8 Tips for Cleaning with COLD HIGH-PRESSURE WASHERS

1 Know your application.

Cold water pressure washing is ideal for general purpose cleaning. Typical applications include removing dirt and grime from concrete or stone, cleaning vehicles and farm equipment, and prepping fences and patios for staining. It’s also an effective tool for mold and algae removal. For heavyduty cleaning and to remove more stubborn materials, such as oil, grease, and graffiti, a hot high-pressure washer is a better option.

2 Determine the pressure and water flow required.

For general purpose commercial and industrial cleaning, a machine that provides up to 3,000 psi is sufficient. For heavierduty cleaning, look for pressure of up to 4,000 psi. However, be aware that the pressure is not the only relevant factor. The water flow rate is also important. When pressure washing, the high pressure removes the dirt from the surface, but the water flow is what rinses the dirt away. So, for an application like cleaning mud off of a bulldozer, you can maximize cleaning efficiency with a machine that provides both high pressure (up to 4,000 psi) and high water flow (at least 5 – 8 gallons/minute).

3 Pick an appropriate detergent, if needed.

If you’re just removing dirt, you may not need a detergent – the high-pressure water can do the job on its own. But some tasks will be more effective with a detergent, and pressure washers typically come with a downstream detergent injector to maximize your cleaning ability. For example, chlorine bleach can be used to remove mold or algae growth, and you may want to use a degreaser detergent for vehicle cleaning. Your local equipment dealer can help you select a detergent that’s right for your application and also advise you on compliance with local laws regulating detergent use and disposal.

4 Select the right accessories.

Cold high-pressure washers have a wide variety of accessories available to help you clean more efficiently. These include turbo nozzles to maximize the impact of the water (great for gum removal!), extension wands to reach difficult-to-access areas, and surface cleaners that enable you to clean surfaces such as driveways up to 10 times faster. Beyond end tools, other accessories make the whole process smoother. For example, a hose reel allows for easy roll up and storage of you pressure washer hose.

5 Make sure you have a non-marking hose

Imagine spending an hour cleaning a concrete surface only to discover the hose has left unsightly black scuff marks. Choose a non-marking hose, usually a hose that is the same color as the surface, to avoid having to double-clean the area.

6 Wear appropriate personal protective equipment.

Always wear personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, and close-toed shoes, while pressure washing. For more information about PPE, contact your local workplace safety authority.

7 Start farther away from the surface and move closer slowly.

This is for your protection, as well as the protection of the surface. By starting farther back, you can test the pressure washing on a small area first and then move closer as necessary. This will also help you understand where the water is going (e.g., fan tips have different angles) so you don’t accidentally point the stream at yourself or others.

8 Allow the surface to dry.

For hygiene and safety reasons, leave surfaces to dry before opening them up to new livestock or human passage