How to Safely Use a Pressure Washer: 10 Essential Tips

This might come as a surprise, but according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, in 2014, thousands of people were recorded to go to the ER due to pressure washer-related injuries. 

A pressure washer can make cleaning tasks more efficient and effective, but it’s not without risks. The strong force of water from the pressure washer is undeniably dangerous and could lead to physical and property damage. However, all this can be avoided with the proper precautions.

This article teaches the ten essential, easy-to-follow tips for safety during pressure washer usage. 

Why Pressure Washer Safety is Important

A pressure washer is a powerful tool that, if mishandled, can cause various serious injuries like burns, falls, lacerations, bruises, and, worse, amputations. It can also destroy properties, especially on the surfaces, which will require you to incur repair costs. 

These factors are why you must know how to prioritise your safety when using pressure washers. You don’t just protect yourself or your property but also ensure that your pressure washer will remain in its top shape and can function as intended.

10 Essential Tips to Safely Use a Pressure Washer

1. Wear Proper Protective Gear

Your top priority when using a pressure washer should always be yourself, so ensure you’re equipped with the following proper personal protective equipment (PPE), whether you use it for personal use or it’s part of your job:

• Safety shoes
• Gloves
• Safety glasses or face shield
• Long sleeves gear

2. Read the User Manual Thoroughly

Allocate time to understand the specifications and settings of the pressure washer you’re using. These details are often found in the manual, indicating safety operation practices and how to use the tool properly. 

3. Choose the Right Nozzle and Pressure Setting

The pressure washer has different nozzles in various colours designed to cater to specific tasks. Raken App Toolbox Talks advises users to avoid using the zero tip or the red nozzles due to their immense pressure, which could cause equally damaging injuries. 

4. Clear the Area Before Use

Before you pressure wash the area, ensure there are no fragile items, furniture, or debris from the zone. If you have children or pets near the working zone, assist them as far away as possible. 

5. Test on a Small Area First

To prevent damage on sensitive surfaces, try testing on a small area before cleaning the rest of the large surface. This will allow you to adjust the settings and nozzle as necessary. 

6. Maintain a Safe Distance

When you start cleaning, you must keep a safe distance, typically between 6-12 inches, between the nozzle and the surface you’re cleaning. This is critical to avoid harmful water spray.

7. Never Aim at People or Animals

This can’t be stressed enough, but never aim at people or animals when you’re using a pressure washer. The water that comes from the tool can penetrate the skin and can cause severe injuries to those that will have contact. 

8. Use Detergents Properly

If you’re using a detergent, evenly apply it on the surface and soak it before using the pressure washer to rinse it. When handling cleaning chemicals, gloves must be worn to avoid skin irritation. 

9. Regularly Inspect the Equipment

Before and after using a pressure washer, inspect each part for possible wear and tear. If you find any, fixing it before reusing it is essential, as operating could be unsafe. 

Regular maintenance from a reliable water pump supplier ensures the equipment stays in top condition.

10. Properly Store the Pressure Washer

After use, drain and dry the pressure washer and place it in a safe, dry location. Proper storage is key to prolonging the washer’s lifespan. 

Common Pressure Washer Mistakes to Avoid

In addition to the tips mentioned above, here are some of the most common mistakes you should avoid when dealing with pressure washer: 

• Not wearing PPE.
• Attempting to move objects using the tool.
• Using a gasoline-powered washer in an enclosed space.
• Letting unauthorised individuals operate the washer.
• Not removing the grounding prong from the cord. 

Stay Safe and Get the Job Done Right

In any job, safety should always come first. Thus, you must follow the abovementioned tips to protect yourself and your property when using a powerful tool like a pressure washer. Taking these tips seriously lets you enjoy the tool’s benefits without compromising your safety. 

One last tip: When buying a pressure washer, get it only from certified equipment and water pump supplier, Lian Beng Machinery Co.

We are Singapore’s reliable industrial equipment supplier, offering various top-notch washers and compressors that are perfect for your needs. 

All our products are exported worldwide and meet industry standards and codes. We also hold the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) accreditation.

Contact us to learn more!