5 signs you’re using the wrong detergent with your pressure washer

When it comes to maintaining your commercial or industrial pressure washer, selecting the right detergent is crucial. Using an incompatible or ineffective detergent can lead to a host of problems, from poor cleaning results to potential damage to your equipment. Here are five signs that indicate you might be using the wrong detergent with your pressure washer, along with tips on how to protect your equipment and improve cleaning results.

Poor Cleaning Performance

One of the most obvious signs that your detergent isn’t compatible with your pressure washer is inadequate cleaning performance. If you notice that dirt, grime, or stains are not being removed effectively, you may need to change your detergent. The right pressure washer detergent is formulated to work with the machine’s pressure and temperature settings. If your detergent isn’t cutting through the buildup and you are experiencing pressure washer cleaning issues, it’s likely not designed for your specific cleaning needs.

Excessive Foam or Suds

While some foam is expected when using a detergent, excessive foam or suds can be a red flag. If your pressure washer is producing an overwhelming amount of foam, it may indicate that the detergent is too thick or not suitable for your equipment. This can lead to clogs in the system and affect the pressure washer’s performance. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the appropriate detergent consistency to avoid these issues.

Leftover Residue

After washing, if you notice residue or streaks left on the surface, it’s a sign that the detergent may not be rinsing off properly. This can happen if the detergent is not compatible with the nozzle or pressure settings of your pressure washer. Using a detergent specifically designed for your machine can help ensure that surfaces are left clean and free from residue, enhancing your overall cleaning results.

Equipment Damage or Wear

Using the wrong detergent can lead to long-term damage to your pressure washer. If you start to see signs of corrosion, wear, or other forms of damage, it’s essential to check the compatibility of your detergent. Some detergents contain harsh chemicals that can harm your pressure washer’s components, leading to costly repairs. Protect your investment by choosing a detergent that is specifically formulated for your machine, such as Hotsy’s Water Blast detergents, which are designed to be safe and effective.

Increased Maintenance Needs

If you find yourself frequently needing to service or repair your pressure washer, it might be because of the detergent you’re using. Incompatible detergents can lead to clogs, increased wear on components, and other maintenance issues. This not only affects the operation of your machine but also increases downtime and operational costs. By selecting the right detergent, you can reduce the frequency of maintenance and keep your pressure washer running smoothly.

Choosing the Right Hotsy Water Blast Detergent

To select the proper detergent for your needs, the following points should be considered.

• Type of cleaning task: Identify the surfaces and types of grime you need to clean.
• Pressure washer specifications: Refer to your pressure washer’s manual for compatible detergent types.
• Environmental considerations: Choose eco-friendly options for your cleaning environment.

Types of detergents

Hotsy Water Blast offers several types of detergents for your pressure washer. Explore the options below to discover the ideal solution for your needs.

• Salt lick: Specialized pressure washer detergent designed to tackle tough gunk and eliminate harmful salt deposits. Its unique formula dissolves the crystalline structure of de-icing chemicals, preventing them from reforming on surfaces.
• Floor wash: Perfect for cleaning a variety of surfaces including stainless steel, aluminum, glass, and painted finishes like those found on cars, trucks, buses, RVs, trailers, mobile homes, and tractors. It also works great as a pre-treatment for tough jobs such as engine cleaning, whitewall tires, vinyl roofs, and metal tops.
• Ripper I: Formulated with alkaline agents and water softeners, Ripper I is highly effective for lifting dirt and grime from heavy-duty machinery. It’s also suitable for cleaning a wide range of surfaces, including floors, walls, buildings, and other areas that demand a strong, reliable detergent.
• Ripper II: A high-strength, biodegradable, caustic-based detergent, built to tackle the most challenging cleaning jobs, including stubborn hydraulic oil stains and thick layers of grease and grime.
• Carbon-ATE: A highly concentrated cleanser used for degreasing engines, cleaning vehicles and tires. Carbon-Ate also works great on polished aluminum and fibreglass.
• Vital Oxide solution: Vital Oxide is suitable for use in homes, public spaces, and institutional settings. It is a hospital-grade disinfectant, odour neutralizer, and mould remover, registered with both Health Canada and the EPA.

Detergent Matters: Protect Your Pressure Washer and Your Results

Recognizing the signs of using the wrong detergent is essential for maintaining your pressure washer and ensuring optimal cleaning results. Poor performance, excessive foam, residue, equipment damage, and increased pressure washer maintenance are all indicators that it might be time to reassess your detergent choice. Protect your equipment and improve your cleaning efficiency by choosing a detergent specifically designed for your pressure washer. Hotsy Water Blast’s range of pressure washer detergents offer solutions tailored to meet the demands of commercial and industrial users, ensuring you get the best results while safeguarding your investment. Contact an expert at Hotsy Water Blast for all your pressure washing needs today!