There are some distinct differences between consumer pressure washers and car washes. Some of these are obvious and some are not as easy to distinguish. Car washes are designed to operated consistently day after day for extended periods of time with minimum maintenance.

-One obvious difference is of course that you are charged for this service either based on time or with coin vending equipment. Coin vending equipment could be added to almost any pressure washer set-up.

-In cooler climates car washes almost always heat the water to provide better cleaning for their customers. In multi-bay installations this is usually done before the pumps since the water temperature is normally less than 120°F.

-Car washes normally use only belt driven pump units and do not supply pressure greater than 1500 PSI. Water volumes will vary from 2.5 to 4.5 GPM

-Car washes may have other extra equipment to provide for foam brush, tire/engine cleaner, etc.

-Car washes have overhead booms and mat washing provisions, etc. for user convenience.

-Car washes utilize various cleaning compounds and waxes

-Car washes must dispose of large volumes of water, road salt and grime as well as cleaning compounds used in washing. Regulations must be followed to minimize the environmental impact. Occasional pressure washing should also follow responsible use and disposal of runoff and cleaning compounds.

Most consumer applications do not require these types of things but the type of equipment that is used in a car wash may help you determine whether or not you will need similar equipment to meet the demands of your application. Car washes will also give you a chance to experience how cleaning is accomplished by a combination of pressure and volume and not just pressure alone.