{"id":2528,"date":"2023-05-02T07:04:09","date_gmt":"2023-05-02T14:04:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.appliancepartspros.com\/b\/?p=2528"},"modified":"2023-05-02T07:04:15","modified_gmt":"2023-05-02T14:04:15","slug":"pressure-washer-safety-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.appliancepartspros.com\/c\/pressure-washer-safety-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Pressure Washer Safety Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"
person wearing yellow rubber boots with high-pressure water nozzle cleaning the dirt in the tiles. Image by wirestock on freepik.com<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n

Nothing will get your deck, driveway, or cement pathways looking new quite like a few passes with a pressure washer, but it\u2019s not a tool to be used without taking the proper precautions. With spring here, it\u2019s the perfect time to get acquainted with pressure washer safety. Check out our guide below, and in just a few minutes, AppliancePartsPros.com will have you prepped to clean your stuff safely and efficiently. Let\u2019s go!<\/span><\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/section>\n

Safety Basics: Some Quick Pressure Washer Safety Tips<\/span><\/h2>\n

To start, we\u2019re setting you up with some basic safety guidelines that are always relevant.<\/span><\/p>\n

1. Never aim the pressure washer wand at a living thing<\/span><\/h3>\n

Pressure washers can destroy plants, damage trees leaving them susceptible to mold and parasites, and seriously injure people and animals. Never, ever point the pressure washer wand at a living thing.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. Do not allow children to operate pressure washers<\/span><\/h3>\n

Beyond the obvious concerns that come with letting a child handle something that could cause other people and property serious harm, pressure washers have considerable kick back that could knock a child off their feet.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. Never operate a pressure washer on a ladder or roof<\/span><\/h3>\n

The kickback from a pressure washer can knock you off your feet if you don\u2019t have good footing. Avoid serious injury and only operate your pressure washer while on the ground.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Know what you can and can\u2019t clean with a pressure washer<\/span><\/h3>\n

There are a lot of videos online showcasing the versatility of pressure washers, but if you aren\u2019t an experienced user, it\u2019s best to stick with pressure washing the basics \u2013 sidewalks, decks, and driveways. Power washing can very quickly destroy windows, gutters and siding, blow away paint on just about any surface, put holes in tires, and tear away roof shingles. Avoid using your pressure washer on anything it isn\u2019t specifically designed to clean.<\/span><\/p>\n

Want some more tips on what you definitely shouldn\u2019t be cleaning with a pressure washer? Check out our guide.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Never operate a gas-powered pressure washer in an enclosed space<\/span><\/h3>\n

Gas-powered pressure washers create carbon monoxide, which is extremely dangerous when inhaled. Even in smaller quantities, it can leave you feeling dizzy. In large quantities, it\u2019s fatal.<\/span><\/p>\n

6. Take proper precautions when operating an electric pressure washer<\/span><\/h3>\n

If you have an electric pressure washer, make sure it is properly grounded when plugged in. Additionally, ensure that you aren\u2019t working near the electrical outlet.<\/span><\/p>\n

Avoid using an extension cord if you can, but if you must, opt for a heavy duty extension cord approved for wet conditions.<\/span><\/p>\n

While working with an electric pressure washer, be sure to keep the power cord well out of the way of your work area and out of puddles.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Opt for the widest degree nozzle for the job<\/span><\/h3>\n

The more narrow the nozzle, the more intense the pressure, and the greater the risk of damage to whatever you\u2019re cleaning. We advise starting with the largest nozzle you can and working your way down, and avoid using that red zero degree nozzle if at all possible.<\/span><\/p>\n

8. Keep up with a regular maintenance schedule<\/span><\/h3>\n

Your pressure washer may have oil, fuel, and filters that need regular cleaning and replacement at specific intervals. Consult your washer\u2019s manual for specific guidelines on when you should be cleaning and replacing filters and refreshing oil.<\/span><\/p>\n

Before You Start: Safe Pressure Washer Prep<\/span><\/h2>\n

Before you do any cleaning, you\u2019ll want to make sure you\u2019re following these safety tips.<\/span><\/p>\n

1. Read the manual<\/span><\/h3>\n

If you\u2019re a first timer or you aren\u2019t completely comfortable with pressure washer use, read the manual. The manufacturer will have listed safety and upkeep guidelines and specific instructions for features unique to your pressure washer make and model.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. Before you clean, clear the area<\/span><\/h3>\n

Pressure washer jets can fling even heavier objects easily, and a flying rock or dog toy can do some serious damage to windows and bystanders. No matter what part of your property you plan on cleaning, before you begin, you\u2019ll want to survey the space and do some quick clean up. Get rid of rocks and pick up any loose objects that may be lying around.<\/span><\/p>\n

You may also want to move things like lawn furniture and potted plants \u2013 not because they may go flying, but because the pressure washer jet could damage them.<\/span><\/p>\n

You\u2019ll also want to make note of anything that\u2019s too heavy or inconvenient to move. Things like gas\/electric meters and outdoor lighting can be damaged if hit with a pressure washer, so be sure to work around them.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. Gear up!<\/span><\/h3>\n

Pressure washers can do some serious damage, and injuries caused by pressure washers can be far worse than they appear. Before you start, make sure you\u2019re properly geared up:<\/span><\/p>\n