Safety Precautions to Take When Using A Pressure Washer

Are you tired of dirty and stained surfaces on your property? A pressure washer can be a powerful tool to use to clean and restore your property to its former glory. However, before you start using your pressure washer, it’s important to take safety precautions to avoid accidents and injuries.

Use Appropriate Protective Equipment

If you are planning on pressure washing your property, you should always wear safety goggles, gloves, and closed-toe shoes. The goggles will protect your eyes from flying debris and the high-pressure water stream. The gloves will protect your hands from cuts, scrapes, and chemical burns. And finally, when you wear closed-toe shoes your feet are protected from falling objects and slips.

Read All of the Instructions

Once you have gotten ready to pressure wash your home, it is important to read the manufacturer’s instructions and familiarize yourself with the machine’s controls. The instructions will provide information on how to safely operate the machine, including the recommended pressure and nozzle settings for different cleaning tasks. Familiarizing yourself with the machine will also help with knowing what amount of pressure to use when washing your home.

Know Your Nozzles

In addition to reading the instructions about how to use your pressure washer, you should know what the different nozzles are used for. Once you begin the pressure washing process, it is paramount to use the right nozzle, because different nozzles are designed for different cleaning tasks, and using the wrong nozzle can cause damage or injury. 

Clear the Debris

Before you start pressure washing, making sure that any debris in the area is cleared away will help with making the cleaning process a success. This means that sticks, rocks, and any other debris should be removed before you begin cleaning your home. You should also make sure to move any furniture, plants, and other objects away from the home.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

When you are ready to pressure wash your property it is best to be aware of your surroundings and the potential hazards. Power lines and other electrical equipment can be easy targets for high-pressure water. The water from a pressure washer can travel fast and can become a danger if your pressure washer isn’t properly handled.

Keep the Pressure Washer Stable While Washing

Once you are ready to begin pressure washing your home, it is important to make sure the machine is stable. Stability with a firm grip will prevent accidents from happening. You shouldn’t plan on moving the machine around either while it is in operation.

Take Caution Near Windows

Windows are fragile and can be easily damaged by the high-pressure water stream. This is why using the right nozzle is a must. In addition, you should keep the nozzle at a safe distance from the windows to avoid breaking them.

Be Careful When Using Chemicals

When pressure washing your property, you should be careful with the chemicals being used. Some pressure washers are designed to be used with chemicals such as detergents and degreasers. If you have a pressure washer that uses detergents, you should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Another important thing to do when operating a pressure washer with chemicals is to wear appropriate PPE, including a respirator mask if recommended.

Once you are finished with your home exterior project, make sure your pressure washer is turned off and unplugged from the outlet. This will prevent accidental start-ups and protect the machine from damage. However, if you are not experienced with using a pressure washer, it may be best to hire a professional to clean your property.

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