Whether you’ve had an opportunity to pressure wash your property before or you’re new to pressure washing, there are many aspects you should be aware of. Inexperienced pressure washer users do not realize the power and capabilities a pressure washer has when used properly and improperly. These reasons are why we likes to call “The Dos and Don’ ts of Pressure Washing.”
Dos of Pressure Washing
Make a Plan Before You Begin Washing
Take a walk around your property to determine what areas of your home, driveway, walkway, or patio need to be pressure washed. In your head, take mental notes of what areas have the darkest stains as those will typically take longer. Pressure washing your entire property at least one time a year is ideal so stains don’t build over time. While washing, keep in mind to start from the top of the wall and work your way down.
Utilize a Good Detergent
While using just water and pressure allows you to clean, utilizing detergent cuts down on cleaning time for darker stains and helps to keep your surface cleaner longer. Pre-washing with the right detergent helps to begin breaking down the algae, rust, dirt, or oil stain before pressure is even applied. Pressure washing without detergent is like showering without soap. Sure, water and scrubbing will get the job done, but it’s not the same without soap!
Use Different Nozzle Tips for Different Projects
Most residential pressure washers come with 3-5 different nozzle tips for various projects. The lower degree of the angle, the more direct the pressure. Use the correct nozzles, refer to the owner’s manual when washing home surfaces.
Don’ ts of Pressure Washing
Use Too Much Pressure
Yes, there is such a thing as too much pressure! Standing too close to a surface with a strong PSI pressure washer can damage the integrity of a surface. Vinyl siding can be knocked loose by using the wrong nozzle or standing too close to the surface. The key to a great pressure washer is more about the GPM (gallons per minute) and less about the pressure applied.
Let Soap Detergent Dry
While detergents can help break down tough stains, letting detergents dry is a BIG don’t! Allowing detergents to dry could potentially damage the surface and make for a much tougher wash. A good rule of thumb is to let the detergent soak on the surface for 5-10 minutes and then begin washing.
Allow the Pressure Washer to Contact your Skin
This can’t be understated because boy does this hurt! Pressure washers pack a strong PSI punch that can do serious damage. Serious damage could mean cut flesh or in drastic situations, the need for amputation. Before pressing the lever on the wand of the pressure washer make sure hands and other body parts are safely out of the way.
What is a good pressure washer for a beginner?
Whether you need to clean your home, patio, driveway, boat, or RV, this machine by Giraffe Tools has your back. It can output a whopping 2500 PSI maximum pressure at 1.2 GPM water flow.
The beauty of this pressure washer is that it is a unit that combines a pressure washer with an auto-retract hose that no assembly needed, and ready to use. There is no complicated operation for beginners.
The Giraffe Tools pressure washer comes with a 100ft extension spray that’s perfect for hard to reach areas such as the underside of cars, lawn equipment, and two-story buildings.
The device is equipped with all the accessories needed for a pressure washer. This all in one pressure washer will best saving you electricity, money, and time.
