How to Pressure Wash a Car

Cleaning your car with a pressure washer is a better deal than using your hands. Pressure washers also consume less water than a hose. But you do not want to get it wrong, as this may lead to damage to the paintwork, interior, and even the tires.

In this article, you will find out how you can use a pressure washer to keep your car clean. So just keep reading to find out more!

What Type of Pressure Washer Should You Use?

Pressure washers can do wonders for your car’s aesthetics with less water, less stress, and less time. But first, you need to understand how they get used on car surfaces. Go for an electric washer because they are better and they come with varying benefits, some of which will be explained further on.

The perfect range for the PSI of such a washer should be between 1200 and 1900. You also need a GPM range between 1.4 and 1.6GPM. Gas-powered washers are also a good option, although gas is more powerful than electric pressure washers.

When you decide on the ideal pressure washer, the next step will be to have it set up. Since you will be using an electric pressure washer, you will need a location that is close to a source of power. You can’t use most pressure washers with extension cords because this may nullify their warranty.

Before you begin washing, make sure there are no delicate objects or cars close by as you don’t want to damage them when spraying. When using a pressure washer, ensure you wear only closed-toe shoes. A boot or sneaker should suffice in this regard.

The First Step to Pressure Wash your Car

Before you begin pressure washing your car, you have to connect the pressure washer to a hose. Ensure to use a nozzle of 40 or 25 degrees and switch the washer on. Get all the mud, dirt, and salt on your car cleaned using water alone.

Once the car is wet, you may get out your detergent and apply it. You may use the soap tip on the washer or your hands to apply the detergent. Do not use a detergent that is not recommended for your pressure washer. And if you intend to apply the detergent with your hands, do not use shampoo, dishwashing detergent, or soap. Using such will affect the wax finish and make your car appear dull.

To cover every part of your car, you should apply the water in sections. Make sure you stand about a meter away from the car, except if the water jet strength is not strong enough. Aim the wand at an angle to your vehicle to prevent scratching it.

One area of a car most people either ignore or forget to wash is the underneath section. This place is always stained with dirt, mud, and salt. To make the job of cleaning this part of your car easier, ensure to get an angled extension wand. This tool will make the task of cleaning the underneath of your car easier.

While using detergent, make sure you do not keep the detergent on beyond 10 minutes. After this step is finished, use water and spray the car using the 40-degree nozzle.

Advantages of Using a Pressure Washer for Your Car

Using a pressure washer for your car comes with several benefits, some of which include the following:

• They are easy to use and give you a clean job in a quick time.
• Pressure washers help remove sticky, hard, and stubborn contaminants and dirt from your vehicle. If you were using a hosepipe or your hands, it would require a tremendous amount of force.
• Also, because pressure washers use high force for dirt removal, you will use your hands less and avoid car scratches.

What should you consider before purchasing a pressure washer?

Before buying a pressure washer, there are certain aspects you need to consider to ensure it is suitable for your car. These include the following.

GPM and PSO

These units measure water flow and pressure. The pressure water strength gets measured using gallon per minute and pounds per square inch. High GPM means high water flow, while high PSI means higher water force. So before you buy a machine, confirm the GPM and PSI.

The Nozzle

You will find different nozzle tips in the market offering varying water flow rates. They range from the pencil point jet (0 degrees) to the wide spray fan (65 degrees). You will also find tips of 25, 15, and 40 degrees. Your choice should depend on what you want to use the nozzle tip for.

Cost Projections

Note that an electric washer is less expensive than a gas pressure washer. And among electric pressure washers, you will find brands offering discounts and cheaper costs.

Portability

You need to consider ease of storage and conveyance. You don’t want to buy a pressure washer that is hard to roll about. Explore the store and have a firsthand feel of the pressure washer. Doing this will help you make a better-informed decision.

Product Warranty

Before you buy a car pressure washer, ensure to check if the company offers a product warranty. Some companies make provisions for the entire product to be replaced within 2 weeks of purchase, should there be an issue. Other companies will only replace the components that aren’t working well. Hence, before you buy a pressure washer, make sure you confirm the product warranty and its duration.

Other Factors

Other factors to consider are the wattage used by the powerful motor, the stop system, and the presence of a removable detergent tank.

Final Thoughts

Now you know how to pressure wash a car. Cleaning your car with a pressure washer is one sure way to save time, energy, and resources. The good thing is that you do not need to be an expert before using a pressure washer. But, while using the washer, make sure you follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Doing this will help you not to do more harm than good.