Pressure washing plumbing kits are essential accessories for anyone looking to connect their pressure washer to a water source, whether it’s a tank, hose, or other supply line. These kits provide a comprehensive solution, including hoses, fittings, valves, and filters, to ensure the efficient and safe operation of your pressure washer. In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore the key features, technical specifications, and practical considerations to help you select the perfect plumbing kit for your pressure washing needs.
Pros and Cons of Buying a Plumbing Kit vs. Piecing it Together
Investing in a pre-assembled plumbing kit can offer several advantages over sourcing individual components:
Convenience: Plumbing kits typically include all the necessary components, saving you the time and effort of searching for and purchasing each item separately. This can be especially beneficial for those who are new to pressure washing or don’t have extensive plumbing experience.
Compatibility: The components within a plumbing kit are designed to work together seamlessly, reducing the risk of compatibility issues that can arise when piecing together individual parts.
Cost-Effectiveness: Kits can often be more cost-effective than buying each component individually, particularly if you’re not familiar with the specific parts required for your pressure washer setup.
However, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider:
Customization: Plumbing kits may not offer the same level of customization as piecing together individual components, which can limit your ability to tailor the setup to your specific needs.
Quality: The quality of the components in a kit may not be as high as those you would choose individually, especially if you’re willing to invest in premium-grade parts.
Cost: While kits can be cost-effective, they may still be more expensive than sourcing individual components if you’re looking for high-quality or specialized parts.
Impact of Flow Rate on Plumbing Kit Effectiveness
The flow rate of your pressure washer pump is a critical factor in determining the effectiveness of your plumbing kit. A higher flow rate, such as a 5 gallons per minute (GPM) pump, requires larger hoses and fittings to handle the increased water volume and ensure efficient and safe operation.
For example, a 5 GPM pump would require a plumbing kit with 1-inch hoses and fittings to accommodate the higher flow rate. Using a kit designed for a lower flow rate, such as 4-6 GPM, would not be suitable, as the smaller components would not be able to handle the increased water volume, potentially leading to pressure drops, leaks, or even damage to the pump.
Key Features to Look for in a Plumbing Kit
When selecting a pressure washing plumbing kit, consider the following key features:
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Hose Size and Material: Ensure the hoses are rated for the flow rate of your pump and are made of durable, high-pressure-resistant materials, such as reinforced PVC or rubber.
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Fittings and Valves: Look for high-quality fittings and valves that can withstand the pressure and flow rate of your pressure washer. Brass, stainless steel, or other corrosion-resistant materials are preferred.
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Filters and Strainers: Include filters and strainers in your plumbing kit to protect your pump and ensure a clean water supply, preventing debris and sediment from entering the system.
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Compatibility: Ensure the plumbing kit is compatible with your specific pressure washer pump and tank or water supply setup.
Technical Specifications of Pressure Washing Plumbing Kits
Pressure washing plumbing kits are designed to handle a range of flow rates, with the most common being:
| Flow Rate | Hose Size |
|---|---|
| 4-6 GPM | 3/8-inch to 1-inch |
| 5.5-7 GPM | 1-inch |
| 8-12 GPM | 1/2-inch to 1-inch |
The fittings and valves in these kits are typically made of brass, stainless steel, or other durable materials to withstand the high pressures and flow rates associated with pressure washing.
Filters and strainers are also an essential component, with mesh sizes ranging from 50 to 100 mesh (300 to 150 microns) to capture debris and sediment, protecting the pump and ensuring a clean water supply.
Examples of Pressure Washing Plumbing Kits
- 4-6 GPM Pressure Washer Plumbing Kit:
- Includes 20 ft of 3/8-inch yellow hose for bypass, 20 ft of 1-inch Tundra crush-proof hose for water inlet, and various brass fittings and valves.
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Suitable for pressure washers with a flow rate of 4-6 GPM.
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5.5-7 GPM Plumbing Kit:
- Includes a 1-inch banjo Y strainer, 1-inch straight NPT/barb fittings, 1-inch 90-degree elbow NPT/barb fittings, and other high-quality components.
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Designed for pressure washers with a flow rate of 5.5-7 GPM.
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8-12 GPM Power Washer Plumbing Kit:
- Includes components for a horizontal leg tank setup, such as a 1/2-inch high-pressure jump hose, 50-foot 1/2-inch ID high-pressure hose, and various brass fittings and valves.
- Suitable for pressure washers with a flow rate of 8-12 GPM.
Remember, it’s essential to select a plumbing kit that is compatible with the flow rate and specifications of your pressure washer to ensure optimal performance and safety.
References
- MPWSR. (n.d.). 4-6gpm Pressure Washer Plumbing Kit for AR, General Pump, and Comet Pumps. Retrieved from https://mpwsr.com/products/4-6gpm-pressure-washer-plumbing-kit-for-ar-general-pump-and-comet-pumps
- Texas Pressure Washing Store. (n.d.). 5.5-7GPM Plumbing Kit 1″ Supply Line. Retrieved from https://www.texaspressurewashingstore.com/product/5-5gpm-plumbing-kit-1-supply-line-copy-2/
- Reddit. (2023). Plumbing Kit. Retrieved from https://www.reddit.com/r/pressurewashing/comments/18icdit/plumbing_kit/
- Pressure Washer Products. (n.d.). 8-12 GPM Power Washer Plumbing Kit Horizontal Leg Tank PL-8-TA. Retrieved from https://shop.pressurewasherproducts.com/products/8-12-gpm-power-washer-plumbing-kit-horizontal-leg-tankpl-8-ta
- Dirt Killer. (n.d.). Inlet Plumbing Kit 1″, Water Tank To Pressure Washer. Retrieved from https://www.dirtkiller.com/shop/98supplyline1-inlet-plumbing-kit-1-water-tank-to-pressure-washer-18898