The science behind how high temperatures affect viruses

What experts have established is that COVID-19 can be contracted when touching surfaces contaminated with coronavirus, not just from humans making it a very difficult virus to combat.

So the question remains, how long can the virus survive on surfaces outside of the human body?

It is still early days with regards to coronavirus, but early research has indicated that it can survive on cardboard for up to 24 hours and on plastic and stainless steel surfaces up to 2-3 days.

Outside of using alcohol based disinfectants with an alcohol percentage above 62% or bleach solutions, high temperatures were a quicker method in killing coronaviruses like COVID-19 based on research on a similar coronavirus in SARS.

Heat has been identified as a key factor in eliminating bacteria, germs and viruses.

In order to eliminate a coronavirus like SARS and COVID-19, temperatures need to be above 56°C at a rate of 10,000 units every 15 minutes as identified by the World Health Organization (WHO). The higher the temperatures the quicker the elimination rates.

Hot Water High Pressure Washers

This is where hot water high pressure washers step in as they provide temperatures in excess of 56°C with some able to go in excess of 100°C. 

So what are the benefits?

  1. Reduces overall cleaning time, which in turn reduces water usage, electricity consumption and labour cost.
  2. Reduces and may even eliminate the need for detergents.
  3. Reduces drying time after cleaning, making zones available sooner.
  4. Reduces the need for high pressure levels and therefore protecting surfaces.
  5. Can often give a better cleaning result.
  6. Contributes clearly to germ and bacteria reduction.

If your business needs something to combat COVID-19, then take a look at the range of Hot Water Pressure Washers in the link below:

https://www.totaltools.com.au/outdoor-power-equipment/pressure-washers/electric-hot-water-pressure-washers

We understand you may not be able to get to a store to get the advice you need on your hot water pressure washer purchase.

You can call 1800 TOTAL TOOLS (1800 868 258)

Reference: Nilfisk 2020