With the right know-how, you can turn a pressure washer into an air compressor and get the same job donebut is it worth it? In this article, we’ll explore the surprising answer to the question “Can a Pressure Washer be Used as an Air Compressor?” We’ll dive into what a pressure washer and an air compressor are, the benefits of converting a pressure washer to an air compressor, the steps to convert a pressure washer, and what a pressure washer air compressor can do.
We’ll also cover the limitations of using a pressure washer in this way.
So, if you’re thinking about converting a pressure washer to an air compressor, keep reading!
Table of Contents
Short Answer
No, a pressure washer cannot be used as an air compressor.
Pressure washers are designed to produce a high pressure stream of water, while air compressors are designed to compress air through a piston system.
Pressure washers and air compressors are two different types of machines, and they are not interchangeable.
What is a Pressure Washer?
A pressure washer is a powerful tool used to clean outdoor surfaces by using pressurized water.
It is typically used to clean decks, patios, driveways, and other outdoor surfaces.
Pressure washers are designed to be powerful and effective, as the pressurized water removes dirt, grime, and other debris with ease.
Pressure washers can also be used to clean vehicles, furniture, and other items.
Pressure washers are powered by either an electric motor or a gas engine, and they come in a variety of sizes and capabilities.
Pressure washers can also be used for more than just cleaning, as they can be used for tasks such as stripping paint, removing stubborn stains, and even removing graffiti.
Pressure washers offer a quick, easy, and efficient way to clean any surface, and they can be used for both residential and commercial applications.
What is an Air Compressor?
An air compressor is a machine that uses vacuum power to convert mechanical energy into pressurized air.
It compresses air and stores it in a tank for later use.
This compressed air can then be used for a variety of tasks, such as inflating tires, powering air tools, and even powering some types of machinery.
Air compressors are used in a wide variety of industries, from automotive shops to construction sites.
They are an incredibly versatile and powerful tool, but they can be expensive and require a significant amount of space.
For those looking for an alternative, a pressure washer can be a great option.
How Does a Pressure Washer Work?
A pressure washer is a powerful tool that uses a high-pressure stream of water to quickly remove dirt, debris, and other materials from surfaces.
It works by using a pump to force water through a hose and out of a nozzle.
The pressure of the water stream is adjustable, depending on the model of pressure washer and the desired cleaning effect.
The pressure of the water is usually measured in pounds per square inch (PSI).
This PSI rating is important when considering how to use a pressure washer as an air compressor.
To understand how this conversion works, it is important to know how the pressure washer works.
The pressure washer consists of a pump, motor, hose, and nozzle.
The electric motor is connected to the pump, which is then connected to the hose.
The pressure of the water is determined by the speed of the pump, and the nozzle provides the pressure of the water as it is forced out of the hose.
By using the pressure washer in reverse, the pump is used to compress air instead of water.
This is done by connecting the pump to an air filter and connecting the air filter to an outlet.
The air filter helps to ensure that the compressed air is clean and free of contaminants.
When the pressure washer is used in this manner, it can be used as an air compressor.
The Benefits of Converting a Pressure Washer to an Air Compressor
Converting a pressure washer to an air compressor can be a great way to save money and space while still having access to the air power you need for a variety of tasks.
Pressure washers are already designed to generate a substantial amount of pressure, so they can easily be converted with the right parts and tools.
This conversion is relatively simple and can be done with a few basic tools, so even those with limited technical experience can easily do the job.
Once the pressure washer is converted, it can be used to inflate tires, power air tools, and more.
This can be especially useful for those who are looking for a lighter duty air compressor that can still provide a steady flow of air.
While it won’t be as powerful as a dedicated air compressor, a converted pressure washer can still be used for a variety of tasks that don’t require a large amount of air pressure.
Furthermore, the cost of the conversion can be much less expensive than purchasing a dedicated air compressor.
The cost of the parts needed for the conversion is minimal and the labor is fairly simple, so the total cost of the conversion can be much cheaper than buying a new air compressor.
Additionally, by using a pressure washer as an air compressor, you won’t have to worry about taking up more space in your garage or workshop.
Ultimately, converting a pressure washer to an air compressor can be a great way to save money and space while still having access to the air power you need for a variety of tasks.
While it won’t be as powerful as a dedicated air compressor, a converted pressure washer can still be used for a variety of tasks that don’t require a large amount of air pressure.
The Steps to Converting a Pressure Washer to an Air Compressor
Converting a pressure washer into an air compressor is surprisingly simple and can be done in just a few steps.
The first step is to remove the pressure washer pump from the unit.
Depending on the model, this can usually be done by removing a few bolts and disconnecting the hoses.
Be sure to keep all of the parts and pieces you remove in a safe place, as they will be needed later.
The second step is to disconnect the motor from the pump.
This is usually done by removing the connecting rod from the motor and pump, as well as the belt or pulley that connects them.
Once the motor is disconnected, the pump can be removed from the pressure washer and set aside.
The third step is to remove the check valve and the outlet port from the pump.
This can usually be done with a screwdriver or other small tool.
Once the check valve and outlet port are removed, the pump can be connected to an air tank or other air supply.
The fourth step is to install the motor back onto the pump.
This is usually done by re-attaching the connecting rod and belt or pulley.
Once the motor is connected to the pump, the pump can be connected to a power source, such as a 12-volt battery.
The fifth and final step is to connect the outlet port from the pump to the air supply.
This can be done by connecting a hose from the outlet port to an air tank or other air supply.
Once the connections are made, the pressure washer is ready to be used as an air compressor.
Using a pressure washer as an air compressor can be a great alternative to buying a dedicated air compressor, as it can provide a steady flow of air for a variety of tasks.
While it may not be as powerful as a dedicated air compressor, it can still be used to inflate tires, power air tools, and more.
What Can a Pressure Washer Air Compressor Do?
A pressure washer air compressor can be used for a variety of tasks.
For example, it can be used to inflate tires, power air tools, and more.
This is great for those who dont need a dedicated air compressor but still need some air pressure for their projects.
The pressure washer can provide a steady flow of air, allowing for more controlled and precise results.
In addition to inflating tires, a pressure washer air compressor can be used for other tasks such as blowing out dust and debris from cracks and crevices.
It can also be used for painting projects, such as priming and finishing.
You can even use it to clean certain pools and spas.
When using a pressure washer air compressor, its important to remember that its not as powerful as a dedicated air compressor.
This means that its not suitable for tasks that require a lot of air pressure, such as blasting.
However, its more than capable of handling light-duty tasks.
To get the most out of your pressure washer air compressor, its important to make sure that you follow the manufacturers instructions for converting it.
This will ensure that its done properly and that youre able to get the most out of it.
Additionally, its important to remember that a pressure washer air compressor should never be used to power air tools that require more than the maximum pressure that the pressure washer can provide.
Doing so can damage the pressure washer and/or the air tools.
The Limitations of Using a Pressure Washer as an Air Compressor
When it comes to using a pressure washer as an air compressor, there are some definite limitations to consider.
First, the pressure washer will not be able to provide the same level of air pressure as a dedicated air compressor.
The pump in a pressure washer can usually only generate a maximum pressure of around 900psi, while a dedicated air compressor can reach pressures up to 150psi.
This means that the pressure washer is not suitable for tasks that require a large amount of air pressure.
Another limitation to consider is the size of the tank.
Most pressure washers have a relatively small tank, which means that they cannot provide a large volume of air for tasks that require a continuous flow of air.
This means that the pressure washer is not suitable for tasks such as powering air tools or inflating large tires.
Finally, the pressure washer may not be able to provide a steady flow of air.
This is due to the fact that the pump needs to be turned off and on in order to generate the necessary air pressure.
This means that the pressure washer is not suitable for tasks that require a continuous supply of air, such as powering air tools or inflating tires.
Final Thoughts
The potential of a pressure washer as an air compressor is a surprising, yet useful discovery that can benefit anyone who is looking for an alternative to a dedicated air compressor.
By following the steps outlined to convert a pressure washer to an air compressor, you can reap the rewards of being able to inflate tires, power air tools, and more.
While there are certain limitations to what a pressure washer air compressor can do, it can still be a great asset in light-duty tasks.
Try it out and see the results for yourself!