Safety and maintenance of high-pressure washers: an essential checklist.
1) Safety first: jet flying can be dangerous.
Several manuals explicitly warn:
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High-pressure jets can be dangerous if used improperly.
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It should not be pointed at people, electrical equipment, or the machine itself.
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It should not be directed at people/animals/electrical equipment.
This is not an "exaggeration": the jet can cause injuries and damage surfaces quickly.
2) Quick rules (that prevent 90% of accidents)
Rule A — Never aim at anyone and keep your distance.
If there are people nearby, stop. The manuals are clear about not using it near other people without adequate protection.
Rule B — Electricity and water don't mix.
Avoid:
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sockets/plugs on wet floor
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handling chips with wet hands
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point the jet at electrical equipment.
Warnings about electrical equipment and the jet appear in user manuals.
Rule C — Beware of the kickback.
Some manuals warn about recoil when squeezing the trigger — always hold it firmly and in a stable position.
Rule D — PPE (personal protective equipment)
Some manuals recommend appropriate clothing/protection and PPE for operation/maintenance.
3) Detergents: use them correctly to avoid damaging the machine (or the surface).
Two recurring themes:
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Use detergents recommended by the manufacturer; incorrect chemicals can cause damage.
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In many models, detergent only enters at low (normal) pressure .
Good practices
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Apply detergent/foam, let it sit (without drying in the sun), and only then rinse.
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Do not mix "strong" chemicals without prior notice (risk to seals and surfaces).
4) Drinking water and non-return flow: a "technical" aspect that many people ignore.
Some manuals state that you should not connect the equipment directly to the potable water supply without a suitable separator/device (backflow prevention/system separator).
And there are anti-backflow devices on the market whose purpose is precisely to prevent water from the washing machine from returning to the potable water supply .
In practical terms:
If your installation requires it, use the appropriate accessory/device and follow the manual (this is especially relevant for fixed connections).
5) Simple maintenance that prolongs life (and maintains pressure)
A) Purge and clean water before turning on.
There are guides that suggest ensuring the hose is free of air/dirt before operating (let it run for a while).
B) Water inlet filter
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clean regularly
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It prevents impurities in the pump (pressure drop and malfunctions).
C) Nozzles and lance
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Unclog the nozzle when necessary (many kits include a needle).
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Keep the nozzles clean and dry.
D) To guard and protect
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Store in a dry place.
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Avoid dropping and aggressive bending of the hose.
STIHL also recommends testing surfaces and starting from a distance/approaching, which reduces damage and also avoids unnecessary strain on the equipment.
6) “Signs” that something is wrong (and how to fix it quickly)
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Loss of pressure: dirty filter, clogged nozzle, air in the line, insufficient water intake.
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Pulsation/oscillations: air in the circuit or partially obstructed nozzle.
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Leaks: poorly fitted or worn seals/connectors
If the problem persists after cleaning the filter and nozzle, then it's worth considering a repair service.
Final checklist (copy/paste)
Security
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Do not point the jet at people/animals/electrical equipment.
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Use appropriate PPE/clothing when necessary.
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Stable position (beware of recoil)
Chemists
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Detergents recommended by the manufacturer
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Low pressure detergent (normal for the equipment)
Water
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Check if a separator/anti-return mechanism is required as per the manual.
Maintenance
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Run water over the appliance to purge air/dirt before use.
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Clean the filter and nozzles regularly.
FAQ
Can I wash everything in the washing machine?
No. Manuals warn against pointing the jet at people/animals/electrical equipment and advise using detergents/pressure correctly.
Do I really need a backflow prevention device?
Some manuals mention the need for a suitable separator/device when connected to the potable water supply; there are also backflow prevention devices to prevent water from flowing back.