How to Use a Pressure Washer (and When to Call in Handyman Services for Help)

Summer months are excellent for cleaning the siding on your house, your deck, and your car, and there’s one machine that makes these tasks (and many others) quick and easy: the pressure washer.

Whether you’ve bought a pressure washer or are renting one from your local hardware store, there are some principles that are fairly universal across different models of pressure washers.

Pressure washers have either gas or electric motors, and they operate hooked up to a simple garden hose. If using a gas pressure washer, check fuel and oil levels before you start your project.

Attach your garden hose to your pressure washer and turn on your water spigot. Depress the trigger on your spray gun; doing so will bleed all the air out of your lines. Next, turn on your pressure washer and get to spraying.

When using your pressure washer, always spray from top to bottom—whether you’re cleaning your siding or a slightly downhill driveway (if you go bottom to top, you’re going to end up having to wash and rewash).

The trigger on your spray gun does not control the pressure; your spray can only either be on or off. To adjust the pressure you’re using, move closer to or further away from the object that you’re pressure washing. Generally, keep the tip of your spray gun at least six inches away from the surface you’re cleaning, otherwise the pressure could be so intense it can damage soft woods and peel paint. Never point the tip of the spray gun at a person—the extremely high pressure of the water makes it dangerous to humans and animals.

Of course, there are also benefits of making use of professional handyman services. Though a pressure washer can be simple enough to use, due to their extremely high pressure they can also be hazardous. Not only this, but there is the simple factor of time—the day you spend pressure washing your siding clean is also the day you could be spending taking a quick trip to visit nearby family. Plus, handymen who are offering pressure washer services are familiar with the different materials—vinyl siding, wood, concrete, brick, etc.—and are familiar with how to clean them most efficiently and safely.

Need handyman services?

If you find yourself needing professional help, call or text us here at Handyman Connection right away. We’ll give you an estimate and get you in contact with one of our craftsmen.