Flow and Pressure Ratings

[Paul Kassander]

Using a 13 hp engine what specs would you like to see in a pressure washer?

4.0 gpm at 3600 psi
4.5 gpm at 3200 psi
5.0 gpm at 2550 psi
5.5 gpm at 2300 psi
6.2 gpm at 2000 psi
7.0 gpm at 1825 psi
8.7 gpm at 1450 psi
10 gpm at 1275 psi
11 gpm at 1150 psi

[One Tough Pressure]

That would depend on the type of work that somebody is doing. Do you want to know what is best or what they think is best? Many people are stuck on looking at pressure.

[John Orr]

Paul,

Am I understanding this correctly?...The "cleaning units" of a pressure washer are calculated psi x gpm, right? If so, all of the listed set-ups would offer (approximately) the same number. I have found gpm's to be more useful than psi for a surface cleaner. (But then again, I'm all about Low-Pressure. lol)

[Paul Kassander]

Yes I meant what would you prefer for your use.

[Mike Williamson]

I voted 8.7 @ 1450, but I also like 7.0 @ 1825. The problem with higher flow machines for residential is that I often run into problems with supply...even with a 225 gallon supply tank I've run out of water on some jobs and had to wait for the pitiful water source to refill the tank. Sometimes I run two hoses, but that's not always an option.

If water source isn't a question, then I'd definitely opt for as high a flow as I could get, as long as the pressure didn't drop below the point where my downstreamer cuts off.

[YVPW]

7-10 gallon a minute pressure isn't needed on much of anything except concrete.

[Littlefield]

8.7 @1450, paul.

[Paul Kassander]

Thanks, keep the votes coming, we want to make what you want to see.

[Beth n Rod]

More Vendors should do this kind of outreach. Good on ya Paul.

Rod!~