A pressure washer is a great way to quickly remove all mud and stains from your siding, driveway and truck tires using one device. A pressure washer is capable of spraying highly pressurized water, usually mixed with a cleaning agent, at the contaminating dirt or stain to make your exterior look new.

Before you begin to shower everything, be sure that you are operating the pressure washer safely. Also, don’t forget to do any outside cleaning chores before it gets too late.

1. Select the right tool
Gas and electric pressure washers are available in two versions. Gas-powered washers can deliver between 2,000 and 2,800 PSI (pounds/square inch), while electric models average 1,300 to 1,700 PSI. Gas washers are 10 times more powerful than electric models and have a higher cleaning speed. However, gas washers can be louder and require more care and caution to avoid damaging wood and other surfaces.

When choosing a pressure washer, it is important to pay attention not only to PSI but also the water flow rate in gallons per hour. A machine that has 5 GPM and 1,700 PSI is more effective than one with 4 GPM or 2,000 PSI. A washer that can dispense cleaning products in addition to water is a good choice. A little chlorine can make concrete look cleaner and help prevent mildew and mold growth.

2. Take precautions
Pressure washers can be very dangerous and powerful machines. Wear goggles, ear protection and boots when operating a pressure washer. Also, wear long sleeves and gloves.

Make sure that no one is in the way of the sprayer before you turn on the machine. Also, hold the pressure washer with both hands. A pressure washer can cause damage to windows, doors, screens, overhangs, or screens. Consider waiting until it is calmer. Wind can blow the spray back at you if it’s windy.

3. Make sure you prepare properly
Without adequate water, your pressure washer will not be able to perform at its best. You can check the water supply in your home by measuring how long it takes for a 5-gallon bucket to be filled with water. If it takes more than two minutes, it might not be enough.

Also, clean the washer’s inlet filter. Make sure that accessories and hoses are properly connected. You should also get rid of any debris or items that could get in your way. Things like toys and other small objects can easily be damaged if they are accidentally hit.

4. Protect your plants
After being treated with pressurized chlorinated chlorine, your rose garden may not look as beautiful. Also, water your plants after, during, or after a pressure wash to ensure that any cleaning solution they receive is diluted. Dry leaves absorb cleaners much more easily than wet leaves.

5. Patch Any Broken Bricks
Do a survey of brickwork before you start washing them. Note any cracks or holes in mortar. These spots should be repaired before you start the washing process.

6. Start from a Distance
High-pressure water shocks can cause severe damage to any surface. So, don’t be afraid to ease into the wash. Begin by washing 10 feet from the surface. Then, move closer until the water pressure is enough to loosen any grime.

7. Know your Nozzles
You will find that different nozzle tips are included with your gold coast pressure cleaners. They can handle different tasks. The nozzle with a diameter of around 40 degrees is ideal for general washing. It can also be used to wash siding or wood decks. A narrower, 25-degree nozzle can be used on concrete and brick to remove grime. A nozzle with lower pressure (15 degrees or less) will only be used for metal stains. To help you choose the right nozzle tip, they are color-coded.

Red: Zero degrees. Never use this nozzle near any surface.

Yellow: 15° angle; used for preparing surfaces for painting, staining or resealing or to remove mud and dirt from tires

Green: 25 degrees; great for masonry

White: 40 degrees; great for general washing of your exterior

Black: 65 degrees; gentle. Usually used to wet surfaces, not clean them.

Use the lowest possible cleaning solution for any stain or material you are trying to clean. Cleanse the area from the bottom. Rinse the solution off the surface.

8. Adjust the spray angle
Keep the washer’s nozzle parallel to the surface that you are cleaning in order to get maximum power. A pivoting nozzle wand is a good option if you have to reach a hard-to-reach spot like siding.

9. Know your limits
Some stains, such as those caused by acorns or fertilizer, oil, or rust, are permanent and can’t be removed with pressure washing. Some jobs are more complicated than others and require you to have more tools. Don’t overdo it and endanger your home or yourself. You might consider calling a local power washer for an assessment. The cost of pressure washing a home is between $100 and $650.

10. Keep Your Machine Running
To prevent weather-related damage, keep your washer indoors in the off-season. The pump can be winterized by adding undiluted RV-grade antifreeze to it.