Basic Pressure Washing Tips for Newbies
Before you can start to clean with a pressure washer, you need to know the basics. Working with this kind of equipment can be hazardous if not handled with care and while a pressure washer is ideal for removing the toughest caked-on dirt, grime, and mildew, you could end up hurting others and even damaging property if used improperly.
So we’re going to walk you through all of the basic information you need to help you clean your surfaces safer and more effectively when power washing in Bedford.
Stay Safe
The first thing to remember is that you must always remain safe when using a power washer. That means always being aware where the tip of nozzle is pointed. You should never aim the spigot at other people or pets. Water is expelled at incredibly high rates of pressure and you may injure or even kill another living thing if you turn a power washer on them.
So, remember – safety first and refrain from any horseplay or silly hijinks when operating a pressure washer. This is not a toy.
Your Nozzle
When you are planning to clean a surface with your power washer, you must first decide on the nozzle you wish to use. That’s because every nozzle is different, giving you a multitude of streams and pressure strengths. Not every nozzle is going to work on every surface, some nozzles may give you a stream that is too fine and powerful, others much wider and gentler.
Consider the surface you plan to clean and the amount of dirt you need to eliminate. Taking these factors under consideration will help you choose the best nozzle for the job.
Always Test Surfaces
Even after you’ve chosen a nozzle that can best do the work on the surface you plan to clean, be it the side of your house or the driveway asphalt, always do a quick test to make your nozzle isn’t too powerful. Too many homeowners make the mistake of not ensuring their surface is resilient enough to withstand the pressure and end up causing some serious damage by mistake.
Before you get to work, inspect the surface ahead of time. Make sure you don’t have any cracks or fractures that can be made worse from the force of pressure.
Watch Your Windows
When you are working with your pressure washer, be careful around window glass. Even a gentle stream can be strong enough to shatter glass, flooding your home or your vehicle in the process. If you do plan to work on or near windows, always set your pressure to the lightest settings.
Temperature
Water temperature is important to consider when using a pressure washer. Hot water will be a lot more effective in clearing away thick layers of grime and dirt. Combined with high water pressure, your power washer can eradicate just about anything.
But that doesn’t mean every job requires hot water. Cooler temperatures can be just as useful in some areas. Use your best judgment when making your selection.
