Sometimes just a rinse with a garden hose is all you need to remove a little dust and debris from your front porch, and maybe some spray cleaner and a little elbow grease will take care of the exterior surface of your doors and windows. However, when the grime has been there for a while, or you want to clean porous surfaces, such as concrete or brick, your best bet may be to use a power washer.
If the project is small and something you may be inclined to repeat several times each year, then purchasing a power washer may be your most economical route. Should your project be one that you seldom have to perform or one that would require more power than a consumer-size power washer can handle, the tools can be rented from your local hardware or home improvement store. Electric- or gasoline-powered models are available. Whatever route you choose, be aware that you may be working with higher pressures than you are used to, and you should follow the instructions carefully including the use of proper safety precautions.
Like most do-it-yourself projects, proper preparation will make the job go smoother. Clear the space to be washed of anything that could be considered delicate or hazardous. For instance, if you are going to clean the patio, remove things like potted plants and children’s toys or bicycles. Set patio furniture and grills to the side. If the area is large enough, plan to wash half of the area and move the patio furniture to the area that you cleaned when it is time to tackle the other half.
Sensitive plants and landscaping can be covered with tarps. Note where your outlets are and possibly tape over them with duct tape. Sweep the area thoroughly to remove any rocks or other debris that could become projectiles if caught up in the water pressure.
Depending on the size of the job, you can choose either a gas- or electric- power washer. For larger, heavy-duty jobs, a gasoline washer may be best because they are generally the most powerful. A typical gasoline washer may generate 3,000 pounds of pressure per square inch (PSI). For smaller jobs, such as cleaning outdoor furniture or grills, an electric pressure washer generating 1,300-1,400 PSI may be more appropriate.
Pressure washer nozzles come in different sizes. A smaller opening will generate the most cleaning power, so that should be a consideration based on what your project is. While some nozzles may be adjustable, the heavy-duty gasoline-powered washers will often come with several choices to attach to the spray gun.
Select the correct nozzle size for your project. Attach it to the spray gun, and attach your water hose to the washer. Make sure the connections are sufficiently tightened. Your home’s water supply should be sufficient, but if you want to test it beforehand, a good indicator that it is adequate will be reflected if you can fill up a five-gallon bucket in less than two minutes.
Remember you are working with a significant amount of force. When you turn the power washer on, make sure it is on the lowest setting. Turn it up gradually, and you will feel the pressure increase. Do not use a higher setting than your project requires.
Begin cleaning using a pattern. Start at the top and move side to side. A wider nozzle opening will clean a larger area faster, but a narrower spray will provide deeper cleaning. You will find the “sweet spot” early into the project, but you can adjust it as needed if you find an area that needs more pressure to remove a stubborn stain.
Note that some power washers may include a heat option that creates steam. There are surfaces that may require this much power, but it can also be damaging to some surfaces like brick, concrete or masonry. Some people refer to a washer that generates heat as a “power washer” and one that does not produce heat as a “pressure washer.” Others use these terms interchangeably, so again, refer to the instructions, and take the proper precautions. Probably one of the first rules of any do-it-yourself project should be to use the proper tool for each individual job.
After your job is complete, carefully turn off the water and release the pressure according to the instructions. Do not immediately remove the hose, as pressure may have built up. Turn the machine off. Now, step back and admire your work!
References:
1. https://www.homes.com/blog/2018/01/7-things-you-should-know-before-you-power-wash-anything/.
2. https://www.homedepot.com/c/ah/how-to-use-a-pressure-washer/9ba683603be9fa5395fab9010ddcd7ab.
Written by Bill Smith
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