Tech Talk: Pumps and Unloaders
PUMPS AND UNLOADERS
The pump is a critical component of every pressure washer. Knowing the difference between them will help you select the machine that is best suited to your needs.
The unloader is an often overlooked and misunderstood part of the pressure washer pump. Make sure you know the details so that you will get the unloader best suited to your needs and ensure the future life of your pressure washer.
PUMP/UNLOADER COMPARISON
 GOOD BETTER EXCELLENT BEST
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AXIAL | AXIAL | TRIPLEX | TRIPLEX | |
| HEAD | ALUMINUM HEAD |
BRASS HEAD | BRASS HEAD | BRASS HEAD |
| UNLOADER TYPE | BUILT IN | BUILT IN | BUILT IN | EXTERNAL |
| SERIES |  |
|
 |
 |
| PURCHASE PRICE | $ | $$ | $$$ | $$$$ |
| FITTINGS | M22 | M22/ QUICK CONNECT |
QUICK CONNECT |
QUICK CONNECT |
| MAX PSI | |
|
|
|
| HEAT MANAGEMENT |
|
|
|
|
| REBUILDABLE | N/A | |
|
|
| LIFE SPAN | |
|
|
|
BUILT IN UNLOADER
- Part of the pump head assembly
- Compact design takes less space
- Lower cost to build
- Internals can often be rebuilt
EXTERNAL UNLOADER
- Seperate part that is bolted to the pump head
- Easily replaced for quicker maintenance
- Greater capacity for PSI and GPM
- Models with external by-pass hoses have:
- Better heat management
- Ability to dump water to the ground to prevent overheating
- Ability to reclaim water to a holding tank to prevent overheating
