Gas-Powered Pump
A gas-powered soft wash system combines the power and reliability of the downstream system with a proportioner for maximum utility. A gas-powered pump system works completely independently, like a 12 Volt Pump. It does not require a pressure washer but instead generates all of its power with a gas motor. Just like the mechanics of a pressure washer, a gas-powered pump is comprised of the motor or engine, the pump, and an unloader.
The motor is typically covered in a red, blue, or black shroud that varies by brand. While there are several motor manufacturers, the primary ones you will find in our application include Honda and Predator. The motor’s primary function is to use gas to generate power that turns an axle. This axle spins and transfers its kinetic motion to the pump. The amount of power the motor can create is measured in horsepower (HP). A typical horsepower rating for a Gas-Powered Pump is around 11 HP.
The pump is attached to the motor’s axle. Its purpose is to draw in chemicals and water, pressurize it, and send it out to the outlet. The pump's flow rate ranges between 8 and 11 GPM and can generate 150-300 PSI on average.
Unlike a 12 Volt Pump, the gas-powered pump does not have a pressure sensor to tell it to cut on and off. Instead, when back pressure is created, the pump has to direct the water and chemical it's drawing to a bypass. This bypass can be plumbed back into a tank if batch mixing is used or can be fed into a long hose that feeds back into the pump or proportioner.
Benefits
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The higher GPM will allow you to apply a large amount of soft wash solution quickly.
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The higher GPM will allow you to rinse faster and more thoroughly.
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The higher PSI will allow you to put a little bit more pressure than electric systems, resulting in a more thoroughly cleaning without damaging the property.
Drawbacks
- Because the system has a higher GPM, the water source will have a harder time keeping up. This means that the technician may run out of water for often on residential worksites unless they have an exceptionally large holding tank.
- Applying so much soft wash solution so quickly can waste money if not careful. Solution may run off or inexperienced technicians may spend too much time applying than needed.
- Because there is a higher GPM and pressure, there is a higher likelihood of overspray.