Looking to get into the PW business

[DirtylceCream]

My friend and I have been looking to get into the PW business recently, and I have been reading a bunch of posts about new businesses starting up. We're college kids, and we have limited capital. I was wondering if it's possible to get a good washer for under $1000. We'd like to get one with at least 3000 psi. Any recommendations would be great. I was also wondering how hard it is to learn the ropes, particularly with knowing what chemicals to use and the right things to use them with. We're looking to do houses and decks mostly.

 

[CaroliProWash]

Welcome to the Powerwashnetwork! There is a search feature on the task bar that will help you immensely with many of your questions. If you can't find a specific answer, there are lots of veterans here to get it for you.

Good luck - do your research and homework before you decide to just run around shooting water

Celeste

 

[Dave Olson]

I've just gotta ask! What does DirtyIceCream taste like??

 

[DirtylceCream]

I've just gotta ask! What does DirtyIceCream taste like??

It's a food in the Philippines sold on the streets in carts, best ice cream I've ever eaten.

One of my friend's friends did this pressure washing thing last year with decks. He said he has a 6hp 2500psi power washer that he bought from Home Depot that he would be willing to sell us. Is this sufficient for cleaning siding and decks, or would we need a more powerful one? My friend and I are meeting with him to talk about his business that he ran last year, so hopefully that will answer most of the questions we have about starting this business.

 

[Henry Bockman]

Actually pressure isn't what you should be looking for. Water volume is! Try to find a machine with at least 4 gallons per minute. Try looking on ebay and bulletin boards for used machines also. If you have any questions give me a call I'd be happy to chat with you and give you suggestions.

 

[Mark]

Sounds like that is a pretty small unit, I would
go for at least a 3.4 to 4 GPM @ 3000 - 3500 PSI
Belt Drives are my choice.

[hello]

http://powerwashnetwork.com/showthread.php?t=6404&highlight=cool+drive

 

[DirtylceCream]

Yeah, I picked up from looking at other threads that we should get a washer with at least 3.5 gpm. Is the motor's hp important for houses? Is 2500 too low of psi?

 

[Doug Rucker]

I always recommend 4GPM minimum for house washing.