Which Soft Wash Machine Should I Be Using? Air, Booster, Gas Pump, or 12 Volt Soft Wash System

One of the hottest topics in the pressure washing industry right now is soft washing, also known as soft wash, softwashing, low-pressure cleaning, and more.

What Does Soft Washing Mean?

Soft washing refers to the application of water mixed with chemicals at low pressure, allowing the chemicals to do most of the cleaning work. This method enables faster and more efficient cleaning by applying low-pressure chemicals to surfaces.

When using a soft wash system, your pressure washer essentially becomes a high-powered rinsing tool. Many professionals use a low-pressure rinse tip on their pressure washer to rinse the chemicals applied by the soft wash system.

Which Soft Wash System is Best?

This is a common question, but there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Each system has unique requirements and performance characteristics.

Longevity of Soft Wash Systems

All soft wash systems eventually experience issues, especially when using strong chemicals. It's essential to plan for downtime by having replacement parts and backups on hand. The last thing you want is to start a job only to find that your pump is malfunctioning.

Common Problems with Soft Wash Units

All soft wash units face challenges in moving chemicals over the long term:

• Air Diaphragm Pumps: Long-term bladder issues.
• Booster Pumps: Internal parts wear out and need frequent rebuilding.
• Gas Powered Pumps (e.g., P-40, AR45): Prone to part wear and leaks.
• 12 Volt Pumps: Known for sudden failures, sometimes right out of the box.

Choosing the Right Unit

The best unit is the one that fits your specific build and budget, and that you can maintain while working. It's crucial to have extra pumps or parts ready to minimize downtime.

Overview of Soft Wash System Options

12 Volt Soft Wash Pumps

A 12v system is easy to set up and integrate into your trailer or skid build, providing 4-7 GPM of chemical flow. These pumps run on a battery and are on-demand, meaning they activate when you pull the trigger. Ensure you have a deep cycle marine-grade battery and a backup pump.

Air Diaphragm Pumps

Air diaphragm pumps offer large chemical flow (around 10 GPM) but require a powerful air compressor (80-100 psi). These systems take up space and may suffer from bladder issues over time. Keeping a backup pump is advisable.

Electric / Gas Powered Booster Pumps

These pumps move large amounts of liquid quickly (8-12 GPM) but require a power source and regular maintenance. They are complex to operate and need frequent rebuilding due to internal wear from chemicals and friction.

Gas Roof Pump or Ag Pump

Gas-powered pumps like the P40 or AR45 are high-volume, high-flow units (10-12 GPM). They are effective but come with higher upfront costs and frequent part replacements. These pumps require a well-thought-out setup with appropriate tanks and hoses.

Cost Per Value

For most trailer or skid builds, the 12v soft wash system offers the best value. Priced between $200-$300, these pumps can last around six months, allowing you to recoup your investment quickly. Keeping a backup pump ensures minimal downtime.

While larger systems clean faster, they also come with higher costs and more complex maintenance needs. If a large system fails, repairs can be time-consuming and costly, making 12v systems a more practical choice for newcomers to soft washing.

Need Help?

If you need assistance with building your soft wash system, call us at 504-358-5485 or start a chat on our website.