In a pressure washer, rinsing agent develops a foaming effect that is unsuitable for most cleaning tasks. In low doses, it can also be used as a cleaning agent in a pressure washer. However, it is not really suitable. It is better to use it separately, which in turn can have amazing success.
Washing-up liquid takes effect at high pressure
Rinsing agent is designed to neutralise the surface tension of water through its foaming surfactants. This property is not needed in a pressure washer. The extreme foaming effect when dishwashing detergent is moved quickly and a lot can have a counterproductive effect.
The surfaces to be cleaned no longer come into contact with the purpose of high-pressure cleaning, which is enormous pressure. Foam reduces the water pressure, combined with the effect of surfactants, and in this way works against the working principle of high pressure.
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Effective use of high pressure and rinsing agent
The principle of cleaning a drain with washing-up liquid and hot water can be extended and refined with a high-pressure cleaner.
Heavily soiled surfaces and pipes are generously soaked or covered with washing-up liquid. The water jet of the high-pressure cleaner, set to a high temperature, “catches” the rinsing water, which has been partially deprived of surface tension by the surfactants, at the “weakest” moment. With clear water and high pressure, the dirt wetted with detergent slides and slides off.
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Similar problems as in the dishwasher
Dishwashing detergent develops a similarly contrary behaviour, or rather incorrect and inappropriate cleaning behaviour, in the dishwasher. The swirling and rapid agitation during the rinsing process causes the formation of foam to get out of hand. Apart from the reduced or non-existent cleaning effect, the dishwasher “overflows” with foam.
Tradesmen and professionals in the cleaning trade almost always use only clear hot water in a pressure washer, except for some special types of dirt, and apply detergent to the objects to be cleaned.
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