Have you ever needed a longer hose for your pressure washer but wondered if you might be sacrificing your water pressure? Understanding the perfect length of hose for your job can save a lot of time and effort. Perhaps you envision completing work faster by using a longer hose. Rather than wasting your money on a long hose to try, here is the correlation between hose length and pressure.
Does a Long Hose Have Issues?
In short, it depends. What do you consider a long hose? If your hose is 100 feet or less, no, your hose will not likely have issues. However, if you want to use a hose that is a few hundred feet long, you will lose a noticeable amount of water pressure. Most pressure washers are not sold with long hoses because the best pressure is achieved from a shorter hose.
If you want a hose longer than 100 feet, there are a couple of questions to ask yourself before purchasing.
- Does the job require maximum water pressure?
- Is it possible to move the pressure washer closer to the spraying location?
If these questions are both yes, skip the long hose and keep the water pressure. If either of these answers is no, consider the following factors:
- Long hoses kink easier
- Long hoses are susceptible to damages
- The longer the hose, the heavier the hose
- Pressure is not only lost due to length but incline
It is essential to know what you are getting into with a longer hose.
What You Need to Know about PSI and Hose Material
What is PSI? PSI stands for pounds per square inch. When you are looking to purchase a new hose, you must check the PSI rating. If your pressure washer produces 4000 PSI and you use a hose rated for 2500 PSI, you will not get the results you are looking for. Damages might occur, and the necessary pressure will not be reached.
When it comes to the hose material, the biggest concern is if the material is rated for a hot or cold-water pressure washer. Coldwater pressure washers will require a hose made of a different material than hot water machines. Ensure that you understand which type of machine you have prior to purchasing a new hose.
Can I Use a Long Hose to Pressure Wash?
If you have considered the questions regarding your job and the problems that you may incur using a longer hose, you could use a longer hose if you wish. You may notice a difference in the quality of your pressure washer work if you choose to do so, but it is possible to use a long hose. If you find the job difficult with or without a long hose, Brunner Tool and Repair are pressure washer experts that can help you determine the best course of action. Give us a call today or fill out our online contact form to schedule your service!
