If you own a car wash business, you know that consistently high water pressure is important to thoroughly clean your customers' vehicles. Your pressure washer is only as good as the hose attached to the pump. However, the hose is especially prone to wear and tear due to the force of pressurized water.
If you are thinking about replacing your high PSI hose, here's a quick guide to help you make the right decision.
1. Extend the Length
High PSI hoses generally measure between 20-50 feet. Consider buying an extension hose alongside the standard replacement hose for your car pressure washer.
A longer hose is more flexible and versatile especially at a large and busy car wash. You can remove or add the extension hose depending on your needs at any given time.
Be sure to factor in the gallons per minute (GPM) and water pressure rating of your pressure washer to select the appropriate hose length. To pair a long hose with a low-pressure machine will reduce the machine's GPM and slow down your washing speed.
2. Select the Right Diameter
Pressure washer hoses come in three diameters: 1/4 and 3/8 inches. Factor in your pressure washer's pounds per square inch (psi) when buying a replacement hose. The larger the hose, the more pressure it can withstand.
The 1/4-inch hoses are suitable for domestic applications for pressure washers with a pressure output of less than 2700 psi.
Professional pressure washers delivering a pressure output of up to 5000 psi usually use 3/8-inch hoses.
Check the diameter of your current hose to correctly select a replacement hose. Alternatively, take the current hose with you to your local industrial supplies shop and ask for a replacement hose of a similar size.
3. Pick the Appropriate Connector
Pay close attention to the components that connect the hose to the pressure washer machine and to the spray gun on the other end.
Inspect the spray gun to determine whether the protruding inlet is female or male and threaded.
For male threaded guns, purchase a standard replacement hose with two female connectors to attach the hose to the pressure washer machine and to the spray gun on either end.
For female threaded spray guns, buy a gun adapter alongside the standard female replacement hose to attach the hose to the pressure washer and to the gun.
Some guns have an easy-snap plug. For these, purchase a high-durability hose with a female snap plug.
4. Upgrade to a Better Material
Rubber and vinyl are the most common materials for high-pressure hoses.
Vinyl hoses may be cheaper and lighter, but plastic can be inflexible and difficult to maneuver, especially when cleaning vehicles.
Rubber offers greater flexibility and tends to be more durable. However, rubber hoses are heavy and can be challenging to move around and to store.
As a professional pressure washer user, your machine's hose efficiency can have direct implications for your bottom line. To prevent costly downtimes and potential hazards, replace your high psi hose as soon as you notice signs of wear and tear.
If you are looking for a high-quality and durable replacement hose for your pressure washer, get in touch with Kims International. Our friendly technicians will help you select the right hose for your professional-grade machine.
