When it comes to keeping your Sun Joe pressure washer running smoothly and effectively, using the right kind of soap is essential. With so many options on the market, it can be tricky to know which soap is compatible with your specific model. In this article, we’ll walk through the key factors to consider when choosing a soap for your Sun Joe pressure washer, provide concrete recommendations for top soaps, and answer common questions related to pressure washer detergents.
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The Importance of Using Sun Joe-Compatible Soaps
While it may be tempting to use just any household detergent in your Sun Joe pressure washer, doing so can actually cause a number of problems:
- Wrong pH balance – Most household detergents have a pH that is too high for pressure washers. This can lead to premature failure of seals and o-rings.
- Excess sudsing – Detergents made for home use often contain sudsing agents that can clog up nozzles and tubes in pressure washers.
- No lubrication – Pressure washer soaps contain lubricants that help protect the pump. Household detergents lack these lubricants.
- No rust inhibitors – Specialty pressure washer soaps contain additives that help prevent rust and corrosion. Regular soaps do not.
The bottom line is that you need a soap specifically formulated for pressure washers in order to properly clean surfaces and protect the internal components. Using the wrong detergent with your Sun Joe can lead to costly repairs down the road.
Choosing the Right Pressure Washer Soap
When shopping for soap for your Sun Joe pressure washer, there are a few key factors to consider:
Soap Type
Pressure washer soaps generally fall into one of three categories:
- General purpose – These are all-around cleaning solutions designed for use on most surfaces like siding, decks, driveways, etc. They have moderate sudsing action.
- Vehicle wash – Designed for cars, trucks, and other vehicles. Higher levels of lubricants and sudsing action.
- Degreasing agents – Contain solvents and caustics meant for heavy duty cleaning of equipment, engines, BBQs, and areas with substantial grease buildup.
Consider what you will be using your pressure washer for most often, and choose a soap type accordingly. For general home use, a general purpose soap is likely the best option.
Nozzle Compatibility
The soap you choose also needs to be compatible with the nozzle on your Sun Joe pressure washer. Here are some common nozzle types:
- 0° – For high pressure cleaning
- 15° – For gentle cleaning of more delicate surfaces
- 25° – For applying chemicals and soaps
- 40° – For light cleaning jobs
A 25° or 40° fan nozzle is the best type to use when applying pressure washer soap. Make sure any soap you buy is formulated to work with your nozzle.
Water Temperature Rating
Some pressure washer soaps are designed for specific water temperatures. Options include:
- Cold water only
- Hot water only
- Both hot and cold water
Make sure to verify the temperature rating before purchase. Most basic models like those from Sun Joe are cold water pressure washers.
Dilution Ratio
Pressure washer soaps feature different dilution ratios, such as:
- 10:1
- 20:1
- 30:1
This indicates how much soap you should dilute in water. A 10:1 ratio means 10 parts water to 1 part soap. Be sure to follow the specified ratio when diluting the soap you choose.
Scent
Many pressure washer soaps contain added fragrance. While not necessary, some people prefer a nice scent while washing. Most common options are fresh or citrus scents.
Bottle Style
Pressure washer soap comes in different bottle designs, including:
- Standard bottle – Must be poured into soap dispenser
- Attached reservoir – Reserves soap within bottle
- Foam cannon – Creates foam from the soap concentrate
Choose a bottle style that is easy and convenient for you to use.
Recommended Soaps for Sun Joe Pressure Washers
Based on the criteria above, here are some top soap options specifically formulated to work great with Sun Joe pressure washers:
| Soap | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Sun Joe HOUSE + DECK WASH | – Designed for Sun Joe machines – General purpose formula – Gentle on wood & metal – Attached 24 oz reservoir |
| Chemical Guys CWS_402_04 Citrus Wash and Gloss | – Bright citrus scent – Foaming soap – Waxes as it cleans – Dilutes 10:1 |
| Karcher Pressure Washer Detergent | – Made for cold water use – Biodegradable – Removes grease & grime – 20:1 dilution ratio |
| Simple Green 13072 Industrial Cleaner | – Degreasing formula – Hot or cold water – Phosphate-free – 10:1 dilution |
Any of these would be an excellent choice for Sun Joe pressure washer models. Be sure to verify temperature rating, nozzle compatibility, and dilution ratio before purchase.
Sun Joe House + Deck Wash Review
Of the soaps listed above, the Sun Joe House + Deck Wash is specifically designed by the company to work with their pressure washers. Here’s a more in-depth look at why it’s a top choice:
- Compatible with all Sun Joe electric pressure washers
- Won’t clog nozzles or damage seals
- Low-sudsing, general purpose formula
- Contains lubricants for pump protection
- Rinses easily with no streaking
- Pleasant citrus fragrance
- Dilutes 30:1 for efficiency
- Reusable 24 oz attached reservoir
- Environmentally friendly ingredients
With the Sun Joe House + Deck Wash, you can be 100% confident in compatibility with your pressure washer. The attached reservoir makes application easy. It’s a great value for an own-brand soap designed specifically with Sun Joe machines in mind.
Using Pressure Washer Soap Effectively
Once you’ve chosen the right soap for your Sun Joe model, proper application technique is also key. Here are some tips for effectively using pressure washer soap:
Prepare a Diluted Solution
Always dilute the soap concentrate with water according to the specified ratio before adding it to your pressure washer. This ensures the soap won’t clog the nozzle.
Use a Fan Nozzle
A fan nozzle in the 25-40° range allows for optimum soap application. The wider fan pattern distributes it evenly.
Apply Soap to a Dry Surface
Applying soap to a wet surface will dilute it too quickly. Always start with a dry area.
Let Soap Dwell
Allow the soap to sit for 3-5 minutes before rinsing. This gives the chemicals time to lift dirt and grime.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with a high pressure 0° nozzle. Go over areas twice to remove all soap residue.
Dispose of Leftover Solution
Properly dispose of any remaining diluted soap mixture after use.
Pressure Washer Soap Safety Tips
While extremely useful for cleaning, pressure washer soap can also pose risks if not handled properly. Keep these safety tips in mind:
- Read labels and follow instructions carefully
- Wear protective eyewear and gloves
- Do not ingest soap or allow it to come in contact with skin or eyes
- Use in a well-ventilated area
- Turn off and detach sprayer when not in use
- Store soap in original container out of reach of children and pets
- Check hoses and fittings regularly for leaks
- Dispose of unused soap properly per local regulations
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dish soap in my pressure washer?
No, dish soap and other kitchen detergents are not designed for pressure washers. They often contain high levels of sudsing agents and the wrong pH balance. For best results, use only pressure washer specific soaps.
How often should I apply soap when washing?
Typically, you’ll want to apply soap once when tackling a dirty surface. Apply it to a dry surface, let it dwell briefly, then rinse thoroughly. Applying soap too frequently can lead to buildup.
What kind of soap should I use on wood surfaces?
Look for a general purpose soap specifically formulated for use on wood. Avoid highly caustic degreasing detergents, as these can damage delicate wood grains. A milder soap will effectively clean wood without stripping it of stain treatments.
Can I use automotive soap in my Sun Joe?
Yes, automotive pressure washer soaps can generally be used safely in electric models like those from Sun Joe. Just be sure to select one designed for use in a cold water pressure washer and dilute it correctly.
How do I get soap out of my pressure washer if it clogs?
If your nozzle becomes clogged with soap, first try flushing it out with warm water. If that doesn’t work, try using a thin wire to clear out any obstructions. Prevent clogs by always diluting the soap properly before adding it to your machine.
Conclusion
Choosing the ideal pressure washer soap for your Sun Joe model doesn’t have to be a guessing game. Stick with specially formulated detergents to get optimal cleaning power safely. The Sun Joe House + Deck Wash is a top choice specifically designed for these machines. Just be sure to dilute properly, use a fan nozzle, and apply soap to dry surfaces. Follow our tips to make the most of pressure washer soap and keep your Sun Joe running strong.