16 Things You Should Never Pressure Wash

Pressure washers are a fantastic tool for blasting away stubborn dirt and grime around your home. They can make cleaning your driveway, patio, or siding feel almost effortless. But as powerful as they are, they’re not suitable for every job.

In fact, there are some things you should never aim a pressure washer at unless you’re looking for trouble or a hefty repair bill. These are 16 things you should absolutely never aim your pressure washer at.

Generators

When it comes to cleaning your generator, ditch the pressure washer to avoid any mishaps. Generators have numerous small, sensitive parts that can be damaged by high-pressure water. A safer bet is to use a compressor to blow away any dust and dirt, followed by a gentle wipe-down with a rag and some degreaser.

Solar Panels

Pressure washing your solar panels might seem like a quick fix, but it’s a risk you don’t want to take. The force of the water can detach panels from their frames or damage the protective outer layer. Moreover, some manufacturers will void your warranty if they find out you’ve used a pressure washer on their solar panels.

Stained Wood

If you’re looking to keep the stain on your wood deck, steer clear of the pressure washer. This powerful tool can strip stain right off, leaving your wood bare and unprotected. Unless you’re actually aiming to remove the old stain for a redo, it’s best to opt for gentler cleaning methods that preserve the finish and keep your deck looking its best.

Pools

Before those summer barbecues kick off, you might think about sprucing up your pool with a pressure washer. However, it’s better to stick to traditional cleaning methods like chemicals or robotic cleaners. Using high water pressure on cement pools can damage the structure or cause leaks, especially if it has a plastic shell. For pools with vinyl liners, the risk is even higher as the intense pressure can easily tear the material, particularly if it’s already brittle.

Light Fixtures

Outdoor light fixtures are built to survive rainstorms, but that doesn’t mean they can handle the brute force of a pressure washer. Using one to clean your outdoor lights could force water into small cracks, potentially causing damage and shortening the life of the fixtures.

Gutters

Cleaning gutters might tempt you to use a pressure washer for a quick clear-out, but it’s best to avoid this method. Gutters are designed to handle rain, not the intense blast from a pressure washer, which can damage their structure. The safer route is to manually remove debris and then gently rinse them out with a garden hose.

Windows

Think twice before you pressure wash those windows. The high pressure can easily shatter glass, leading to a costly replacement and a real headache. Instead of risking it, follow professional window washing tips for a streak-free shine without the potential for disaster.

Vehicles

High-pressure washing your vehicle might seem like a quick clean, but it can actually do more harm than good. The intense water pressure can cause small dents, chip paint, and open the door to rust issues. If you must use a pressure washer, always opt for the lowest pressure setting. And remember—never try to pressure wash under the hood! Doing so can force water into engine cracks and crevices, leading to serious damage. Stick to safer methods to keep your ride in top shape.

Anything Living

It should go without saying, but let’s say it anyway—never use a pressure washer on people, pets, or plants. The force of the water is enough to cause serious injuries or even penetrate skin, and it can absolutely devastate your greenery. Remember, when using a pressure washer on appropriate surfaces, always suit up with safety glasses to shield your eyes from flying debris.

Painted Surfaces

If you cherish the paint job on your porch floor or outdoor furniture, keep the pressure washer away. High pressure can strip paint right off, leaving you with more of a mess than you started with. For cleaning painted surfaces, a gentle, low-pressure rinse is sufficient to remove dirt without removing the paint along with it.

Lead Paint

Keep the pressure washer away from lead paint. Removing lead paint isn’t just about getting rid of the old layers; it’s crucial to contain the particles, not blast them into the air and onto surrounding surfaces. The safe removal of lead paint requires delicate handling and specific containment methods, far from the brute force of a pressure washer.

Old Mortar

If your home or garden paths include weathered brick or mortar, steer clear of using a pressure washer. High-pressure water can easily damage these structures, blasting away not just dirt but the mortar itself, especially if it’s old or loosening. Preserve the integrity of your brickwork with gentler cleaning methods that won’t send your mortar flying.

Asphalt Shingles

Taking a pressure washer to your asphalt-shingle roof? Think again. The intense water pressure can knock off the granules that are crucial for roof protection. Besides, wielding a pressure washer on a ladder ramps up the risk factor—not only could the force knock you off balance, but it might also send you tumbling down.

Air Conditioners

When it comes to cleaning your air conditioner, keep the pressure washer at bay. The high-pressure stream can easily damage the unit’s delicate fins, crushing them and blocking airflow, which could shorten your AC’s lifespan. A better approach? Gently straighten the fins with something like a butter knife, vacuum up any loose debris, and rinse with a low-pressure flow of water. This method ensures your unit stays clean and functional without the risk of damage.

Wood Siding

Pressure washing wood siding can be risky business. While it’s doable with the right pressure settings, cranking up the power too high can blast water under the siding. This might lead to damaged insulation, compromised electrical wiring, and even mold issues. It’s not just wood that suffers—aluminum and vinyl sidings can get dented too.

Electrical Panels and Meters

Think twice before aiming a pressure washer at any electrical fixtures, including those seemingly sturdy exterior panels and meters. Sure, they’re built to handle a rainstorm, but pressure washing is a whole different ball game. The high pressure can push water into tiny cracks and crevices, leading to potential damage and definitely some expensive repairs.