jde927 14 Report post Posted April 4, 2006 Hello all! With all the useful information that all of you guys/gals have I was figuring that someone would be able to help me out. We are in the processes of purchasing two more Hot water machines. The two we have are 110 volt. One of the companies that we are looking into builds theirs with a 12-volt system, What are the advantages of one over the other? Or disadvantages? We appreciate in advance for any help! Thanks, Joe Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Russ Johnson 141 Report post Posted April 4, 2006 After servicing pressure washers for 30 years, I can personally vouch for the 120 volt system. They don't depend on as many variables to run properly. A 12 volt DEPENDS on the battery, battery cables and connections, the charging system on the engine,which, in itself is a source of many variables, the ambient temperature,a cold battery is weaker,like a baby depends on a mothers milk. With a 120 volt, you've got a durable generator and a belt. As long as the engine runs at the specified speed and the belt is tight, the rest is exactly the same ( motor, transformer, fuel pump, etc.). Let the voltage drop off for any reason, and a 12 volt could fry a transformer or solenoid coil. The electrical components on a 120 volt are also less expensive to replace when the time comes. I have seen 10 year old 120 volts running just fine. As a side note, you guys with 12 volt systems, as a part of your maintenence program, when you do your tune ups ( once a year), check the brushes in your motor if they are accessible. If the carbon brush wears out and the copper wire hits the rotor it could burn out the motor. Brushes are cheaper than motors. Much cheaper. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
jde927 14 Report post Posted April 4, 2006 Thanks Russ! We will Keep all that in mind, and I did mean 120 not 110, just alittle early. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
