Buzz
Is there anything more rewarding than seeing layers of grime disappear from a dirty house as pressurized water blasts it away? Jodi Jacobson/Getty ImagesPressure washers are incredible devices, capable of cleaning everything from your home’s exterior to outdoor furniture, patios, and even your car. But knowing how to operate them is key. If you’re wondering how to use a pressure washer, you’ve come to the right spot! With a bit of practice and these tips, you’ll become a pressure washing expert in no time!
The Right Pressure Washer Makes All the Difference
As the name implies, power or pressure washers are machines that blast water at high pressure. There’s a wide variety available, from electric pressure washers to gas-powered ones, and understanding the difference is crucial. Think of them as heavy-duty squirt guns for grown-ups. But, as with most things, you get what you pay for.
I’ll admit, the pressure washer I used wasn’t the best choice for tackling a two-story house. It was an electric model I bought on sale, and it wasn’t very powerful. It was more suited for cleaning lawn furniture and sidewalks. The ancient Egyptians probably had an easier time wrapping mummies than I did trying to wrap an extension cord and garden hose around the house.
I digress. What I should’ve purchased was a gas-powered pressure washer. The power of these washers is measured in pounds per square inch (psi), and gas-powered models can handle tougher jobs. These washers come with different psi levels, so make sure you do your research to find the one that suits your needs.
If you’re unsure which one to buy, consult with the experts at your local home improvement store. For homes with wood, stucco, or aluminum siding, a machine generating 1,200 to 1,500 psi is ideal. For brick, stone, or vinyl exteriors, look for a model with 2,500 to 3,000 psi.
Choosing the right nozzle is just as important. Many experts recommend a 25- or 40-degree nozzle tip. (I’ll cover nozzles in more detail later.) If your house has two stories, consider getting an extension wand. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did. Never use a ladder while pressure washing—there’s just no good that can come from it. You can also use a brush attachment, which is great for scrubbing away dirt. And for cleaning out gutters, there are angled attachments to make the task easier.
Next, don't rely on just pressurized water to clean your house. Invest in some detergent. Not only does it make the job easier, but it’s also satisfying to watch the dirt dissolve and drip away in a foamy cascade. There's something oddly satisfying about rinsing suds off a long porch.
Personally, I swear by TSP Heavy-Duty Cleaner. I use it on the house even when I’m not power washing. It cuts through stubborn dirt and grime effortlessly. Plus, it kills mold, so no need for bleach. You can mix it yourself, or just grab a pre-mixed bottle. It looks like pink lemonade, but trust me, don’t let anyone drink it. TSP works great on brick, stone, wood, and cement.
How to Use a Pressure Washer
Before you dive in, attach your garden hose to the pressure washer. Take a moment to read the manual, and work out any kinks in the hose. Trust me, I speak from experience—it’s a huge hassle when the water suddenly stops and you have to hunt down and unkink the hose. Also, ensure the hose is long enough to circle the house, meaning you might need to connect a couple of hoses. If you have a buddy helping, have them follow behind to manage the hose for you.
Pick your nozzle. Your pressure washer should come with a variety of nozzles, each with a different angle. The higher the angle, the more area you can cover. Most experts suggest using a 15- or 25-degree nozzle for general cleaning. Some nozzles are color-coded. Again, check the manual for specifics.
Never use the 0-degree nozzle, as it delivers excessive pressure that can harm your siding. The 40-degree nozzle is typically the best for cleaning the exterior of your house since it offers a wide coverage area while still being powerful enough to remove dirt. For a gentler touch, opt for the 65-degree nozzle. Power washers also often come with rotary nozzles, designed to tackle tough stains. (Important safety tip: don’t stay in one spot for too long with a rotary nozzle—it can cause significant damage. Trust me, I learned the hard way.)
No matter which nozzle you choose, make sure it’s securely attached to the wand. The last thing you want is for that nozzle to shoot across the yard and smash a window. (Safety tip: cover any plants or flowers near the house, and make sure all windows are shut. Your partner will thank you later.)
Pressure Washer Tips: Practice Makes Perfect
Start slow. Begin practicing in a low-traffic area to get comfortable with the pressure washer and wand. Move horizontally, keeping a slight downward angle. Use both hands to guide the wand, moving it from side to side. Once you’re ready, begin washing from the top down to avoid streaking. As you gain confidence, move slowly and deliberately, avoiding staying in one spot too long to prevent damaging the siding. Be extra cautious around windows and screens.
Pressure washers are perfect for a variety of tasks, from cleaning decks and sidewalks to washing your car. And honestly, they’re kind of fun to use. I’m not sure why, but there’s something about it that taps into our inner child.
Stay safe! And if you’re hesitant to tackle the task yourself or worry about washing painted surfaces, hire a professional. The only thing you’ll need to do is write a check.
Pressure Washer Safety Tips
So, you’ve got your pressure washer, attachments, and detergent, and you’re ready to go! Not so fast. As with any DIY project, safety should always come first. Here are some essential pressure washing safety tips you need to keep in mind:
- Make sure you’ve got proper eye protection. The water comes out of the wand at high pressure, and it could chip off bits of brick, stone, or wood that might fly into your eyes.
- Wear the right footwear because the force of the water can cut through weak shoes and seriously injure your feet. Sturdy boots are your best option.
- Wear heavy-duty gloves. Don’t bother with gardening gloves—they’ll get soaked and be tough to remove. Invest in durable ones.
- Prepare to get wet.
- If you're using an electric pressure washer, remember that water and electricity don’t mix well. Use a heavy-duty extension cord, preferably one of those long orange ones. Be extra cautious around the electrical service line that connects your house to the power pole. Don’t forget to take care around cable, telephone lines, or gas and electric meters. If you have outdoor outlets, seal them with electrical tape.
- Again, don’t use a ladder, even with someone holding it for you. The recoil from the washer could send you falling off. Water on metal ladder rungs is just as slippery as grease. Consider renting a 6-foot (1.8-meter) scaffold with a locking mechanism. With that, you should be able to reach the second floor using an extension wand with ease.
- Never aim a power washer at a person or animal. The pressure from these machines can cause serious harm.
Alfred Kärcher claimed to have invented the hot-water, high-pressure power washer in 1950. However, it was Frank W. Ofeldt II who developed the first steam pressure washer in the United States in 1926.
