Using a Power Washer

Power WasherIf you are familiar with the workings and application of a jet wash, then you might be interested in how to get the most of your machine and yield the best possible cleaning results without risk of damage or injury. Knowing how to use your jet wash properly will make cleaning a breeze and save you some resources too.

  1. Positioning the nozzle bit

When cleaning any surface or object, you must hold the tip any closer than thirty centimetres from the surface, and no further than sixty centimetres away from it. If you hold the tip too close you risk damaging the surface, if you hold it too far you lose cleaning power.

  1. Holding the nozzle bit

Always hold the nozzle at a forty five degree angle. This way you protect yourself from flying debris and dirt dislodged by the pressure washer. Make sure you have firm grim on the spray gun before pulling the trigger.

  1. The right moves

Clean the surface or item in question, using sweeping, side to side motions. Use sharp, short strokes if you want to clean specific blemishes or small areas. In all instances you shouldn’t spray on one spot for too long.

  1. Using detergent

If you are using detergent for extra cleaning power, apply the detergent starting at the bottom of the surface or object and gradually work your way up. Wait for the product for at least three minutes, but don’t let it dry. Rinse the surface or object generously starting from the top working your way downwards.

  1. Washing the washer

After using detergent in your jet wash you need to flush and rinse the machine using fresh water only. If you haven’t done this before consult with your jet wash user manual for specific instructions.

  1. Warnings & Safety Advice

never use the pressure washer on a ladder, always use an extension wand;

Power Washer-don’t use petrol powered jet wash in enclosed areas, exhaust fumes are toxic;

-if using electrical washer ensure plugs and sockets are dry and out of water’s way;

-always keep the machine out of reach of children as the machine can cause injury and damage;

never aim the pressure washer at any part of your body, or at someone else.

Tip: When jet washing weatherboards, keep the nozzle at a downward angle to prevent water and detergent from going under and in between weatherboards.

Pressure Washing 101

Pressure WashingA pressure washer has considerable cleaning power and happens to be the best and most efficient way to clean exterior surfaces. Being effective with the pressure washer though will require some basic knowledge of how this piece of cleaning equipment operates.



  1. Safety gear

When pressure washing, you must wear the appropriate safety kit. You must be wearing safety goggles in all instances. It is recommended that you wear heavy duty rubber boots in order to avoid slipping on wet surfaces you are cleaning. It is also recommended to wear high sleeve overalls so that you’re protected from flying debris and dirt.

  1. Protect nearby objects

The washer uses highly pressurised water which has a lot of kinetic power. You must protect loose objects such as potted plants and other breakables by moving to another location for the time being, or securing them accordingly.

  1. Starting your machine

Pressure WashingIf using a petrol powered washer, make sure to follow fuel safety and ignition instructions displayed on the pressure washer. Don’t forget to cut off fuel supply at the end of the job. If using an electrical pressure washer, make sure your chord and socket are dry, clean and intact before plugging in. Keep an eye on the power chord while cleaning to avoid tangles or other issues.

  1. Connecting the hose

The pressure washes uses water from your garden tap. Connect the garden hose and turn on the air supply before switching on the pressure washer – this way you avoid accidental damage to the washer pump.

  1. More effectiveness

For extra cleaning power and efficiency, add some detergent or another cleaning product to the water tank of the machine. Keep in mind though that you may have to rinse down the items you washed using fresh water only in order to get rid of foam.

  1. The right nozzle bit

In most instances, you will be required to attach the right nozzle bit for the cleaning task at hand. Choosing the right nozzle is best done after consulting with your machine’s user manual. There may be a designated nozzle bit for when using detergents.

  1. Safety Notes

it is not recommended to clean window panes using the jet wash, even if glass is tempered;

-it is not advisable to clean delicate exterior features like flyscreens or similar;

-never jet wash loose surfaces as flying debris will cause personal injury and/or property damage;

Useful Cleaning Advices