How To: Learn the basics of a pressure washer

Pressure washers are a great way to clean a brick patio - if you do it right! The pressure washer can harm the surface you are cleaning or even yourself. The basic operation of the pressure washer is to take the low pressure from you garden hose and increase the pressure with a special pump. The pump uses either a gas powered engine or an electric motor to boost the pressure.

The business end of the pressure washer is the spray wand. Special tips are attached to the wand to create different spray patterns. Before turning on the pressure washer, be sure to read the entire owner's manual. Following the directions will prevent damage to the spray washer, the surface being cleaned and even yourself or others.

This particular pressure spray washer has five different colored spray nozzles. The red one has a zero degree spray angle and has the most concentrated spray stream. Be careful when using this nozzle.

The yellow tip produces a 15 degree spray angle. This is ideal for heavy duty cleaning. The green tip is a 25 degree tip. It is best for general cleaning. The white tip produces an even wider spray pattern, about 40 degrees. Use it for light duty cleaning.

The black tip is the safest to use. With a 65 degree spray pattern, it is ideal for applying cleaning solutions before doing the pressure cleaning.

When using a pressure washer, be sure to wear protective clothing. Safety goggles, ear muffs and gloves are a must of protect your eyes, ears and hands. Be careful and follow the instructions.