Pressure washers are powerful tools that can make quick work of tough cleaning jobs around your home's exterior. However, their high-pressure streams can also cause damage if used improperly. Understanding what should and shouldn't be cleaned with a pressure washer is crucial to maintaining your home's appearance and structural integrity.
How Pressure Washers Work
Pressure washers use a motor to force water through a small nozzle at high pressure. This creates a powerful stream that can remove dirt, grime, and even stubborn stains from many surfaces. The pressure can be adjusted, and different nozzles can be used to change the stream's width and intensity.
Things to Never Clean With a Pressure Washer
Outdoor Fabrics or Lounge Furniture
Pressure washers can easily damage the fibers in outdoor cushions, umbrellas, and other fabric items. The high-pressure stream can tear or fray the material, ruining its appearance and reducing its lifespan. Instead, clean these items with mild soap and water, using a soft brush for stubborn stains.
Soft Outdoor Surfaces
Wood decks, fences, and other soft outdoor surfaces can be damaged by pressure washers. The high-pressure stream can etch into the wood, creating a fuzzy surface or even gouging out softer areas. For these surfaces, use a lower pressure setting or opt for gentler cleaning methods like scrubbing with a brush and cleaning solution.
Painted Surfaces
Pressure washers can easily strip paint from surfaces, especially if the paint is already peeling or in poor condition. This includes painted siding, trim, and outdoor furniture. If you need to clean painted surfaces, use a low-pressure setting and keep the nozzle at least 12 inches away from the surface.
HVAC Units
The delicate fins and components of your outdoor air conditioning unit can be easily bent or damaged by a pressure washer. This can reduce the unit's efficiency or even cause it to malfunction. Instead, clean your HVAC unit with a garden hose in a gentle setting or follow the manufacturer's cleaning recommendations.
Glass Doors and Windows
While it might seem like a quick way to clean windows, pressure washers can shatter glass or damage window seals. The high pressure can also force water into gaps around windows and doors, potentially causing water damage inside your home. Use traditional window cleaning methods with a squeegee and cleaning solution for these surfaces.
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