How Do Pressure Washing and Power Washing Differ?

Pressure washing and power washing are most often interchangeable terms that are being used by a professional cleaning company. You would often hear that they have similar basic functions to remove dirt and other materials from hard surfaces.

But do they really differ? There are some key differences between pressure washing and power washing that should help you determine which one you should use, especially when you are going to hire a professional cleaner.

So, when you want your space to look fresh and clean again, we are here to help clear things up. Let’s dig deeper and go into detail on the differences between pressure washing and power washing.

Pressure Washing vs Power Washing

Although the terms pressure washing and power washing seem to be similar, there are differences between the two. The main difference is the heat used in the process. The jet wash used during power washing uses hot water while the water used in pressure washing is not hot.

The main reason why power washing uses hot water is to be able to effectively clean tough dirt and grime, especially mildew, salt, and grease, on surfaces. The same principle applies when you use warm water to effectively remove grease on dishes or on your hands during washing.

Power washing is thus recommended for hard and durable surfaces like concrete or cement, which will not be damaged by exposure or contact with hot water. If you have a heavily soiled surface that can handle warm and heated water, power washing can easily wash these spaces clean.

What Is Pressure Washing and How Does It Work?

Pressure washing is focused on using high-pressure water to blast on surfaces that need to be cleaned. Water at regular temperature is used to effectively clean away moss, mold, or other substances that are stuck on surfaces. However, it will not be able to sufficiently remove tough grime and stains on concrete.

How Does Pressure Washing Work

The best application for pressure washing services is cleaning the outside of a building so that you can provide a first great impression for your partners, visitors, clients, and employees. Professional pressure washer cleaners can also carry out required cleaning without disturbing your day-to-day tasks.

A pressure washer effectively cleans because it is equipped with a high-pressure water spray that is able to clean large surfaces, removing dirt, dust, grime, mud, salt, mildew, and chewing gum. It is best used in the following areas:

• Stairways, walkways, patios, driveways, and paths
• Exterior facade of residential and commercial buildings
• Public spaces like car parks
• The seats and grounds of cinemas
• Vehicles such as cars, buses, trucks, and boats

Advantages of Pressure Washing

• There’s Something for Everyone

Pressure washing can be done by anyone. You can choose different types of pressure that you can handle for a particular type of cleaning that is needed.

• Lots of Options

You can choose between a gas and an electric pressure washer. Gas pressure washers offer the power and mobility to tackle heavy-duty jobs like removing paint and cleaning driveways and sidewalks. Electric pressure washers are quieter and more eco-friendly.

• They Come in a Range of Prices

The different types of pressure washers are sold at different prices. There are also different styles of pressure washers that come in different prices. You can choose from cart, carry, handheld, stationary, skid, and wall mount pressure washers.

• Versatile Uses

The different types and styles of pressure washers allow you to use one that is suitable for the cleaning job that you will be doing. There are also different nozzles that allow you to change the angle of the spray depending on the cleaning task.

• Easy To Use

Pressure washers are relatively easy to use because the equipment is easy to handle. They work so quickly and effectively as cleaning equipment.

Disadvantages of Pressure Washing

• They Can Still Cause Damage

The strong pressure of pressure washers can be too much for some surfaces to take on. Surfaces like loose vinyl can begin to deteriorate and fall off.

• Danger to Yourself

The force of the water can knock you back and cause injury to you if you haven’t tried using a pressure washer before.

• Cordless Pressure Washers

Cordless pressure washers can malfunction in the middle of cleaning and the range is limited due to battery technology. Moreover, cordless pressure washers cannot effectively clean stubborn stains and dirt because they are typically below 1000 PSI.

What Is Power Washing and How Does It Work?

Power washing does the same functions as a pressure washer but uses heated water. A power washer is equipped with a diesel-powered box. The high-powered hose is attached to the box which can heat water to 150 degrees.

Reasons You May Want Power Washing

• Heat Helps with Dirt

Power washing is more effective in cleaning tough oil stains and stubborn algae and lichen. The Heated water can more easily wash away grime from solid surfaces.

• High Pressure

Pressured water is used in power washing which allows more effective cleaning of surfaces from stubborn stains, dirt, debris, moss, and algae.

• Weeds and Moss

The combination of high-pressured water and heated water in cleaning with a power washer makes it easier to loosen and remove weeds and moss from your flooring surface or walls where they are not wanted.

• Good for Big Jobs

Power washing is most effective on wide surfaces that are oily and greasy, especially in restaurants, large kitchens and preparation areas, drive-throughs and outdoor dining areas.

Reasons You May Not Want Power Washing

• It Can Damage Surfaces

The strong pressure and increased water temperature can damage surfaces that should not be applied with heated water. Brick, masonry, and softer surfaces like wood can be damaged when blasted regularly with pressurized and heated water. Some flooring finishes can be sensitive to heated water. Likewise, some loose flooring elements can be removed.

• The Cost

Because heated water is used for power washing and higher water pressure is used, it will incur additional costs. Power washers tend to have a higher gallon per minute (GPM) than pressure washers.

• Not as Versatile

Power washers are recommended for bigger jobs like driveways and wide food preparation areas. It can be too powerful for smaller spaces in residential settings.

Power Washing vs Pressure Washing: Which One Should You Choose?

The choice to use a power washer or a pressure washer depends on the surface to be cleaned and the purpose of cleaning. Large areas with hard surfaces like concrete with stubborn oil stains, grime, and weeds can be better cleaned with a power washer.

For smaller areas that do not have stubborn stains and dirt, pressure washers are enough for effective cleaning. They work excellently for walls, decking, driveways, patios, and windows because they don’t carry the risk of heat damage.

Power Washing and Pressure Washing near Me

A professional pressure washing and power washing service are best when you want your surface to look sparkly clean and fresh. A clean surface prevents untoward accidents and significantly improves the aesthetic appeal of your property. Most importantly, it is one of the best maintenance practices to make your surfaces last longer.

Final Thoughts

The use of pressure washers and power washers is not advised for everyone. If you are unsure about the process or the equipment, it is best to hire a professional service provider to do the job for you.

Pressure washing and power washing services are widely available. Choose a reputable service provider with extensive experience in cleaning different types of surfaces to get the best results. Be sure to ask about their cleaning process, equipment, and solutions to ensure that they are using the best products for your specific needs.