Pressure washing is a popular way to efficiently clean homes and other structures. Pressure washing can be very damaging if done incorrectly, which means homeowners must follow these ten simple tips from experts.
Check You Have All Supplies
There are quite a few things you’ll need to have to run a pressure washer. They are a steady water supply, a power source, garden hoses, and connectors. Usually, pressure washers connect to the outside water spigot and draw from the home’s water supply. Gas-powered or electric-powered pressure washers are both available, as are hot water and cold water models.
Check that there is a compatible water source and you have the correct power supply available before starting the project to save time, frustration and avoid delays.
Read The Instructions Included With The Pressure Cleaner
While pressure cleaners look pretty straightforward to use, you should always read the instructions to ensure you’re operating them correctly. Typically, the directions will include pertinent information, such as the recommended PSI you should use and compatible or recommended cleaning agents for the washer.
In addition, the instructions will provide care tips and guidelines to help ensure your pressure washer works well for many years to come.
Use The Recommended Nozzle For The Pressure Washer
Most pressure washers include multiple attachments for different purposes. Reading the instruction manual will help you identify the nozzle that best matches your desired cleaning needs. For example, one attachment will be suitable for cleaning tiles and pavers, whereas different ones will be better for the fence, driveway or cleaning windows.
Choose An Eco-Friendly Cleaning Solution
Choosing an eco-friendly cleaning solution for your pressure cleaner helps to protect shrubs and plants around your home. Many eco-friendly cleaning solutions work well these days, so you don’t have to give anything up by not using a harsh chemical-based cleaner.
There might also be times when using clean water alone is enough to power away built-up discolorations and mildew. However, when using water alone, treated surfaces may not benefit from antibacterial or antifungal protection.
Consider Using Special Detergents
If you want to pressure wash your driveway, you might choose an eco-friendly cleaning solution that cuts through oil to address stains from engine leaks. If pressure cleaning a house, a cleaning solution that penetrates and removes mould, mildew, and the build-up of other unhealthy contaminants.
By choosing a specially formulated cleaning detergent for the project you have in mind, you’re working a lot smarter and more efficiently.
Test The Pressure
Always test the water pressure before getting started. If possible, use a low-pressure setting to avoid damaging surfaces and structures. Once you’ve hit the target pressure for the project, use a consistent spray.
Pressure washers can emit water at a velocity of up to 4000 pounds per square inch or PSI. Higher PSI levels can damage windows and cause erosion. When pressure washing, always keep the nozzle moving in an even pattern on your surface for best results.
After you’ve used the pressure washer a few times, the chances are good that you’ll start getting the hang of it. But, no matter how used to it you get, never overlook the importance of testing the water pressure first.
Stand At A Distance
When using a high-pressure power washer, there is always the chance you can damage the exterior when the pressure is set too high. By standing a distance away when you first start the project, you can avoid accidental damages. You can constantly adjust how you’re standing away as the project progresses.
Most power washing professionals stand about ten feet away from the surface while they are pressure washing. Ten feet is a safe distance and a good rule of thumb for safety and maximum cleaning.
Protect Yourself
Don’t fool yourself. Pressure washers are powerful machines! When operating them, operator safety should come first. Anyone running a power washer should wear long pants, ear protection, eye protection, gloves, and boots.
Anyone working nearby should also wear these safety precautions. By doing so, you’re taking steps to put an extra barrier between your bare skin and the high-pressure water spray.
When operating a pressure washer, never direct the running sprayer at people or pets to avert accidents.
Don't Downplay Injuries
According to the CDC or Centers for Disease Control data, pressure washers can cause serious injuries that appear to be minor. The downside is that when people don’t recognise the potential severity of the injury, they delay treatment.
The more prolonged treatment gets delayed, the more chances of infection, amputation, or disability increase. Further, the strong spray can hit loose objects and send them flying towards people nearby.
Consider Hiring A Professional
One of the pieces of advice to follow is: when in doubt, hire a professional. There are multiple advantages to doing so! Some of these advantages are:
Leave The Work To Experts – People who are short on time or patience might not want to spend the time or do the physical labour required to thoroughly power wash their home themselves. With experienced power washers, you don’t need to worry about being on-site or overseeing the progress.
Protects Your Investment – Pressure washing is a lot of work that’s worth doing. Keeping the exterior of your home clean and free from mildew, mould, and dirt helps maintain a more attractive visual appeal. The power washing professional will use their expertise to ensure the cleaning meets or exceeds the client’s expectations.
Ensures The Job Gets Done Right – The last thing that anyone wants to do is damage their house with pressure washing. Professional power washing companies carry liability insurance, so if your home gets damaged, it gets repaired without anything out of your pocket. Further, you get peace of mind knowing the project is in capable hands.
All you need to do is look at a before and after picture to see what a difference power washing can make on the appearance of your home or building. You’re almost sure to be happy with the results