Kennel cleaning
In this time of the deadly viruses, it is important to stay especially clean—and that includes our pet’s living areas. Dogs may roam the home or the yard, may be kept in a kennel, or may take charge of all of these areas. Wherever they go, so do their specialized colony of bacteria and germs—maybe including the very dangerous viruses! One way to deep-clean a dog’s living space such as her kennel, is to use a pressure washer with commercial-level disinfectants.
The process of soaking a space in disinfectant and pressure washing the area will rid the area of accumulated bacteria as well as the grime that the bacteria love to settle in—and possibly those little viruses.
Researchers report that the reason animals get sick and sick and sick over and over, is because of the bacteria present in their living spaces. If the harmful bacteria are removed frequently, dogs will be less likely to get sick.
How pressure washers work
Pressure washers are basically pumps that pressurize water and shoot it through a hose attached to a wand and nozzle. Pressure washers are composed of one of two types of pumps: an axial pump or a triplex pump.
Axial pumps are light or medium duty pressure washers, and are generally smaller and easier to use. They need little maintenance, and are made for small occasional projects around the house.
Triplex pumps are heavy duty pressure washers that need high maintenance and are best for frequent and large-scale or commercial usage.
Many pressure washers have two hose attachment points, one that a standard garden hose can be screwed onto for low pressure usage, and one for high pressures that the specialized pressure washing hose attaches to.
Size guide
Light duty power washers put out pressure of generally 100 bar / 1,500 PSI and lower. These types of washers are used for vehicles, bikes, gardening tools, outdoor recreational equipment like playlets and patio furniture, tubs and bins, and barbecues.
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Medium duty washers are pressurized to around 100 to 200 bar / 1,500 to 2,800 PSI, and are generally used to wash fences, rain gutters, building walls, sheds, driveways, sidewalks, decking and patios.
Heavy duty pressure washers are rated to 200 and more bar / 2,800 PSI and higher. They are used to wash severely dirty or commercial-size patios, building walls, decks and driveways.
Useful
Types of pressure washers
Some pressure washers run on petroleum and some run off of electricity. Electrical washers are generally used for small personal projects around the home. They are overall healthier for the environment as they do not put out fumes like the petrol washers do. They also run more quietly, which is nice around a home or neighborhood. This is also beneficial for your ears, as loud noises can be very damaging. Since electric power washers are generally lighter too than petrol washers, they are nice to use around the garden and home where toting them about frequently is necessary. A disadvantage to this though is that the cord can be limiting depending on its length, and overall a bother to have this sort of tether. Further, caution must be taken with electrical washers that the electrical connections do not get wet, the cable does not become a tripping hazard to yourself or others, and that there are electrical outlets in close proximity to the job site.
Electric
- Light weight, no-mess, overall easy to use
- For occasional weekend use
- Needs an outlet available to plug into
Petrol power washers are nice because they afford more maneuverability when power outlets are not close by and when the space is not compatible to having a cord trailing behind. They are often used in professional settings and are heavier duty than electrical washers. They are more powerful than electric washers, and are therefore often chosen for large-scale projects like power washing an entire building.
Petrol
- Heavy-duty, very powerful
- Can be used anywhere
- For daily, frequent use
Usage tips
The manual is useful; useful in using the power washer correctly. Who would have thunk! I’m practicing being more careful, and this involves reading manuals before just putting stuff together trial and error. And glass breaks. Guess what?! So be careful—extremely careful. Yes, some pressure washers work well on glass, but check the manufacturer’s instructions first. Some power washers come with adjustable PSI levels, and this allows for cleaning of breakable things like glass.
Test things out first too. Try pressure washing the corner or underside of an object before pressure washing the front of the entire thing so that just incase the paint peels away with the pressure, or some other contraindication occurs, the damage is manageable and in an inconspicuous place.
Accessories
Typical pressure washers are sold with a variety of attachments that are suitable for a host of different pressure washing jobs. Some of these attachments include wands that are interchangeable, interchangeable nozzles, detergents and brushes. Sometimes not all the necessary tools needed for the specific task will be included with the pressure washer. If not, there are many that can be purchased separately. For example, if purchasing an electric pressure washer, it is wise to look into purchasing an extension lead. Always check with the manufacturer’s instructions for further information on purchasing additional parts.
Versatility
Once I start, I want to pressure wash everything: sidewalk, driveway, house siding, stepping stones, garden boxes, the weird statue in the neighbor’s yard, my under-car. Blasting away grease, moss, tar, mildew, and other stains brings me so. much. joy!
Vertical and horizontal machine positions are possible with some power washers, but not all. The ability to position the machine in various ways allows for better stability on technical ground or confined spaces.
Dual detergent tanks
Two wand types allow for cleaning in confined spaces as well as reaching high up to gutters. This means another excuse to getting all the chores done is no longer good enough.
Multiple wand nozzles allows for different pressures and shapes of sprays for differing project types.
User-friendly
Quick-connect hose nozzles make switching out easy.
The size of the power washer can make it easier or harder to move around. Sizes measuring around 15 by 30 inches and weighing around 30 pounds, for example, are considered small. However, there are power washers that are considerably smaller, termed “compact pressure washers.” They measure significantly smaller than the small, at about 15 by 9 inches and weighing little more than 15 pounds. Compact pressure washers are often ideal for use on cars, bicycles, and other small vehicles.
Soap applicator
The inclusion of a soap applicator allows for easy poison mixing.
Amazing reach
A power cord reaching at least 30 feet makes reaching all the power outlets and complete more of my project from one spot.
Long lifespan
A self-cooling motor results in a machine that works for longer because when the motor retains water it is able to keep itself cool, which in turn means the motor can take on more, for longer.
Pressurized hose reels protect the stored hose from natural breakdown for longer.
Lightweight
Pressure washers weighing around 20 pounds are more easily controlled and toed about the job site.
Powerful
The PSI of the motor determines how good of job the power washer will do. PSI of 2,000 or so can save you energy because it manages the tough removal of grease, tar, and mildew that otherwise require quite a bit of elbow grease.
The cleaning power of a pressure washer is measured in PSI, or pounds per square inch. Another form of measurement here is GPM, which is gallons per minute. This rating will determine the type of project that can be tackled.
Pounds per square inch (PSI) is a measurement of the pressure, also known as the cleaning force, or water that is created by the pressure washer. This PSI rating can be used to help in determining the level of power with which the water will stream.
Gallons per minute (GPM) is a measurement of the volume of water that is delivered by the pressure washer. This rating number will help to determine the speed at which the pressure washer will get the cleaning job done, and how effectively it will rinse debris away.
The best pressure washer of 2020
According to a British technology reviewer, the best pressure washer this year is the archer K7 Premium Full Control Plus Home. It was reportedly the most powerful out of a its like machines, and covered the most ground the quickest. It also felt easy to use. The great range of cleaning it offered was thanks to the included lance tool that really got the job done well by allowing better range of motion when the machine was in an upright position.
The smooth-running motor was notedly peaceful too, thanks to the minimized vibration of water as it ran through the hose. In this case, the operators found themselves able to operate for longer since their hands did not tire out.
Since the K7 is highly expensive, however, the next best pressure washer was reportedly the K4 Premium Full Control Home, which is lighter than the K7. This washer does not come with as long of a hose or as powerful of a motor, but it does finely remove tough dirt and mildew. It also comes with a special attachment for patio cleaning.
Some problems with the K7 are that it occasionally does not draw enough power from the wall water tap, resulting in a drop in water pressure when it is in use. Also the pressure levels cannot be tailored directly from the pressure washer lance. In this case, the Nilfisk model provides a wireless function that allows the user to adjust the power.
According to the reviewers, the Karcher K2 was cheaply designed and did not come with the variety of accessories they had hoped for. However, just like its similar models, the K7 and K4, it does offer detergent with the package which is a nice added bonus.
How to pick the best pressure washer for you specific needs.
The search for the best, most powerful washer is not straight-forward since different power washers are sold with various power specifications that range from 1,000 PSI to 4000 PSI. Primarily, power washer users need to ascertain their requirements before looking hunting among the large array of power cleaner options.
In General, pressure washers are put into categories such as Light-duty, Medium-duty, and those for Heavy-duty jobs, based on their motor power, how they are operated, and the task they will be put to.
First, decide on the types of jobs you want to do and when and how often you would like to do them. For example, if the project is to clear a small ground space once every year, then a simple and low-cost model will do the job well. But, if a broad variety of water pressures is necessary in order to clean small objects as well as multi-space dog kennels, then it may be necessary to invest a few more hundred dollars for a high-power machine that comes with many accessories.
Finally, though there are many specifications for pressure washers and they change depending on the machine, the most important specifications found by testers are two things: the motor’s power (or in this case, the motor’s pressure, measured in bars), and the length of the hose.
In regards to pressure, most simple machines will do the job of cleaning up a wall. However, models that are more expensive are able to cover more space in much less time, which saves the body doing the work!
The Sun Joe Pressure Washer, SPX3000 (2030 Max PSI 1.76 GPM 14.5-Amp Electric Pressure Washer)
Another Sun Joe, SPX3001 (2030 PSI 1.76 GPM 14.5 AMP Electric Pressure Washer)
This one has a big hose reel attached to the top of the washer for neat storage. With similar power as the SPX3000 and also including the double detergent tank and Total Stop System, this SPX3001 is also a medium duty pressure washer with its difference being that it has a reel for the hose, and comes with five quick-connect spray tips.
TruPressure Karcher (K1700 Electric Power Pressure Washer 1700 PSI)
This is another medium duty pressure washer with 1,700 PSI. It comes with three different nozzles, including a turbo nozzle for strong cleaning power on the most stubborn areas, an attachable bin for storing the hose and other cleaning tools, a 20-foot hose, and a convenient on/off foot switch.
Karcher K5
Thanks to the specialized wand that gives this unit extra power, the Karcher K5 registers as 50% better than other washers, with the highest PSI, and as the best electric pressure washer for handling difficult jobs.
With a non-corrosive and free of maintenance pump, this machine can last a long time.
It is flexible to the host of tasks it can be used for, thanks to an easily-adjustable spray wand.
This machine is powerful, efficient and fast. Its motor is water-cooled to increase its lifespan up to five times more than other pressure washers. Even in places that are very hot and humid, this Karcher K5 model is proficient at ridding mildew, moss that has dried on, and other tough stains and grime.
The motor is efficient and quiet, and is easily set up straight from the package. This pressure washer is a solid machine all around for multipurpose jobs.
Sun Joe SPX1000 (1450 Max PSI 1.45 GPM 11.5-AMP Electric Pressure Washer)
This one is a little guy! The versatility of this light duty pressure washer thanks to its light weight of just 11.7 pounds and size of 12 by 19 inches allows for toting around much more easily than Sun Joe’s other options. The powerful 1,450 PSI allows for occasional light household cleaning of decks and patios, sidewalks, boats, and furniture. This is not a commercial machine and is not intended for everyday use, but is great for the occasional clean-up needs!
Greenworks Pressure Washer (1,500 PSI, 13 AMP, 1.2 GPM, GPW1501)
This light duty pressure washer can be kept horizontal or vertical for use in a variety of locations and on technical ground. The electrical cord reaches 35 feet and the hose reaches 20 feet in length. This little machine really does get the job done though, and is great for use around the house on occasion.
SprayWash Cleaning System (CLICK/Gardena)
The SprayWash system is compatible with work safe situations include harmful chemicals, because it includes different colored cleaning tablet compartment lids that can be attached to signify various chemical tablets.
Tablet kits available include:
- the red CleaningTab 1 for occasional descaling of surfaces that are able to withstand water, such as floors, mirrors, walls, tables, equipment, inventory and machinery in sanitary rooms, food industry, commercial kitchens, fishing industry, agriculture, hospitals, and animal welfare to name a few. This chemical is effective against limescale, for example, and prevents the buildup of limescale.
- blue CleaningTab 9 for daily and heavy cleaning in most facilities, on any water-resistant surface such as floors, walls, equipment, tables, inventory and machinery in sanitary rooms, food industry, commercial kitchens, hospitals, fishing industry, animal welfare, and agriculture to name a few. This chemical is effective against animal and body fats, vegetable oils, dirt and fats. It is not suitable however, for permanent use on soft metals and linoleum.
- black CleaningTab 12 for heavy and industry cleaning—conditions that are very dirty and that are resistant to water, such as floors, walls, tables, equipment, inventory and machinery in sanitary rooms, food industry, commercial kitchens, hospitals, fishing industry, animal welfare, and agriculture to name a few. This chemical is effective against animal and body fats, vegetable oils, dirt and fats. It is not suitable however, for permanent use on soft metals and linoleum.
- grey ChlorTab Extra for EN-approved active chlorine disinfection, for areas that are resistant to water, such as floors, walls, tables, equipment, inventory and machinery in sanitary rooms, food industry, commercial kitchens, hospitals, fishing industry, animal welfare, and agriculture to name a few. This chemical is effective against animal and body fats, vegetable oils, dirt and fats. It is effective as an odor control and is effective against biofilms. It is proven effective against viruses and fungi, and bacteria. After each use, rinse well with water and before disinfection, clean the surface. The reaction time for this chemical is approximately five to ten minutes.
- and yellow DesTab for EN-approved active oxygen disinfection in areas that are resistant to water, such as floors, walls, tables, equipment, inventory and machinery in sanitary rooms, food industry, commercial kitchens, hospitals, fishing industry, animal welfare, and agriculture to name a few. This chemical is proven to be effective against viruses and fungi, and bacteria. It is also effective as an odor control, and is effective against biofilm. After every use, rinse the area well with water and before disinfection, clean the surface first. This chemical’s reaction time is approximately five to ten minutes.
The SprayWash system comes complete in a box, and includes one foam nozzle, two foam filters, a high quality handle, a rinsing unit to connect to the handle, wall brackets to store the system easily, a lid to safely store tablets when the system is not being used, and instructions for use.
CRIME LAB & Mr Dog Poop: Kennel and Structural pressure Washing & Disinfecting
This is a service that recently posted on their website, mrdogpoop.com, that through the thick of the viruses, the subsequent reduction of their staff to “a skeleton,” and the lack of lab supplies due to human Covid-19 testing, their dog poop DNA services are continuing to be available in all continental 48 states, and they also plan to continue kennel pressure washing services.
Areas that are extremely grimy will be cleaned via a penetration of solvents or disinfectants based on the need prior to a final rinsing process which will allow the disinfectants the time they need to work on problem areas or surfaces that are porous, such as outdoor carpets or wood.
The service finds it necessary to use their thoroughly-mixed solution, delivered through either siphon feed, garden hose end-feeder, or via standard pressure washing methods so that the even distribution of the disinfectant is insured.
Prior to the arrival of the pressure washing service at the desired location, it is asked that all animals be removed from the area for their safety and the service’s safety.
Though not absolutely necessary, after the pressure washing the area will be rinsed with clean water in order to make ever surface safe for animals. This will be done as soon as the pressure washing is finished so that animals may return to the area as soon as possible.
SprayMaster Technologies, Kennel Cleaning Systems
SprayMaster develops and sells pressure washing systems that reportedly use 2.2 gallons of water per minute at 1,100 psi rather than using 8 to 10 gallons of water per minute at 60 to 80 psi like garden hoses do. This saves up to 75% water!
The system promotes the ERASR Protocol, which is 1) Evacuate the animals, 2) Remove any solid waste from the kennel, 3) Apply chemicals using safe techniques and allow the appropriate time for the chemical to sit, 4) Spray and rinse the kennel down, and 5) Repeat on the other side of the kennel for all-around cleanliness.
Systems featured include central systems, central remotes, wall mount systems, VacMaster systems, portable systems, and accessories. Available systems are: the Retrofit Kit 600RED, the SMT-1100W, the Momentum Plus (2.1 Central Unit), the Kennel 600 Package, Momentum 2.1 – Kennel Package, the kennel 1100, Momentum 2.1 SS, SMT VacMaster I (LP), SMT-600PEW-HD, and the 1100SS Power Clean Go.
Each item comes with usage information to ensure the proper operation, chemical metering, and pressurizing; and is guaranteed to redefine the industry of pressure washing.
K9 Quick-n-Clean Elevated Floor Kennel Kennel
The included wet vacuum can also have an optional pump attached to it to automatically pump out the liquid to an elevated sewer outlet if necessary.
This kennel’s floor is made of galvanized steel which makes it strong enough for heavy animals to walk on it. It is also seamless so it will not crack, flex, or leak over time. Its gentle slope also allows waste to drain to the outlet, so that the system can be installed on floors that are uneven.
Isolation panels also funnel liquid such as urine into the wash basin-like floor, which helps to limit contamination of the pet’s living area, and makes it easy to wash out.
The raised flooring fits securely within the base floor, creating a comfortable non-slip textured space for the animal to live. Slots in the raised floor allow liquids such as urine to drain away so that animals are not contaminated.
This Quick-n-Clean kennel may be installed by itself as a stand-alone unit, or it can be installed in a series of other kennels, or added to other K9 Kennel Store kennels to create a larger kennel system.
Door options for this kennel are two: one is a Standard Kennel Pro Door, and the second is the Galvanized Glass Door.
Additionally, Stainless Steel kennel options are available as well as the Quick-n-Clean System, though this alternative form may take up to ten to twelve weeks of lead time.
