The Best Fuels To Power Your Pressure Washer

Pressure washers are a handy tool for a variety of cleaning tasks, from vehicles to home exteriors. They can be powered by either electricity or gas, and the type of fuel required for a pressure washer depends on its power source. Gas pressure washers, for instance, require regular gasoline, a two-cycle mix, or a mixture of gasoline and oil. On the other hand, electric pressure washers are powered by electricity rather than fuel. It's important to consult the owner's manual for specific instructions and safety precautions for your particular model of the pressure washer.

Unleaded, 87-grade octane fuel with 10% or lower ethanol

It is important to note that the ethanol content must be 10% or lower as a safety precaution. Ethanol can draw water, which can cause permanent engine damage. Too much ethanol will also cause engine parts to wear out more rapidly, reducing the lifespan of the pressure washer.

Additionally, unleaded 87-grade octane fuel is ideal for pressure washers because they are typically powered by small 4-stroke engines. These engines have low compression, so they require low octane fuel. While using high octane fuel will not damage the engine, it is unnecessary and a waste of money.

When storing fuel for a pressure washer, it is important to use it within 30 days. After 30 days, moisture can start to build up, which can be damaging to the engine. It is also recommended to store the fuel in a cool, dry place and to ensure the container is tightly sealed.

Overall, using unleaded, 87-grade octane fuel with 10% or lower ethanol is the best option for a pressure washer. It is easily accessible, affordable, and helps to maintain the engine's performance and prolong its lifespan.

Gas should be less than 30 days old

Gas for a pressure washer should not be left sitting for more than 30 days. This is because, after 30 days, moisture can start to build up in the gas can, which can be very damaging to a pressure washer's engine. If the water is left inside the engine for too long, it can cause rust.

If you are storing gas for longer than 30 days, it is best to do so in a cool, dry place and ensure that the gas can is tightly sealed. You can also add a fuel stabilizer to the can to help maintain the engine.

It is also important to use high-quality fuel from a reputable gas station, as this will contain less water and sediment. Using low-quality fuel can be detrimental to a pressure washer's engine, fuel pump, filters, injectors, lines, and other internal components.

When it comes to choosing the right gas for a pressure washer, it is important to select one with an octane rating of at least 87 and no more than 10% ethanol. This type of gas can be found at most gas stations and will help ensure the proper functioning of your pressure washer.

Non-ethanol gas

When choosing non-ethanol gas, opt for high-quality fuel from reputable gas stations, as it contains less water and sediment. The gas should be fresh and not stored for more than 30 days, as moisture can build up and damage the engine. If you plan to store the gas for an extended period, do so in a cool, dry place, ensuring the container is tightly sealed. You can also add a fuel stabilizer to the container.

It is important to note that non-ethanol gas may be more expensive and less widely available than traditional gasoline. Additionally, it may not provide the same level of performance, especially if the engine is designed for gasoline with specific octane ratings. Before using non-ethanol gas, carefully consider the potential risks and benefits and follow all manufacturer recommendations to ensure optimal performance and safety.

When using any type of fuel for your pressure washer, always refer to the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines to ensure compatibility and safe use.

Diesel

Advantages of Diesel Power:

• Fuel Efficiency: Diesel engines are known for their impressive fuel efficiency, allowing them to run longer on the same amount of fuel. This makes them ideal for prolonged cleaning tasks.
• Durability and Longevity: Diesel engines are built with robust components, making them highly durable and capable of withstanding tough conditions. This results in a longer lifespan, which can be advantageous for industrial and commercial applications.
• Torque and Power: Diesel engines produce more torque at lower RPMs compared to gasoline engines. This enables diesel pressure washers to handle demanding cleaning jobs more efficiently, such as removing grease and heavy debris.
• Fuel Availability: In industrial settings, construction sites, and rural areas, diesel fuel is often more readily available than gasoline. This simplifies fuel logistics and reduces downtime.
• Safety: Diesel is less volatile and flammable than gasoline, reducing the risk of accidental ignition. This safety advantage is particularly valuable in hazardous work environments.
• Lower Operating Costs: Despite a higher upfront cost, diesel pressure washers have lower fuel consumption, reduced maintenance needs, and a longer lifespan, resulting in lower overall operating expenses over time.

Types of Diesel Fuel:

When it comes to diesel fuel for pressure washers, there are a few options to consider:

• Regular Diesel: This is the most common type of diesel that you can find at a gas station pump. While it may vary in quality due to additives, sulfur content, and seasonal changes, it is easily accessible.
• Manufacturer Diesel: This type of diesel is recommended by manufacturers as it is clean and pure, without additives that can cause issues. However, it tends to be more expensive and less readily available.
• Off-Road Diesel: Off-road diesel is commonly used by farmers and is taxed differently. It is the cheapest option but may not always be the best choice for your machine, and it can be challenging to source regularly.
• Biodiesel: Biodiesel is not typically recommended for pressure washers.

Considerations and Drawbacks:

While diesel power offers numerous advantages, there are also some considerations and drawbacks to keep in mind:

• Initial Cost: Diesel pressure washers generally have a higher upfront cost compared to petrol or gasoline models.
• Weight and Noise: Diesel engines tend to be heavier and noisier, which may be a factor in certain working environments.
• Maintenance Complexity: Diesel pressure washers may require more complex maintenance, needing a higher level of expertise for servicing.
• Environmental Impact: Diesel engines emit more nitrogen oxides and particulates, contributing to air pollution. If environmental impact is a concern, petrol or gasoline models may be a more eco-friendly alternative.

In summary, diesel-powered pressure washers are ideal for heavy-duty, industrial-grade cleaning applications where power, efficiency, and longevity are paramount. They are particularly well-suited for outdoor, remote, or hazardous work environments. However, it's important to weigh the advantages against the potential drawbacks, such as higher initial costs and maintenance complexity.

Kerosene

However, kerosene is not recommended for use in parts washers because it has a low flash point, its vapour mixed with air is explosive, and it is toxic when inhaled. It also contains numerous compounds that can potentially pose health risks, such as n-hexane, naphthalene, and benzene. Chronic exposure to kerosene commonly results in dermatitis and it can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs.

Therefore, while kerosene can be used as a fuel for pressure washers, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks and take the necessary precautions to ensure safe use.

Frequently asked questions