How to use a pressure washer to clean anything

Pressure washers eradicate dirt like nothing else.

Plug in, turn on, blast through – you know how it goes.

Setting one up can be tricky, though – which hose goes in which inlet?

Don’t worry; we’re here to clear things up.

In this article, we explain how to use a pressure washer, how to set one up, and how to clean anything you have in the perimeter of your home – the patio, car, decking – nothing’s off limits!

But before you roll up your sleeves, we’ll give you the lowdown on pressure washers, explaining how they work, what to look for when buying, and all the average specs.

Let’s get into it.

There are two types of pressure washers: electric and gas.

Electric pressure washers use an electric motor to power a pump connected to a hose. The powerful water flow is forced through a narrow spray nozzle, blitzing dirt and grime with ease.

Gas pressure washers operate in the same way but use fuel instead of electricity. Given their weight and bulk, they usually roll on wheels.

There are three main factors to consider when buying a pressure washer.

Here’s what to look out for:

A pressure washer’s power is determined by its pressure rating (measured in bar).

 The higher the pressure rating, the stronger the water jet.

And the more powerful a machine is, the tougher the dirt and grime it eradicates.  

Water flow rating refers to how large a surface area your pressure washer will tackle in a certain period.

A pressure washer’s efficiency is measured in Cleaning Units (CU). The higher the CU, the more efficient the machine.

Not up on the lingo?

 Here’s a table for reference:  

Aside from the machine’s spec, also consider practical matters like:

• The weight of the machine and whether it has wheels (this one does!)
• The length of the cables – all VonHaus pressure washers come with a 5m hose and 5m cable for 360° washing and manoeuvrability!
• The distance to the water and electricity outlets
• Where will you store it when it’s not in use? A garden shed, perhaps?

Average bar = 90-97

Electric pressure washers are ideal for homeowners and tackle all sorts of tough cleaning jobs like washing the car, patio, decking, and garage.

They’re easy to use, better for the environment, and much cheaper than their gas equivalents. 

Average bar = 138-192 (some models reach 275)

For all the squeaky-clean surfaces you’ll get from your pressure washer, setting one up is surprisingly easy.

Here’s how to do it in minutes:

Set up a pressure washer in 7 easy steps 

1. Connect your garden hose (supply hose) to an outdoor tap.

Ensure the water is clean and clear.

2. Connect the supply hose to the pressure washer’s inlet

3. Connect the high-pressure hose to the pressure washer

Locate the outer valve and secure it –when you hear a click, it’s connected.

4. Connect the spray gun to the high-pressure hose

Insert the end of the high-pressure hose into the spray gun and secure it using the handy locking mechanism.

5. Connect the nozzle to the spray gun

This enables you to adjust the nozzle for the required pressure.

6. Add detergent to the detergent bottle

Add an all-purpose detergent to the detergent bottle. It’s best to use the low-pressure nozzle as it ensures even, efficient foam production.

7. Circulate water through the machine

This eliminates air bubbles inside the pressure washer, which is vital for efficiency. To do this, turn on the tap and let the water flow into the machine.  

Next, press and hold the spray gun’s trigger until there’s a steady stream of water. Do this for 10 - 15 seconds until there are no fluctuations in the stream – the jet should be steady and even.

Pressure washers are the go-to tool when removing stubborn grime from your decking or patio.

And you can clean your decking with a pressure washer in two easy steps:

Blitz the bulk of the dirt with a high-pressure trigger lance, before washing it down with a water-detergent mix on a low-pressure setting.

Finish by using the rotary lance to shift every last bit of stubborn dirt.

And there you have it; beautifully clean decking!

Want to restore your car’s forecourt shine? Clean it with a pressure washer! The powerful water jet blasts through stubborn dirt, even in hard-to-reach spots like the wheel arches.

Just ensure the water pressure is 1500 psi or lower when using it on your car.  

Okay, here’s how to wash your car with a pressure washer in three easy steps:

1.      Start by blasting any dirt off the surface using the standard water jet on a high-pressure setting.  

Use the lance to reach those tricky areas that clog up from driving.

2.      Once you’ve removed the bulk of the dirt, fill your pressure washer with a mix of water and car shampoo and spray your car down.

3.      Use the brush attachment over the car’s body for that sparkly clean finish.

So, there you have it – pressure washing at its finest.

We’ve learnt how to use a pressure washer, how to set one up, and all the ins and outs of cleaning – patios, cars – it’s all here.

And if you’re itching for more handy how-tos and lifestyle tips, head over to our blog – it’s your one-stop shop for handy hacks, interior inspiration, and witty banter.

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