Pressure washers are a popular tool for homeowners seeking to maintain the cleanliness and aesthetic appeal of their homes. They are efficient, powerful, and can make a significant difference in the appearance of your house’s exterior. However, to succeed in this task, it’s important to know what to put in a pressure washer to clean the house.
To clean your house using a pressure washer, you can use a cleaning detergent specifically designed for pressure washers, such as Karcher Multi-Purpose Pressure Washer Soap or Simple Green Oxy Solve Total Outdoor Cleaner. Eco-friendly alternatives like citric acid or green detergents are also an option. Household products like a mixture of water and vinegar, or bleach, water, and Dawn dish soap can be used too. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when mixing and applying these solutions.
Pressure Washer Cleaning Solutions
The most effective way to clean your house using a pressure washer is to use a cleaning detergent specifically designed for pressure washers. Some popular options include:
- Karcher Multi-Purpose Pressure Washer Soap
- Simple Green Oxy Solve Total Outdoor Pressure Washer Cleaner
- Sun Joe SPX-APC1G All-Purpose Heavy Duty Pressure Washer Rated Cleaner + Degreaser
These cleaning solutions are designed to work well with pressure washers and effectively remove dirt, grime, and stains from various surfaces, such as concrete driveways, vinyl siding, and patio furniture. When choosing a cleaning solution, it’s essential to consider the type of surface you’ll be cleaning and the specific cleaning requirements.
Eco-Friendly Alternatives
If you’re conscious about the environment, consider using eco-friendly cleaning solutions. These alternatives are biodegradable, non-toxic, and safe for the environment. Some of the eco-friendly pressure washing chemicals and solutions include:
- Citric acid
- Green detergents
- Environmentally-friendly pressure washing solutions like Enviro-Clean, Enviro Gard 2, and Verde All Purpose
- Wash Safe products
Using Household Products
There are also household products that can be used as cleaning solutions in a pressure washer. One simple homemade solution is a mixture of water and vinegar. Another option is a mixture of bleach and water in a 1:1 ratio, with 2 ounces of Dawn dish soap (blue one, without ammonia) for every gallon of mix.
How to Mix and Load Cleaning Solutions
To properly mix and load cleaning solutions into a pressure washer, follow these steps:
- Choose the right cleaning solution
- Determine the correct dilution ratio
- Prepare the cleaning solution
- Connect the detergent injection system
- Attach the low-pressure nozzle
- Apply the cleaning solution
- Rinse the surface
Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for both the pressure washer and the cleaning solution to ensure safe and effective cleaning.
Precautions to Take
When using cleaning solutions in a pressure washer, it is essential to take certain precautions. These include using eco-friendly cleaning solutions, reading the pressure washer manual, wearing proper safety gear, using only cleaning fluids designed for pressure washers, and testing the surface with plain water first.
Final Thoughts
Pressure washing is an effective way to clean the exterior of your house, but it’s important to know what to put in a pressure washer to clean the house effectively. Whether you choose a commercial cleaning solution, an eco-friendly alternative, or a homemade mix, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe and effective cleaning process.
With the right cleaning solution and proper technique, you can make your house look brand new in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dish soap in a pressure washer?
Yes, you can use dish soap in a pressure washer, but it should be used in moderation and carefully diluted. A common recipe is a mixture of bleach and water in a 1:1 ratio, with 2 ounces of Dawn dish soap (blue one, without ammonia) for every gallon of mix.
Do I need to rinse after using a pressure washer?
Yes, it’s important to rinse the surface after applying the cleaning solution with a pressure washer. This helps to remove any remaining solution and dirt from the surface, leaving it clean and shiny.
Is it safe to use bleach in a pressure washer?
Bleach can be used in a pressure washer, but it should be properly diluted and used with caution. Bleach is a powerful cleaner, but it can also cause damage to certain materials and harm plants and grass if not used properly. Make sure to rinse thoroughly after using a bleach solution.
Can I use any type of cleaning solution in a pressure washer?
No, not all cleaning solutions are safe or effective for use in a pressure washer. It’s recommended to use cleaning solutions specifically designed for pressure washers, as these are formulated to work well with the machine and effectively clean different surfaces.
How often should I pressure wash my house?
How often you should pressure wash your house depends on several factors, including the local climate, the material of your house’s exterior, and the level of dirt and grime. However, as a general rule, most homes can benefit from pressure washing once or twice a year.
