If you’re like most homeowners, you spend enough time cleaning the interior of your home, and you wouldn’t mind some shortcuts for refreshing the exterior. Before you go with a professional cleaning service, consider investing in a pressure washer, which can make decking, siding and other features sparkle. Learn more about pressure washers and their accessories, all of which you can find at Tractor Supply.
What Are Pressure Washers?
Pressure washers utilize high-pressure water to help clean off your exterior surfaces. This water is forced by the machine through a hose, which features a spray nozzle at the end. The nozzle allows users to aim this pressurized water to help eliminate grease, grime, dirt, dust and other debris. Certain models are designed for different uses, including:
- Light-duty pressure washers: These provide a pressure of up to 1,899 pounds per square inch (PSI) and a water volume of 1/2 to 2 gallons per minute (GPM), making them great for small jobs around the house.
- Medium-duty pressure washers: These offer a PSI between 1,900 and 2,788 and a 1 - 3 GPM, so they’re ideal for use at home and lighter jobs.
- Heavy-duty pressure washers: These deliver a 2,800 PSI at 2 GPM or more and are well-suited for intense applications.
- Commercial pressure washers: These provide a pressure output of at least 3,100 PSI and a water volume of at least 4 GPM, making them suitable for commercial work.
Regardless of the style you choose, pressure washers are incredibly versatile pieces of equipment. They can help clean exterior siding, driveways, sidewalks and other walkways, as well as decks, patios, fences, gutters and garage doors. They can even be used to deep clean outdoor furniture and remove mold and mildew, helping it look like new again.
Electric vs. Gas: Which Is Ideal for You?
Aside from the different cleaning power levels offered, you should consider the power type you think will work best for your needs. The two main power types are electric and gas:
Electric Pressure Washers
If you want an affordable option that can still get the job done, turn to an electric pressure washer. Electric pressure washers use your outdoor outlets to supply reliable power. This means that they are up and running with the push of a button and don’t require you to keep any fuel on hand. These models are also typically lightweight and run smoothly and quietly, allowing you to work efficiently.
You can even find battery-powered options that offer extra convenience. These models are best used for light cleaning duties, but their portability makes them especially intriguing for those will a lot of areas to cover.
Gas Pressure Washers
Gas-powered pressure washers bring the power needed for deep cleaning. They are helpful for those who have big jobs to complete and need a reliable tool by their side. Because they are powered by gas, you’ll need to make sure you have enough fuel on hand before starting, but their cordless design makes them ideal for fences, long driveways and any other area that isn’t near an outlet. While these models can be more expensive than electric ones, they make up for that with their strength.
Attachments and Accessories to Have on Hand
While pressure washers themselves can tackle various jobs around your home or commercial site, they can also be used with attachments and accessories, which help them handle a multitude of tasks. These include:
Pressure Washer Wands and Guns
You can attach pressure washer wands and guns to help your work go quicker. Extendable wands make it easier to reach into cracks and crevices and up to the second story of your property, reaching and removing grime and dirt. Meanwhile, specialty pressure washer guns allow use with hot water, while others are suited for cold and hot water. Be sure to check the compatibility of any wands or guns to make sure they will work with your model.
Pressure Washer Hoses
Pressure washers come with hoses, but depending on your needs, you may require something different. Look to pressure washer hoses that offer extended lengths to reach all areas of your property. For a durable hose that you can use over time, opt for a rubber or polyurethane construction. Take into account the pressure output of your unit, as replacement hoses will have specific pressure limits.
Pressure Washer Cleaning Solutions
For these machines to be as effective as possible, you’ll need to fill them up with a pressure washer cleaning solution. There are plenty of solution choices, including formulas for use on asphalt, brick, concrete and even vehicles. Others provide all-purpose use on multiple surfaces. There are specific solutions that are geared toward heavy-duty tasks, so if you’re looking to take on a particularly grimy surface, don’t overlook these options. You can even find solutions that leave behind a refreshing scent, which helps add a pleasant aroma to outdoor furniture.
Replacement Parts for Work-Ready Equipment
Pressure washers are not complicated pieces of equipment, but you do need to keep up with regular maintenance to help them work their best and last for years. When it’s time to replace pressure washer parts, common parts to swap out include:
- Belts: Some pressure washers use belts to help connect the engine and the pump, which helps the engine stay cool during use.
- Engine kits: These kits are designed to help keep your engine running smoothly.
- O-rings: O-rings help create tight seals, preventing air, fuel and other liquids from escaping.
You can also replace the nozzle on your pressure washer based on your current cleaning project. Most models come with several nozzles that deliver different spray patterns, enabling you to concentrate the stream of water as needed. Zero-degree patterns are the most powerful, providing a strong jet, while 65-degree patterns provide low pressure and cover a wider area. Higher-pressure nozzles are best used for areas that have caked-on grease, grime or dirt. Conversely, lower-pressure nozzles help you clean more delicate items.
Make Us Your Home for Pressure Washers and Their Accessories
We know that taking care of your property and vehicle can be hard work, and Life Out Here requires the right products and parts. That’s why our inventory includes an impressive selection of pressure washers and other outdoor power equipment, so you’re ready to tackle any projects that come your way. If you are interested in seeing what we have to offer, shop online or visit your local Tractor Supply store today.