How to Do Power Washing

Pressure washers make cleaning vehicles a snap.

Power washers or pressure washers can be purchased at home improvement centers or rented from rental stores. Running on either gas or electric, a power washer removes dirt clinging to the house or another object. High-pressure streams of water can eliminate dirt from lawn furniture, cars, brickwork and decks. Power washers usually have various power and pressure settings, and it's best to test a small area first.

Things You'll Need

• Power washer
• Scrub brush
• Bucket
• Soapy water

Instructions

1. Connect the power washer to the water source, which is normally a hose connected to the spigot outside the house.

2. Turn on the power washer. Test spray into an area that will not be damaged by the pressure of the device. This will get you used to the amount of power in the washer.

3. Use the low-pressure spray to wet the surface you are cleaning. Scrub with the scrub brush and detergent. Allow this mixture to sit for a few moments.

4. Spray with the pressure washer. Pull in the handle trigger to get the high-pressure water to come out. This will remove mold and mildew. Do not get too close to the object, as it can remove paint.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't spray the high-pressure water at anyone or anything that can be damaged. Pressure washers, which have enough power to cut a rubber boot, can cause cuts on bare skin.

References

• "New Fix-It-Yourself Manual: How to Repair, Clean, and Maintain Anything and Everything In and Around Your Home"; Reader's Digest; 1996