INSERT individual nozzle tips into the spray wand by retracting the quick-coupling collar, pushing the tip in as far as it will go and releasing the collar. Pull on the tip to confirm that it’s firmly locked in position. Point the spray wand away from people and property when starting the pressure washer.
Pressure washers that deliver less than 2,400 psi generally come with a single adjustable spray nozzle that delivers zero to 60-degree fan patterns. Some brands offer accessory “rotating” or “turbo” nozzles that clean more effectively than standard adjustable nozzles because they spin the water stream.
Heavier-duty units generally come with four or five color-coded, individual nozzle tips (three are shown here). They create specific fan patterns: wider (for using detergents), medium (for general cleaning) and narrower (for blasting deep stains).
Most pressure washers that you’ll find for rent or sale are gas-powered. This type can deliver higher water pressure than the electric kind, some more than 3,000 psi. But gas-powered washers also require more water: 2 to 3 gpm. These washers are the best choice for bigger jobs like preparing siding for painting (Photo 2), removing “aging” stains from wood decks (Photo 5) and deep-cleaning concrete. You can rent one for about $60 a day, plus the cost of accessories like chemical injectors (Photo 1) or longer spray wands for reaching high places. Gas-powered washers (non-commercial units) cost $300 to $800 depending on the pressure they deliver, their features and the engine and pump quality.
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