I wasn’t sure what message board to go to with this one, but it involves a power tool, so here I am. Husband and I tried out the new power washer on our cement patio. Very disappointed. Only the narrowest nozzle setting cleaned the dirt, and then in laser-thin lines, so by the time we were through it looked like someone scribbled on the concrete with a pencil eraser. We added detergent, without much success. I once had the patio professionally power washed and it came out white and beautiful. Are the professional models more powerful? Should we use bleach? Should we return this contraption?
Replies
Brand? Model#? Specs? Price?
If it were mine I would return the item as unsatisfactory, take my cash and rent the heaviest professional model I could find...............
Iron Helix
I agree. I get so aggravated with these manufacturers hell-bent on passing off junk to homeowners!
If you want to purchase one that will do most things around home (clean decks, birdcages, stripping loose paint, etc.) a 2000 to 2500 psi model is plenty good.
If you want one that will last, insist on a "Cat" brand pump and preferably a Honda engine. Expect to pay in the neighborhood of $700.
You might also check the paint stores or rental yards for a used one. They often track the hours of use on theirs and when they reach a certain point, they sell them at a pretty good discount.
As a contractor, I have a pretty good stable of tools, but never had a pressure washer until last year. Now, it's one of the most useful things I have!Measure it with a micrometer, mark it with a piece of chalk and cut it with an axe.