Pressure cleaning solutions for the food processing industry

In food processing, hygiene is paramount. Most facilities make a variety of food products at multiple stations with numerous ingredients. Consequently, there’s a constant risk of cross-contamination, and that bacteria and viruses will infect the food produced. Here’s how to choose the best pressure washer to minimize the risk.

Consider the ideal temperature

A hot water pressure washer is an essential piece of equipment for any food processing facility. Unlike cold water pressure washers, hot water machines cut through grease and oil. Water temperatures can reach more than 90 C, a temperature at which pathogens can’t survive.

Consider the ideal pressure

In the food processing industry, more pressure isn’t necessarily better. Research has shown that using a low to medium pressure setting is the most efficient for sterilizing surfaces. This is because a high-pressure water jet will atomize dirt, debris and microbes and disperse them into the air. This aerosol can float throughout the facility and even enter air ducts, spreading harmful bacteria and viruses as it travels.

This issue won’t occur with a lower pressure setting of between 200 and 500 psi. A low setting will also waste less water and increase the area you can clean per minute, thereby improving your efficiency.

Consider your needs

Pressure washers can be powered either by electricity, gasoline or diesel. The latter two options produce exhaust that can contaminate food. For this reason, it’s important to choose an electric pressure washer for your facility. Electric machines are also quieter.

Portability is also an issue, and you’ll want to ensure your pressure washer is mounted on wheels so you can move it around easily.

Choose the right pressure washer detergent

High temperatures combined with an effective disinfecting solution will kill microbes lurking in your facility. Purchase a detergent that meets the following criteria:

• It’s approved by Health Canada
• It’s registered with the Canadian Environmental Protection Agency (CEPA)
• It’s certified by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF)

Some products are effective at killing 99.999% of bacteria, viruses, fungi and noroviruses. You may also want to consider choosing a biodegradable product to minimize your plant’s environmental impact.

Hot water pressure washers

Hotsy Water Blast carries over 100 kinds of pressure washers, including an extensive variety of electric ones. We can also help you find the perfect unit, as well as pressure washer nozzles and hose reel parts. In addition to assisting those in the food processing industry, our selection of in-plant pressure washer systems and automatic parts washer units can help any business run more cleanly and efficiently. To get a quote on your commercial pressure washer or learn more about our products and services, contact us today.