14 Pressure Washer Tips to Save You Time and Effort

A pressure washer is a power cleaning tool that uses a high-pressure water spray to remove dirt, mold, mildew, and other debris from surfaces. 

Compared to cleaning with just a garden hose, pressure washers provide superior cleaning results in far less time. The pressurized spray possesses enough force to dislodge even ground-in grime and lift out deep-seated contamination. Just a few passes with a pressure washer can restore wood, concrete, vinyl, and other materials to like-new condition.

Pressure washers allow you to tackle extremely difficult or time-consuming cleaning tasks. A job that would take all day scrubbing with a brush can be accomplished in under an hour with a pressure washer. However, there are some tips and tricks that will turn you into a power washing pro. Let’s explore the 14 tips that will save not only your time but also your efforts. 

1. Choose the Right Pressure Washer

Pressure washers are ideal cleaning tools, but picking up the right one can be daunting sometimes. This requires an understanding of the PSI (pounds per square inch) and GPM (gallons per minute).  By selecting the appropriate pressure washer, you can achieve optimal cleaning results without compromising the integrity of your surfaces. For more detailed advice, check out our pressure washer buyers guide.

• PSI: The PSI (pounds per square inch) rating indicates the pressure at which water is sprayed from the nozzle. This determines the force with which it hits the surface being cleaned. To tackle tough stains and grime, higher PSI values are ideal as they equate to greater cleaning power. However, for delicate surfaces, prioritize lower PSI settings to prevent damage. Also check out guide on what is the best PSI for a pressure washer that helps you to complete your pressure washing effectively.

• GPM: This metric reflects the volume of water the pressure washer delivers per minute. It influences the speed at which dirt and debris are washed away. A higher GPM can result in faster cleaning, particularly on larger surface areas, but may also lead to increased water consumption.

Choose your pressure washer while considering both the PSI and GPM ratings to ensure they align with your cleaning requirements. 

2. Select the Right Nozzle

For effective pressure washing, choosing the right nozzle is one of the important aspects of the job. These nozzles come in different spray patterns and sizes. Selecting the proper nozzle will maximize your cleaning power while minimizing surface damage. To help you select the best nozzle, refer to our guide on tips to choose a pressure washer nozzle.

The main nozzle types are:

• Fan Nozzles: These nozzles create a fan-shaped spray pattern, ideal for broad surfaces like siding, roofs, and driveways. Wider fan nozzles cover more area, while narrow fans offer concentrated cleaning power.
• Rotary Nozzles: Their fast-spinning internal mechanism creates an oscillating spray pattern. This helps cover a wider cleaning path, making them ideal for cleaning decks, fences, and larger areas.
• Soap Nozzles: Soap nozzles have internal mixing features that allow you to apply detergent. Soap nozzles provide a wide, low-pressure spray that gently coats surfaces with a cleaning solution before rinsing.
• Pencil Nozzles: Pencil nozzles emit a very narrow, concentrated stream of water. They provide maximum impact for stubborn dirt and stains. Use pencil nozzles for spot-cleaning siding, stripping paint, and cleaning concrete.

• Red Spray Tip (0-Degrees): The red spray tip produces a highly concentrated and powerful stream of water with no spread. It is particularly useful for stubborn stains, dirt or paint that require to be removed under the highest possible pressure.
• Yellow Spray Tip (15-Degrees): The yellow spray tip creates a narrow, 15-degree fan pattern, providing a balance between power and coverage. It is effective on concrete driveways, walkways, and other hard surfaces with stubborn stains.
• Green Spray Tip (25 Degrees): The green spray tip offers a wider, 25-degree spray pattern, making it a versatile choice for many cleaning tasks. This tip strikes a good balance between pressure and coverage, making it a go-to for many users.
• White Spray Tip (40-Degrees): The white spray tip provides a wide, 40-degree spray pattern, making it one of the gentler options. It minimizes the risk of surface damage, making it a safe choice for a variety of applications.

Black Spray Tip (65-Degrees): The black spray tip has the widest spray pattern at 65 degrees and is designed for applying detergents.

3. Test Before You Blast: A Stitch in Time Saves

Years of grime can mask cracks and weak spots on the surfaces. High-pressure washing can worsen these issues and lead to costly repairs. That is why it is always recommended to do a test shot in a discreet area and reveal any potential vulnerabilities. 

Different surfaces react differently to pressure washing. Therefore using the right PSI settings for one material might not be suitable for another. Testing various PSI settings can help you identify the right pounds per square inch. Fine-tune the pressure and nozzle selection to achieve optimal cleaning results without damaging the surface. Plus, testing allows you to practice your spray technique and experiment with different nozzles to find the most efficient and comfortable way to tackle the job.

Here’s a simple process to ensure a safe and successful pressure-washing experience:

• Locate a small, inconspicuous section of the surface you plan to clean.
• Begin with the lowest PSI setting on your pressure washer and gradually increase the pressure. Engage the trigger in short bursts, observing the effect on the surface.
• Once you’ve completed the test shot, analyze the cleaned area, evaluate, and adjust. 

4. Maintain the Right Distance

While cleaning with pressure washers, maintaining the right distance in a key to achieve a flawless cleanliness. When too close, you are at the risk of damaging the surface; however, the cleaning efficacy may suffer when it is too far.  

Finding the Cleaning Spot

As a general rule, a range of 6-12 inches between the nozzle and the cleaning surface works well for most applications. This distance allows for a powerful yet controlled spray that cleans effectively without risking damage. Begin by holding the nozzle at a safe distance (around 12 inches) and observe the cleaning effect. You can move closer slowly in small increments until you achieve desired cleaning power.  

Let the Nozzle Do the Work

Pressure washer nozzles are designed to create a specific spray pattern at an optimal distance.  Avoid the temptation to compensate for inadequate cleaning power by getting too close. Adjust the nozzle type or PSI settings instead.

Pressure and Flow Rate:

The water pressure is created by the pump and the flow rate is determined by the nozzle. A smaller orifice increases the water pressure by restricting flow, while a larger orifice decreases pressure by allowing more water to pass through.

5. Use Proper Technique

Maximize cleaning efficiency and minimize the risk of streaking by adhering to the right techniques for pressure washing. Here’s how the proper techniques ensure your cleaning efforts are as efficient and effective as possible.   

Top-Down Approach

When tackling vertical surfaces like walls, fences, or siding, gravity becomes your cleaning partner. Therefore, beginning from the top and working your way down is crucial. When using detergent, a top-down approach allows the cleaning solution to dwell on the surface for a longer duration.

Overlapping Strokes

Pressure washer nozzles create a fan-shaped spray pattern. Holding the nozzle steady and using overlapping strokes ensures that the entire cleaning area is exposed to the high-pressure water stream. This helps remove all traces of dirt and grime.

6. Work in Sections

When cleaning with pressure washers, tackling large projects at once can be overwhelming. This often leads to missed spots. Here is where the concept of working in sections comes in. This approach ensures thorough cleaning while maximizing your efficiency. Here’s how dividing large areas benefits you:

• Thorough Cleaning:  Focusing on smaller sections allows for meticulous cleaning.  
• Efficient Management:  Breaking down a large project into smaller, manageable chunks makes the cleaning process feel less daunting. 
• Reduced Risk of Overspray:  By focusing on one section at a time, you minimize the risk of accidentally spraying areas you’ve already cleaned.  
• Natural Divisions:  Look for natural breaks in the surface, such as expansion joints in concrete or borders around flower beds. 
• Size Matters: Start with smaller sections for intricate areas or high-pressure cleaning and gradually increase the size for faster cleaning of flat surfaces.

7. Be Mindful of Safety

While cleaning with pressure washers, prioritizing safety is paramount. Propelling water at high speed, pressure washers dislodge dirt, grime, and even mold. To ensure your safety, always wear the following protective gear such as safety goggles and gloves. Beyond basics, always consult the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific pressure washer and any cleaning chemicals you plan to use. Here are some safety considerations:

• Wear safety goggles that fit snugly around your eyes to shield them.
• Wearing sturdy gloves protects your hands from the impact of the water stream and harsh cleaning solutions.
• Long pants and closed-toe shoes provide protection from splashes and flying debris.
• If using harsh cleaning chemicals, a respirator can help prevent inhalation of fumes.

8. Rinse and Dry Properly

After you’ve blasted away the grime, the job isn’t finished yet. Detergents can leave behind a residue when not rinsed properly. This residue can attract dirt and hinder the surface’s natural shine. Some cleaning solutions might have a slightly acidic or alkaline composition.  A thorough rinse with clean water neutralizes these chemicals, preventing any potential damage to the surface over time. Here’s how to promote proper drying:

• Allow the surface to air dry naturally.
• Improve air circulation around the cleaned area to accelerate drying.
• For quicker drying or on non-porous surfaces, use a squeegee or clean towels to remove excess water.

9. Use the Right Detergent

Detergents always play a crucial role in pressure washing as the magic of effective cleaning lies in choosing the right detergent. Use only detergents specifically formulated for pressure washers.  These detergents are designed to create a thick foam that clings to surfaces, enhancing cleaning power.

Different surfaces require different cleaning solutions. For instance, opt for detergents specifically designed for the surface you’re tackling, such as concrete cleaner, siding cleaner, or car wash soap. Plus, do a small test in an inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t cause any discoloration or damage.

10. Pre-treat Stubborn Stains

Stubborn stains such as oil, grease, or mildew require a massive struggle to get clean. These kinds of stains require pre-treatment to break down. When general cleaning detergents are not enough, pre-treatment loosens the stain’s grip on the surface, making it easier for the pressure washer to remove it completely.

Furthermore, pre-treating allows the specialized cleaner time to penetrate the stain. This creates a weakened state, making it more susceptible to the pressure washer’s cleaning force. You can effectively pre-treat stubborn stains by:

• Applying the cleaner following the manufacturer’s instructions. 
• Be patient and let it dwell.
• Rinse well and engage the pressure washer.

11. Adjust Water Temperature:

Hot water pressure washing tackles stubborn grime and opens up a whole new setting of cleaning possibilities. Hot water melts the grease and oil which makes them easier to wash away with the pressure washer. This can be particularly helpful when cleaning greasy car parts, garage floors, or heavily soiled grills.

Hot water can also be beneficial for sanitizing surfaces. Begin with the lowest hot water setting on your pressure washer and gradually increase the temperature only if necessary. Hot water (around 140°F or 60°C) can kill bacteria and germs on surfaces like patios, walkways, or pool decks. This further helps loosen caked-on dirt and grime that might be resistant to cold water pressure washing alone.

12. Practice Environmentally-friendly Cleaning:

To embrace environmentally friendly practices, opt for eco-friendly detergents whenever possible. These specially formulated cleaners are gentle on the environment, utilizing biodegradable ingredients that break down harmlessly once rinsed away. 

In addition to selecting eco-friendly detergents, consider implementing water-saving techniques and practices to reduce water consumption during pressure washing. One such method involves capturing and recycling wastewater generated during the cleaning process. 

13. Maintain Your Pressure Washer

Maintaining your pressure washers is essential to deliver optimal performance and longevity for years to come. Here’s how: 

• Cleaning After Each Use:  Always remove any dirt, debris, or grime from the exterior of your pressure washer after each use.  A quick wipe-down helps prevent rust and corrosion.
• Inspect Hoses and Nozzles:  Regularly inspect hoses and nozzles for cracks, leaks, or blockages.  Replace any damaged components to ensure safety and optimal water flow. If you notice any issues, our guide on how to repair pressure washer hose can help you fix them quickly.
• Filter Focus:  Pressure washer filters trap dirt and debris that could damage the pump.  Clean or replace the filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically after every few uses or seasonally.
• Oil Check:  Some pressure washer models require oil changes at specific intervals.  Consult your owner’s manual for instructions and recommendations on the type of oil to use.

14. Store Properly

Leaving your surface clean, pressure washers serve a lot. Make sure you store them properly to keep them in top condition. Here’s how you can do this:    

• Store your pressure washer in a dry, well-ventilated area away from extreme temperatures.
• Avoid damp basements, garages with excessive moisture, or direct sunlight.  
• Loosely coil them in a large loop to prevent kinks and cracks that can impede water flow.
• Release any residual pressure from the hose by engaging the trigger
• Ideally, store it in a location with moderate and consistent temperatures.

Conclusion 

Cleaning requires a lot of time and effort. However, dealing with your pressure washer intelligently can make your work easier. From choosing the right pressure washer with optimal PSI and GPM ratings to employing proper technique and safety precautions, you can elevate your cleaning experience. Plus, a little planning and preparation go a long way in saving you time and effort, while ensuring a flawless, sparkling clean. So, utilize the above-discussed power tips, and transform your grimy surfaces into gleaming masterpieces with pressure washers.