How to Connect Pressure Washer to Water Tank? [Simple Steps]

If you want to preserve the exterior of your home and swiftly clean vast areas, pressure washers are useful pieces of equipment to have. How to connect pressure washer to water tank is one of several issues that need to be addressed.

Selecting the best pressure washer can be challenging because there are so many different kinds on the market. Choose the option that precisely satisfies your property requirements. Thus, I’ve written a guide on how to connect a pressure washer to a water tank.

What Is a Pressure Washer?

A pressure washer is a tool that increases the water pressure from a home water faucet to more than 1,000 PSI, allowing the user to use the pressure difference in combination with an optional surface cleaner to remove undesired filth and grime from a range of things. Washers that produce electricity or power are available.

A pressure washer can be used to clean nearby concrete, such as a terrace, sidewalk, or road, as well as wood subfloors, paneling, cars, and other objects made of the material. They are perfect for situations where using brushes and soapy solutions would normally take an age. Pressure washing is also advantageous since it gets rid of impurities that are hard to get rid of, including grease, tar, glue, varnish, or even iron.

Why Do You Need A Water Tank With Pressure Washer?

Many believe pressure washers use more water than standard garden hoses because they shoot water at such a high rate. It’s all a scam! According to research, a high-pressure washer can use up to 20 gallons of water every minute, but a garden hose can only use about 8 gallons.

So why do we have a tank if a pressure washer doesn’t use much water? In reality, is it possible to operate a pressure washer off of a water tank?

The reply is that you are not required. However, you must if you want to securely and conveniently clean any surface.

You risk damaging the pump’s gaskets, seals, and other parts if you start the engine without putting water through its system. Thanks to the water tank, you can have continuous water flow via the pressure washer.

Benefits of Pressure Washer Use with a Water Tank

Greater output

You will produce more if you have a water tank. A water tank will produce almost twice as much output as a conventional garden hose, depending on the pressure washer you buy. This added strength can be used to remove stubborn dirt and stains from concrete, tile, and even wood.

No water connection is required

There isn’t a connection to a standard water supply, so you won’t have to worry about lugging your hose around as you move around. You may clean anything as long as your tank has enough pressure.

Go green

Using a water tank with a pressure washer is an efficient technique to preserve water while cleaning for individuals who have intentionally chosen to live sustainably. Water tanks don’t need to be near a source of running water all the time. It doesn’t lose hundreds of gallons of water every minute while using it if it is not linked to the mains. This is excellent news for the environment and your wallet if you’re trying to go green and save money on your water bills.

How To Connect Pressure Washer To The Water Tank

Gather the Required Materials

Before you begin, make sure you have the following materials ready:

• Pressure washer
• Water tank
• Garden hose
• Adapter or hose connector
• Teflon tape
• Water filter (optional)

2. Prepare the Water Tank

To connect your pressure washer to a water tank, you need to ensure that the tank is prepared properly. Follow these steps:

Step 1 – Position the Water Tank

Choose a suitable location for your water tank. It should be close enough to the area you want to clean but away from any potential damage caused by the pressure washer.

Step 2 – Elevate the Water Tank

Place the water tank on an elevated surface, such as a sturdy table or platform. This elevation will help facilitate water flow to the pressure washer.

Step 3 – Install a Water Filter (Optional)

If your water source is known to contain impurities or debris, it is advisable to install a water filter between the tank and the pressure washer. This will prevent any particles from clogging the washer or affecting its performance.

3. Connect the Pressure Washer to the Water Tank

Now that your water tank is ready, it’s time to connect the pressure washer. Follow these steps:

Step 1 – Attach the Garden Hose to the Pressure Washer

Connect one end of the garden hose to the water inlet on your pressure washer. Ensure it is securely attached.

Step 2 – Connect the Other End of the Garden Hose to the Water Tank

Attach the other end of the garden hose to the outlet of your water tank. If the hose connection does not fit directly, you may need an adapter or hose connector. Apply Teflon tape to the threaded connections for a secure seal.

Step 3 – Ensure Proper Connection

Check that all connections are tight and leak-free. You can turn on the water supply briefly to check for any leaks.

4. Test the Connection

Before using the pressure washer, it’s important to test the connection and ensure everything is working correctly. Follow these steps:

Step 1 – Prime the Pump

Turn on the water supply to the tank and allow the pressure washer’s pump to prime. This ensures a steady flow of water through the system.

Step 2 – Start the Pressure Washer

Turn on the pressure washer and let it run for a few minutes. Check that water is flowing consistently and the system has no leaks or irregularities.

Step 3 – Adjust Pressure Settings

If necessary, adjust the pressure settings on the pressure washer according to the requirements of the cleaning task. Be mindful of the surface you are cleaning to avoid any damage.

Step 4: Test Spray Pattern

Direct the spray gun to a safe area and squeeze the trigger to test the spray pattern. Ensure that the water pressure is appropriate and the spray is even. Make any necessary adjustments to the pressure settings or nozzle type to achieve the desired result.

Additional Tips for Using a Pressure Washer with a Water Tank

To optimize your experience when using a pressure washer with a water tank, consider the following tips:

Choose the Right Water Tank

Select a tank with a capacity suitable for your cleaning needs. Larger tanks may be necessary for more extensive projects or longer cleaning sessions.

Use Clean Water

Ensure that the water in your tank is clean and free from contaminants. Use a water filter to remove any impurities that could clog the pressure washer if needed.

Maintain Proper Water Pressure

Check the water pressure inside the tank regularly to ensure consistent flow to the pressure washer. Adjust the tank’s position or elevation if necessary to improve water flow.

Secure Connections

Periodically inspect the connections between the pressure washer, garden hose, and water tank. Tighten any loose fittings or replace damaged hoses to avoid leaks.

Properly Store the Equipment

After each use, drain any remaining water from the pressure washer and disconnect it from the water tank. Store both the pressure washer and the tank in a safe and dry location.

Check out this video for more ideas on connecting a pressure washer to a water tank.

How To Run A Pressure Washer Off A Water Tank

Can I still use a pressure washer that isn’t driven by electricity with a water tank?

Operating a pressure washer off a water tank is the same whether it is driven by a gas engine or an electric motor. It activates a pump that forces water out of the spray wand under pressure. It’s crucial to utilize the right spray nozzle.

The many spray nozzle types are as follows:

• Spray nozzle for detergent: for thorough cleaning
• Nozzle for flushing: for routine cleaning
• Using a blasting nozzle to remove tough spots

You can start using the pressure washer off the water tank as soon as you attach the appropriate spray nozzle to the hose.

For about a minute, run the water. This is necessary to purge the system of air and prime it. To release water pressure, squeeze the trigger on the spray nozzle. To start the engine, pull the starter cord one last time.

FAQs

Can I use any type of water tank with a pressure washer?

It is recommended to use a water tank specifically designed for pressure washer use. These tanks are built to withstand the water pressure generated by the washer and often come with features such as outlets and fittings for easy connection.

Can I use a pressure washer with a small water tank?

Yes, you can use a pressure washer with a small water tank; however, the cleaning time will be limited. Larger tanks provide a longer continuous cleaning time without the need for refilling.

Do I need a water filter when using a water tank with a pressure washer?

Using a water filter is optional but recommended, especially if your water source contains impurities or debris. The filter helps prevent clogging and prolongs the life of your pressure washer.

Can I connect multiple pressure washers to a single water tank?

Yes, it is possible to connect multiple pressure washers to a single water tank by using appropriate connectors and hoses. Ensure that the water pressure is sufficient to operate all the connected washers effectively.

Can I connect a pressure washer to any type of water tank?

You can connect a pressure washer to various types of water tanks, such as plastic or metal tanks. However, ensure that the tank is compatible with the pressure washer’s connections and can withstand the water pressure generated by the washer.

Conclusion

Connecting a pressure washer to a water tank allows you to have flexibility and convenience in your cleaning tasks, especially in areas without a direct water supply. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can successfully connect your pressure washer to a water tank and ensure efficient cleaning performance.