Don't be pressured into buying a washer before you are ready

With fall just around the corner, most of us are getting our homes ready for the long winter months. One of the things my company does is clean. We use a variety of tools and equipment to do that. One of the items I really like to use is the pressure washer.

The pressure washer is about 50 times more powerful than the standard garden hose. It gives the cleaning power to remove moss, dirt, algae, mold and other heavy dirt deposits.

Pressure washers are great for cleaning garden furniture, patios, cars, wooden decks, brickwork, fences and walls. Pressure washers use the power of water to clean surfaces without use of harsh chemicals or detergents.

When choosing a pressure washer, there are a few important facts to consider such as what has to be cleaned, can the item withstand the water pressure being applied, and how frequently must the item be cleaned.

Pressure washers come in various sizes. Actually, they are rated by the bar pressure; the higher the figure, the more pressure a machine can deliver.

Some machines also have variable pressure ratings giving high pressure for tough cleaning brick and concrete and lower pressure for cleaning patio furniture.

There are several types of pressure washers. They include: Universal, which has a standard motor and usually will last for three to five years of use; induction is found on expensive machines, has a longer life and generally runs quieter; and petrol, which is ideal to use when electricity is not available.

Note: Before you buy a pressure washer, consider maneuverability. If you can easily move the machine, the less hose you will need. In my view, it's best to get one that has wheels with on board storage for different fittings (brushes, tip fittings and chemicals).

When cleaning with any cleaning product, always wear eye protection and rubber gloves to protect your hands. If you would like to share a cleaning idea or concept with the reading audience, call myself at 255-2266, e-mail them to madan@surf1.ws or send them to the Daily Bee, 310 Church St., or clobsinger@cdapress.com, attn. What Would Ed Do? Information: nwees.com

Ed Madan is a certified forensic, fire, flood, mold inspection and remediation contractor. He is CEO of Northwest Executive & Environmental Services, LLC.