Pumps Pressurize Water For Your Pressure Washer

When using a pressure water, water pumps are the devices that bring the water from the source to the nozzle of your pressure washer. There are many different styles of pumps which vary in the technology used. Camshaft pumps are more popular than other styles because they run cooler than other types, and they run at 85 percent efficiency, which is one of the highest percentages currently available. Most water pumps for pressure washers are described camshaft or triplex pumps, which means that there are six valves using a system of plungers to pump the water. These are designed for heavy-duty applications; they are more efficient with a longer life expectancy. Plus, they do not generate as much heat, which is important when the pressure washer is used for many hours in a row. Axial pressure pumps are used in most residential pressure washers. Most are driven by two belts to bring power from the engine to the pump, although some are mounted directly to the engine.

In most pressure washer systems, except perhaps in particularly high-end systems, the water pump is an integrated part of the pressure washer. This high pressure water pump must handle large quantities of pressurized water, creating maximum water pressure at a specified gallons-per-minute rate of flow. Water pumps must be able to pressurize water coming out of a garden hose, which is typically around 40psi, pressurizing it up to 2000 PSI.

The pump compresses the water from the faucet, adding the “pressure” to the “pressure washer.” The water pump is one of the main determinants of the water pressure coming out of the nozzle; high performance water pumps offer up to 10,000 PSI at 15 gallons per minute, or 240 gallons per minute at 1000 PSI. Residential units are smaller, and typically use less water at a lower pressure. When the water flow reaches the required pressure, the valve allows the water to pass through the hoses to the spray nozzle. Most consumer and commercial units are electric or gas powered pumps.

If the water pump is weak or has failed, you will notice a rapid decrease in water pressure when using the pressure washer; water pumps are one of the most often replaced parts. If you notice decreased water pressure, look for belt slippage or leaks or clogs in the hose before replacing the pump.

To keep pressure washer water pumps from wearing out quickly, keep up on all recommended preventive maintenance, including lubrication using the specified type of oil every 3-6 months. Check valves should also be replaced after several hundred hours of running the pressure washer. Do not run the pump without any water; this can burn out a bump in well under half an hour, which is an expensive yet easily avoidable problem.

The right pressure water pump depends on your application. Each can handle a specified volume of water at a specific pressure. Pressure washer water pumps must be matched to the size of your pressure washer’s engine to avoid damaging it.

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