Building your own soft wash kit can be a cost-effective way to handle exterior cleaning, and with a budget under $500, you can put together a reliable, powerful setup. Here’s a guide on how to assemble a soft wash system using quality components that keep you within budget.

Components List for the Soft Wash Kit

Below is a list of essential components you’ll need, with pricing, setup tips, and links to each item for easy access.

1. Pump (Choose One)

• 5 GPM Pump ($179.47)
  5800 Series 5 GPM 12 Volt Pump – This is an affordable choice suitable for residential cleaning projects, providing enough power to handle typical jobs around the house.
• 7 GPM Pump ($297.20)
  Original Fatboy 7 GPM 12 Volt Pump – This option costs more but offers a higher flow rate, ideal for larger surfaces and professional-level cleaning.

Each pump option is designed to work well with soft washing applications, where lower pressure and higher flow help achieve a thorough clean without damaging delicate surfaces.

2. Bandit Wand Assembly ($51.26)

Poly Gun Assembly - 1/2" – This gun assembly provides easy control of the application flow and is designed for durability and ease of use. The wand is your main point of contact, allowing you to apply the solution precisely where needed.

3. Tubing and Connectors

• Tubing (100 ft) – $97.23
  5/8" Polybraid Tubing, 100 ft – This polybraid tubing is highly durable, ensuring a smooth flow of your solution from the tank to the wand. The length allows for ample reach around work areas.
• Polypropylene Straight Adapters – $1.32 each x 4, totaling $5.28
  Polypropylene Straight Adapters – Four adapters are needed to connect the tubing to other components in the kit. These adapters are strong, providing leak-resistant and secure connections.
• Hose Clamps – $8.99
  Hose Clamps, Box of 10 – Hose clamps keep your tubing secured tightly to the pump and wand, reducing the risk of leaks or loose connections.

4. Tank Screen and Teflon Tape

• Tank Screen (50-Mesh) – $3.78
  Tank Screen, 1/2" FPT, 50 Mesh – Placing a tank screen in your solution tank helps prevent any particles or debris from reaching the pump. This filtration extends the life of the pump and reduces maintenance.
• Teflon Tape – $1.41
  Teflon Tape – Teflon tape is crucial for sealing threaded fittings, preventing leaks and ensuring smooth operation.

5. Nozzle Kit (Choose One Based on Pump)

• Nozzle Kit for the 5 GPM Pump – $43.04
  5850 Nozzle Kit – This nozzle kit is designed for the 5 GPM pump, providing optimal flow for its specific output.
• Nozzle Kit for the 7 GPM Pump – $43.04
  7870 Fatboy Nozzle Kit – This nozzle kit complements the higher flow of the 7 GPM pump, giving you a balanced application rate.

Both nozzle kits are specifically tailored to their respective pumps, allowing for appropriate pressure and coverage when applying the cleaning solution.

Total Cost Overview

• With the 5 GPM Pump setup, your total comes to approximately $390.46. This option is well within the $500 budget, providing an affordable, effective soft wash system.
• With the 7 GPM Pump setup, the total comes to around $508.19, slightly above budget but offering more power for larger or more demanding jobs.

Use code "online25" to save an additional $25

Assembly and Setup Instructions

1. Install the Pump
   Mount the pump securely near your solution tank. Connect the tubing using the polypropylene adapters and tighten each connection with hose clamps to prevent leaks.
2. Attach the Wand
   Run the tubing from the pump to the Bandit Wand Assembly, which will serve as your application tool. The wand gives you precise control, helping to apply your solution evenly and accurately.
3. Fit the Nozzle Kit
   Depending on the pump you chose, install the corresponding nozzle kit. This step ensures that your soft wash kit operates at the correct flow and pressure, essential for an even application.
4. Add the Tank Screen and Teflon Tape
   Place the tank screen inside your solution tank to filter out debris, protecting your pump. Wrap Teflon tape around all threaded fittings to prevent leaks, ensuring a smooth, uninterrupted flow.

Choosing the Right Pump

• 5 GPM Pump – This pump is cost-effective and sufficient for residential projects such as cleaning siding, decks, and driveways. It provides steady, gentle flow rates ideal for smaller jobs.
• 7 GPM Pump – The 7 GPM option is great if you need more power, especially for larger surfaces or professional-grade cleaning tasks. This pump provides a higher flow rate, reducing the time needed for bigger areas.

Final Thoughts

Building your own soft wash kit under $500 is not only feasible but also straightforward with the right components. Whether you go for the 5 GPM setup to stay within budget or invest a bit more in the 7 GPM pump for larger projects, this DIY approach is an excellent way to achieve quality cleaning results without overspending. Plus, it gives you the flexibility to add upgrades over time, such as a larger tank or additional nozzles.

With this soft wash kit, you’re all set to tackle everything from roof cleaning to siding and decks – all without breaking the bank.