What is Pressure Washing

Pressure washingPressure washing also known as power washing involves the use of high-velocity water to clean surfaces that are characterized by hard dirt or need thorough cleaning. Pressure washing can be used for a variety of reasons including to clean decks and to remove graffiti. It involves the use of a pressure washer which is a mechanical sprayer equipped with special nozzles that effectively eject water in high pressure. Water is mixed with washing solutions in a reservoir when necessary and the compound is jetted out while directed to the intended object with the jets hitting the surface hard from a close distance.

Pressure from the washer can be regulated by the choice of a particular nozzle attached directly to the trigger gun depending on the application. The nozzles are specially designed to produce jets of water in different shape and velocity. Some have a high rate of water flow and low output pressure while others eject water in a thin jet thus giving a high pressure output. Careful selection is necessary to prevent use of very high pressure which may damage the surface of the object being cleaned or use of very low pressure causing under performance. As the name suggests, power washing depends on energy to produce power and this forms the basis for classification of various types of pressure washers depending on the fuel consumed. These include:

  • Electric pressure washer,
  • Gas pressure washer,
  • Hydraulic pressure washer,
  • Diesel pressure washer,
  • High pressure steam cleaner
  • Ultra high pressure washer and
  • Petrol pressure washer.

Effective use of power washers requires a number of considerations. The following tips should be considered when pressure washing:

Power testing. You can step a few yards away from the object and reduce the distance slowly to the appropriate distance. Good choice of nozzle. Power washers are meant for many purposes which mean you need to exactly understand your need before picking a nozzle. Apply right chemicals and detergents. Always use washing solutions that are approved for pressure washers only.