Outdoor Cleaning Can Be A Blast Fe ih +* (NAPSA)—Cleaningis not typically an activity greeted with overflowing enthusiasm and excitement. A recent trend, however, indicates that many more Americans are enjoying clean-up activities thanks to a versatile, powerful cleaning tool: the pressure washer. Over the past three years, pressure washer sales have grown by more than 50 percent, and by 2004, one in 10 American households will own one. This is big news for anyone looking for ways to reduce work time and increaseleisure time with family and friends. “More and more people are discovering that the blast of water from a pressure washer makes cleaning projects easier and faster,” said Pat Simpson, host of HGTV’s Before and After and FixIt-Up. “And with pride in a job well done, you can quickly move on to other projects, or have more time for leisure activities.” Pressure washers are mobile and feature an easy-to-handle spray wand and an adjustable pressure regulator to control overall water flow. They combine a gasoline-powered engine or electric motor with a pump that turns an ordinary garden hose into a high-powered cleaning By 2004, one in 10 house- holds will own a pressure washer, which makes cleaning projects faster and more fun. To enjoy a pressure washer’s full effect, it is important that homeowners keep in mind their specific needs. Engines vary depending on power levels. The more difficult the cleaning task, the more powerful the recommended pressure washer. Pressure washers are measured in terms of power by the following characteristics: PSI—water pressure mea- A typical gas-powered residential pressure washer can be as much as 50 times more powerful than a traditional garden hose. This power is so effective that sured by poundsper square inch. GPM—therate of water flow measured in gallons per minute. Gas-powered models with 1,650 to 2,400 PSI of water pressure and 2.0 to 2.9 GPM are recommended for almost any task around the house, and are typically easier to use than electric models. From sidewalks to siding and everything in between, mil- percent less water than a hose. sure washers to make old things machine. pressure washers use up to 80 lions of Americans are using pres- look like new. Although pressure washers bring excitement and fun to outdoor cleaning activities, it is important to keep in mind some important safety tips when using these powerful machines. Small engine manufacturer Briggs & Stratton recommends following these safety tips when using pressure washers: Always wear eye protection— As is the case with most power equipment, eye coverage is essential. Never point a pressure wash- er at people or animals—Pressure washers are powerful and can cause serious injury if not used properly. * Use the safety lock—This helps prevent accidents from occurring. Simply set the trigger’s lock when not using the pressure washer. * Don’t start the pressure washer until the water is on— This can cause engine problems and other technical issues that can result in costly repairs. Turn it off when adding/ removing attachments—Many pressure washer attachments/ accessories exist. Prevent injuries to you and the machine by turning it off when adding or removing attachments. For more information about pressure washers and safety usage, visit www.briggsandstrat ton.com. The Website features a step-by-step tutorial, designed to help homeowners find the appropriate pressure washer for their needs.
