Types Of Pressure Washer Pumps

There are different types of water pumps available for pressure washers, but the two basic versions are belt-driven pumps and direct drive pumps. Direct drive pressure pumps are preferred by some because they don't require an assembly of pulleys, a gearbox and other accessories. Others prefer belt-driven pumps because they tend to cost 10 to 30 percent less than a direct-drive model. Regardless of the "drive method, there are three basic types of pressure pumps. The pumping action of the "camshaft" pump is more efficient than "axial" style pumps or "wobble" pumps. One reason is because the camshaft pressure washer pump runs cooler than the others and excessive heat is one of the main causes of pump failure. Camshaft pressure washer pumps run at 85 percent efficiency compared to between 70 and 80 percent for axial water pumps and wobble pressure washer pumps.