Discover the Science Behind Hot Water Pressure Washers and How They Can Help You
You might know that hot water pressure washers offer exceptional cleaning power but do you know what that is? Keep reading if you would like to get the answer to this and other questions about hot water pressure washers. Today we will cover the science behind these cleaning machines. Then contact Geyser Equipment at 951-509-9269 if you would like to learn more about which hot water pressure washer is right for you.
Hot and Cold Pressure Washers Each Have Their Own Advantages
First and foremost, let us discuss what you can expect from either a hot or cold water pressure washer. Hot water helps cut through grease and oil, which is why it should be used in areas that are trying to get rid of these substances. On the other hand, cold water is great for getting rid of dirt. If you are cleaning an area that is just dirty – not oily or greasy – then you might be fine with a cold water pressure washer.
Why Does Hot Water Cut Through Grease?
The previous paragraph begs the question: why does hot water cut through grease so much better? It is because hot water causes a reduction in the surface tension on the water. This allows the water to more easily get through to the molecules of grease and grime to remove them.
The Three Key Elements of Hot Water Pressure Washing
The simple explanation is above, but it is actually more complicated. There are three elements of a hot water pressure washer that helps it work: heat, agitation, and soap. The heat causes a high-speed molecular action that allows the cleaning agent to be more active and to reduce the surface tension of the water so that it can get through at the molecular level.
The second element, agitation, is the impact that occurs when the water volume and the water pressure hit the surface. This is likely when you use your hand to scrub your dishes in your sink. Finally, soap (or, when used in a pressure washer, more likely referred to as detergent) chemically breaks down the bond that exists between dirt and the surface you are cleaning.
Detergents use softening agents that are able to emulsify the oil and grease. To emulsify means getting liquids that will not typically mix (like oil and water) to mix. When the emulsion process works, and the oil and water can mix, the dirt that is clingy to the oil and grease is washed away with the water.
This is the basic story behind how hot water works in the cleaning process. If you are ready to get expert advice on which pressure washer is right for you or which accessories might make cleaning easier, contact Geyser Equipment at 951-509-9269 for help.
