Pressure washing is more dangerous than many homeowners realize.
Yes, getting your own pressure washer is exciting. However, DIY pressure washing comes with hidden risks.
Many homeowners have broken windows, damaged cars, or destroyed their roof using pressure washers, for example.
Home pressure washers are safe to use on driveways and other hard surfaces, but DIY pressure washing can be risky – even if you’re an experienced homeowner.
We’re not trying to scare you into buying our Long Island pressure washing services. We’re educating you on the risks of DIY pressure washing.
1) Wounds & Other Physical Injuries
Pressure washers use high pressure water to blast contaminants away from a surface. As the CDC explains, the strong spray of a pressure washer can cause serious wounds.
Pressure washer wounds seem less serious than they are. They might look like a light bruise, for example, and many people think they’re not a big deal.
Unfortunately, many people delay treatment for pressure washing wounds, increasing the risk of infection.
In some cases, untreated pressure washing wounds can even lead to disability or amputation.
2) Toxic Fumes
Many homeowners have been seriously injured by running pressure washers in an environment with poor ventilation.
You might walk around your home with a pressure washer, then decide to run the pressure washer in your garage to clean the pavement.
Unfortunately, running a gas-powered pressure washer in a closed space can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
Never use any equipment powered by a gasoline engine inside a building – or even in a partially enclosed space. Always leave your pressure washer outside and away from air intakes.
3) Flying Debris
Pressure washing can push debris into the air. If you hit the debris at the right angle with a pressure washer, it could fly into your face.
The fast, strong spray of a pressure washer can throw objects around. It could injure you or the people around you.
Every year, people are blinded after using a pressure washer incorrectly. They point a pressure washer at a surface with pebbles, for example, and end up with a permanent eye disability.
Wear eye protection when pressure washing a surface – especially if working around tight corners.
Make sure the area is free of any people or pets. Don’t pressure wash around other people, especially if they’re not wearing protective equipment.
4) Electrical Shocks
If you’re using an electrical pressure washer, then you need to take extra caution. It’s easy to shock yourself using an electric-powered pressure washer.
Always plug your pressure washer into a properly-grounded receptable to avoid electrical issues. Make sure your pressure washer stays grounded during use.
If you’re using an extension cord, then make sure the extension cord is rated for wet conditions. Keep the extension cord away from standing water.
For extra protection, wear rubber-soled shoes to provide insulation when using the pressure washer.
5) Damage to your Home
It’s surprisingly easy to damage your home and other property using a pressure washer.
You can’t just spray your pressure washer on your siding or roof, for example, and expect it to safely clean the surface.
Instead, professionals use specific pressure ratings and special cleaning solutions to clean surfaces like your siding and roof.
If you’re an amateur pressure washer, then you may be excited to use your pressure washer all over your home. However, be extra careful when cleaning your siding, roof, and other surfaces. It’s easy to cause permanent damage to your property.
6) Damage to Other Property
Pressure washers can damage more than just your roof and siding: improper pressure washing can damage your car, stripping away paint.
Every amateur homeowner has thought about pressure washing their car. You’re cleaning your driveway, then look up and see your dirty car. You think it’s safe. Pressure washing is generally safe for vehicles, but it can also strip away paint when used incorrectly.
Pressure washing is especially dangerous if your car already has chips. Pressure washing can make these chips larger, increasing the chance of rust.
Final Word: Consider Hiring the Professionals
Long Island’s best pressure washing team is Majestic Window Cleaning & Pressure Washing.
Backed by combined decades of experience, Majestic Window Cleaning & Pressure Washing has a proven reputation for safely cleaning homes and businesses across Long Island.
We’re available across Suffolk County and Nassau County. Request a free estimate today.