Pressure washing is an efficient and satisfying way to clean properties, including residential and commercial ones. However, for beginners, it can be a bit overwhelming. There are a lot of things that can go wrong, and in some cases, improper use can even lead to harm. This is where pressure washing tips for beginners come in handy.
Basic Pressure Washing Tips for Beginners
Pressure washing is a popular cleaning method for both residential and commercial properties. While plenty of companies offer it as a service, property owners can also do it themselves. Pressure washers are available to rent at local home improvement stores, making them accessible even to amateurs. However, incorrect use of these machines can lead to many problems.
For one thing, improper handling of a pressure washer can cause injuries. You can suffer from lacerations, bruises, electric shocks, carbon monoxide poisoning, and even compartment syndrome. When you don’t know how to use a pressure washer, you risk damaging the surface you’re working on.
If this is your first time using a pressure washer, you’ve come to the right place. Here are the best pressure washing tips for beginners.
1. Determine What Type of Pressure Washer You Need
Choosing the right pressure washer is crucial. Consider the size of the area you’ll be cleaning and the type of tasks you’ll be tackling. A smaller electric pressure washer may be suitable for lighter tasks, while larger gas-powered ones are ideal for more extensive projects.
Pressure washers run on gas or electricity. Gas-powered washers offer higher PSI and GPM, allowing for quicker and more efficient cleaning. Cordless washers are cordless but require regular maintenance and produce noise and emissions.
Electric pressure washers, while more convenient in some situations, lack the power of gas models and are not as portable due to the need for a power outlet. They are emission-free and require less maintenance, making them suitable for indoor use with proper precautions.
You should also consider the size of the pressure washer. Based on their water pressure levels, pressure washers are generally categorized into light-duty, medium-duty, heavy-duty, and professional types.
Light-Duty. Offering pressures under 2,000 PSI, these are suitable for occasional household cleaning.
Medium-Duty. These pressure washers, ranging from 2,000 to 2,800 PSI, are ideal for tasks like cleaning siding and driveways.
Heavy-Duty. These options, with pressures between 2,900 and 3,300 PSI, are recommended for larger areas and reaching elevated surfaces.
Professional-Grade. These types exceed 3,300 PSI. They are designed for extensive and time-consuming projects, such as preparing surfaces for repainting.
2. Read the Manufacturer’s Instructions
To assemble a pressure washing setup for beginners, it is critical to read the manufacturer’s instructions and safety precautions. This ensures you operate the equipment safely and effectively.
3. Inspect for Damage First
Before firing up the pressure washer, inspect the equipment for any signs of damage or wear. Check hoses, nozzles, and connections to ensure everything is in good condition. Replace or repair any damaged components before use.
However, the pressure washer isn’t the only thing that needs your attention. You should also thoroughly inspect the surface you’ll be cleaning. You might do further damage if there are gaps, dents, or cuts. Make sure to have any problems repaired first.
4. Wear Proper Protection
Safety should always be a top priority. Wear protective gear, including safety glasses, gloves, and closed-toe shoes, to safeguard yourself from debris, chemicals, and high-pressure spray. You should also be careful when using a ladder while pressure washing or when pressure washing your roof.
5. Prepare the Area
Remove any obstacles, debris, or fragile items from the cleaning area. Cover nearby plants and electrical outlets. Secure loose items to prevent damage during the pressure washing process. Make sure kids and pets stay away from the area, too. This way, no one will get hurt.
6. Know Your Nozzle Tips
Different nozzle tips provide varying spray patterns and pressure levels. Familiarize yourself with these nozzle tips and use the appropriate one for each task.
For example, a narrow nozzle is suitable for stubborn stains, while a wider one is better for large surface areas. However, narrow nozzles tend to expel a more concentrated stream of water, which increases the risk of carves and indentations.
Pressure washer nozzles are color-coded for easy identification. They come in the following colors:
Red Nozzles (Zero Degrees): The narrowest angle, suitable for intense cleaning. Use with caution and avoid close contact with surfaces to prevent damage.
Yellow Nozzles (15 Degrees): Ideal for pressure washing concrete surfaces around your home.
Green Nozzles (25 Degrees): Versatile for general household pressure washing tasks, suitable for cleaning cars or removing mildew from patio furniture and decks.
White Nozzles (40 Degrees): User-friendly option for a wide spray angle, perfect for exterior home cleaning, windows, and siding.
Black Nozzles (65 Degrees): The gentlest option, producing a light spray. Use for wetting surfaces without removing dirt or stains.
Apart from the nozzle tips, there are also specialized attachments, such as:
Surface Cleaner: Uses a spinning bar to distribute high-pressure water over a larger area, making it ideal for cleaning expansive concrete surfaces like driveways.
Rotary Nozzle (Turbo Nozzle): Produces a spinning zero-degree water stream, effective for removing tough stains and grime.
Pressure Washing Broom: Divides a single water jet into two or three for increased power and a larger cleaning area, similar to a surface cleaner.
Expandable Wand: Provides extended reach for cleaning elevated surfaces without the need for a ladder.
Soap/Detergent Reservoir: Attaches to the pressure washer to add cleaning solution into the water jet. Use the appropriate nozzle to avoid forcing soap into surfaces, preventing potential damage.
7. Understand Pressure Levels or Settings
Adjust the pressure settings on your pressure washer based on the surface you’re cleaning. Higher pressure may be suitable for hard surfaces like concrete, while lower pressure is more appropriate for delicate materials like wood.
8. Use the Right Cleansers
Some cleaning tasks may require the use of detergents or cleansers. Use products specifically designed for pressure washers and follow the recommended dilution ratios to achieve optimal results without damaging surfaces. Additionally, some cleansers don’t work on certain kinds of materials.
9. Test Spray on an Inconspicuous Area
Before tackling the entire surface, test the pressure washer on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it won’t cause damage. This allows you to assess the effectiveness of the pressure and cleansers without risking harm to the whole surface.
10. Spray at an Angle
Hold the spray nozzle at a slight angle to the surface rather than straight on. This helps prevent damage and ensures a more efficient cleaning, especially on surfaces like siding or decks.
11. Keep a Good Distance
Maintain a safe distance between the pressure washer nozzle and the cleaning surface. Being too close can cause damage, while too far may reduce effectiveness. Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for the recommended distance.
12. Know Which Materials Can’t Be Pressure Washed
Certain materials may be damaged by pressure washing. These include asphalt roofing, some types of siding, and delicate wood. Do your research to identify materials that should not be pressure washed. Use alternative cleaning methods for these surfaces instead.
13. Don’t Let the Spray Linger in One Area
Avoid concentrating the spray on one spot for too long, as this can cause damage. Keep the nozzle moving steadily to prevent uneven cleaning or potential harm to the surface.
14. Work in Sections
Split bigger areas into more manageable sections and clean one part at a time. This ensures thorough cleaning and lets you control the pressure washing process. It also makes it easier to tell which parts you’ve already cleaned and which ones you haven’t.
15. Overlap Strokes to Avoid Lines
To achieve a consistent result, overlap each pass slightly. This prevents lines or streaks on the surface and ensures an even cleaning pattern.
Useful Pressure Washing Tips for Beginners
Pressure washing can be a rewarding and transformative process when done correctly. With these essential pressure washing tips for beginners, you’ll be well-equipped to take on various cleaning tasks around your home.
Of course, if you want to save yourself time and headaches, consider hiring a professional service instead. This is where Washh comes in. Call us today at 704.321.8000 or contact us online to get a free estimate!
