10 Unexpected Uses for Pressure Washers

Pressure washers are often thought of as simple tools for cleaning driveways, cars, or siding.

However, these versatile machines can do so much more than just remove dirt and grime. Their powerful water streams can tackle a wide range of tasks that might surprise you. From maintaining garden tools to cleaning outdoor furniture, pressure washers offer unique solutions for unexpected problems. In this article, we explore 10 unexpected uses for pressure washers that will make you rethink how you use this cleaning powerhouse.

1. Clean and Maintain Lawn Equipment

Your lawn mower, trimmer, and other garden tools accumulate dirt, grass, and debris over time, affecting their performance and longevity. A pressure washer is an ideal solution for cleaning these tools, as it can remove built-up grass, soil, and oil quickly and effectively.

How to Use:

• Set the pressure to low to avoid damaging delicate components.

• Use a wide-angle nozzle to ensure an even spray and avoid direct pressure on sensitive parts like electrical connections.

• Allow the tools to dry completely before using them again.

Key Benefits:

• Improves performance: Clean equipment runs more smoothly.

• Prevents rust: Removes moisture and prevents buildup.

• Saves time: Quickly cleans tough-to-reach areas of your tools.

2. Clean Your Grill

Grills can accumulate grease, burnt food, and residue after regular use, making them harder to clean. A pressure washer can help restore your grill to its original state by effectively cleaning the grates and exterior.

How to Use:

• Detach the gas tank or any electrical connections if applicable.

• Use a low-pressure setting and a wide nozzle to avoid damaging the grill’s surface.

• Scrape off any excess grease before washing, especially around the burners.

Key Benefits:

• Restores cleanliness: Easily removes grease and burnt residues.

• Saves effort: Cleans faster than scrubbing manually.

• Extends grill life: Prevents buildup that could lead to rust or poor performance.

3. Clean Patio Furniture

Over time, outdoor furniture gets covered in dirt, bird droppings, and grime from the elements. Pressure washing can help you easily clean your outdoor furniture, including plastic, wood, and metal frames, to restore their fresh look.

How to Use:

• Set the pressure to medium and use a fan nozzle for an even spray.

• For wooden furniture, keep the nozzle at least 12 inches away to avoid damaging the finish.

• For plastic and metal, use higher pressure settings to remove deep stains.

Key Benefits:

• Quick cleaning: Removes dirt and stains with minimal effort.

• Prevents wear: Regular cleaning prevents decay and rust.

• Restores aesthetic appeal: Gives your furniture a fresh look for a fraction of the cost.

4. Clean Window Screens

Cleaning window screens can be a tedious task, but using a pressure washer can make it significantly easier. Over time, dirt, dust, and cobwebs accumulate on window screens, obstructing airflow and affecting visibility.

How to Use:

• Detach the screens from the window frame.

• Use a low-pressure setting with a wide spray to rinse off dirt and debris.

• Hold the nozzle at a safe distance to avoid damaging the mesh.

Key Benefits:

• Effortless cleaning: Easily removes accumulated dirt without scrubbing.

• Restores airflow: Improves ventilation by removing obstructions.

• Prevents damage: Cleans without stretching or tearing the screen.

5. Refresh Outdoor Carpets and Rugs

Outdoor rugs, whether on a patio, deck, or porch, often gather dust, dirt, and stains from foot traffic. A pressure washer can revive these rugs, restoring their color and cleanliness.

How to Use:

• Lay the rug flat on a surface that can withstand water.

• Set the pressure to medium and use a fan nozzle to spray from a distance.

• Rinse thoroughly to remove detergent residue and allow the rug to dry completely.

Key Benefits:

• Revives appearance: Restores the vibrant color and texture of outdoor rugs.

• Saves money: Instead of replacing a worn rug, pressure wash it to extend its life.

• Removes stains: Effectively cleans tough stains from outdoor rugs.

6. Clean Boat Hulls

Boats are exposed to the harsh outdoor elements, and the hulls often accumulate algae, salt, and other debris. Pressure washers are perfect for cleaning boat hulls, ensuring they stay in top condition.

How to Use:

• Set the pressure to medium and use a wide-angle nozzle.

• Focus on cleaning the hull first, then rinse off any remaining debris.

• Make sure to clean from the top down to avoid pushing dirt further into the surface.

Key Benefits:

• Prevents damage: Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of salt and algae that can deteriorate the boat’s hull.

• Improves speed and performance: A clean hull ensures better fuel efficiency and faster speeds.

• Saves time: Pressure washing is much faster than scrubbing the hull by hand.

7. Clean Fences and Gates

Over time, outdoor fences and gates become covered in grime, moss, and mildew, especially in damp environments. A pressure washer can quickly clean these surfaces, restoring their original appearance.

How to Use:

• Set the pressure to medium to avoid damaging the wood or paint.

• Use a fan nozzle to cover a larger area and evenly distribute the water.

• For stubborn stains, consider using a detergent formulated for outdoor use.

Key Benefits:

• Restores appearance: Removes years of dirt, mold, and mildew buildup.

• Improves lifespan: Regular cleaning helps prevent rot and rust, extending the life of your fence.

• Easy to use: Takes less time than hand scrubbing or sanding.

8. Clean Your Driveway or Garage Floor

Driveways and garage floors accumulate oil stains, tire marks, and dirt over time. A pressure washer is perfect for breaking down tough grime and restoring the concrete or asphalt to its original condition.

How to Use:

• Use a high-pressure setting with a rotating nozzle for tough stains.

• Pre-treat oil stains with a degreaser and let it sit for a few minutes before pressure washing.

• Start at the farthest point and work your way toward the exit to avoid walking over the clean surface.

Key Benefits:

• Effective stain removal: Breaks down tough grease and grime.

• Restores appearance: Keeps your driveway or garage looking fresh and well-maintained.

• Prevents deterioration: Regular cleaning helps maintain the integrity of the concrete or asphalt.

9. Clean Stubborn Mold and Mildew from Decks

Decks exposed to the elements often accumulate mold and mildew, especially in shaded or damp areas. Using a pressure washer to clean the deck can prevent further damage and restore its appearance.

How to Use:

• Use a low to medium pressure setting to avoid damaging the wood.

• Apply a cleaning solution designed to eliminate mold and mildew before pressure washing.

• Work in sections to ensure a uniform clean and avoid streaking.

Key Benefits:

• Prevents decay: Regular cleaning prevents long-term damage from mold or mildew growth.

• Restores wood color: Removes discoloration caused by mold.

• Saves effort: Less labor-intensive than scrubbing by hand.

10. Clean Your Car’s Undercarriage

Cleaning the undercarriage of your car is crucial for preventing rust and corrosion caused by dirt, salt, and moisture. A pressure washer can effectively clean hard-to-reach areas, including the wheels, wheel wells, and underneath the chassis.

How to Use:

• Set the pressure to medium and use a fan nozzle.

• Hold the nozzle at an angle to effectively remove dirt and debris.

• Avoid spraying directly at sensitive components such as brake lines and exhaust pipes.

Key Benefits:

• Prevents rust: Removes dirt and salt that can cause long-term corrosion.

• Enhances car maintenance: Keeps your vehicle running smoothly by cleaning areas prone to buildup.

• Saves time: Cleans the undercarriage more thoroughly than manual methods.

Conclusion

While pressure washers are commonly used for cleaning outdoor surfaces, their versatility extends far beyond typical applications. From maintaining garden tools to revitalizing outdoor furniture, pressure washers offer unexpected solutions to a variety of cleaning challenges. The next time you face a tough cleaning job, consider using your pressure washer—it may just be the perfect tool for the task.

Find your own pressure washer on www.gatlingtech.com.