POR-15 Cleaner Degreaser Gallon - Water Based Heavy-Duty Cleaner

In this review the POR-15 Cleaner Degreaser is evaluated as a practical, heavy-duty cleaning option for automotive and general maintenance tasks; it is aimed at DIY mechanics, restoration hobbyists, and facilities managers who need a powerful, water based degreaser that rinses clean and does not leave films. The single biggest reason to buy is its ability to be diluted up to 10:1 while remaining effective, which makes it convenient for large jobs like engine bays, grease traps, and prepping metal for paint without relying on flammable solvents.

Key Features

• Water based formula: Cleans without leaving oily residues or films so surfaces are ready for follow-up treatments and painting.
• High dilution range: Can be diluted from 4:1 up to 10:1 with hot water, allowing economical coverage for large or repeated cleaning jobs.
• Multi-surface use: Effective on canvas, vinyl, nylon, holding tanks, auto parts, tires, rims, and undercarriages for versatile shop and field use.
• Non-flammable: Safer to store and use in enclosed spaces compared with solvent-based degreasers, reducing fire risk around garages and shops.
• Paint prep friendly: Leaves zero films on bare or rusted metal, improving adhesion when followed by POR-15 Metal Prep and the brand's rust-stopping system.
• Rapid action: Breaks down grease, oil, soap films and wax quickly, shortening prep time on parts and equipment.

Who It's For

The POR-15 Cleaner Degreaser is aimed at automotive restorers, mechanics and DIY users who need a strong, economical cleaner that rinses completely and prepares metal for paint. It suits shop use where dilution control and non-flammability are valued, and for cleaning items from canvas and vinyl to grease traps and holding tanks.

Those seeking a scented household cleaner or a mild maintenance spray may find this overkill; also users who require a ready-to-use aerosol or an exclusively solvent-based product for extremely persistent hydrocarbon films should consider other specialty formulations.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Very effective at removing grease and oil while remaining rinseable and film-free.
• Water based and non-flammable, making it safer for enclosed workspaces.
• Wide dilution range delivers good economy and adaptability for different tasks.
• Works well as a pre-paint cleaner for rusted or bare metal when followed by proper metal prep.

Cons

• Some customers report it feels pricey compared with basic cleaners, so cost per use depends on dilution discipline.
• Requires hot water and rinsing to perform best, which may add time to some jobs.

Specifications

Brand	POR-15
Product	Cleaner Degreaser, 1-gallon
Base	Water based, non-flammable
Typical dilution	4 parts water to 1 part cleaner (4:1)
Maximum dilution	Up to 10 parts water to 1 part cleaner (10:1)
Primary uses	Canvas, vinyl, auto parts, holding tanks, grease traps, tires and rims

Our Verdict

The POR-15 Cleaner Degreaser is a practical choice for anyone who needs a powerful, rinseable, non-flammable cleaner that also serves as an effective paint prep step. For workshops and restorers who will use the gallon container and follow dilution guidance, it provides good value and performance; cost-conscious buyers who will dilute carefully will get the most benefit.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I dilute this degreaser?
Use hot water; 4 parts water to 1 part cleaner works well for most jobs, and you can dilute up to 10:1 for lighter cleaning.

Is it safe for metal before painting?
Yes, it leaves no films and metal cleaned with this product should then be treated with POR-15 Metal Prep before painting.

Can it replace solvent-based cleaners?
Because it is water based and highly effective even when diluted, it can make many petroleum-based cleaners unnecessary, especially where non-flammable products are preferred.