Having trouble using your power washer as a beginner? Better yet, want to know how to properly use your pressure power washer extension wand? Then you’ve come to the right place. Below is a complete guide to all power washing tips for your wand.
If you are after a cleaning method that’ll definitely deliver results then nothing compares to power washing. Whether it’s electric or gas pressure washers, you can count on this cleaning method to clean just about anything. This is more so true when it comes to cleaning anything outdoors. A plus with pressure washers is that they work so dramatically and so quickly. You’ll actually be surprised by the results you get.
However, you’ll only get good results if you use a power washer the right way. It is with this that we’ve decided to share with you this post. Below you’ll find a complete guide to all power washing tips for your wand. The areas or tips this post will highlight are;
- Knowing Your Pressure Washer
- Pressure Washer Size
- Nozzle Type/Size
- Power Washer Extension Wands
Know Your Pressure Washer
Before thinking of power washing it is important that you know the different types available. That said there are two commonly known and used power washing machines. These two are gas and electric pressure washers. To best settle on an ideal washer, knowing their pros and cons is a must. Below is a small brief on this two;
Gas Pressure Washers
With gas pressure washers you have an option of choosing from a wide-range of GPM and PSI levels. What this basically means is that you’ll be able to clean things more easily and faster. This is especially so if compared to electric models. Another pro associated with this type of washer is cords or the lack of them. Gas pressure washers are cordless. This makes it possible to use practically anywhere.
A con with gas pressure washers is noise. They are very noisy if compared to electric washers. In addition, they are known to emit certain gases and as such using it indoors is difficult especially indoors in covered rooms. Another con of gas pressure washers is maintenance. Gas pressure washers constantly need maintaining. From changing oil occasionally to making sure the right additives are present, there is a lot of maintenance needed.
Electric Pressure Washers
This washer does not produce harmful gasses making it easy to use even in covered areas. Maintenance is minimal with electric pressure washers. There are engine oils to check or even additives. It doesn’t produce as much pressure as gas pressure washers. This makes them not ideal when cleaning large areas. Another con is that they are not as portable given that it uses an electric code.
So which is best, electric or gas pressure washer? Well, if you want more pressure per square inch then a gas pressure washer is ideal. With extra power, you’ll be able to clean your surfaces faster and easier.
Pressure Washer Size
Here, the key is settling on an ideal pressure washer size. Whether you are using an electric or gas-powered pressure washer, getting the right pressure washer size is very important. You want a pressure washer capable of producing high water pressures. This is especially so if you are working in a large area. When it comes to pressure washer size, you have four options. Light duty, medium-duty, heavy-duty and ultra-heavy or professional duty.
Light duty pressure washers are ideal for light work. This includes cleaning small decks or patios. Medium duty pressure washers are ideal for anyone cleaning their home’s fencing, driveway or siding. For large areas that need more work, heavy-duty pressure washers are ideal. If you are working on your home’s exterior in order to re-paint an ultra-heavy professional duty washer is ideal. If you are not sure about the pressure washer size that’s ideal for you, always seek professional help.
Nozzle Type & Size
Knowing or determining nozzle type or nozzle size is very important. Why? Well, this determines the angle of the water stream. With the right angle, you’ll be able to easily control what your water stream can do. In essence, you want to go for a narrow-angle spray. This is more powerful making the whole cleaning process easier.
With nozzle size and type, settling on one that’s ideal is easy given that they are universally color-coded. There are five types of color-coded nozzles, that is red, yellow, green, white and black. Red nozzles are very narrow. With it, you get a water stream that’s very powerful. Hence, it’s advised to use it very carefully and not too close to the surface you are cleaning.
Yellow nozzles create a slightly tilted angle, in particular, 15-degrees. With this nozzle, you get ideal pressures for washing or cleaning concrete. The tip of green nozzles produces a spray of 25 degrees. Although not so powerful, this spray is perfect for home chores. You can also use it to clean cars and patios.
White nozzles are very user-friendly. With its 40 degrees angle spray, you’ll get enough pressure to clean just about any surface. Black nozzles are not that common. This is mostly due to the fact that the spray pressure is very low. You can’t clean anything with it and as such, it is not widely used.
Power Washer Extension Wand
An extension wand is equally as important when it comes to power washing. You want to make sure that you have the right wand to go with your pressure washer. With the right wand you’ll be able to extend your reach meaning you’ll be able to do more. In other words, you’ll be able to clean all hard to reach areas. Another plus associated with getting the right wand is the ability to clean even tough dirt.
It doesn’t stop there, a wand offers extra grip. It generally comes with insulation that makes for an easy grip. With a wand, you are guaranteed that it won’t slip when doing your cleaning chores. It is light, meaning you can easily carry it around without tiring.
Conclusion
There you have it, a complete guide to all the power washing tips for your wand. While this post is detailed and accurate, it is always advised to seek professional help or advice when it comes to matters of power washing. This way, you’ll be guaranteed a though clean that won’t damage any of your property.
Check out our next blog about What Should Be Pressure Washed And What Should Be Soft-Washed
