We all know that keeping our tools, homes, and vehicles clean not only beautifies them, improving their appearance, but also helps to keep them working properly as well. But what do you do when they get REALLY dirty - perhaps with months - or even years - of dirty, grimy build-up? In these situations, traditional cleaning methods just won't cut it! That's where pressure washers come in.

Pressure washers make use of water, and pump it at a very high level of pressure, which is sprayed on the surface that is dirty. The water literally 'blasts' the surface clean.

A typical pressure washer will come equipped with a water pump, a hose and a trigger gun with nozzle. Many of the most popular models are very easy to transport - making them ideal for use around the shop and around the home. Pressure washers developed for most non-professionals (people like you and me) pump water at normal temperatures and can be plugged into any electrical outlet. Professional models are also available that heat the water to a high temperature to allow for the easy cleaning of surfaces with a heavy build-up of grease, oil and road grime.

Safety Issues With Pressure Washers

Because they force the water out of the nozzle of the trigger gun at such a high pressure, you must never treat pressure washers as a 'toy' or 'squirt gun.' It is possible that you could injure yourself if you do not operate a pressure washer according to the manufacturer's safety guidelines. If the water stream hits the skin, it can cause bruising and can even strip the skin from the bone! If the water hits the eyeballs, it could cause serious injury or even blindness. Objects on the surfaces being cleaned by a pressure washer can be knocked loose and come flying off at great speed, with possible injuries resulting. In addition, you can burn yourself if you are improperly using a professional model that heats the water.

Where and How to Use Pressure Washers

Around the home and shop: driveway cleanup, decks, roofing, undercarriage of automobiles and other vehicles, cleaning car engines, walkways, pools, concrete basement floors.

Industrial and commercial uses: concrete road surfaces, dirt and soot removal from old buildings, bus stops, train stations, shelters and other public places, removal of graffiti, cutting and etching of metals.

Types and Manufacturers of Pressure Washers

Most pressure washers are either of the electric or steam type. The electric pressure washer uses an electric pump to force the water out at high pressure. The steam type uses the power of steam sprayed out at high pressure to clean the dirty surface. It is also possible to purchase a refurbished pressure washer - these can save you lots of money, particularly for the industrial models.

Some of the most popular manufacturers of pressure washers are Karcher, Husky, Campbell Hausfeld, Craftsmen, Durabuilt and DeWalt.