8000-543-238 Shurflo 1.6GPM 100PSI 12V

The Soft Wash Pump That Just Works

If you're running a soft wash rig, you already know that your pump is the heart of the whole operation. The Shurflo 1.6 GPM 100 PSI 12V Diaphragm Pump gives you the flow and pressure you need to apply chemicals consistently -- whether you're treating a single-story ranch or a two-story colonial with vinyl siding.

This is a demand-style diaphragm pump, which means it runs when you pull the trigger on your soft wash gun and stops when you let go. No wasted chemical, no babysitting the pump, no manual on/off switching while you're up on a ladder or moving around a property.

Why Contractors Pick This Pump

At 1.6 gallons per minute and 100 PSI, this Shurflo sits in the sweet spot for chemical application. You've got enough flow to cover siding, gutters, and rooflines without burning through your tank in ten minutes. And 100 PSI gives you the reach to hit second-story eaves from the ground with the right nozzle setup.

The 12-volt DC motor runs off a standard deep-cycle marine battery. That means no gas engine to maintain, no pull cord to fight with, and no exhaust fumes when you're working in tight spaces or enclosed areas. Hook it up, flip the switch, and go to work.

Shurflo built this pump with chemical compatibility in mind. The Santoprene diaphragm and Viton valves hold up against sodium hypochlorite (bleach), surfactants, and the other chemicals soft wash contractors use daily. You won't be replacing seals every other week like you would with a pump that wasn't made for this kind of work.

Built for the Real World

Let's talk about what actually matters when you're on a job site. This pump self-primes, so you don't have to mess with manual priming or worry about losing suction when your tank gets low. The automatic demand switch senses pressure changes and adjusts the pump's operation accordingly.

The compact design makes it easy to mount in your truck bed, on a skid, or inside an enclosed trailer. It doesn't take up a lot of real estate, and the 3/8-inch FPT ports connect directly to standard soft wash plumbing with basic fittings.

Noise is another factor most people don't think about until they're working at 7 AM in a residential neighborhood. A 12V diaphragm pump runs far quieter than a gas-powered system, which means fewer complaints from homeowners and their neighbors.

Who Should Use This Pump

This Shurflo 1.6 GPM pump is a strong fit for contractors doing residential soft washing -- house washes, roof treatments, fence and deck cleaning, and gutter brightening. If you're spraying sodium hypochlorite mixes at standard dilution ratios, this pump handles it without breaking a sweat.

It's also a solid choice for fleet wash operators, agricultural spraying, and pest control applicators who need a reliable 12V chemical pump. The Viton and Santoprene internals can handle a wide range of solutions beyond just bleach.

If you're just getting started in the soft wash business, this pump is one of the most trusted entry points in the industry. You don't need to spend a fortune to get a pump that performs. And when your business grows, you can always add a second pump or move up to a higher GPM model without scrapping your existing setup.

Easy Installation and Setup

Setting up this pump is straightforward. Mount it to your skid or trailer frame, wire it to a deep-cycle marine battery with properly gauged wire (10 AWG minimum recommended for runs under 10 feet), and connect your suction and discharge lines. Make sure you use a strainer on the suction side to keep debris out of the pump head.

Most contractors wire in a simple toggle switch or use a wireless remote for convenience. You can also run it through a relay if you want to control it from your spray gun trigger. The demand switch built into the pump takes care of the rest -- it turns the pump on when it senses a drop in pressure and shuts it off when you close the nozzle.

After each use, run 3 to 5 gallons of fresh water through the system to flush out chemical residue. This simple maintenance step extends the life of your diaphragm, valves, and seals significantly.

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this pump handle bleach and sodium hypochlorite?

Yes. The Santoprene diaphragm and Viton valves are specifically rated for use with sodium hypochlorite, which is the primary chemical used in soft washing. These materials resist chemical breakdown and corrosion, so you won't be replacing parts constantly.

What battery do I need to run this pump?

You'll need a 12V deep-cycle marine battery. Don't use a standard car battery -- they're not designed for the sustained draw that a diaphragm pump puts on them. A Group 27 or Group 31 deep-cycle battery will give you a full day of work on a single charge.

Is 1.6 GPM enough for soft washing houses?

For most residential work, 1.6 GPM is plenty. You'll be able to treat an average-sized house in 15 to 20 minutes of spray time. If you're doing large commercial buildings or multi-unit properties regularly, you might want to look at a higher GPM model. But for residential soft washing, 1.6 GPM gets the job done efficiently.

How do I winterize this pump?

Before temperatures drop below freezing, flush the pump with fresh water, then run RV antifreeze (propylene glycol, not ethylene glycol) through the system. Disconnect the battery and store the pump in a temperature-controlled space if possible. Frozen water inside the pump head will crack the housing and destroy the diaphragm.

Can I use this pump for roof washing?

Absolutely. At 100 PSI with the right nozzle, you can reach most residential rooflines from the ground. This pump is commonly used for applying soft wash solutions to asphalt shingles, tile, and metal roofing. Just make sure you're using the correct chemical ratios for whatever roofing material you're treating.

How long does the diaphragm last?

With proper care -- flushing after each use and not running the pump dry -- a Santoprene diaphragm typically lasts 1 to 2 seasons of regular commercial use. If you notice a drop in pressure or the pump starts cycling on and off rapidly, it's usually time for a rebuild kit. Replacement diaphragms and valve kits are available and easy to install yourself.

What size wire should I use?

For wire runs under 10 feet, 10 AWG wire is standard. If your battery is mounted further from the pump, go up to 8 AWG to prevent voltage drop. Undersized wiring causes the pump to run hot and shortens its lifespan. Always use marine-grade tinned copper wire for corrosion resistance.

Complete Your Soft Wash Setup

Pair it with bleach-rated chemical hose and fittings to complete your soft wash rig.

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