I am looking to buy a pressure cleaner to make some extra money on the side...I don't want to spend much more than 200 bones. What should I look for in a used machine? What is a good psi rating for commercial usage, nothing too serious.(Driveways and sidewalks, patios, etc...no roofs)
Also, what are some reputable brands? Of course Craftsman and Briggs has to be up there, but who else?

I will be looking in pawn shops and CL.

 

To be blunt, I'm not entirely sure that a basic pressure washer would be enough to generate any sort of reasonable income. Many basic units rely on a hookup for water and electrical. And most lower priced units have poor quality pumps and unloader valves.

If it were me, I would consider a self contained unit that allows you to carry your own water source. The pump itself should be gasoline powered as to not rely on a customer's electricity. For any sort of commercial work, the water used should be hot, and the burners for these units are either diesel or kerosene fired. Of course you are looking at substantially more than you mentioned you wanted to spend, and you'll need at least a heavy half ton to carry the pump, fuel, water, detergent, and hoses. You will, however, have access to more clients, as you will be self contained. Again, not trying to deter you, but just my opinion.

If you feel you can generate enough business with a very basic pump, look for a quality unit with a good pump. Most basic pumps aren't really suited to commercial use, and the pumps only good for residential duty. Keep in mind, you'll be using your client's electrical, so it's best to find one that runs on 110 volts. For any sort of dirt removal, especially with cold water, you should have over 1000 psi. A good quality washing wand with interchangeable tips is also probably a good idea.

Good luck


Terry

 

I appreciate the info...I don't exactly mean "commercial" usage, but more of neighborhood driveways and stuff.
I would prefer a gasoline unit...Water source would be via hose.

Are the pumps connected as a single unit to the rest of the cleaner on gas-run machines?

 

Im not really sure what you mean, but the pumps are generally mounted separately from the motor, whether it be gasoline or electrical. The more expensive units are mostly belt driven, while some of the lower priced systems have some sort of direct drive.

If you can find a second hand unit with a nice little Honda gas engine, it would probably be ideal. A good quality unloader valve allows you to stop using the wand for extended periods while the motor or engine is still running. Used be surprised how useful this is.



Terry

 

If you found something like this used, it may be ideal for what you want:

http://www.amazon.com/Power-Boss-020.../dp/B0017W8CHI




Terry

 

Thanks a lot man!

 

Obviously, the higher the psi you can afford the better. Do not waste your money on an electric unit.

This is the one I picked up at Home Depot for $250.




It has a 6 hp Honda engine and works very well for cleaning siding, concrete and decks.

 

I wouldn't go with anything smaller than what Terry recommended for commercial use. I have a small gas unit that is fine for me because I use it twice a year. For commercial you want something bigger because it will allow you to finish the job faster. If you waste an extra 20-30 minutes at a job because you tried to save $100 on the machine you will quickly see why it was worth it to step up to something bigger. I recommend you try to figure out what the competition is using to guide your purchase.

 

^ Agreed. Mine is perfect for my around the home projects and i only use it maybe twice a year. I'd go 3200 psi and a 4.0 gpm pump.

 

I found this on CL, basically new....What do you guys think?

http://miami.craigslist.org/pbc/for/1536574395.html

 

Check it out. It may be what you need. I can't see the add too clearly, but the engine design looks to be a Briggs and Stratton. Not the best engine, but would probably be OK for residential use.


Terry

 

Is 180 for a like new 2200psi cleaner a fair deal, or should I still shop around...I am gonna check out some pawn shops in my area this week and see what they have to offer.
Do you think that a pawn shop will let me test it out before I buy? If not, how could you tell if anything like the pump is faulty or not?

 

Don't know. Check out the new price and determine from there.

The pawn shops had better let you try it out or you're not interested. Stand your ground. If they don't want to let you try it, then I suppose you have your answer.



Terry

 

Mine has that same Briggs engine that is on that craigslist ad. It's okay for my use but its a bit of a pain. It doesn't like to be moved while it's on. If I try to roll it around while it's on I have to be very careful not to tilt it very much or it will stall. I don't know if other engines have that issue, but I don't think that being able to move the thing around on a patio while it's on is asking too much.

I don't think 2200 will be enough for more than just casual use.

 

Thanks for the input Doop...Like I said earlier I am gonna go pawn shopping sometime soon, so I will keep that in mind.