What brand pumps to stay away from? - Contractor Talk - Professional Construction and Remodeling Forum

steve-in-kville · 07-04-2007, 11:10 AM

As you've noticed, I'm getting ready to purchase my first PW'er. Looking at 2500 PSI, 2.5 GPM or so. Will be using for deck cleaning, stripping paint from houses, etc. Also wash the cars with every week.

I've noticed that Cat makes a solid pump, but I've been seeing other brands out there like Comet and GP. Are there certain brands I should lean towards, or stay away from?

steve

Tmrrptr · 07-21-2007, 06:32 PM

Steve, I would advise you research pressure washers a bit before you make the big decision.

PW'ers are pretty much like everything else... You get what you pay for !
I have an inexpensive AR from HD that has performed flawlessly, and have now upgraded to a General wet crankcase type that is also made in Italy.
Comets have been around in industrial service for many years and Cat has a fine reputation...

For cleaning decks, someone could quickly do significant damage with 2500psi if they were not cautious.
In many PW'ing circumstances, gpm flow is more important than psi.

You might visit thegrimescene.com and read a few of the threads pertaining to what you wish to do before making the big$ decision.
r

PressurePros · 07-21-2007, 08:46 PM

Steve, step up to the 4 gpm. Trust me, it will pay for itself. Four gpm is still a squirt gun but it will clean effectively enough. I don't know any pros that use anything less (well, painters, no offense).

But to adress your question. General pumps are the best in my opinion. Not neccesarily because they are the most durable but they can be fixed cheaper and they hold up very well. Cats are better but very expensive to rebuild. The best advice I can give you is to make sure the unloader and the pump are separate on whichever uni you choose. The P.O.S. machines have them together.

zukkoor · 08-14-2007, 03:25 PM

I agree with pressure pros. Spend the extra $500 and get a 4gpm. I also like General the best because the warrenty is the same as Cat and much cheaper to fix.

I would also look at engine brand. I suggest Honda over Briggs and Stratton. The engine is the more expensive part of the powerwasher so although the pump normally goes first the engine is still important to get a good quality engine.