Power Washing Applications for Pumps

Power washing is a powerful technique for cleaning vehicles, building exteriors, equipment, backyards, and many other objects. Pumps are essential for pressurizing water to appropriate levels. After withdrawing water from the faucet, power washing pumps generate the high power necessary for effective cleaning.

To effectively pressurize the water, power washing pumps must handle high pressures ranging from 500 to 5,000 psi. These devices are constructed from robust materials that can withstand friction and last a long time without maintenance. Whether you’re using your pressure washer every day or a few times each year, a high-quality pump is essential.

Constructed from robust materials, March Pumps can handle the rigors of power washing. Our selection of pumps eliminates the issues and maintenance costs associated with mechanical seals through their magnetic-drive design. Review our available power washing pumps below:

Types of Pumps for Pressure Washers

There are three primary pressure washer pump types used to pressurize water. Wobble plate pumps are the most affordable and lightest duty option, lasting for a couple hundred hours of work time. These devices use a wobbling plate that pushes pistons to create suction. Due to their lower efficiency, they are often used as a 2,500-psi pressure washer pump. Wobble plate pumps are completely sealed, meaning that they do not require frequent maintenance and cannot be repaired.

Axial cam pumps utilize a driveshaft to directly spin the internal cylinders and pressurize the water. This improved design results in more flexible GPM and PSI levels. These models are the standard in power washers, typically functioning as a 3,000-psi pressure washer pump. However, it is more cost-effective to replace axial cam pumps than to repair them.

Triplex pumps come with the highest initial price but also the longest lifespan. These models function through a driveshaft and crankshaft configuration that move plunger rods to pressurize the water. Triplex pumps offer increased flexibility for both PSI and GPM configurations. These models require some maintenance and can be repaired with a pressure washer pump rebuild kit.

Characteristics of Power Washer Pumps

Due to their unique applications, power washing pumps are different from other types of pumps. They are designed to produce high pressure from a low flow of water. To accomplish this, pumps for pressure washers must be able to withstand high pressures. These devices should be able to produce a steady flow for the most efficient cleaning.

Without a working pump, a pressure washer is not able to effectively clean surfaces. Power washer pumps must be robust and dependable. High-quality materials keep any particles in the water from wearing down the internal components. In addition, the best power washer pumps will function for a long time, reducing repair costs and downtime.

Choosing the Right Power Washer Pump

The life expectancy of a power washer pump varies with the hours of usage and must be replaced accordingly. It is time to replace the pump if the pressure washer turns on without pressurizing water. Choosing the right replacement pump for your power washer is essential for operation.

There are many variables to consider before replacing a power washer pump. Incorrect connections, ratings, or models will lead to ill-fitting connections and even damage. Ensuring that these distances line up reduces the need for modifications. In addition, it is important to consider the longevity of your power washer pump and whether the predicted work hours match your needs. Wobble or axial camp pumps are appropriate for domestic use, while triplex pumps are commonly used for more powerful pressure washers. Along with the type of pump, it is important to consider:

• Crankshaft diameter
• Dimensions
• Flange connections
• GPI and PSI ratings
• Number of bolts
• Shaft connections
• Vertical or horizontal orientation

Common Industries and Applications for Power Washer Pumps

Pressure washer pumps can be found in both domestic and industry settings due to their impressive cleaning abilities. They are used widely throughout the transportation sector in the maintenance of airport runways, parking lots, docks, trailers, semi-trucks, boats, ATVs, and motorcycles. Pumps for pressure washing are also used to clean process equipment, such as:

• Animal facilities
• Condensing coils
• Construction equipment
• Farm equipment
• Food process equipment
• Manufacturing equipment

Outside of industry, power washing pumps are used to clean surfaces around the household and yard. Pressure washing is an effective way to remove mildew, algae, graffiti, and other grime. Some examples of domestic applications for power washing pumps include:

• Awnings
• Canopies
• Decks
• Driveways
• Exterior surfaces
• Furniture
• Lawn equipment
• Patios
• Roof tiles
• Shingles
• Siding

At March Pump, our team of experts is dedicated to helping you find the right pump for power washing. Our pumps are guaranteed to produce steady flows without the need for maintenance or repairs. Contact us today to learn more.