How to Safely Use a Pressure Washer
Pressure washers are one of the easiest ways to clean your car, deck, and garage. That is, until you use the wrong spray setting and break a window! The high pressure put out by these washers can easily damage property, injure family members or pets, and cause painful falls. Before you use any pressure washer, make sure you know how to safely operate it!
Read the Manual
This seems like a no-brainer, but we really can’t stress it enough. Take the time before using your pressure washer to read the manual. Every pressure washer is different, and even if you’ve used several in the past, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the particular model you have.
Wear Proper Safety Gear
Way too many people pressure wash their cars or decks in sandals and shorts. It’s really risky to wear open clothes and shoes because debris can easily go flying. Always take the proper precautions and wear protective gear like closed-toed shoes or boots, work gloves, long pants, and safety glasses. It’s also smart to wear hearing protection, particularly for gas-powered pressure washers.
Prepare the Area’s Surroundings
Take a few minutes before starting work to protect the rest of the area. Cover any exterior lights or vents, close all doors and windows, remove any tripping hazards, and put potted plants in a safer spot. Be sure to let your family members know where to avoid, and keep all pets inside!
Use the Right Pressure Setting
The single easiest way to cause significant damage is to use the wrong spray setting or nozzle. The lower the degree, the stronger the water jet will be. For most household uses like cleaning cars, boats, lawn furniture, patios, and anything glass, use a low-pressure setting (25-40°). A 15° setting is best for removing caked-on grime on a hard surface or preparing an area for painting. Anything lower than this should only be reserved for cleaning concrete or metal.
Be sure to always start low and gradually increase the pressure or distance from the washed item. When preparing any siding for painting, there’s a very fine line between pressure that will take off flaking paint and pressure that will gauge the wood. The angle also matters and can inadvertently pop off shingles if the pressure catches underneath.
Don’t Use Gas Pressure Washers Inside
Gas-powered pressure washers emit fumes that can quickly turn deadly if released in an enclosed area. Electric or battery-powered pressure washers are the only options to use inside or in spots without proper ventilation, including the garage or workshop. Even if you’re working inside for just a few minutes and have the windows open, it’s still not a good idea to use a gas-powered model.
Don’t Plug an Electric Pressure Washer into an Extension Cord
Water and electricity naturally create risk of electrocution. If you use an extension cord that isn’t properly grounded, it adds even more risk to the project. An extension cord can also shorten the life of a pressure washer. It’s always best to plug an electric pressure washer directly into the wall.
Don’t Aim it at Anything but the Project Spot
It’s too tempting to treat a pressure washer like a glorified hose or squirt gun…but these tools aren’t toys and their high-pressure water output can quickly injure a family member or pet. Make sure others won’t accidentally cross your spraying path and never let children operate a pressure washer.
No Ladders!
Pressure washers can create strong kickback force and easily throw someone off a ladder. If you need to clean a high spot, get an extension wand or hire a professional to help. It’s worth it to keep yourself safe and avoid a nasty fall!
Learn More and Shop All Pressure Washers
We will continue to expand our collection of pressure washers and project guides, so check back with us soon or sign up for email updates to get them delivered right to your inbox!
Last updated: 5/23/23