Hosepipe bans, clearly explained
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
Choose the everyday activity you want to check.
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.
The rule for your home
Do not guess from a county-wide headline.
Enter your postcode to see the current official position for the water company serving your address.
