What is Pressure Cleaning?

Also known as pressure washing, pressure cleaning is a process that makes use of a mixture of detergent and water under a specified amount of pressure to clean various types of surfaces. It is not unusual for a pressure cleaner to be used for washing down exterior walls, concrete walkways, or patio floors. Pressure cleaning can also be used for many different types of fencing as well.

The process for pressure cleaning involves the direction of a steady spray of water at a rate of pressure much higher than can be obtained with the typical garden hose. Pumps make it possible to set the level of pressure required for the cleaning task at hand. For jobs where there is a need to wash away surface dirt and grime, a low setting on the pressure washer is often sufficient. However, when there is a need to perform deep cleaning with a surface, a high pressure stream is a better option.

Many people are surprised to learn that pressure washers sometimes do not include heating elements. Cold water pressure cleaning is a good choice for many pressure cleaning jobs, as the combination of pressure and detergent is usually sufficient to clean house siding, deck floors, and similar surfaces. However, hot water may be a better choice when deep cleaning is necessary. For this reason, it is a good idea to check the pressure washer for a heating element before buying or renting the pump.

There is also some variance in the type of cleaning agents or detergents that can be used in pressure cleaning. There are some detergents specifically formulated to remove grease and oil from surfaces, while others are more of a general purpose cleaner intended to remove basic dirt and grime. While a basic product may be fine for washing the exterior siding, the more concentrated detergents may be a better option when removing oil or grease from the garage floor or the driveway.

Unless you engage in pressure cleaning projects several times a year, the best option is renting a washer when and as needed. This means you do not tie up a lot of money in a pressure washer and do not have to store the washer when it is not in use. In addition, renting always provides you with the option of using a cold water machine for some jobs and a hot water machine for other types of jobs. Renting also makes it possible to avoid any costs associated with repairs to a pressure washer.