Pressure washing, also known as power washing, is a cleaning method that uses high-pressure water to remove dirt, mold, grime, dust, mud, and debris from surfaces. While pressure washing is an effective cleaning method, it does have some drawbacks that are important to consider. In this article, we will examine the main cons associated with pressure washing so you can weigh the pros and cons before deciding if it’s the right cleaning method for your needs.
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What is pressure washing and how does it work?
Pressure washing utilizes a mechanical sprayer to eject water at high pressure onto a surface. The pressure is generated by a motorized pump that forces water through a narrowed nozzle at pressures ranging from 1500 to 4000 psi (pounds per square inch). The high-pressure water acts as a forceful abrasive that can dislodge stubborn dirt, strip old paint, remove grease, and more.
Most residential pressure washers operate at around 2000 psi while commercial pressure washers are closer to 3000-4000 psi. The higher the psi, the more cleaning power the pressure washer delivers. Pressure washers use an electric-powered pump for residential use while gas-powered pumps are standard for commercial operations.
The main components of a pressure washer include:
- Pump – generates the water pressure
- High-pressure hose – transports water to the nozzle
- Trigger gun – allows operator to engage and disengage the water spray
- Wand/Lance – the handle and nozzle attachment
- Nozzle – accelerates and directs the water onto the surface to be cleaned
The pressure washer hose connects to the pump which draws water from an external source like an outdoor spigot or bucket. The pump forces the water through the hose under immense pressure. When the trigger on the gun is squeezed, the water sprays out of the nozzle with concentrated force against the surface to blast away dirt and debris.
What are the main cons of pressure washing?
While pressure washing is very effective for cleaning, it does come with some downsides to consider:
Can damage surfaces
The high-pressure water stream is powerful enough to damage certain surfaces if not used properly. Wood, metal, plastic and even concrete and brick can be etched, pitted, cracked or stripped by the pressurized water if you use the wrong nozzle attachment, get too close to the surface or lingers in one spot too long. Once damage occurs, it is usually permanent.
Does not always fully sanitize
Although the high-pressure water does wash away dirt, that does not necessarily mean the surface has been disinfected. Pressure washing alone often does not kill mold, bacteria and other microorganisms. For true disinfection, combining pressure washing with bleach or other cleaning agents is more effective.
Can drive dirt deeper if not fully rinsed
If you do not thoroughly rinse off surfaces after pressure washing, it is possible to drive dirt, debris and cleaning agents deeper into porous surfaces like concrete, wood and grout. This can lead to even worse staining over time without proper rinsing.
Can damage the environment
Allowing pressure wash runoff water to drain into storm drains and local waterways can harm the environment. The runoff water often contains toxic chemicals from cleaning agents, oils, transported dirt and other contaminants. Proper containment methods should be used, such as blocking storm drains and directing runoff to sanitary sewers.
Risk of injury
Pressure washers are powerful machines that can cause serious injury if not handled properly. The pressurized water can lacerate skin, damage eyes, and knock a person off a ladder if sprayed directly on their body. Proper protective gear such as rubber boots, gloves, eye and ear protection should always be worn.
Requires electrical and water supply
Most pressure washers need an electrical outlet to operate the electric pump motor and require access to a pressurized water supply via an exterior hose spigot. This makes portable operation more challenging in remote locations without utilities. Gas-powered pressure washers avoid the electric requirements but are much louder.
Produces noise pollution
The combination of the running pump motor and the pressure washer spray makes these machines very noisy, often 75-95 decibels. This can be disruptive to neighbors if operated early or late in the day and requires hearing protection for the operator.
Investment cost
Buying a pressure washer is an added investment compared to manual cleaning like using a hose and brush. Homeowner models cost $100-$800 while heavy-duty commercial units run $800-$5,000. Proper storage and maintenance are also needed to maximize the machine’s lifespan. Renting is an option but also requires transporting the unit to your site.
Safety risks of pressure washing
It’s crucial to understand the safety risks involved with pressure washing. The extremely high water pressure and electrical components pose certain hazards if proper precautions are not taken:
Risk of electrocution
– Always plug the unit into a GFCI outlet, use a long extension cord rated for outdoor use to prevent electrocution from water exposure or a damaged cord. Never spray near power lines or electrical wiring.
Risk of contact injury
– Pressurized water can cut skin, damage eyes, and cause other bodily harm if sprayed directly on people. Always wear protective gear and point nozzle away from body.
Risk of falls
– The intense spray can knock you off a ladder if you lose your balance. Maintain stable footing and keep hands firmly on the grip at all times when cleaning elevated areas.
Risk of equipment damage
– Only use pressure washers in well-ventilated areas to prevent pump overheating. Allow equipment to properly cool down between uses and follow all maintenance guidelines.
Risk of property damage
– Certain materials like wood, glass, plastic or delicate stonework can be easily damaged by the high-pressure spray if you use the wrong nozzle or get too close to the surface. Test clean a small hidden spot first.
Chemical hazard risks
– Only use chemicals designed for pressure washers. Inappropriate soaps or chemicals can harm the unit or become a mucus membrane irritant if breathed in. Follow all chemical labels for proper handling.
How to use pressure washers safely
To reduce the risks involved with pressure washing, follow these key safety practices:
- Read the instruction manual and warning labels before use.
- Survey the area first and remove any objects that could create a projectile hazard when sprayed.
- Check that surfaces can withstand the psi rating of your pressure washer nozzle.
- Wear closed-toe shoes, eye protection, gloves and hearing protection.
- Point the wand down and away when starting and stopping the water spray.
- Keep proper footing and balance on ladders and uneven surfaces.
- Allow equipment to fully cool down before touching or storing.
- Unplug unit and shut off water supply after use to prevent accidental start-ups.
Proper training is also highly recommended to learn how to safely operate pressure washers before tackling any cleaning projects. Consider enrolling in a hands-on training class if you are new to pressure washing.
Alternatives to pressure washing
If you decide the cons of pressure washing outweigh the pros for your situation, consider these alternative cleaning methods instead:
Manual scrubbing
Using a bristle brush, sponge, or rag along with cleaning agents can remove dirt from many surfaces with elbow grease alone, but takes more time and effort.
Steam cleaners
Steam cleaners use heated, pressurized water vapor to clean and sanitize surfaces. Less risky than pressure washing but also less powerful.
Power scrubbers
Rotating brush attachments connected to a garden hose use water and mechanical action to scrub surfaces clean. Safer than pressure washing but may require more passes.
Sandblasting
Blasting abrasive materials at high velocities cleans surfaces but generates messy dust requiring containment. Potential to damage many materials.
Soda blasting
Similar to sandblasting but uses baking soda as the abrasive agent, making it safer for more delicate materials. Less dust produced.
Dry ice blasting
Small dry ice pellets are propelled at high speeds to lift off coatings and residues. No water or chemicals used makes containment easier.
Conclusion
Pressure washing is an effective cleaning method but also carries risks if proper precautions are not taken. The powerful high-pressure water can damage surfaces, harm people and the environment if used carelessly. While very effective at removing dirt, pressure washing alone does not always sanitize. Alternatives like steam cleaners, scrubbing, or blasting abrasives can clean without some of the pressure washer drawbacks. Understanding the limitations and safety concerns associated with pressure washers allows you to make an informed decision about whether it is the best method for your cleaning needs. With training and protective gear, pressure washing can be used safely in many instances to blast away grime much faster than manual scrubbing.