Foam Guns: How to Choose, Use and Maintain Them?

Foam guns make the car wash process more fun and can also help you get great results when washing your car. You may associate thicker foam with greater cleaning power. This guide attempts to unravel the mystery of foam cannons and how they should be used.

A pressure washer foam cannon is basically a specially designed canister with a nozzle on top that allows you to hook it up to the pressure washer and extension wand. With the help of pressurized water from the pressure washer, the foam cannon mixes soap, water and air together to create a thick foam that sticks to the surface when they land on your car.

Does foam work?

Yes, foam works. The surfactants in car soap designed specifically for foam cannons reduce surface tension, making it easier for the soap and water to mix with the air in the foam cannon. The resulting foam has a thick and clinging consistency that allows it to stay on the surface of your car longer. As a result, the detergent in the soap has more time to break down and remove dirt and grime.

More lather does not translate into more cleaning power. What actually cleans is the detergent in the soap.

Aluminum Alloy H.V.L.P Spray Gun

How to prepare a foam gun

Here are a few general steps to prepare a foam gun for use in action

Choose your weapon

Fortunately for you, everything you need in the foam cannon or foam gun department is usually included in a complete kit, so the only thing you'll need is a water source and some car shampoo. Always follow the manufacturer's recommended shampoo-to-water ratio for best results.

Choose a shampoo

If you have a premium ceramic coating installed, then choosing a pH-balanced maintenance car shampoo will be your best bet. However, if your car has not been ceramic coated, or if the exterior is very dirty, then choosing a premium surface preparation shampoo will provide the best results.

Add water to the barrel

Fill one of your wash buckets with fresh water, add the recommended amount of car shampoo to the canister of your foam gun or cannon and slowly submerge it in water until it reaches the level you want. This will safely mix the shampoo and water without over-mixing.

Nozzle Connection

Finally, attach the shampoo canister to the housing and secure the water source to the adapter via a quick disconnect or threaded hose connector. Turn the adjustment knob to the lowest setting and slowly increase the foam strength until the desired foam level is reached.

Manual Foam Expanding Spray Gun

Take care of your gun

Uncured foam can be cleaned with acetone. Cured foam cannot. Spray gun cleaner on the outside of the gun to remove uncured foam or use some acetone on a rag. You can also clean the foam from the basket area when you replace the can. Do not over-clean the gun. Cleaning too often can actually damage the gun.

In addition, acetone and other chemicals can give off fumes that are unhealthy for you. Keep the area well ventilated and wear a respirator for extra protection.

Just make sure you buy a foam gun with reliable reviews from a reputable seller and that it is made of materials that can withstand any kind of abuse. You will find that your foam applicator weapon will bring many additional benefits to your car wash routine. Please click here  to get more info.