A Guide to Pressure Washers
Pressure washers can be a handy tool for various jobs around the house, from washing your car to cleaning your driveway. But with so many pressure washers and nozzle attachments available, choosing the right one for your needs can be overwhelming. This guide will review the basics of pressure washers, the available types, and some tips for using and maintaining them.
Types of Pressure Washers
There are two main types of pressure washers: electric and gas-powered. Electric pressure washers are generally more affordable and easier to maintain, making them popular for homeowners. They also produce less noise and emissions than gas-powered models. Electric pressure washers are best suited for light-duty jobs such as washing cars, outdoor furniture, and small patios.
On the other hand, gas-powered pressure washers are more powerful and better suited for heavy-duty jobs such as cleaning large driveways, decks, and sidewalks. They are also more portable than electric models since they don't need to be plugged in. However, they are typically more expensive and require more maintenance than electric models.
Household Pressure Washer Jobs
You can use pressure washers for a variety of jobs around the house, such as:
- Cleaning decks and patios:
- Pressure washing can help remove dirt, grime, and stains, making them look brand new again.
- Washing cars:
- A pressure washer can quickly and effectively remove dirt and grime from your car's exterior, including wheels and tires.
- Cleaning siding:
- Pressure washing can help remove dirt, mold, and mildew from your home's siding, making it look fresh and clean.
- Cleaning driveways and sidewalks:
- A pressure washer can remove oil stains, dirt, and other debris from your driveway and sidewalks, improving curb appeal.
- Cleaning outdoor furniture:
- Pressure washing can help remove dirt, mold, and mildew from outdoor furniture, making it look new again.
Jobs You Shouldn't Use a Pressure Washer For
While pressure washers can be helpful for many jobs around the house, there are some tasks that you should not use a pressure washer for, such as:
- Washing windows: The high pressure of a pressure washer can damage or break windows, so it's best to use a different cleaning method for windows.
- Cleaning delicate surfaces: Pressure washers can damage delicate surfaces such as wood, painted surfaces, and some types of siding. Make sure to use the appropriate nozzle attachment and pressure setting for the surface you're cleaning.
Nozzle Attachments
Most pressure washers come with interchangeable nozzle attachments that you can use to adjust the spray pattern and pressure of the water. The four most common nozzle attachments are:
- 0-degree nozzle:
- This nozzle produces a pinpoint stream of water and is best for removing tough stains and dirt.
- 15-degree nozzle:
- This nozzle produces a narrow, fan-shaped spray pattern and is ideal for removing dirt and grime from hard surfaces.
- 25-degree nozzle:
- This nozzle produces a broader fan-shaped spray pattern and is best for general cleaning tasks.
- 40-degree nozzle:
- This nozzle produces the broadest fan-shaped spray pattern and is best for rinsing and gentle cleaning.
Safety Tips
When using a pressure washer, it's essential to follow these safety tips:
- Wear appropriate protective gear, such as eye protection and closed-toe shoes.
- Never aim the pressure washer at people, animals, or delicate surfaces.
- Always use the proper nozzle attachment and pressure setting for your cleaning surface.
- Keep the pressure washer away from electrical outlets and power cords.
Upgrading Your Pressure Washer
If you have been using your pressure washer for a while, you may notice signs that it's time to upgrade. One of the most obvious signs is a decrease in performance. If your pressure washer takes longer to clean surfaces or can no longer remove tough stains, it may be time for an upgrade. If your pressure washer requires frequent repairs or is no longer under warranty, investing in a new, more reliable model may be more cost-effective.
Work With KDAR Company
Although this guide is a start to learning about pressure washers, consulting with the experts is your best bet. Here at KDAR, we take our role as a wholesaler for welding equipment, cable ties, pressure washer accessories, and more seriously. Our retailers can trust us to provide dedicated service and industry expertise.
Contact us today to learn more!
