When a San Diego plumber speaks of using a pressure washer, he is actually referring to a high pressure water pump. While many professionals may use the term high pressure water pump, particularly in more commercial or industrial environments, the fact is that regardless of the size or specific purpose of the device in question, the basic workings of the machine are the same as would be found in a light duty residential pressure washer.

How Do High Pressure Water Pumps Work?

The simplest way to explain the workings of a high pressure water pump is by explaining the fact that the pump takes in water from a storage tank, standing water area, or other low pressure water supply and then emits it back out at a much higher pressure through a concentrated nozzle or spout. The added pressure is produced as the water is exposed to the energy or force being produce by the pump itself. This, combined with the fact that the output valve is generally much smaller than the input valve, increases the force at which the water is released.

Special care must always be taken when working with high pressure water pumps. Once water is subjected to both increased force and subjected to output though a much more concentrated area, the amount of pressure behind it can increase tremendously. While water flow may seem harmless, a Boston plumber can tell you that, when not being handled properly, water under such high pressure can easily break skin or cause other serious injury to both personal self and property.

In order to better control the water output of a high pressure water pump, a variety of nozzles and adapters can be used. The water flow being released can be forced into a fan nozzle, creating a wider water flow ideal for cleaning larger surface areas. It can also be forced into a smaller round nozzle, creating a more concentrated water spray that can be used for more detailed cleaning or other plumbing applications. Overall, the larger the nozzle being attached to the high pressure water pump, the less pressure the water will be released under. Likewise, the smaller the nozzle, the higher pressure the water being output will be able to achieve.

What Are High Pressure Pumps Used For?

One of the most important things an Atlanta plumber can explain is the various tasks a high pressure pump can be used for. One of the most common applications for a pressure washer around the home is cleaning the outside of the home. Pressure washers are ideal for removing build-up from the grout in a brick home, as well as scrubbing down vinyl siding to get it looking new again. High pressure water pumps work wonders for removing hard water or rust stains form concrete sidewalks or driveways. They are also ideal for cleaning the walls of a pool, freshening up decorative rocks in a garden, or simply giving the back patio or deck a good spring cleaning.