Steam pressure washer vs. hot water pressure washers, what’s best for your cleaning needs? Alkota has been manufacturing steam and hot water cleaning equipment since 1964. So we know a thing or two when it comes to the pros and cons of this equipment. Let’s explore the pros, cons, and options when it comes to picking the best machine for you.
In this part of the series we’ll discuss the benefits and differences between Steam Pressure Washers and Hot Water Pressure Washers.
So let’s get to it: Steam vs Hot Water Pressure Washers:
Steam Pressure Washers
Steam was the first on the cleaning scene, about 150 years ago! Discovered as a great way to remove grease and oil from equipment, steam cleanings benefits were apparent right away. Steam is an incredibly versatile option, from sanitation and pathogen elimination to aiding in the drying process of tobacco leaves.
Steam cleaners are great for industrial cleaning jobs that require a gentler touch. Projects like: degreasing (especially in food grade commercial areas), sanitizing hog houses, clearing caked-on grease from old tractors, and removing ice dams. Steam is perfect to get tough surfaces clean without having to worry about damaging paint or delicate equipment.
Alkota has a tried and tested lineup of steam pressure washers to help you get your project done right. Still USA owned and made, Alkota’s equipment is built to last. Check out our lineup of steam pressure washers here.
Hot Water Pressure Washers
Let’s check out the hot water pressure washer side of things. Hot water machines typically run at about 200 degrees F. The bigger difference maker is their high pressure. While industrial steam cleaners usually run in the 250-400 PSI range, the average hot water pressure washer packs 2,000-4,000 PSI.
Hot water pressure washers don’t get as hot as steam machines, but they more than make up for it in water flow and pressure. This allows you to tackle bigger project in less time. The trade off really comes down to impact control. For cleaning things like heavy equipment, or surfaces like concrete and stone, pressure won’t be an issue.
Hot water pressure washers are much more versatile than steam cleaners, with the ability to be used as a cold water machine (no heat) and with options to apply detergents and soaps to clean even more surfaces and messes.
Hot water pressure washers are designed to kick grime in half the time thanks to our three key focus system: heat, agitation, detergent. This makes them a great tool to abrasively clean and sanitize projects.
Enter a Third Contender… The Combination.
We’re gonna introduce another option that might just help make your decision that much easier. Introducing the combination! Alkota has a steam add-on option that will fit most of our standard hot water pressure washers, allowing you to use steam on demand. By adding a “combi” (combination add-on) to your hot water machine, you can produce steam with your hot water pressure washer. We think for most cases this might give you the best bang for your buck. Ask your local distributor about the steam add-on for pricing and options!
So, Steam Cleaner vs. Hot Water Pressure Washer: What Should you Choose?
It really comes down to your needs, which is one of the first things we’ll ask when you’re shopping for a pressure washer. The more details you have on your cleaning needs, the better we can match you with a solution. Whether it ends up being a steam cleaner or a hot water pressure washer, we have the cleaning solutions to handle anything you throw at us.
Ready to find Your Next Pressure Washer?
These two great options are uniquely equipped with our clients’ needs in mind. Alkota prides itself on USA-made equipment for your specific jobs, and offers quality support.
We encourage you to reach out to your local distributor today. They look forward to hearing about your needs and helping connect you with a solution.
