Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Commercial Pressure Washer
Commercial pressure washers save significant time and effort compared to manual scrubbing. These powerful machines make quick work of tough cleaning jobs, blasting away dirt, grime, and mildew. Understanding their proper operation prevents costly damage and serious injuries.
Keep reading to discover the most common pitfalls users encounter and how you can steer clear of them for safe, effective cleaning.
1. Neglecting Safety Gear
Operating a high-pressure machine without protection is asking for trouble. The intense water stream can cause lacerations or inject water beneath the skin, leading to severe infections. Debris can easily become projectiles.
Always wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Eye Protection: Goggles or a face shield are essential.
- Hand Protection: Waterproof, sturdy gloves protect your hands.
- Foot Protection: Closed-toe, non-slip boots prevent slips and foot injuries.
- Hearing Protection: Gas engines, especially, can be loud; earplugs or muffs help.
2. Using the Wrong Nozzle
Pressure washer nozzles control the angle and intensity of the water spray. An incorrect nozzle can damage the surface or result in ineffective cleaning. Each nozzle is color-coded for a specific purpose.
Understand the common nozzle types:
- 0-Degree (Red): A concentrated jet, extremely powerful. Avoid on most surfaces; used for tough, isolated spots.
- 15-Degree (Yellow): Used for heavy-duty stripping or surface preparation on hard materials like concrete.
- 25-Degree (Green): A common choice for general cleaning on siding, decks, and vehicles.
- 40-Degree (White): Wider spray pattern for delicate surfaces like windows or washing vehicles.
- Soap Nozzle (Black): Low pressure, wide spray specifically for applying detergent.
If your pressure washer nozzle is in need of replacement, trust Serv-Us. We offer replacement parts and accessories.
3. Incorrect Pressure Settings
Commercial pressure washers offer adjustable pressure settings (PSI – pounds per square inch). Setting the pressure too high is a frequent error that can etch concrete, gouge wood, strip paint, or shatter glass. You risk irreversible damage.
Conversely, setting the pressure too low means the washer won’t clean effectively. You will waste time and water going over the same area repeatedly. Always start with a lower pressure setting and gradually increase it as needed, testing on an inconspicuous area first. Referencing the equipment manual for recommendations is a good practice.
4. Holding the Nozzle Too Close
The distance between the nozzle and the surface significantly impacts the cleaning force. Holding the nozzle too close, even with the correct pressure setting, concentrates the force onto a small area. This can easily lead to damage.
Maintain a safe distance, typically starting 12-24 inches away. Move closer slowly only if necessary for stubborn grime. Sweeping motions, rather than holding the nozzle static, distribute the pressure evenly and prevent lines or marks.
5. Using Hot Water on Unsuitable Surfaces
Many commercial pressure washers have heating elements to produce hot water or steam. Hot water excels at breaking down grease, oil, and gum. It is highly effective for cleaning engines, garage floors, or restaurant exhaust hoods.
However, hot water can warp vinyl siding, damage certain plastics, harm delicate wood fibers, or fade paint. Before engaging the heater, always check if the surface material can withstand high temperatures. Cold water is sufficient and safer for most general cleaning tasks.
6. Applying Detergent Incorrectly
Detergents boost cleaning power but require proper application. A common mistake is applying detergent using high pressure, which can atomize it inefficiently and prevent it from working properly. Another error is letting the detergent dry on the surface.
Follow the correct detergent application steps:
- Use the Soap Nozzle: Apply detergent using the designated low-pressure black nozzle.
- Work Bottom-Up: Apply detergent from the bottom of a vertical surface upwards to prevent streaking.
- Let it Dwell: Allow the detergent several minutes to sit and break down the grime (check detergent instructions). Do not let it dry.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse with the appropriate high-pressure nozzle (e.g., 25 or 40-degree), working from the top down.
7. Pressure Washing Electrical Fixtures or Outlets
Water and electricity are a lethal combination. Directly spraying outdoor lights, electrical outlets, circuit breaker boxes, or overhead power lines poses a severe risk of electrocution to the operator and anyone nearby. It can also short-circuit systems.
Take extreme caution around any electrical components. Turn off the power at the breaker if possible. Cover fixtures and outlets securely with plastic sheeting and tape before washing near them. Maintain a generous safety distance at all times.
8. Ignoring Water Source Requirements
Commercial pressure washers need a consistent and adequate water supply, measured in GPM (gallons per minute). Using a garden hose or water source that cannot provide the required GPM will starve the pump of water. This leads to cavitation.
Cavitation is the formation of vapor bubbles within the pump due to low pressure, which collapse violently, causing damage.
- Check the washer’s required GPM in the manual.
- Use a hose diameter (usually 3/4 inch) sufficient for the flow rate.
- Ensure the water source (spigot) can supply enough water.
- Check for kinks or blockages in the supply hose.
9. Skipping Routine Maintenance
Like any powerful machinery, commercial pressure washers require regular upkeep to function reliably and safely. Neglecting maintenance leads to poor performance, unexpected breakdowns, and potentially expensive repairs. Dirt buildup itself can cause issues.
Perform regular checks and maintenance:
- Engine Oil: Check and change the oil per the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Pump Oil: Check pump oil levels and change as needed.
- Filters: Clean water inlet filters and fuel filters regularly.
- Nozzles: Inspect nozzles for wear or blockage; replace if worn.
- Hoses/Connections: Check for leaks, cracks, or damage. Tighten connections.
- Fuel: Use fresh, appropriate fuel; consider stabilizer for storage.
If your commercial pressure washer is not functioning right, call Serv-Us right away. We offer repair services for the different brands of pressure washers. Don’t wait. Contact us at (973) 714-1718
10. Lack of Proper Training
Operating a commercial pressure washer without understanding its specific controls, capabilities, and safety procedures is dangerous. Each machine model can have unique features and requirements. Untrained users are more likely to make any of the mistakes listed above.
Operators should receive training on the specific model they use. This includes understanding pressure adjustments, nozzle selection, safety features (like thermal relief valves or unloader valves), startup/shutdown procedures, and basic troubleshooting. Familiarity breeds safety and efficiency.
Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Commercial Pressure Washer
Using a commercial pressure washer effectively requires more than just pointing and spraying. Awareness of potential hazards and common errors is vital for protecting yourself, preventing property damage, and achieving the best cleaning results consistently.
Avoiding these ten frequent mistakes—from neglecting safety gear and using wrong settings to skipping maintenance and training—helps you harness the full power of your pressure washer safely and efficiently. Proper use ensures longevity for your equipment and professional outcomes for your cleaning projects.
For more information on pressure washer handling, come see our team at Serv-Us. We are located at 69J Wesley Street South Hackensack, New Jersey 07606.
