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Pressure Washer

Tag: Pressure Washer

Things You Shouldn’t Pressure Wash

Posted on Marie Holper

Pressure washing is a great solution for removing dirt and grime from a variety of surfaces, from driveways to home exteriors. However, there are some surfaces that can be damaged by pressure washers, including windows, roof shingles, and some painted surfaces.

This guide from B & M Lawn & Garden offers a quick overview of surfaces you should avoid cleaning with a pressure washer. If you need more advice on pressure washing, please feel free to contact us! B & M Lawn & Garden is your trusted source for outdoor power equipment in Anaheim, CA, serving customers from Long Beach and San Bernardino.

Outdoor Furniture

While outdoor furniture is prone to getting dirty and discolored, you should avoid cleaning it with a pressure washer. The high water pressure can strip the finish off wood furniture, break glass furniture, and cause painted furniture to chip and peel. To preserve the condition of your outdoor furniture, make sure to clean it by hand using the appropriate cleaning products.

Interiors of Gutters

Cleaning your gutters is an essential home maintenance task, but it should never be done with a pressure washer. The high water pressure can damage PVC pipes and compromise their structure, potentially causing leaks. Always take the time to clean your gutters by hand.

Vehicles

Vehicle exteriors are not suitable for pressure washing, as the high water pressure can dent the metal and damage the paint job. Instead, check the manual that came with your vehicle for instructions on how to properly clean the exterior. The recommended method usually involves using a garden hose, a sponge or soft-bristle brush, and a gentle automotive detergent.

Painted Surfaces

Unless you intend to remove the paint, avoid cleaning painted surfaces with a pressure washer. Even if stripping the paint is your ultimate goal, keep in mind that the high water pressure may cause damage to the surface beneath the paint, potentially making it difficult to repaint.

Electrical Features

Electrical meters and panels, air conditioners, light fixtures, and other electrical features can be harmed by pressure washers. Even if they can be exposed to the elements, these items are not designed to withstand high water pressure. Water can seep into the cracks and ruin the electrical components, potentially creating a safety hazard. If you must operate a pressure washer in close proximity to electrical features, protect them with a tarp or cover.

This is an incomplete list, but we hope it gives you a sense of what kinds of surfaces are suitable for pressure washing. If you are not sure whether a particular surface can be cleaned with a pressure washer, you are always welcome to ask the experts here at B & M Lawn & Garden! You can find us in Anaheim, CA, near Long Beach and San Bernardino.

Choosing the Right Pressure Washer

Posted on Marie Holper

When it comes to cleaning outdoor surfaces, a pressure washer can be a game-changer. Whether you want to blast away dirt from your driveway, clean your patio, or wash your car, a pressure washer can make the job much easier. However, with so many options available on the market, choosing the right pressure washer can be a daunting task. Here are some factors our team at B & M Lawn & Garden suggests you consider before making a purchase.

1. Water Pressure

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a pressure washer is the water pressure it offers. Pressure washers are available in a range of pressures, typically measured in pounds per square inch (PSI). For light-duty tasks such as washing your car or cleaning outdoor furniture, a pressure washer with a PSI of 1300 to 1900 is usually sufficient. For tougher jobs like stripping paint or cleaning concrete, a PSI of 2000 to 3000 may be more appropriate.

2. Flow Rate

Another crucial factor to consider is the flow rate, which is measured in gallons per minute (GPM). A higher flow rate means the pressure washer can clean larger areas more quickly. For most household tasks, a flow rate of 1.4 to 1.6 GPM is adequate. However, if you have larger areas to clean, a higher flow rate can be more efficient.

3. Electric vs. Gas-Powered

Pressure washers are available in electric and gas-powered models. Electric pressure washers are generally more lightweight, quieter, and easier to maintain. They are suitable for light to medium-duty tasks. On the other hand, gas-powered pressure washers are more powerful and suitable for heavy-duty tasks. They offer greater mobility but require more maintenance and produce more noise.

4. Portability and Storage

Consider how and where you plan to use the pressure washer. If you need to move it around frequently or transport it in a vehicle, a lightweight and portable model would be more suitable. Additionally, consider the storage space available for the pressure washer when it’s not in use.

5. Additional Features

Look for additional features that can enhance the usability of the pressure washer, such as interchangeable nozzles for different spray patterns, onboard detergent tanks, and adjustable pressure settings.

By considering these factors, you can narrow down your options and choose a pressure washer that best suits your needs. Remember to also follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for proper use and maintenance to ensure the longevity of your pressure washer.

With the right pressure washer at your disposal, you can tackle outdoor cleaning tasks with ease and efficiency. Visit us in Anaheim, CA, to browse our selection of pressure washers. We are proud to serve San Bernardino.

Ways to Use a Pressure Washer

Posted on Marie Holper

If you own a pressure washer, you know how powerful and versatile this tool can be. It can help you tackle a wide range of cleaning tasks around your home and property. However, there might be some uses you don’t always remember to do! Our team at B & M Lawn & Garden has a quick list of pressure washer tasks that you can tackle as the weather warms up. 

1. Cleaning Your Driveway and Sidewalks

A pressure washer can quickly and effectively blast away dirt, grime, and stains from concrete surfaces. So, if you have a concrete pathway or drive, you can put your pressure washer to good use. 

2. Washing Your Car

A pressure washer can make washing your car faster and easier. Just be careful not to use too much pressure or get too close to the car, as this can damage the paint. Pay attention to the total water pressure and make sure you check your vehicle’s manual before cleaning. 

3. Cleaning Your Outdoor Furniture

A pressure washer can help you remove dirt, pollen, and other debris from your outdoor furniture, making it look like new again. As you take your furniture out of storage or get ready to use it again, you may want to get the pressure washer ready, too!

4. Removing Mildew and Algae From Siding

A pressure washer can help you get rid of unsightly mildew and algae buildup on your home’s siding. Again, you’ll want to pay attention to the total water pressure that’s being used to avoid any damage to your siding. With caution, you can quickly remove grime from the exterior of your home!

5. Preparing Surfaces for Painting

A pressure washer can be used to clean exterior surfaces before painting to ensure that the paint adheres properly. If you’re a regular DIYer, you may want to consider purchasing a power washer. 

These are just a few of the many ways you can use a pressure washer. No matter what project is next on your list, always be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines when using this powerful tool. If you’re interested in buying a pressure washer, visit us in Anaheim, CA, to browse our selection. We are proud to serve the Long Beach and San Bernardino areas.