How to Buy a Pressure Washer
Match the ability to loosen dirt, measured in pounds per square inch (psi), to the type of cleaning projects you are using the pressure washer for., Take into account the gallons of water per minute (GPM) that the pressure washer uses., Compare the...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Match the ability to loosen dirt
A light-duty pressure washer with 1,200 to 1,900 psi can clean 10 to 40 square feet in 10 minutes.
This would be a good model for cleaning a vehicle, garage floor or patio furniture.
A medium-duty pressure washer with 1,950 to 2,600 psi can clean 40 to 90 square feet in 10 minutes.
This type of pressure washer can handle larger areas, such as a driveway, sidewalk or deck.
A heavy-duty pressure washer with 2,650 to 3,800 psi can clean 90 to 190 square feet in 10 minutes.
You'll need this is the type of pressure washer for cleaning a fence or siding, especially on a second story. -
Step 2: measured in pounds per square inch (psi)
Multiply this number by the psi to determine the true cleaning power of a particular pressure washer. , Gas pressure washers are more powerful, but they have drawbacks.
They are loud; have the added cost of buying gas, oil and spark plugs; are more difficult to start; and have polluting emissions.
Electric pressure washers are tethered to an electrical extension cord, which can restrict movements.
The unit's power cord should have a built-in ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCl) to prevent electrical shock. , A telescoping wand helps to clean second-story siding and other raised areas (operating a pressure washer from a ladder isn't recommended).
The width of the spray, which may range from a concentrated jet to a 40-degree fan, may be adjustable by twisting the nozzle or attaching different tips. ,, A heavier hand unit will require 2 hands to operate. , This requires a pressure washer with a cleaning solution injection system.
You may find a pressure washer with a cleaning solution storage tank easier to use than simply pumping the solution out of a nearby bucket. ,, -
Step 3: to the type of cleaning projects you are using the pressure washer for.
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Step 4: Take into account the gallons of water per minute (GPM) that the pressure washer uses.
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Step 5: Compare the benefits and disadvantages of gas versus electric pressure washers.
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Step 6: Evaluate the spray nozzle.
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Step 7: Look at the accessories
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Step 8: such as a rotating scrub brush
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Step 9: a broom attachment for pavement or an attachment for cleaning gutters.
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Step 10: Consider the weight of the spray gun and extension wand.
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Step 11: Decide whether you want the ability to use a cleaning detergent for extra cleaning power on heavy stains
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Step 12: mold and mildew.
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Step 13: Look at the job you'll be doing and think it out in advance
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Step 14: you may need to purchase a longer hose to the machine or from the machine to the area you will be cleaning
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Step 15: Petrol powered washers may use more water than a hose can deliver
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Step 16: a simple solution to this is a small tank like a wheelie bin adding a water tank ball cock means it will top up when needed
Detailed Guide
A light-duty pressure washer with 1,200 to 1,900 psi can clean 10 to 40 square feet in 10 minutes.
This would be a good model for cleaning a vehicle, garage floor or patio furniture.
A medium-duty pressure washer with 1,950 to 2,600 psi can clean 40 to 90 square feet in 10 minutes.
This type of pressure washer can handle larger areas, such as a driveway, sidewalk or deck.
A heavy-duty pressure washer with 2,650 to 3,800 psi can clean 90 to 190 square feet in 10 minutes.
You'll need this is the type of pressure washer for cleaning a fence or siding, especially on a second story.
Multiply this number by the psi to determine the true cleaning power of a particular pressure washer. , Gas pressure washers are more powerful, but they have drawbacks.
They are loud; have the added cost of buying gas, oil and spark plugs; are more difficult to start; and have polluting emissions.
Electric pressure washers are tethered to an electrical extension cord, which can restrict movements.
The unit's power cord should have a built-in ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCl) to prevent electrical shock. , A telescoping wand helps to clean second-story siding and other raised areas (operating a pressure washer from a ladder isn't recommended).
The width of the spray, which may range from a concentrated jet to a 40-degree fan, may be adjustable by twisting the nozzle or attaching different tips. ,, A heavier hand unit will require 2 hands to operate. , This requires a pressure washer with a cleaning solution injection system.
You may find a pressure washer with a cleaning solution storage tank easier to use than simply pumping the solution out of a nearby bucket. ,,
About the Author
Hannah Jones
Hannah Jones is an experienced writer with over 2 years of expertise in finance and banking. Passionate about sharing practical knowledge, Hannah creates easy-to-follow guides that help readers achieve their goals.
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