If you have ever tried scrubbing mould off the driveway with just a broom and a hose, you already know it is hard yakka. A pressure washer makes the job faster and easier. It blasts away dirt, grime and all the stubborn muck that will not shift with ordinary cleaning.

The trick is choosing the right one. Go too light and you will spend all day out there. Go too heavy and you might end up with more machine than you need. Here is a simple guide to help you find the one that suits.

What is a Pressure Washer?

A pressure washer is a machine that sprays water at very high pressure to clean different surfaces. You can use it on driveways, decks, fences, cars, tools, outdoor furniture or even the work ute. Some machines are made for the backyard while others are built tough for tradies and commercial sites.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Pressure Washer:

Electric or Petrol

Electric pressure washer are light and quiet. They are handy for small jobs like rinsing off the car or cleaning outdoor furniture.

Petrol pressure washers are in another league. They are more powerful, handle tough cleaning with ease and do not need power points or extension cords. That means you can use them anywhere including farms, worksites and backyards. They also have higher water flow which means faster cleaning and less time wasted.

If you want serious cleaning power and a machine that will last, petrol is the way to go. That is why tradies, contractors and businesses rely on them every day.

Pressure or PSI

PSI is the punch behind the spray.

Light duty around 1500 to 2000 PSI is good for cars, bikes and outdoor furniture.

Medium duty from 2000 to 3000 PSI works well on decks, fences and driveways.

Heavy-duty above 3000 PSI is for tractors, construction gear and really tough cleaning.

Flow rate or litres per minute

This is the amount of water coming out. More flow means faster cleaning. Handy when you do not want to waste your whole afternoon.

Water flow trumps PSI, when looking for a pressure washer, make sure to pay attention to the flow rate; a high psi with a low water flow rate will not be as powerful as a machine with a lower PSI and a higher flow rate.

Portability and Size

If you need to move it around the job site, make sure it has wheels and a solid handle. For home use, a smaller machine is easier to handle.

Durability and Build

Plastic pumps may look cheap but they will not last. If you are using it often pick one with a strong metal pump.

Match the Pressure Washer to Your Needs

Home Use

If you want to wash the car, clean the patio or spruce up outdoor furniture, the Raptor RGPW3000 Petrol High Pressure Cleaner with 3000 PSI, 11.3LPM and a 6.5HP engine is a great pick. It has plenty of power for backyard jobs without going overboard.

Tradies and Contractors

For site work you need power, reliability and toughness. The Raptor Honda GP200 Petrol Pressure Cleaner with 2800PSI, 11.3LPM and 7HP Honda engine is built to handle demanding conditions. The Honda motor makes it a favourite choice for tradies who want a machine they can count on day after day.

Commercial and Business Use

If you run a farm, cleaning service or need serious grunt every day, go for the Raptor RGPW3600 Petrol Commercial Cleaner. It offers 3600PSI, a massive 17LPM and 13HP. Built to handle heavy-duty cleaning without breaking a sweat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Do not buy only on price. Cheaper units are usually less durable.
• Do not buy more machine than you need. You do not need a heavy commercial cleaner just to wash the Corolla.
• Check your water and power. Petrol machines need fuel while electric units need an outlet nearby.
  

Quick Maintenance and Safety Tips

• Flush the system after each use
• Change the oil in petrol engines just like you do with your mower
• Store it in a dry place
• Wear eye protection because the spray is strong enough to hurt and debris can flick straight into your eyes

Pressure Washer Buying Checklist

• Is it for DIY or professional use?
• Is it easy to move around?
• What PSI and flow rate do you need?
• Is it built to last?

The right pressure washer saves you time and makes cleaning easier. Whether you are tidying up the yard, keeping tools clean on site or running a business, there is a machine that fits the job.

Check out our range of Raptor pressure washers and pick the one that suits you best. If you need a hand choosing our team is always ready to help.