Very popular over the last few years.
Can be a very good tool for cleaning, but there are some things to watch out for.
Don't use a "wash and wax" with them!The wax will block up the nozzel, which makes your motor/pump work harder (Risking burn out) and also lowers the water pressure.
Detergent:Despite what the manufacturer advises, you do not have to use the manufacturer's own detergent.
As long as it doesn't contain any wax, then it will be fine.
If unsure about wax content, ask a sales representative. Explain clearly that you will be using it in a pressure washer, get them to clarify clearly that it is safe. (This way, you have some redress if it damages your machine!)
Halford's do there own car wash, which is excellent for pressure washers. It has an "Ionic" formula.
This means that when washing glass, it doesn't leave a build up on the surface, like a wax would. It also leaves a finish on the surface. I have used it in pressure washing for years and I'm yet to have a problem with it. As usual though, if unsure, CHECK FIRST!
Pressure washer uses:Remember, your pressure washer emits water at high pressure, as well as being great for cleaning flags, etc, be careful, it can also cause damage. Some warnings for you:
It is not recommended to wash a bicycle with a pressure washer.
Most of the bicycle is fine, but avoid cogs, cranks (where the pedals are) and gear parts.
This is because these parts contain ball bearings, these need grease to work! The pressure washer blasts the grease out rendering the bearings useless. (You'd be amazed at the amount of people that brought their bicycle back to Halfords with problems due to this!)
When washing a caravan, be careful!
Do not use the pressure washer around windows and doors, where there are edge seals to stop the elements.
I've seen whole caravan windows get pushed through from the force of small pressure washers!
If in doubt, take a few steps back when using one, or wash from an angle that allows the water to "skid off"
Of course, don't be tempted (as a mate of mine did) to launch a surprise attack on someone using a pressure washer. Riding past on a bike when attacked with a pressure washer from the side can cause serious injury, no matter how funny the look on the victim's face may be when it happens!
