DIY Pressure Washing Safety: What You Need to Know

Many homeowners own or hire pressure washers for cleaning their driveways and patios. While domestic pressure washers are far less powerful than professional equipment, they're still powerful enough to cause serious injury if not used correctly. Here's what you need to know about pressure washing safety.

The Real Risks of Pressure Washers

A pressure washer, even a domestic one, delivers water at sufficient force to penetrate skin and cause serious injection injuries. These injuries are often underestimated at the time because the wound appears small, but the water penetrates deep into tissue and can cause infection, serious tissue damage, and require surgery. Never point a pressure washer at yourself, other people, or animals -- even briefly.

Pressure washers also create slip hazards. The surface being cleaned and the surrounding area become very wet, and loosened algae and moss are extremely slippery. Appropriate footwear is essential.

Safety Equipment

Always wear: - Sturdy, waterproof footwear with good grip (Wellington boots are ideal) - Safety goggles or glasses to protect against backspray and debris - Hearing protection if using the pressure washer for extended periods - Long trousers and sleeves to protect against backspray

Electrical Safety

If you're using an electric pressure washer, ensure the cable and connections are well away from water and never use damaged cables or connections. Use a residual current device (RCD) plug to provide protection against electrical shock.

Surface Damage

It's easy to damage surfaces with a domestic pressure washer, particularly if the wrong nozzle is used or the lance is held too close to the surface. Avoid using 0-degree (pinpoint) nozzles on driveways and patios -- use a wide fan nozzle instead. Keep the lance at a consistent distance from the surface and use a smooth, sweeping motion.

When to Call a Professional

There are situations where it's genuinely better to call a professional rather than tackling the job yourself. If you have fragile surfaces such as Indian sandstone or an older tarmac driveway, professional equipment and expertise will avoid damage that could be expensive to repair. For heavy biological growth, oil staining, or large areas, professional equipment will achieve a far better result more efficiently.