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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.

Jet washers can last for up to 10 years, but a more exact timeline for your jet washer depends on the frequency of use and maintenance. Some machines are given a rating of their approximate total hours of usage, which can help determine how long yours will stick around based on how many hours you use it each year. Aside from learning how to properly use the jet washer, you’ll want to keep it stored safely and securely so that it won’t rust or get damaged between uses.

You can whiten concrete for unsealed and unfinished concrete with a solution or either muriatic acid or bleach and water—but never both. However, if your concrete does have a stain, finish, or polish, keep in mind that these hard chemicals could damage the topcoat. Your best bet otherwise is to power wash outdoor concrete slabs or clean indoor ones with a gentle cleaner such as laundry or dish detergent.

Yes, you can pressure wash epoxy floors, but you must take precautions to avoid damaging the surface. While most epoxy floors can be cleaned with a mop, you might choose to pressure wash if the floor is stained, has ground-in dirt, or is covered with mold or mildew. To do so safely, first soak any stains or dirty areas with a gentle cleanser. Use a lower pressure setting with a gentle nozzle, such as a green, white, or black tip, or a 45-degree angled tip. Keep the spray nozzle at least 18 inches away from the floor to protect the surface. Using a surface cleaner attachment or a rotary scrubber can also help prevent overspray. Be cautious if using a power washer that heats the water, as the combination of heat and pressure may be too powerful and could damage the epoxy coating.