What Can You Use A Pressure Washer For?
A good pressure washer covers more jobs than most people expect. Once you have one, it tends to get used regularly.
Common uses include:
- Patio cleaning - Remove built-up dirt, algae and moss to bring slabs back to life
- Driveways - Clear oil stains, mud and general grime from concrete or block paving
- Vehicles - Wash cars, vans and equipment quickly with consistent results
- Garden furniture - Clean down tables, chairs and decking without harsh chemicals
For tougher surfaces or larger areas, pairing your washer with a surface cleaner can speed things up and improve the finish.
Choosing The Right Pressure Washer
Most people don’t need the most powerful machine available. The key is matching the washer to the type of jobs you’ll actually be doing.
Corded Vs Cordless Pressure Washers
Corded pressure washers are still the most common choice. They offer consistent power and are well suited to patios, driveways and regular cleaning jobs where you have access to mains electricity.
Cordless pressure washers are more flexible. Models like the Makita and DeWalt battery-powered options are useful where access to power is limited, or for lighter cleaning tasks. They are easy to move around and quick to set up, but generally better suited to smaller jobs rather than heavy-duty cleaning.
Understanding Pressure (Bar & PSI)
Pressure is usually measured in bar or PSI. This gives you an idea of how powerful the water jet is.
- Lower pressure suits lighter tasks like vehicles and furniture
- Higher pressure is better for patios, driveways and stubborn dirt
You don’t always need the highest number. For most home use, a mid-range machine is more than enough. Higher pressure becomes more important for trade or industrial work.
Water Supply & Flow Rate
Every pressure washer needs a steady water supply. The flow rate, usually measured in litres per hour, affects how quickly you can clean an area.
A higher flow rate means:
- Faster cleaning
- Better rinsing
- More efficient results on larger surfaces
For smaller jobs, this is less noticeable. For bigger areas like driveways, it can make a big difference.
Types of Pressure Washers Available
There’s a wide range of pressure washers available, and each type suits a slightly different job.
Electric Pressure Washers
Electric models are the go-to choice for most users. They are easy to use, relatively lightweight and ideal for everyday cleaning around the home or workshop.
Cordless Pressure Washers
Cordless pressure washers offer flexibility where power access is limited. They are useful for quick jobs, mobile cleaning or working away from a fixed water and power setup.
You can explore more options within outdoor power tools if you are building out your kit.
High-Pressure & Industrial Models
For heavier use, higher output machines are available. These are suited to trade work, larger properties or repeated cleaning jobs. Models from brands like Karcher, Makita and DeWalt are built to handle more demanding conditions.
Petrol and hot water pressure washers are also available for specialist use, particularly where maximum cleaning power is required.
Pressure Washer Accessories
The right garden accessories can make a noticeable difference to how effective your pressure washer is.
Popular options include:
- Hose pipes and water hoses – Ensure a steady supply and better reach
- Patio cleaners – Ideal for larger flat surfaces, helping you clean evenly
- Foam lances – Useful for vehicle cleaning and applying detergents
- Nozzles and attachments – Adjust the spray pattern depending on the job
For tougher cleaning, surface cleaners like the V-TUF models in this range can help cover more ground in less time.
You may also want to look at wet and dry vacuums for clearing up after cleaning jobs, especially on site.
Why Choose ToolStore UK
At ToolStore UK, we stock a wide range of pressure washers from trusted brands, covering everything from compact DIY units to heavy-duty industrial machines.
You’ll find:
- A mix of electric, cordless and high-output pressure washers
- Reliable brands known for performance and durability
- Competitive pricing across the range
- A selection of accessories to match your setup
If you are unsure which pressure washer is right for your job, our team can help point you in the right direction. You can call us on 03330 043777 or fill in our online contact form.
Pressure Washers FAQs
What pressure washer do I need for a patio?
For most patios, a mid to high pressure washer will do the job. Look for a model with enough power to remove dirt and algae without needing multiple passes.
Are cordless pressure washers powerful enough?
Cordless models are useful for lighter cleaning and quick jobs. For larger areas or tougher dirt, a corded or higher-powered machine is usually more effective.
What does bar pressure mean?
Bar pressure measures how strong the water jet is. Higher bar means more cleaning power, but it should be matched to the job rather than choosing the highest number.
Do I need a water supply for a pressure washer?
Yes. Most pressure washers connect to a standard water supply. Some models can draw water from a tank or container, but a consistent supply will give the best results.
