The power of steam is used in numerous applications. In the industrial realm, companies employ steam pressure 
washers to harness the awesome cleaning power of steam. These units are quite large and are not often seen in consumer applications, although they are safe for everyday people to use. Powered by a gasoline combustion engine, these washers take in water and convert it to steam which is sprayed out the handle at high speed. This steam is used to clean a variety of things, ranging from floors to insulation. Steam is safe to use because it is just water. Objects and surfaces that would normally be damaged by chemicals can be cleaned with no problem by a steam pressure washer.
What You Get:
Spray Nozzles: In addition to the unit itself, manufacturers usually include everything you need to get started using your new steam pressure washer. This includes a variety of spray nozzles. Each nozzle sprays the steam at a different angle. For example, a 10 degree nozzle has a pinpoint spray which is used for precise work. To steam a sidewalk, however, you will need a larger spray arc, such as that of a 45 degree spray nozzle. These nozzles are applied when the unit is off and screw onto the handle with compatible threading.
In addition to spraying steam, you can also spray water with most steam pressure washers. For this mode, you need to use the hot water spray nozzle. This allows a solid water stream to flow out. However, the water is still quite hot as to help you clean better. High quality systems usually come with a quick release handle wand, allowing for near instant changing of nozzles between jobs.
Spray Lance: Every steam pressure washer needs a spray lance. Lances are basically a long wand which connects to your trigger gun. The lance is several feet in length so that you can have direct contact with surfaces without bending down or getting close to the spray. These lances are made from durable metal which is designed to handle high pressure. The wands sit between the trigger gun and the nozzles.
Trigger Gun: The trigger gun is what keeps the operator in control. This gun-like device has a trigger on the bottom which releases steam when pressed. The trigger connects to the pressure washer via a high-pressure hose. Attached to the trigger gun is the spray wand. The longer the hose, the more maneuverability one has around the workplace.
Capabilities:
A hot pressure washer can intake water between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Inside the unit, water is heated rapidly to around 250 to 300 degrees. That is quite hot! Therefore, it pays to stay clear of the spray when cleaning is in progress. This intense heat can work out even the nastiest of stains. In fact, this level of heat is enough to provide sanitation. For example, mold-infested insulation in the walls of a home can be cleaned quickly by putting steam through. The insulation will dry normally, minus the mold.
Turning water into steam takes a lot of pressure. In fact, the PSI within a steam cleaner pressure washer can reach 2000-3000 PSI. With these kinds of pressures, maintaining your unit becomes very important. Any leaks around the connections or hoses can pose a big problem down the road. Faulty or degraded parts should be replaced immediately. Other maintenance includes changing the oil and air filter.
Since pressure washers can be several hundred pounds, manufacturers have built wheels onto their units. These wheels allow one or two people to move the washer around like a dolly. Simply lean the unit over using the handles and roll it to a new spot.
