Mi-T-M Pressure Washer FAQs

    What is pressure washing?
  • Pressure washing is the application of high pressure water spray. Produced by specially designed pumps, this spray is a hundred times more powerful than the typical garden hose. On concrete it is used to remove unsightly mold, bubble gum, and other dirt stains. Wooden decks are returned to the look of new wood, void of graying and fatigued finishes. And on houses, the appearance of aluminum and vinyl siding is greatly improved by removing pollution, grime and mildew.
    • How do I know which nozzle to use?
  • Your pressure washer is equipped with 3 nozzles and each has a different application:
    15° yellow nozzle: Uses a small angle of spray for focused cleaning. Good for somewhat difficult to remove dirt and is typically used as for surface preparation, such as removing dirt, mildew or paint, and can be used on most surfaces.
    25° green nozzle: Uses a medium angle of spray for washing sensitive and soft surfaces such as decks wooded fences, aluminum, etc. This nozzle is also used to sweep away debris and mud.
    Black detergent nozzle: This is the only nozzle that can be used to apply cleaning solutions with a pressure washer's detergent injector.
    • What chemicals can be used?
  • Use only cleaning solutions that are pressure washer approved. Home Depot® carries a variety of cleaning solutions designed specifically for use with pressure washers, plus they are biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
    • Why can't chemical injection be used under high pressure?
  • Applying chemicals in low pressure has two advantages. First, if the chemicals were applied in high pressure, they will splash off, resulting in wasted solution. Secondly, because chemical injection only works in low pressure, you can change from low pressure to high pressure at the wand, instead of going back to the unit to engage chemical injection.
    • Can I use bleach in my pressure washer?
  • You must NOT use any household bleach with your machine. By using them you will damage the seals and O-rings in the gun, wand, hoses and pumps. Bleach can also harm any vegetation in the immediate cleaning area.
    • Can I use hot water with my pressure washer?
  • You CAN NOT use hot water in a cold water pressure washer as it can cause damage to the O-rings and internal workings of the pump.
    • Should I use an electric or gas pressure washer?
  • Electric pressure washers are popular for most household applications and for indoor use. They are easy to operate, lightweight and usually quieter than a gas unit.
    Gas driven pressure washers produce more pressure and have added mobility, as they are not restricted to an electric power supply.
    • How do I prepare my deck for pressure washing?
    1. The best nozzle for pressure washing your deck is the 25° green nozzle as it creates a wider spray to protect the wood from damage.
    2. Remove any lose articles that may become projectiles when pushed by the pressure washer jet. Practice making a pendulum motion with the spray up, down, and up again away from the surface. With this motion you will avoid leaving marks on the deck were the cleaning stroke starts.
    3. Test the pressure washer on some old boards or a hidden side of the deck to make sure that the pressure is adjusted correctly and the spray will not cause any damage to wood. Wear protective eyewear and shoes.
    • How do I prepare my house for pressure washing?
    1. Locate your exterior power outlet if you are using an electric pressure washer, and your outside water faucet.
    2. Close all windows and seal any small holes in the windowsills.
    3. Make a note of the location of outdoor lighting fixtures and mailboxes, as you may not want to pressure wash those.
    4. Wear protective eyewear and shoes. You may want to wear wet weather outerwear as you can bet on getting wet!