Posted: 10/24/2008 1:18:40 PM EDT
| So I need to pick up a pressure washer. Initially I need to strip paint at a rental property I own. After that it will just be used for cleaning my house, driveway, etc. How powerful will I need to get to accomplish my goals. Will a small 1800psi or so unit strip paint, or do I need one of the more heavy duty models? The paint is really loose if that makes a difference. Some guy at Lowes told me I would need at least 3500psi to strip paint. I just don't want to break the bank buying more machine than I need. |
|
Like all tools...buildings...etc. You can never get anything too big! Hotsy Get something with heat...we've got a big hotsy that heats w/kerosene, can spit out 250 degree water @ 3500psi all day! |
A rental is 69 bucks for a day. If I'm already spending that much, I would prefer to have something that I can use in the future. I'm sure there is more painting etc, down the road. I can buy a little household unit for $120 to $150, or something more heavy duty for $250 on up. I understand buying qualilty as I have a whole shop full of nice tools. In this case, I honestly just want the minimum that will strip paint. I usually don't miss much around here, but the Walmart references must have slipped past me. Anyone have a link so I can be in on the gag? |
Can you use de-ionized water and not have this problem? My car has a intercooler spray and I was advised to only use this kind of water because of the same problem. During the winter it never gets used and just sits there. |
I had mine sit for almost 2 years after I was injured in a car crash and couldn't use it. It wouldn't start when I finally tried to use it again. Took it to a local lawn maintenance repair shop and they cleaned it out and got it running like new. Cost me $32.00. |
| I have to go with the "rent one" crowd. It serves two purposes: makes maintaining it someone else's problem, and you'll get an idea of the size you want if you do buy one eventually. Ask the guy at the rental place what rate & tip you need to strip paint; sometimes, you can do it with a garden hose. Sometimes, you can't do it at all. |
Someone posted a thread about how they put a pressure washer on the bottom of their cart at WalMart and they did not get charged for it. That member got the Ban Hammer. 
|
|
I've had one for over 10 years. the same one. only thing I did was change the onload valves. They are great for around the how cleaning. every couple of years I clean the sidewalk in front of my house. put it on low and wash the house also. great for blasting dirt off your 4 wheeler after some mudding. Get a nice one and be sure not to leave it running too long without realeasing the pressure. most pumps burn up because of this. |