When people hear the term “pressure clean,” they often think of using a hose to blast away dirt and grime from outdoor surfaces, such as driveways and sidewalks. But pressure cleaning isn’t just about making a home or business look pretty—it’s actually a critical element in many important projects and protects your health and safety, too.
Here’s what you need to know about the science behind a pressure washer, so you can understand why it’s not enough to simply use a hose to wash your windows (though you could, just at a lower psi).
A pressure washer is essentially an electric-powered pump that converts water into high-pressure steam. This steam is directed at a surface by an attachment on the end of a hose, which is usually a spray nozzle with different settings to control the width and intensity of the stream. Some nozzles also produce different motions and textures for specific applications, such as rotating or spinning.
The pressure of the steam can strip paint from surfaces, and you should never strip any paint without first testing it with a scraper tool. Some older paint contains lead, which can be dangerous if inhaled or ingested by someone who isn’t wearing protective clothing. Pressure washing removes dust and old paint chips, which can help to keep the spores that cause mold and mildew from spreading, protecting your family’s health.
Decks, wood fences, and vinyl siding can become dull and faded over time, especially if they’re regularly exposed to the elements. But a quick, thorough, and professional pressure wash can bring those surfaces back to life and make your house or business look brand new.
You can do a DIY pressure wash by purchasing your own machine or hiring a professional to do it for you. The process is simple. You connect a detergent container to the machine and then to your water supply, usually through a hose or commercial input. Then you turn on the machine and its motor, which mixes water with detergent to form a solution that’s then forced out at high pressure by the nozzle. Some machines heat the solution; others don’t.
Start by selecting a nozzle and setting for the task at hand. For example, if you’re washing the siding of your home, select a green-tipped nozzle that produces a 25-degree spray to clean away dirt and mildew. If you’re rinsing off concrete, on the other hand, a white-tipped nozzle that produces a 40-degree spray is better suited to your needs. Test the nozzle on an inconspicuous area to ensure you’re not damaging the surface. Depending on the size of your home, a full pressure wash can take hours to complete. This is why it’s typically best to leave it to professionals, who can finish the job in a day or two at most. For the most thorough results, schedule regular services seasonally or at least once a year. This will prevent the build-up of moss, algae, and other problem substances that can damage your property over time.
