Can I use a pressure washer during a hosepipe ban?
A pressure washer connected to a hosepipe and mains water is normally treated the same as a hosepipe during a Temporary Use Ban. Many notices restrict cleaning paths, patios and drives, with exceptions for health, safety or business use.
Mains-fed pressure washers
A pressure washer connected to the mains through a hosepipe is normally treated as a hosepipe under the ban. Cleaning patios, paths, drives and garden furniture is therefore usually restricted.
- cleaning paths, patios and drives is commonly restricted
- cleaning for health and safety, such as slippery algae, often has an exemption
- a bucket and brush, or a pressure washer using stored rainwater, are common alternatives
Specific hosepipe ban questions
Check the exact notice for your supplier. Each ban has its own scope, dates and exemptions — see the current status per water company or check by postcode for your area.