Pressure Washing Buyers Guide

Getting rid of stubborn stains, debris, and paint are simply a some of the problems pressure washers face in our testing labs. All of us also measure how much power and pressure each one delivers, rate them how easy they are to work with, and even check noise levels. This guide will arm you with expert advice to choose a pressure washer that best suits the jobs around your house. In addition, We has important safety tips you should know before using any pressure washer. Members to our website can access our specific brand advice and exclusive product ratings. This video is interactive, so click any chapter to skip around. Pressure washers use a gas engine or electric motor to power a pump, which forces drinking water at high pressure through a nozzle. And now for a brief technology lesson. The number of power a pressure washer can deliver is measured in POUND-FORCE PER SQUARE INCH. That is short for pounds per Click for source square inch. Generally, for cleaning hard surfaces like concrete and tough staining, you'll want about 2, 000 to 3, 500 PSI.

Cleaning a deck siding or patio furniture requires less power, about 1, 500 PSI. Pressure washers have either interchangeable nozzles or a wand tip that you can adapt to be able to angles. Adaptable wand tips are more convenient, but nozzles give you specific angles. Those angles usually range from a wider 65-degree angle to a very thin 0-degree angle. No matter which spray setting you utilize, a misplaced jet of water could land you or a bystander in the emergency room.

We no longer recommend pressure washers that come with nozzles or wands that produce sprays of 15 degrees or less. Wish particularly concerned with the 0-degree angle spray. Is actually typically a red nozzle that concentrates all the machine's power into a single pinpoint blast with surprisingly strong cutting functions. We believes pressure washing machines should not come with this attachment or setting up. Plus, our tests find wider-angle nozzles can get the job done.

We recommend buying one without a 0-degree nozzle, not using that setting, or discarding the nozzle after purchase. Now you will have to choose whether you want an electric or gas-powered pressure washer. our tests find electric pressure washers will manage most jobs around the home. They're relatively light, and they cost the least. Plus, they're quieter than gasoline-powered washers. And because there's no fuel, you can store electric pressure washers indoors. There are some downsides, though. You should never use an extension cord with a pressure washer. So your job must be close to a power source-- about 50 feet. Electric pressure washers generally deliver about half as much electric power as gasoline models. But our tests find it's not that an electric pressure washer can't take care of tough jobs. It just takes them longer. In the event that removing tough stubborn stains and debris fast is your goal or if your jobs are significantly from a power source, then consider a gas-powered pressure washer. These pump out the highest POUND-FORCE PER SQUARE INCH, typically 2, 500 to 3, 500. However, that electricity comes with a higher price tag compared to electric models and lots more noise.

Gasoline-powered models also produce carbon monoxide. So they should never be used in a garage, basements, or other enclosed area. Never store a gasoline-powered pressure washer inside your home. There are a few features to look out for when shopping. Cord storage rather than wrangling a knotted mass. Wheels are an advantage for heavier models. Ones with good balance such as this you can push off with just one foot are convenient. Some pressure washers offer soap tanks to keep cleansers so you don't have to use a separate container. Remember, pressure washers are powerful tools and can damage areas. So follow the manufacturer's instructions. Always start with the widest spray position, and start your bringing out from at least 2 feet away. And move in slowly. Wear security goggles and protective shoes. And never point the pressure washer at yourself, others, or pets. Zero matter which type of pressure washer you choose, if you'll be storing it outdoors in colder a few months, you will have to winterize it. That means you will have to add antifreeze to the pump and drain the hose and wand.