In workshops and industrial facilities, oil and grease buildup are part of everyday operations – and at the same time among the biggest cleaning challenges. Conventional cleaning methods with cold water or manual labor quickly reach their limits when dealing with heavily encrusted or oil-covered surfaces. Hot-water high-pressure cleaning in workshops offers a powerful, hygienic, and time-saving solution.
The high temperature of the hot water causes oils and fats to emulsify – meaning they are broken down into fine droplets. As a result, they lose their adhesion to surfaces and can be easily removed and rinsed away by the water jet.
Encrusted residues on machines, tools, or floors are softened by the heat, significantly enhancing the mechanical cleaning effect of the high-pressure jet. Even stubborn residues such as dried lubricants or abrasion can be efficiently removed.
Another advantage: from about 80 °C, hot water has a disinfecting effect. This means not only dirt but also bacteria and germs are reduced – a major benefit in workshops with hygiene standards or in areas working with engines and transmissions.
Hot-water high-pressure cleaners are ideal for cleaning heavily soiled machine components – whether motor oil, transmission grease, or bearing dirt. The cleaning process is thorough, requires no disassembly, and minimizes the risk of surface damage.
Cooling lubricants often adhere stubbornly to workpieces, tools, and machines. Thermal high-pressure cleaning effectively removes these residues – an important prerequisite for clean operations and maintenance intervals.
Tools, clamping devices, containers, and aids also benefit from quick cleaning with hot water. This not only maintains functionality but also extends service life.
With surface cleaners, large workshop floors can be cleaned efficiently. Oil films, tire marks, or grease residues are removed without trace – ensuring a safe, non-slip work environment.
These units generate not only pressure (150–250 bar) but also temperatures up to 150 °C. This makes them particularly suitable for oil-contaminated metal surfaces, floors, and machinery.
For large surfaces such as workshop floors or ramps, special surface cleaners are recommended. Their rotating nozzles and covers prevent splashing, increase cleaning performance, and improve ergonomics during longer use.
Hot-water high-pressure cleaning in the workshop is more than just a cleaning method – it is an investment in safety, productivity, and value retention. Whether for machines, tools, or floors, thermal cleaning ensures hygienic, non-slip, and visually appealing workplaces. Those who rely on modern cleaning technology reduce downtime, cut costs, and protect both the environment and employees.
1. At what temperature does hot water start improving cleaning performance?
From around 60 °C, hot water significantly increases cleaning performance – and from 80 °C, it also provides a disinfecting effect, which is particularly beneficial in hygiene-sensitive areas.
2. Is hot-water cleaning suitable for painted surfaces?
Yes, provided the pressure is correctly adjusted and the right nozzle is used. Sensitive paints or coatings should be cleaned with low pressure and greater distance.
3. Which cleaning agents can be used?
Ideally, biodegradable specialty cleaners approved for use with hot-water high-pressure systems. Important: always check manufacturer specifications and material compatibility.
4. How often should a workshop be professionally cleaned?
That depends on the area of use. In heavily frequented or oil-contaminated zones, daily partial cleaning combined with weekly deep cleaning may be advisable. For machines: clean as needed and according to manufacturer recommendations.
5. Can vehicles and floors be cleaned simultaneously with hot water?
Yes – many units feature switchable nozzles or combination systems. However, make sure to use the appropriate attachment and cleaning temperature to protect sensitive materials.
6. What safety measures should be observed when working with hot water?
Heat-resistant gloves, safety goggles, hearing protection, and non-slip shoes are mandatory. In addition, the work area should be well ventilated, cordoned off, and free of flammable materials.
| Method | Advantages | Disadvantages | Recommended Application |
| Hot-Water High-Pressure Cleaning | – High cleaning performance– Disinfecting effect– Time-saving | – Energy consumption– Higher equipment cost | Oil/grease residues, machines, floors |
| Cold-Water High-Pressure Cleaning | – More cost-effective– Suitable for light dirt | – Less effective on oil/grease– No hygienic effect | Dust, light dirt on equipment |
| Manual Cleaning with Cloths | – Precise and inexpensive | – Very time-consuming– Less hygienic | Fine work, hard-to-reach areas |
| Dry Ice Cleaning | – Residue-free– No water consumption | – Expensive– Not suitable for all materials | Electrical components, sensitive machines |
| Mechanical Floor Cleaning | – Fast on large surfaces– Low water usage | – Expensive to purchase– Best for even floors | Workshop and warehouse floors |