A Power washer is a handheld device pressuring water, sending it out of the nozzle in a powerful spray designed to clean the dirt. Pits most common use is to blast the dirt off homes, but it may also be used for cleaning driveways, porches, and occasionally vehicle, such as underside of boats, etc. However, the powerful stream of water can also inflict damage if not handled properly. By learning a few techniques and principles, you can do the job more quickly and also would not risk harming your home or family in the process.

• Before using a pressure washer, just go through the manufacturer's guidelines about the working technique. Every power washer model is different and is always beneficial to follow the directions for your mode, so that it can help you operate safely and effectively.
• Examine your project and develop a plan. Think of the flow of gravity: if you want to power wash a siding or a fence, work from top to bottom, for decks and driveways, work downhill. Look carefully for the breakable and delicate objects such as windows, vents or light fixtures that must be avoided during power washing.
• Select a nozzle or tip, for the project. Nozzles attach to the end of the wand is connected by a hose to the pressure washer pump and motor. It determines the water pressure. The smallest angle or opening, will deliver the most power. Most of the models come along with several different nozzles and the owner's manual provides information about the most appropriate use for each one. Attach any accessories, such as extension wands for reaching high places or water brooms for large flat areas, when you connect the nozzle.
• Think of the chemicals to be used. Most of the models have an injector or special nozzle that will allow you to add detergents or degreasers to the pressure spray. By adding chemicals, the cleaning becomes easy. Always consult the owner's manual for selecting the appropriate chemical solution and how to add them to your power washer.
• Wear protective eyewear and gloves before you begin. If the noise of the motor is loud, then you can also use ear plugs or protective headphones.
• Before starting, check all connections for tightness, a loose nozzle can become a projectile, hurt people and damage property when turning on the power.
• Start the pressure washer and test the spray. Firstly, spray away from the surface or object you want to clean and then slowly point the wand towards it from 3 to 4 feet away. Make a few passes and then stop for a moment to see if it is clean. If not, move closer.
• After determining the spraying distance, then go on with slow, methodical passes over the surface, till you have cleaned the surface or object to your satisfaction.
• If you have used a chemical solution, then wait for 5 to 10 minutes, so that the chemical works and then pressure wash the surface again using water to rinse it away.