A pressure washer is a sound investment and will make your cleaning life easier and more manageable. It really comes in handy, especially if you want to keep proper care of your lawn. Pressure washers work well initially, but after some time, you will need to change their oil to ensure optimum performance.
You are on the right page if you are wondering what oil is used in a pressure washer. This helpful guide will tell you everything related to this topic and show you which oil should be used in a pressure washer and how much. You will also get to know how often the oil should be changed in a pressure washer, along with some tips on keeping a pressure washer running efficiently and smoothly.
1- Universal Motor Engine oil
If you use a pressure washer at temperatures above 40°F, all-purpose motor engine oil is the best choice. SAE30 oil is generally recommended for this weather. However, if the temperature in your area is relatively lower than 40°F, then the efficiency of your pressure washing will be better with 10W-30. Therefore, you can say that the type of oil one must use in a pressure washer highly depends upon the temperature of one’s area. It is critical to use the right oil because fuel consumption increases as you use a different oil. You can consult the manufacturer’s manual as the terms of usage along with the suitable temperature are mentioned on it.
2- Pump Oils without Detergents
Have you ever thought about what oil will be better for your pressure washer? If yes, then you will be familiar with the synthetic oils that are used in the pumps of a pressure washer. Although some pressure washer pumps work perfectly with the motor oil, you can use a 30W oil that doesn’t have detergent. Synthetic oils were common and very much in use before the introduction of oil filters. Hence, they can still be used and will provide similar efficiency. Using synthetic oil in a pressure washer allows dirt to stick to the side walls of the machine.
This will prevent the contaminated oil from reducing the performance of your pressure washer. If you use any other oil, there is a chance of sludge building on the parts of the pressure wash machine. For better results during house cleaning service in Waltham, MA, better safety in all temperatures, and low consumption, use a 5W-30 synthetic spring oil. Experts suggest this oil is perfect for temperatures ranging from minus 20 to 120 degrees. Therefore, this type of oil will yield exceptional results in a prolonged winter. Although viscosity is an essential factor, regardless of it, you must use an oil that has no detergents.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Oil for a Pressure Washer
Although you can easily choose oil for the pressure washing pump, using the wrong one can simply cause permanent damage to the pump. In the end, you’ll be left with no other choice than to replace your pump. Therefore, consider these factors before buying the oil for your pressure washer.
1- Manufacturer’s Guide
First of all, check which oil is recommended by the maker of your machine. Whether you are changing the oil of the pump or buying a new one, make sure to consult an expert or read the guide. Some of the makers have their replacement oils that work perfectly with the washer pump. Whether it is oil without detergent or universal motor oil, it will be mentioned in the owner guide.
2- Viscosity
There’s no easy way to define the viscosity of oil other than by determining the thickness of the oil. While buying the oil, you will notice that the label has a special code structure. Something like SAE 10W-30 will be mentioned on the back side of the oil container. Viscosity is important for the changes in temperature as it will ensure the efficiency of a pressure wash.
3- Additives
Most of the oils used in a pressure wash contain additives that further help keep your washer pump in the best condition. The popular additives included in the oils used in pressure washing pumps are rust protection ones to avoid corrosion. You can also find anti-foam and anti-air additives that control the amount of air that can enter your pump. Experts suggest that the washer pump oil can’t contain the detergents that regular automotive oil detects because most pumps don’t have a filter. By using the information shared above, you can prevent your power washer from getting overheated. Keep changing the oil of your pressure washer from time to time, and make sure to choose the right type of oil to prevent damage to the internal parts of your machine.