As our homes bear the brunt of natural elements such as wind, rain, dust, and snow throughout the year, it often leads to accumulated grime, mildew, algae, and other substances that can diminish the beauty and value of our properties. Fortunately, the innovation of power washers (also known as pressure washers) has vastly improved the cleaning game, enabling us to maintain pristine homes in an efficient and cost-effective way. This blog post will guide you through the meticulous process of cleaning your home with a power washer house cleaner.
Table Of Contents
What is a Power Washer House Cleaner?
A power washer is a high-pressure mechanical sprayer that is perfect for cleaning tough dirt, grime and mould from the exterior of the house, patio, driveway, garage, and other hard surfaces. It uses a high-pressure water stream combined with powerful cleaning solutions to effectively break down and wash away these stubborn layers.
Tips for Power Washing Your House
- Choose the Right Power Washer: Power washers come in gas and electric models. Gas models are more powerful, with PSI (pounds per square inch) values ranging from 2000 to 4000, making them ideal for larger homes and more stubborn dirt. Electric models are lighter, more affordable and quieter. They typically offer PSI values from 1300 to 1700, which are enough for cleaning small patios, decks, and furniture.
- Use the Appropriate PSI: Utilizing the right PSI is essential when using power washers. Too much pressure can damage surfaces, while too little pressure might not clean effectively. Usually, a PSI of between 1300 to 2400 is suitable for most household cleaning tasks.
- Choose the Right Nozzle: Different nozzles offer different spray patterns, from zero degrees (a powerful jet of water for removing stubborn grime) to wide fans (suitable for rinsing and soaking surfaces). Always start with the widest nozzle (40 or 60-degree) to avoid damaging the surface, and then gradually reduce the angle if needed.
- Prepare Your Cleaning Solution: Commercial power washer detergents can be purchased, or you can make your own with household products. A common solution contains 1 part bleach to 4 parts water with a squirt of dish soap, which is perfect for effectively killing mildew and washing away grime.
Power Washing Steps
- Safety First: Always wear protective gear such as gloves, eye protection, suitable footwear, and attire that will protect your body from flying debris. Be aware of all power lines, electrical outlets and ensure the surrounding area is clear of pets and children.
- Prepare the Area: Before you begin, cover all outdoor furniture and plants with waterproof covers. Close all windows and doors. Use painter’s tape to cover any fixtures that you don’t want to be sprayed.
- Apply the Cleaning Solution: Starting from the bottom and working your way to the top, gently spray your house with the soap mixture. Allow it to sit and penetrate the grime for about 10-15 minutes, but be careful not to let it dry.
- Power Wash: Starting from the top and working your way down the house siding, spray with the power washer. Move the spray horizontally across your walls for the best cleaning.
- Rinse and Repeat: After power washing, rinse away any residual soap with a garden hose. If necessary, repeat the process.
Conclusion
A power washer can be an invaluable tool for maintaining the cleanliness of your home. However, it’s vital to approach power washing with knowledge and respect for the powerful tool it is. Always adhere strictly to safety practices and remember, if a job seems too much, do not hesitate to call in professionals. With this guide, you are now well-equipped to embark on your own power washing journey, restoring the beauty of your home and protecting its value for years to come.