Using a pressure washer can save so much time and energy on cleaning most any surface. Weather you’re a professional pressure washer, car detailer, farmer or homeowner you know the benefits of owning a pressure washer. Pressure washers for the home have become increasing popular over the past years, however the quality of these units leave much to be desired. Our commercial quality pressure washers will last 5-10 times as long as a homeowner type. By spending a little more up front you can save yourself thousands in the long run. Here are some tips that will help you maintain your machine and prevent damage to you and the surfaces you clean.
When using chemicals always follow the manufacturers directions. Never run bleach or any type of acid through your chemical injectors. When switching to your chemical tip always check to see that your O-ring is seated properly before inserting the tip. If the O-ring is in a bind or missing, chemicals may be able to spray back towards your face. Always where eye protection when applying chemical or pressure washing.
To understand the amount of power needed for any given job, stand away from the surface six feet, pull the trigger, and slowly walk towards the surface you are cleaning. Once you see the desired effect taking place that is the range you will want to work from. This simple step will give you a reference point for proper cleaning and will prevent damage to the cleaning surface.
You will want to perform routine maintenance on your machine to prolong its life. Change your engine oil every 50 - 100 hours with the recommended oil for your machine. Change your pump oil every 150 - 200 hours with a NON-DETERGENT oil as recommended by the pump manufacture.
When using a hose reel in order to extend the life of the reel unroll the hose all the way. By doing this you relieve the pressure from the core of the reel. On a hot water machine you will not only relieve pressure but also eliminate heat build up on the reel and your hose.
Bleach can be a great cleaner, however you should never use bleach on wood, shingle roofs, or around delicate landscaping of grassy areas.
If you are planning on pressure washing greasy or oily areas you should definitely use a hot water machine. The heat will emulsify the oil allowing the water volume to carry it away. With a cold water machine oil will actually thicken and stick to the surface making it even worse. For normal dirt a cold water machine works fine.
Adding a hot box to an existing cold water pressure washer is a great economical way of creating a hot water pressure washer, and installation is simple.
If you own a shop and don’t plan on moving your pressure washer an electric model can save you time and money on energy costs. You never have to add fuel, and running an electric machine is cheaper.
Here are a few uses and recommendations on tip selection. Keep in mind most machines also come with a 65° Black chemical/soap tip as well. This is the tip you will need to make your chemical injector work.
Pressure Washing Tips Overview
0° Spray Tip – RED - This tip is not recommended for wood applications, its stream of water is to narrow and concentrated. This tip would be ideal for concrete, and metal.
15° Spray Tip – YELLOW - This tip is for heavy duty cleaning or stripping. You can use this tip for cleaning concrete, loose paint, and driveways.
25° Spray Tip – GREEN - This tip is for general cleaning purposes. You will find yourself using this tip for your deck, siding, and your car.
40° Spray Tip – WHITE - This tip has the least amount of impact. The white tip is great for rinsing, cleaning out your gutters, and other sensitive jobs.
NOTICE: My Pressure Washers and/or the author of any listed instructions on this website are in no way and/or can not be held responsible for any damage and/or injury to any person, pressure washer, or property being pressure washed by anyone attempting to perform the recommendations contained herein. Always read the product manual and use your pressure washer in a safe manner.
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