What is Down Streaming?

In the pressure washing industry, "down streaming" refers to a method of diluting and applying chemical cleaning solutions or detergents to surfaces being cleaned. This method is commonly used when cleaning buildings, houses, driveways, or other exterior surfaces. Here's how down streaming works:

1. Pressure Washer Setup: In a down streaming setup, the pressure washer is equipped with a special chemical injector or downstream injector. This injector is typically installed on the low-pressure side of the pressure washer system.
2. Dilution: The chemical solution or detergent is usually stored in a separate container, often a chemical reservoir or a bucket. This chemical solution is pre-diluted to the recommended concentration as per the manufacturer's guidelines.
3. Mixing: When the pressure washer is in operation, the injector draws in the chemical solution from the container and mixes it with the high-pressure water stream as it exits the pressure washer's nozzle. This results in a diluted chemical solution being sprayed onto the surface to be cleaned.
4. Application: The diluted chemical solution is applied to the surface to be cleaned by the pressure washer's spray nozzle. The detergent helps to break down dirt, grime, mold, mildew, or other contaminants on the surface.
5. Cleaning: After the chemical solution is applied, the operator can use the pressure washer's high-pressure water stream to rinse away the loosened dirt and contaminants. This leaves the surface clean and free of debris.

Down streaming is a convenient and effective way to apply cleaning chemicals during pressure washing without the need for a separate chemical sprayer. It allows for precise control over the dilution ratio and ensures that the chemical is applied evenly across the surface. However, it's essential to follow safety guidelines and use appropriate chemicals for the specific cleaning task to avoid damage to surfaces and harm to the environment.