Pressure washers are powerful cleaning tools that help remove dirt, grime, and stains from surfaces with high-pressure water. People use pressure washers to clean driveways, decks, vehicles, and even home exteriors. However, a common question many users ask is whether they can run hot water through their pressure washer. While cold water pressure washers are the most common, the idea of using hot water for tougher cleaning jobs is appealing to many. This article will explore whether it’s safe or effective to use hot water in a pressure washer, the differences between cold and hot water pressure washers, and what to keep in mind when choosing the right tool for your cleaning tasks.
Cold Water vs. Hot Water Pressure Washers
The first thing to understand is that not all pressure washers are the same. There are two primary types of pressure washers: cold water and hot water models.
Cold Water Pressure Washers
Most pressure washers designed for home use are cold water pressure washers. These machines use cold water from your hose, which is then pressurized and sprayed through a nozzle to clean surfaces. Cold water is effective for general cleaning tasks like washing cars, sidewalks, and patios. However, when it comes to oil, grease, and stubborn stains, cold water can struggle to break down these substances.
Cold water pressure washers are built to handle normal water temperatures, usually ranging from 40°F to 70°F (4°C to 21°C). Running hot water through a machine designed for cold water could cause damage to its internal components, especially the pump and seals. This can lead to a breakdown or a shorter lifespan for the machine.
Hot Water Pressure Washers
Hot water pressure washers are designed specifically to handle high-temperature water, which can be more effective in breaking down grease, oil, and other tough substances. These machines come with special parts like high-temperature-resistant seals and pumps. The water can be heated to temperatures as high as 200°F (93°C) or more, making them ideal for industrial and commercial cleaning tasks. Using hot water helps to loosen stubborn dirt and debris more efficiently than cold water alone.
Why Hot Water is More Effective for Cleaning
One of the main reasons hot water is more effective than cold water is its ability to break down oils and greases. Hot water helps soften and dissolve substances that cold water struggles to remove. This is why hot water is used in industrial settings, where grease and oil stains are common, like in garages, factories, and kitchens.
Better for Grease and Oil Stains
Cold water can’t break down oils easily, meaning surfaces like greasy driveways or oil-stained equipment may not be cleaned thoroughly with cold water alone. Hot water, on the other hand, melts away grease and oil, making it more effective in these situations. The combination of hot water and pressure helps clean surfaces much faster and more efficiently.
Sanitizing and Disinfection
Hot water not only cleans but also sanitizes surfaces. The high temperatures can kill bacteria, germs, and mold more effectively than cold water. This is why hot water pressure washers are often used in places like restaurants, hospitals, and food processing plants, where sanitization is critical.
Can You Run Hot Water Through a Cold Water Pressure Washer?
The short answer is no, you should not run hot water through a cold water pressure washer. Most pressure washers designed for home use are not built to handle high-temperature water. If you run hot water through a cold water pressure washer, several problems can occur.
Damage to Internal Components
The primary issue with using hot water in a cold water pressure washer is that the machine’s internal components, like the pump, hoses, and seals, are not designed to withstand high temperatures. When hot water runs through these components, the heat can cause them to warp, crack, or break down. This can lead to leaks, reduced pressure, or complete failure of the pressure washer.
Voiding the Warranty
Using hot water in a cold water pressure washer may void the manufacturer’s warranty. Most pressure washer manufacturers clearly state that their machines are designed for cold water use only. Running hot water through the machine could be considered misuse, and any damage caused by this would not be covered under warranty.
What Happens if You Use Hot Water in a Cold Water Pressure Washer?
If you accidentally run hot water through a cold water pressure washer, there are a few signs that the machine may be damaged. These signs include a drop in water pressure, leaks from the pump, or strange noises coming from the motor. If the internal seals or hoses are damaged, you may need to replace them, which can be costly.
Reduced Water Pressure
One of the first things you might notice is that the pressure washer doesn’t generate as much water pressure as it should. Hot water can cause the pump to overheat and fail, leading to a reduction in pressure.
Leaking Seals
The seals inside a cold water pressure washer are designed to handle specific temperature ranges. When exposed to hot water, these seals can expand, warp, or crack, leading to leaks. Once the seals are damaged, the machine will lose pressure and may no longer function properly.
see also: When Should I Pressure Wash My House?
Overheating and Motor Damage
The motor of a cold water pressure washer can overheat if it’s forced to process hot water. This can cause the motor to shut down prematurely or, in extreme cases, completely fail.
Hot Water Pressure Washer: The Right Tool for the Job
If you need to use hot water for cleaning, the best solution is to invest in a hot water pressure washer. These machines are specifically designed to handle high-temperature water and are more effective at cleaning grease, oil, and other stubborn substances.
Industrial and Commercial Applications
Hot water pressure washers are commonly used in industrial and commercial settings where oil and grease are frequent issues. They are also used in environments where sanitization is critical, such as food processing plants, medical facilities, and kitchens.
Cost and Maintenance
Hot water pressure washers tend to be more expensive than their cold water counterparts. They also require more maintenance because of the added components used to heat the water. However, if you need to clean heavily soiled surfaces regularly, a hot water pressure washer is a worthy investment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while hot water is more effective at cleaning grease, oil, and tough stains, you should never run hot water through a cold water pressure washer. Doing so can damage the machine’s internal components and void the warranty. If you need the extra cleaning power of hot water, it’s best to invest in a hot water pressure washer specifically designed for that purpose.
By understanding the differences between cold and hot water pressure washers, you can ensure you’re using the right tool for the job and avoid costly mistakes. Whether you’re tackling light household cleaning or heavy-duty industrial jobs, using the right pressure washer will save you time, effort, and money in the long run.