8 Pressure Washing Mistakes When Done by a Beginner

Pressure washing is highly effective and efficient for cleaning various surfaces, from driveways to decks and everything in between. However, this powerful tool can lead to costly mistakes and potential damage if you are a beginner and not an expert in high-pressure cleaning services.

Whether you’re new to pressure washing or considering it as a DIY project, it’s crucial to understand common pitfalls and how to avoid them. In this guide, we will explore eight pressure-washing mistakes that beginners often make and provide valuable insights on how to prevent these errors.

By learning from these lessons, you achieve impressive results while preserving the integrity of your surfaces. But before delving into the pressure washing mistake, let’s understand more about high-pressure cleaning.

Let’s begin-

Table of Contents

What is High-Pressure Cleaning?

High-pressure cleaning, or power washing, uses a high-pressure water spray to remove loosened paint, mould, grime, and dirt from surfaces like buildings, vehicles, and concrete cleaning.

Gallons or litres per minute is the unit for measuring the volume of a mechanical pressure washer. It is often designed into the pump and is not variable. The pump is designed to vary pressure, expressed in psi, pascals, or bar. Machines with pressures up to 30,000 psi (200 MPa) are available.

Often, the terms pressure and power washing are used interchangeably in many scenarios. There is some debate about whether they are different processes.

A pressure-washing surface cleaner consists of two to four high-pressure jets on a rotating bar. These swivel when water flows. This action creates a uniform cleaning pattern that cleans flat surfaces at a rapid rate. Hydro-jet cleaning is a more potent form of power washing to remove buildup and debris in tanks and lines.

High-pressure cleaning is a versatile tool used for a variety of cleaning tasks, including-

Cleaning exterior surfaces of homes and businesses
Removing graffiti
Cleaning decks, patios, and walkways
Cleaning vehicles
Cleaning industrial equipment
Removing mould and mildew
Preparing surfaces for painting or staining

Pressure Washing Mistakes and Ways to Avoid Them

Using Too High of a Pressure Setting

A common mistake that novice pressure washing users make is selecting a pressure setting that is too high. It can harm the cleaned surfaces, especially if constructed of delicate materials such as wood or brick.

It is crucial to note that professional high-pressure cleaning services use an optimal pressure setting for most surfaces should be between 1,500 and 2,000 psi to ensure that no damage occurs during the cleaning process.

Holding the Wand Too Close to the Surface

It is common to make the mistake of holding the wand too close to the surface while using it. It can lead to undesired results, such as the water stream etching or gouging the surface.

Keeping the wand at a minimum distance of 12 inches from the surface is recommended to avoid such issues. It will ensure that the cleaning process is effective and doesn’t cause any damage to the surface.

Not Using the Correct Nozzle

Regarding pressure washers, it’s important to understand that not all nozzles are equal. There are various nozzles available, each one serving a specific purpose. For instance, nozzles clean patios, decks, and siding. If you use the wrong nozzle for a particular job, you could cause damage to your surfaces.

Not Wearing Safety Glasses

It is crucial to wear safety glasses when using pressure washers, as they can spray debris at high speeds. Especially if you are performing concrete cleaning, there are high chances of splinters striking the eye and causing injury.

Despite exercising caution and being attentive, there is always a possibility of something detaching and striking you in the eye. Therefore, to avoid any potential harm, it is recommended to wear protective eyewear throughout your pressure-washing task.

Not Cleaning the Filter

It’s important to note that the filter on your pressure washer is crucial in preventing debris from clogging the nozzle. One must clean it regularly to ensure that the water flow isn’t restricted, which can damage your pressure washer.

The essential maintenance task is necessary to maintain the overall performance of your pressure washer. Take the time to clean your pressure washer filter regularly, and rest assured that your machine will continue functioning smoothly for years.

Not Testing the Pressure Washer on an Inconspicuous Area

Before beginning the pressure washing process, one must conduct a test on an unnoticeable surface. It ensures that the pressure washer’s power is not excessive. This precautionary measure will assist you in preventing any harm or damage to your intended surfaces.

Not Rinsing the Surface Thoroughly

One must thoroughly rinse the surface after pressure washing to eliminate any debris. It will not only ensure a clean surface but will also prevent any potential water spots from forming.

Not Storing the Pressure Washer Properly

Professionals from high-pressure cleaning services store the pressure washer property so they can use it for a long time. It maintains its longevity and performance. To prevent corrosion or breakdown, one must store it carefully. We recommend finding a cool and dry location to store your pressure washer when not in use.

Concluding Words

High-pressure washing is an advanced method to clean and prepare surfaces for various tasks. It includes the use of advanced machines for the task. However, only a highly experienced and trained professional can achieve the desired results. Therefore, it’s advisable to approach reliable high-pressure cleaning services for your projects.

ABS Cleaning has over six years of experience performing top-grade cleaning for residential and commercial premises. Contact us for all your needs.