Diesel or Electric?

Choosing the Right Steam Car Wash Machine for Your Site!

When you start looking into steam car wash machines, two questions usually come up first: Should you choose a diesel model or an electric one? And if you choose electric, which model is right for you, given the wide range of power requirements? This letter briefly walks through both questions.

1. Diesel or Electric — Which Fits Your Site?

The main difference between the two types is how the boiler is heated. Before comparing performance, first check your work environment and available power supply.

Start by considering an Electric model if:

- You have access to 3-phase power (200–600 V; 380–600 V depending on the model).

- You mainly work indoors, where proper exhaust ventilation may be difficult to install.

Start by considering a Diesel model if:

- You do not have access to 3-phase power. Diesel models operate on single-phase 100–240 V power.

- You work in a well-ventilated area.

- You frequently move the machine between job sites, such as for mobile car wash services.

If your site meets conditions from both categories:

Consult with us to find the best option.

Our experts can help you choose the most suitable model based on your site conditions and work environment.

A quick note for international buyers: Mains voltage, phase configuration, and breaker standards vary by country and region. Before ordering, confirm that your local electrical installation can support the exact phase, voltage, and current requirements of your selected model.

Using a Diesel Model Indoors

Diesel models burn fuel and therefore produce exhaust gases. Before using a diesel model indoors, make sure the area has adequate ventilation and a proper exhaust extraction system.

For Electric Models,

Start with Your Electrical Installation Electrical standards vary by country and region, so you need to check whether the required phase (single-phase or 3-phase), voltage, and breaker capacity of your selected model are compatible with your site's electrical installation. Use a circuit breaker rated 10–20% above the model's required current, and also take into account any other electrical equipment operating on the same power supply at the same time.

See the required current table by voltage>>

2. Electric Models Have Different Power Requirements — How Should You Choose?

OPTIMA STEAMER electric models range from 10.5 kW to 42 kW. When choosing the right model, consider the following three factors.

First, check your site's electrical installation. The higher the power rating of the model, the greater the electrical supply capacity and circuit breaker capacity required. If your site's electrical installation cannot support the model you want, you may need additional electrical work or may need to choose a different model. Always verify your site's electrical specifications before purchasing. If you are unsure what to check, consult with a sales representative before making your decision.

Second, consider your daily wash volume and the number of operators working at the same time. If you wash a high volume of vehicles per day (8 or more) or have two operators using steam sprayers at the same time, we recommend the [Electric] OPTIMA XE 27K. If your daily wash volume is lower, or you operate a detailing shop or bike shop, consider the [Electric] OPTIMA XE 12K or OPTIMA XEm 10.5K.

Third, consider preheating time. For electric models, preheating time also varies depending on the model's power rating. Consider how long you can afford to wait for the machine to be ready before starting work.

See the electric model specification table>>

If you mainly work indoors and have access to the required electrical supply, start by considering an electric model. If the required voltage and power supply are difficult to provide and your site is well ventilated, consider a diesel model first.

When choosing an electric model, follow this order:

Check your site's electrical installation → Review your daily work volume → Consider preheating time

If you are still unsure which model is right for you, simply provide us with your site's electrical specifications (phase, voltage, and breaker capacity), work environment, and expected daily work volume.

We will help you find the most suitable model for your site and application.

CONTACT US: sales@sjecorp.com