Parts

• A power washer has an engine that requires oil and unleaded gasoline. A garden hose is attached to the power washer's pump. A high-pressure hose connects from the pump to the spray gun or wand. There may also be a detergent injection system that uses a biodegradable cleaner. The detergent is either stored in a reservoir on the machine, or an injection tube is dropped into the cleaning solution bottle.
  
  

Pressure

• A power washer uses pressure to aid in the cleaning process. You can change the pressure from low to high, usually by adjusting the setting found on the wand or engine of the power washer. Different wand tips also may be used to adjust pressure. The wider the tip, the lower the pressure.
  
  

Cleaning

• Most power washers use heat and/or a cleaning solution, both of which help loosen the substance you are trying to remove. After applying the cleaning solution let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse the surface with just the hose attachment.
  
  

Technique

• To set up a power washer properly, follow the manufacturer's directions. Always start with the lowest and widest pressure setting and stand back--using too much pressure can damage wood and siding. Getting the right spray pattern takes practice. Start at the top of the surface, keep the wand steady and apply the water evenly so that a pattern does not appear on the surface you are trying to clean.
  
  

Safety

• Wear eye protection and keep your feet (no open-toe shoes) firmly on the ground so the pressure does not knock you off balance. Be sure the safety latch is locked and your hand is away from the nozzle before squeezing the trigger on the wand. Never spray toward other people or animals. When you're finished using the power washer, squeeze the trigger on the wand to relieve the air pressure built up inside the machine.