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A Complete Guide to the Best Pressure Washer Detergents by Application
Pressure washing is a powerful way to clean, but water alone often isn’t enough to tackle tough grime, grease, and stains. The secret? Using the right detergent for the right application. At Hotsy Water Blast, we provide industrial-grade detergents designed for specific cleaning challenges ensuring superior results, equipment protection, and eco-friendly performance.
Why Choosing the Right Detergent Matters
Not all detergents are created equal. Using the wrong formula can lead to damage on surfaces with delicate finishes, improper cleaning, and premature wear on equipment.
Hotsy Water Blast detergents feature Hotsy Continuous Clean (HCC) additives to prevent scale buildup and protect your pressure washer. They’re biodegradable, highly concentrated, and optimized for hot-water systems—delivering maximum cleaning power and cost efficiency.
Best Detergents by Application
1. Vehicle & Fleet Cleaning
Road grime, salt, and calcium deposits can cause rust and corrosion, leading to long-term damage to your fleet. Some of the best detergents for vehicles and fleet cleaning are:
- Salt Lick: Removes salt residue and de-icing chemicals from trucks, trailers, and snowplows without harming paint or metal.
- Breakthrough!: High-foaming, scent-free detergent that’s gentle on finishes yet tough on grease and road film. CFIA-approved for food transport vehicles.
2. Industrial Floors & Concrete
Concrete surfaces in warehouses, shops, and industrial facilities collect oil and grime, which can be hazardous for employees. Using the right detergent to clean the floors helps keep workers safe. Try these choices:
- Floor Wash: Low-foaming detergent ideal for pressure washers and flat surface cleaners.
- Ripper I & II: Heavy-duty degreasers for shop floors, machinery, and equipment exposed to hydraulic fluids and thick grease.
3. Heavy Equipment & Machinery
Construction and manufacturing environments are full of oil, grime, dirt, and smoke. It’s an environment that demands strong cleaning solutions, such as:
- Ripper II: Maximum degreasing power for stubborn oil and grime.
- Carbon-ATE: Removes carbon buildup, diesel smoke, and road film from metal and polished aluminum surfaces.
4. Sanitization & Food Processing
When hygiene is critical, you need a detergent that holds up to the rigid industry standards, such as:
- Vital Oxide: Kills 99.99% of bacteria, mould, fungi, and viruses, which is ideal for food processing plants and healthcare facilities.
Pro Tips for Using Pressure Washer Detergents
To use a pressure washer with detergent, there are a few things you should do to get the most effective clean:
- Apply detergent from bottom to top to avoid streaking.
- Let it dwell for 5–10 minutes (don’t let it dry).
- Rinse thoroughly from top to bottom with high pressure.
Why You Should Choose Hotsy Water Blast
Hotsy Water Blast is the go-to place for pressure washer detergents. With a wide range of industrial strength, eco-friendly detergents that can handle tough jobs, we are trusted by a range of industries throughout Western Canada. Our detergents protect your vital equipment thanks to HCC additives.
The right detergent doesn’t just clean; it saves time, reduces wear on your equipment, and ensures professional results. Whether you’re washing a fleet, sanitizing a facility, or degreasing heavy machinery, Hotsy Water Blast has a specialized solution for every application. Contact us today to request a quote.