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Yes, you can use a mixture of 1 tablespoon of bleach and a gallon of warm water to clean stubborn stains from brick. Do not use bleach without diluting it in water. Undiluted bleach may cause discoloration. You can use either Oxygen bleach such as OxiClean or chlorine bleach. Always wear protective gloves and eye protection when handling bleach.

It is generally not recommended to use dish soap in a pressure washer. Dishwashing liquid is formulated for cooler water, and the warmer water used in a pressure washer can create excessive suds, potentially damaging the machine's tubing and other components. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for recommended detergents. If you find yourself in a pinch, you can try a highly diluted solution, such as one tablespoon of dish soap per 1.5 quarts of water, to avoid clogging the machine.

One of the most important factors to consider when buying a pressure washer is not just psi but also the machine’s overall cleaning power. This is based on both the psi and the GPM. Look for a cleaning rating, or effective cleaning unit (ECU), of up to 8,000 for most residential cleaning projects that require a pressure washer.

The ideal PSI (pounds per square inch) for a pressure washer depends on the surface you are cleaning. For general home use, a pressure washer with a range of 2,000 to 3,000 PSI is recommended and powerful enough for most residential projects.

The specific PSI you should use varies by task:

• High-Pressure Tasks (2,500-3,000 PSI): Tough materials like concrete, stone, masonry, and brick can handle higher pressures. This is suitable for removing stubborn stains from driveways or cleaning graffiti.

• Low-Pressure Tasks (around 600-1,300 PSI): Softer surfaces require a gentler touch to avoid damage. Use a low PSI setting for cleaning wood decks (especially softwoods like pine and cedar), vinyl siding, outdoor furniture, and stucco.

For best results, choose the right nozzle for your surface, such as a 15-degree nozzle for siding or a surface cleaner attachment for driveways. Using an extendable wand can also make the work easier and more ergonomic.