A good power washer is often needed for a variety of jobs around the home, from cleaning patio furniture to washing away leaves and debris from the driveway. When you're in the market for a new washer, you want to ensure you take the time to shop for just the right one; note a few mistakes that many homeowners make in this process so you avoid them yourself and come home with equipment that you'll be happy with for years to come.
Not realizing they don't all work with hot water
Hot water may be needed to wash away grease and grime from tools and car parts, but not all pressure washers will have a heating element to get water hot, and adding hot water to them can mean damaging the hoses and other parts. If you do want to use hot water for anything oily or especially dirty, be sure you shop for one with a heating coil for the water tank.
Getting electric when you need petrol
Petrol-powered washers are going to be stronger and also easier to move around your property, as you don't need to fuss with extension cords. They're also safer in many cases, as you might allow water to pool around the cords of your washer and this can cause a shock. For heavy-duty jobs and for when you want to work in areas without easy access to an outlet, opt for a petrol model.
Not considering accessories
The water stream from your pressure washer can accomplish a lot on its own, but you may also want a soft-bristled brush to wash your car, a brush with tougher bristles for the wood deck, a rounded scrubber for large floor surfaces, a "gutter ball" that fits in the home's gutters, and extension wands for reaching the upper stories of your home. You need to note the accessories you'll need for all the cleaning jobs around your home and then ensure you choose a pressure washer that will accommodate those pieces; otherwise you may be stuck with just a hose that won't allow for any attachments.
Not checking the maintenance it will need
As with all equipment around your home, your pressure washer will need some maintenance, including checking the hoses for damage, changing the oil in a gas-powered model, or cleaning a filter. Be sure you understand how much maintenance is needed for each type of model and choose one you can easily work on yourself, so you know it will last as long as possible.
