When it comes to keeping large flat surfaces clean and looking their best, surface cleaners are a game-changer. Whether you’re a professional contractor, a business owner, or a homeowner maintaining outdoor areas, understanding the different types available can help you choose the right equipment for the job. At Bozeman Distributors, we offer a variety of surface cleaning solutions to match various needs and applications, including high-quality options from trusted brands like Steel Eagle and Whisper Wash.
What Is A Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner?
A surface cleaner is an attachment used with a pressure washer to efficiently clean flat surfaces such as driveways, sidewalks, patios, parking lots, and decks. Unlike traditional pressure washer wands, surface cleaners feature a spinning arm with multiple nozzles enclosed under a protective deck. This setup evenly distributes high-pressure water across a wide area, allowing for faster, more consistent cleaning with less risk of streaking or surface damage. The enclosed design also helps contain overspray, reduce water splash, and keep surrounding areas cleaner during the job.
What Are the Most Common Types of Surface Cleaners?
Surface cleaners vary by size, materials, and intended use. Here are the main types you’ll encounter:
Aluminum Deck Surface Cleaners – Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, aluminum decks are easy to maneuver and hold up well in wet environments. Commonly used for both residential and commercial cleaning tasks.
Stainless Steel Deck Surface Cleaners – Built for strength and long-term durability, stainless steel options are ideal for heavy-duty commercial use where rust resistance and toughness matter most.
Poly (Plastic) Deck Surface Cleaners – A more affordable and lightweight option, poly deck models are best suited for light residential work or surfaces that require a gentler touch.
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By knowing what each type of deck is designed for, you’ll be better equipped to choose a surface cleaner that delivers consistent results and stands up to your cleaning demands.
How Do Surface Cleaner Sizes and Flow Rates Affect Cleaning?
Surface cleaners come in a range of sizes, typically measured by the diameter of the cleaning deck, from compact 12-inch models to expansive 48-inch and larger machines. These size variations allow you to select the right tool for different surfaces and cleaning demands.
Small Surface Cleaners (12”–16”): Perfect for tight spaces, patios, and decks.
Medium Surface Cleaners (20”–30”): Versatile options for driveways, sidewalks, and residential properties.
Large Surface Cleaners (36”–48” and up): Built for commercial use, including parking lots and industrial floors.
Additionally, flow rates and pressure ratings vary. Most surface cleaners operate between 2,000 and 4,000 PSI and can handle flow rates up to 12 gallons per minute (GPM). Matching the surface cleaner to your pressure washer’s specs is essential for optimal performance. Flow Rate (gpm) is more important than pressure, in most cases, when it comes to cleaning efficiency and effectiveness. More water is better than more pressure when you are cleaning.
When Should You Choose a Commercial vs. Residential Surface Cleaner?
Choosing between commercial and residential surface cleaners is about selecting equipment that fits the demands of your specific cleaning tasks.
Commercial Surface Cleaners are built for frequent, heavy-duty use on large, tough surfaces. They feature stronger materials, higher pressure capabilities, and designs that maximize cleaning efficiency to save time and effort.
Residential Surface Cleaners focus on ease of use, portability, and cleaning gentler surfaces like patios and walkways without causing damage. These models tend to be lighter and are designed for occasional or moderate use.
Bozeman stocks several models of Steel Eagle and Whisper Wash Commercial Models and BE Pressure Residential Models. Other manufacturers are available upon request.
With the right surface cleaner, you can tackle your cleaning tasks effectively while protecting the surfaces you care about. Whether you need power or precision, choosing the right equipment ensures the job gets done right the first time.
At Bozeman Distributors, we carry a wide selection of surface cleaners designed to meet diverse cleaning needs for both Commercial and Residential applications. With expert guidance and a full range of accessories like high-pressure hoses and nozzles, we ensure you’re equipped with everything necessary for a seamless cleaning experience.
We also stock a wide selection of chemicals and cleaners specifically for cleaning and removing stains from concrete.