• Power washers do the work of many hands."Many Hands..." is Copyrighted by Flickr user: Randy Son Of Robert (Randy) under the Creative Commons Attribution license.
  
  

Types

• Power washers are available for home and commercial use. Larger models are available with gas-powered four-stroke engines, similar to those in lawn mowers, capable of providing a consistent high pressure flow for cleaning large areas. These professional models are less portable than the smaller home models. Inexpensive home versions are usually either hand pumped or electrically pressurized to deliver a less powerful pressure stream. Options in wand handles and trigger systems are available.
  
  

Considerations

• Consider the work you need to accomplish with your power washer when making your investment in the cleaning tool. Look for a pressure washing system that offers the versatility of settings and options to make it a viable option for use nearly every day. Ask about the availability and cost of replacement parts when considering your purchase. Within your budget, find a unit that offers the power and durability needed to finish your most difficult jobs.
  
  

Uses

• Power washers will quickly pay for themselves in the time you save keeping your property and belongings clean. Power washers make quick work of cleaning jobs on almost any water proof surface. Vehicles, sidewalks, trashcans and pet supplies are all easy to power wash in minutes. Long power washer wands reach into gutters to blast away leaves and debris. Refresh the look of your home's exterior paint, brick or siding with a powerful blast of water from your pressure washer.
  
  

Tips

• Start at the highest point on any tall item you are cleaning and move down. Clean flat surfaces in a side to side sweeping motion. Point the tip of the wand into the beginning of cracks and seams to blast out dirt. Move the wand down to the end of the opening to purge the collected grime. Load your power washer with filtered or purified water when using it to rinse painted surfaces for a spot-free shine.
  
  

Warnings

• Using a power washer wand effectively requires some practice and hand strength. Learn to control your power washer's wand and water stream to reduce the incidence of nozzle scrapes and surface damage. Check your water tank for dirt and sand buildup before spraying surfaces that may scratch. Over-pressurizing is dangerous; never alter or obstruct your unit's built-in pressure release valve system.