Pressure washer: 3 things (and more) you should never clean using this machine

by Mark Bennett

December 03, 2022

Pressure washer: 3 things (and more) you should never clean using this machine
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A pressure washer is undoubtedly a very useful machine to clean outdoor environments: washing with high pressure water you to reduce cleaning times and water consumption. And it gives great results. As a result, pressure washers are becoming very popular with homeowners.

However, this machine is not the solution for every need, since high water pressure could damage some surfaces and object. Which ones would these be? Azure MacCannell reveals them to us on his channel dedicated to cleaning.

via @livecomposed/TikTok

1. Gutters

1. Gutters

@livecomposed/TikTok

The first things that absolutely must not be cleaned with a pressure washer are the gutters. It is true that they are designed to withstand violent atmospheric events - such as strong winds or storms - but the jet from the pressure washer could damage them. It is best to manually remove the dirt that clogs them and then wash them internally and externally with a less powerful jet of water (from the hose, for example), perhaps with the help of a broom covered with a microfiber cloth.

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2. Windows

2. Windows

@livecomposed/TikTok

The temptation to clean the windows with a pressure washer is strong: certainly the power of the water jet would instantly remove all the accumulated dust and dirt. But you will also run the risk of breaking the glass with all the consequent inconvenience that would involve. It is much better to use steam or a weaker jet of water (from the hose, for example), ammonia, newspaper or a clean, microfiber cloth.

3. Electrical boxes and meters

3. Electrical boxes and meters

@livecomposed/TikTok

Even if external electrical boxes and meters are more resistant than internal ones, the power of a pressure washer jet could make cracks in the covers which, in the long run, could cause malfunctioning and expensive repairs. The same goes for air conditioning units: the jet of water could damage them irreparably. It's much better to use soap and water and a clean cloth.

These were the suggestions from @livecomposed's video; we've added three more things you should keep away from your pressure washer below:

  • Your car: as with windows, vehicle glass is also at risk of breaking; the jet could also cause dents in the bodywork and ruin the paint;
  • Outdoor lamps: although they are very durable, they are not strong enough for a pressure washer;
  • Painted Surfaces: A pressure washer is very effective at removing stains, but it can alos remove paint from any surface.

Now it's time to roll up your sleeves and start cleaning!

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