Pressure washing is a great way to get rid of tough dirt and grime on your property’s surfaces. But when it’s winter, there are some important things to keep in mind to avoid problems. Let’s explore the do’s and don’ts of pressure washing during the cold season.
Pressure Washing in Winter: Is It Possible?
During winter, you might notice the dirt and grime on your property more as you put up holiday decorations. Pressure washing can be a fantastic way to clean, but if it’s really cold, you might wonder if it’s a good idea.
Can you pressure wash in winter? Yes, but there are some things to be careful about. Pressure washing uses water, and in freezing temperatures, that water can turn to ice.
The Do’s and Don’ts
Do: Use Hot Water
In winter, one big risk is that the water used in pressure washing in Myrtle Beach can freeze. To prevent this, use hotter water than usual, ideally between 180 and 200 degrees Fahrenheit. This higher temperature will help the water evaporate faster, reducing the chance of ice forming.
Don’t: Forget to Protect Yourself
Winter pressure washing can be chilly work. Protect yourself from the cold and potential harm. Wear warm layers and make sure to cover up well. Don’t forget goggles, gloves, and a hat. For your feet, consider rubber boots or shoes with spikes to avoid slipping on wet or icy surfaces.
Do: Pressure Wash in the Sun
To prevent freezing, pressure wash when it’s sunny. Avoid shaded areas and stay in the bright sunlight while cleaning. Afternoons when it’s likely to be the warmest are ideal. Sunlight not only prevents ice but also speeds up the drying process, reducing the risk of ice forming.
Don’t: Forget to Check Your Fittings
Outdoor water sources can freeze in winter. Since Myrtle Beach pressure washing uses water, make sure you have access to indoor fittings to avoid freezing pipes and problems.
Do: De-Ice
Before you start pressure washing, think about where the runoff water will go. If it ends up on your driveway or sidewalk, it can turn into ice. To keep things safe, de-ice these surfaces before you begin. You can use salt, sand, calcium chloride, or magnesium chloride to prevent ice from forming.
Don’t: Forget About Chemicals
Cold weather can affect cleaning chemicals, making them less effective. You might need to use more chemicals than usual. Also, protect your cleaning chemicals from the cold to avoid freezing. Store them in a warm, dry place in your house.
Do: Protect Your Pressure Washer
Keep your pressure washer in a warm and dry place during winter. Freezing water inside the machine’s pump can cause it to expand or even burst. Storing it where it’s warm and dry will protect its fittings and lines, saving you money and trouble.
The Best Time for Pressure Washing
Ideally, pressure washing should be done between March and November. But if you have to do it in winter, avoid temperatures below 40 degrees. Very cold weather can harm your pressure washer, put you at risk, and freeze surfaces. So, try to pressure wash in the afternoon during colder months.
However, not all areas experience freezing temperatures. If you live in a warmer region, you may be able to pressure wash during winter without any issues. Just be cautious if there’s heavy rain or strong winds. It’s generally safe to pressure wash in light rain, but avoid it during thunderstorms or when the wind is too strong.
Leave It to the Pros
Pressure washing in winter can be productive, but it’s not always the best idea. Before you start, make sure you have the right tools and knowledge. If you’re unsure, it might be best to let professionals like K&M Pressure Washing LLC handle the job for you. They have the experience and equipment to do it safely and effectively.
Call K&M Pressure Washing LLC now. Our team offers quality pressure washing services. We’ll make sure that your property will look clean and fresh.
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