How to Power Wash a Deck

Steps

1. Ensure that all materials are present, and that the engine has sufficient gasoline and motor oil.
2. Attach water source to washer.
3. Turn faucet on at full blast.
4. Pull the choke a few clicks in the opposite direction of the arrow (check with your model).
5. Gently pull the red handle from stop to the turtle or rabbit.
6. Standing behind the washer, firmly grasp the manual pull crank and quickly pull the rope towards your hip. The engine should start with one to two motions. If the engine is not starting easily, adjust the choke and/or red handle as needed.
7. Once the engine begins to roar, pull the red handle all the way to the rabbit and pull the choke as far as it will go.
8. Clean vertical railings with a smooth up-down-down-up motion.

Tips

• Nozzles usually have a rotating end that will adjust the shape of the water exiting the handle from "stream" to "fan." The "stream" concentrates the pressure of the water into a jet and is ideal for cleaning out spaces in between boards and crevices. The "fan" setting is a much wider triangular plane and has a slightly lower working pressure exiting the nozzle. This can be used over a larger work area or an area that cannot withstand very concentrated pressure. A setting of 90% "fan" and 10% "stream" provides enough bite to be able to readily clean floorboards quickly while covering a lot of ground with each movement of the handle.
• Work the boards lengthwise whilst keeping the spray perpendicular to the wood.
• Divide the project into sections. Work on one section, take a break or do another activity, and return to complete another section.
• When filling up the engine, gently tap the machine to dislodge bubbles that may be trapped in the tank. A fuller engine means more performance time.
• If this is your first time pressure washing, or you just haven't done it in a long time, practice first in an inconspicuous area.

Warnings

• Water exiting the nozzle comes out at very high speed and pressure. DO NOT point the end of the nozzle at any person or pet, even as a joke.
• The high pressure of the water can easily cause serious harm to fingers and hands if they are directly in front of the stream.
• Do not hold the nozzle at one area for more than a few seconds, especially when water is coming out as a tight stream. The wood fibres will be splintered as well as leaving a tell-tale mark.
• Do not let the engine idle for too long.
• Keep gasoline and other flammables away from the heat of the engine.
• Pour the gasoline slowly. If any spills occur, wait for the gasoline to evaporate before starting the engine.
• If you are using synthetic motor oils, the oil will need to be checked more often.
• Do not duct tape the trigger handle because you don't want to keep holding it down for the duration of the project. The trigger works like a dead man's switch- when your hand comes off, the water stops flowing.
• If the water pressure has been building up during idle, the handle may kick back when the trigger is depressed. Brace yourself, pull the trigger, and give the washer a moment to restore normal pressure, then continue working.
• Use ear protection as the noise from the engine is quite loud and the water hitting the wood will make a high-pitched screetching sound.
• On the same token, do not intentionally startle a person working. He/she may spray you or swing the handle in self-defense. Walk within eyesight of the person (not too close) and wave an arm to get his/her attention.
• Ensure that no one is standing behind you while you pull the manual crank. An elbow or clenched fist ramming into someone's groin or face will ruin anybody's day.

Things You'll Need

• Deck
• Pressure washer
• Hose attached to water supply with adequate pressure
• Regular unleaded gasoline
• Motor oil
• Ear protection
• Wellington boots (optional)

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