There’s efficiency, and then there’s high performance efficiency. The sort of efficiency that comes from the right tools applied to the right surfaces in the right manner. And when it comes to cleaning your home, you need that efficiency now more than ever. Your home can withstand a lot of wear and tear. Weather. Seasonal changes. Kids. But can it look its cleanest with old fashioned methods? Sure, there’s tested tricks passed down to you by your parents. Baking soda. Garden Hoses. Lemon juice. But are they truly effective? There’s something inherently satisfying about using a pressure washer to clean your home. Visceral, physical, and powerful. You’re not just wiping months (if not years) worth of gunk off your home. You’re giving it a deep clean, and beautifying it in the process. You’re transforming your home from a drab, mud-ridden exterior into the palace you always knew you could have.
But just how do you use one properly?
If you’ve never looked at one before, we guarantee these tips might just change your mind. Whether you’re cleaning a wood deck, a stone patio or a stucco facade, a pressure washer is one of the most versatile cleaning tools you can have. It is an investment that can serve you for as long as you have your home.
Tip # 1 : Sweep Your Surface Clean Of Any Flying Debris Prior To Using A Pressure Washer
Pressure washers are notoriously powerful. How powerful? Let’s just say it’s a professional strength piece of hardware. And in the case of rocks, twigs and pebbles you’re going to need to take professional care in order to avoid any potential injury. And when it comes to deep cleaning your home, safety does apply.
Tip # 2 : Electric Or Gas
While gas is the more powerful choice, there’s always the potential for certain environmental hazards when using gas home and garden supplies—to speak nothing of the stink it could leave in your garage. It’s also the more expensive option of the two, so you may want to keep your budget in mind. While it may have higher pressure and a better flow rate, there are numerous electric pressure washers on the market that have most (if not all) of the advantages of gas models, while being more lightweight and affordable.
Tip # 3 : Different Nozzles Are For Different Surfaces
This is actually a fairly important distinction. The wrong nozzle might be ineffective at best. But at worst? It could wind up damaging your surface. Luckily, most nozzles come color coordinated so it’s relatively easy to tell which particular tip is appropriate for particular surfaces. As with any power tool, always consult your owner’s manual or speak with a shop sales person to help you decide.
Tip # 4 : Work Smarter Not Harder
Despite its high power, pressure washers can actually take a fair amount of time in order to deep clean. And if you have a lengthy patio or driveway, you may want to work your washer in conjunction with a surface cleaner to get the job done quicker. Start with the highest area you can find and work your way down. It may seem awkward but it can make all the difference in the world.
Safety Tips For Your Pressure Washer
- Always wear long sleeve shirts and pants to protect your skin. Even low pressure models can cause debris to fly up at high speeds. Likewise, it’s best to opt for protective gear such as safety goggles, gloves, boots and hearing protection when operating your washer.
- Keep your fingers and toes out of the spray. Avoid wearing open toed sandals when operating.
- If using a gas model pressure washer, store properly using a pump protector to avoid damage and store in a dry, well ventilated space. Avoid operating gas models in an enclosed space.
- Be aware of your surroundings, in particular children and pets. Never aim the wand of your pressure washer directly at someone and always aim away from your body.
- Use the safety latch located on the gun of your pressure washer when not in use to avoid any accidental discharge.