advisable to use power washing in households since the force of the hot water is capable of causing damage to softer surfaces.
Why Should You Choose A Professional for Power Washing?
While the power washing technique may sound easy, there is a lot of research and planning that goes into the process.
Hence, before trying it on your own, consult a professional and understand why power washing as a DIY project is a bad idea.
Not only is it difficult to find professional-grade equipment at your local hardware store, taking all the precautions for a reliable power washing experience is also an intricate task.
Professional power washing services can improve the hygiene of your home or office.
It is common for people to get confused between pressure washing and power washing since both utilize a high-pressure water stream in the cleaning process.
However, you should remember that power washing does not involve cold water, while pressure washing might use any temperature water.
