How to Buy a Power Washer
Introduction
Power Washers for DIYers Table
| Benefits | How |
|---|---|
| Increased Cleanliness | Power washers make quick work of dirt and grime. |
| | Expedited Cleaning | Spend less time cleaning than with traditional methods.
| | Power | Pressure washers get into hard-to-reach places, such as gutters and siding.
| | Transportation | Lightweight and portable designs make them easy to transport.
| | Cost Savings | Clean items yourself, rather than pay for a professional.
|
Defining the Power Washer
A power washer is a device that uses high-pressure water jets or steam to blast away dirt, grime, and other unwanted materials.
It’s powerful enough to remove things like rust, residue, paint, and stuck-on dirt from almost any surface.
Power washers are also used to clean surfaces that are difficult to reach, like the sides of buildings, as well as for cleaning and disinfecting.
They offer a much more powerful and efficient cleaning option than traditional methods, such as using a hose or scrubbing with a brush.
Power washers are used in a variety of areas, including but not limited to, industrial, commercial, and residential settings.
Our Goal
Our goal is to make sure everyone knows how to purchase and use a power washer for successful home DIY projects.
Power washers are the go-to tool to quickly remove grime, dirt, and other tough stains from almost any surface.
With the right power washer, projects around the home can take half the time, and you won’t need to worry about using muscle power.
Buying the right one is essential, and we’re here to make sure you know what to look for.
So let’s get started on choosing the perfect power washer for your home.
What Sets Power Washers Apart
Advantages
Power washers have a variety of advantages.They offer a much more powerful and broader cleaning than other methods.
The higher-powered water stream from power washers can clean deeper into surfaces, so dirt and grime can be removed with ease.
The pressure from power washers can also remove paint from walls, remove dirt from decks, and clean driveways better.
Power washers can also be used to clean the outside of a home, removing mold or dirt and grime that have settled over the years.
Power washers are also often easier to move around and can be used on multiple surfaces and uses.
In short, power washers give you the advantage of a powerful cleaning tool with a variety of uses.
How Power Washers Work
Power washers are special machines that can blast away dirt and grime with a strong stream of water.
A power washer works by taking water from a garden hose, and then boosting the pressure with a pump.
This pump is usually powered by an electric motor or small gas engine.
The water is forced through a long, thin tube and comes out of the nozzle with extra power.
This high-pressure water is much more effective at removing dirt than washing with just a garden hose.
Power washers can also come with different kinds of nozzles that vary the pattern and strength of the water flow.
This is why a power washer can be great for tackling all kinds of outdoor cleaning tasks.
Features to Look For
When shopping for a power washer, there are several features that should be looked for.
Look for a power washer with a long power cord and a long hose.
This will make cleaning larger areas much easier.
Make sure the power washer you select has adjustable water pressure, to accommodate different surfaces.
Look for adjustable spray tips to suit different jobs, and startling with wheels to make transport to and from different jobs easier.
For larger jobs, consider getting a power washer with an engine, so it can be used for a longer period of time.
As a final tip, make sure the power washer you select is backed by a good warranty.
When to Use a Power Washer
Common Applications
Power washers are great for tackling some of the toughest cleaning jobs around the house.
They can be used to clean driveways, decks, patio furniture and fencing.
They are also an effective tool for preparing surfaces for painting.
For those with a car, a pressure washer can be used to quickly and easily clean the outside of the car, removing dirt, mud, salt and other debris and helping to keep the car looking like new.
For outdoor grills, a power washer can make cleaning them much easier and help maintain their protective coating.
Power washers can also be used to clean outdoor play equipment, like swing sets, slides and monkey bars.
Finally, they are great at powering moss off brick walls, so don’t forget about those tough jobs!
Power Washers In Your Workshop
Power washers are great in workshops.
They can replace traditional power tools such as sanders and polishers.
With a power washer, you can blast off dirt and give a clean shine to metals and plastic that would have otherwise taken a lot more work with sandpaper or a buffer.
Pressure washers are also useful when you need to strip paint or varnish.
Point the nozzle directly at a wooden surface and you can strip away old layers in just seconds.
Plus, you get faster results with less mess than traditional scraping tools.
A power washer in your workshop can even be used to spray-clean surfaces or to get things prepped for painting.
Techniques and Tips
When it comes to using a power washer, there are some simple tips and techniques to keep in mind.
First, always hold the power washer upright and be sure to use the safety first.
Don’t aim it at anyone or anything living, and be aware of the kickback that can happen when first starting.
Next, choose the appropriate tip for the job.
For bigger jobs, use a wide sweep fan or a larger spray tip.
Make sure you use biodegradable soap and always use high pressure for removing deep down dirt or stains.
When you’re finished, check the area and make sure you didn’t miss any spots.
Finally, be sure to store the power washer in a secure dry area.
The more you know ahead of time, the better you’ll be at using a power washer.
What To Look For In A Power Washer
Power Washer Options
When you’re shopping for a power washer, there are a few techniques and tips you should consider.
First, think about the job you plan to do.
If you want a machine with a lot of power, look for one with a strong pressure output.
If you’re working with delicate surfaces, try to find a washer that’s adjustable and allows you to control the pressure output.
You may also want to look for a power washer that’s easy to use.
Models with user-friendly control panels and clear instructions will help you get the job done quickly and easily.
Make sure to take the time to research and choose the right power washer for your needs.
Choosing the Right Power Washer
When shopping for a power washer, there are some key things you should think about beforehand.
The first is deciding what type of pressure you need.
There are light, medium, and heavy-duty washers, and what is best for you will depend on what tasks you plan to use the washer for.
The next consideration is to think about how much you want to spend.
Power washers come in a range of prices, so make sure to set a budget beforehand.
Also consider the power source you want the washer to have.
Some use electricity, while others run on gas.
Finally, consider the size of the washer.
This will help determine how much space you’ll need to store it.
Knowing these four factors will make it easier to choose the right power washer.
Brand Reliability
When you’re looking for power washers, look for some of the popular trusted names.
For example, Troy-Bilt makes great gas washers with top-notch durability.
Many people also like Craftsman and Honda washers, which are known for having a long life-span.
If you’d like an electric model, Karcher’s models are heavy-duty and long-lasting.
If you’re looking for the highest quality power washer, try Simpson.
They have many different models that are reliable and sure to last.
To make sure you’re getting quality, read reviews and ratings, to get a good idea of how well each option performs.
Safety Measures and Precautions
Troubleshooting
If your power washer is having trouble, don’t panic! There are a few common issues that can be fixed easily.
First, if it won’t turn on, make sure it is plugged in and the switch is turned to “on.” Also check the circuit breaker.
If your washer won’t spray, look at the hoses and make sure they aren’t cracked or leaking, and that they’re tightly connected.
If the pressure is too low, check that the nozzle is open and that the filter screens don’t have any blockages.
Lastly, if your washer keeps turning off, make sure there is enough water pressure in the supply hose.
If you still can’t get it running, contact a local service professional for assistance.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Power washers need regular maintenance and upkeep in order to protect the quality of the machine.
Make sure to read up on any maintenance instructions that come with the washer when you purchase it.
Then, on a regular basis, check the washer for any blockages in the water inlet, pressure hoses, and discharge tube.
Additionally, inspect the washer for any visible signs of wear and tear or leakage.
If you detect any, have the machine serviced to ensure it is still working correctly and efficiently.
Lastly, do not forget to change out its oil if it is a gas-powered machine.
Remember, taking care of your power washer is important to keeping it functioning properly.
Staying Safe
When using a power washer, always make sure that you’re wearing appropriate safety gear.
That includes things like protective eyewear, gloves, and closed-toe shoes.
Make sure your clothes are secure, too.
If there are any children or animals in the area, be sure to keep them away from the power washer while you’re using it.
Never point the nozzle of the power washer directly at yourself, others, or animals.
Be sure to read all of the instructions that come with the power washer to help keep yourself safe.
Finally, in the event of an emergency, make sure you know how to shut off the power washer quickly.
Conclusion
Buying Your Power Washer
Shopping for a power washer is an important decision.
Consider the size and power of the washer to make sure it meets your needs.
Look for washers with adjustable pressure levels to help you clean delicate surfaces without causing damage.
Look for washers with useful features such as powerful motors, long hoses, and multiple nozzle tips.
Determine if the washer is compatible with any cleaning solutions you may use.
Research products reviews and ask questions of shop staff to get the best advice.
Lastly, consider the price of the washer as well as any warranties or extended service plans.
With the right research, you can find the perfect power washer for your needs.
