How to Pressure Wash in the Rain: A Complete Guide for Beginners

Pressure washing is a great way to clean your home, driveway, patio, deck, or any other surface that needs a thorough wash. But what if it’s raining outside? Can you still use your pressure washer in the rain, or will it damage your machine or cause safety hazards? In this article, we will answer these questions and give you some tips on how to pressure wash in the rain safely and effectively.

Can You Pressure Wash in the Rain?

The short answer is yes, you can pressure wash in the rain. However, there are some factors that you need to consider before you do so. These include:

The type of pressure washer you have
The severity of the weather
The surface you are cleaning
The safety precautions you take

Let’s look at each of these factors in more detail.

The Type of Pressure Washer You Have

Not all pressure washers are created equal. Some are more resistant to water than others. Generally speaking, gas pressure washers are safer to use in the rain than electric ones, because they don’t have any electrical components that can get wet and cause a short circuit or an electric shock. However, this doesn’t mean that gas pressure washers are completely waterproof. You need to protect the engine and the fuel tank from getting soaked in the rain.

Electric pressure washers, on the other hand, are more vulnerable to water damage and electrocution. You need to make sure that it has a waterproof rating from a reputable testing agency, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL). You can check the manual or the body of your pressure washer for a UL mark and a number that indicates the level of water resistance. For example, a UL 50 rating means that your pressure washer can withstand light rain and splashing water, while a UL 50E rating means that it can withstand heavy rain and water jets.

If you are not sure about the waterproof rating of your pressure washer, or if it doesn’t have one at all, it’s better to avoid using it in the rain. You don’t want to risk damaging your machine or getting electrocuted by using it in wet conditions.

The Severity of the Weather

Another factor that you need to consider is how bad the weather is. If it’s just a light drizzle or a passing shower, you can probably use your pressure washer in the rain without any problems. In fact, some people prefer to pressure wash in the rain, because it helps them rinse off their work and saves water. However, if it’s pouring heavily or if there is thunder and lightning, you should stop using your pressure washer immediately. Heavy rain can make your pressure washer harder to control and reduce its effectiveness. Thunder and lightning can pose a serious threat to your safety, especially if you are using an electric pressure washer or if you are near metal objects.

The Surface You Are Cleaning

The surface that you are cleaning also matters when it comes to pressure washing in the rain. Some surfaces are easier to clean when they are wet, while others are harder. For example, wood surfaces tend to swell and absorb water when they are wet, which makes them more difficult to clean with a pressure washer. On the other hand, concrete surfaces tend to be more slippery when they are wet, which makes them easier to clean with a pressure washer. You should also consider the type of dirt or stain that you are trying to remove from the surface. Some dirt or stains may be easier to remove when they are wet, while others may be harder.

The Safety Precautions You Take

Finally, you need to take some safety precautions when you use your pressure washer in the rain. Here are some tips that can help you avoid accidents and injuries:

Make sure that your washer is properly grounded. This will help reduce the risk of electrical shock.
Always wear rubber gloves when operating in wet conditions. This will also help prevent electrical shock and protect your hands from cuts and burns.
Wear protective eyewear and clothing when using it in any weather. This will protect you from flying debris and water spray.
Avoid water near electrical outlets, wires, or appliances. This can cause sparks or fires.
Avoid water near windows or glass doors. This can cause them to shatter or crack.
Avoid spraying water near plants or animals. This can harm them or make them sick.
Avoid spraying water on yourself or other people. This can cause serious injuries or infections.

Conclusion

Pressure washing in the rain is possible, but not advisable. It depends on several factors, such as the type of pressure washer you have, the severity of the weather, the surface you are cleaning, and the safety precautions you take. You should always check the manual and the rating of your pressure washer before using it in the rain, avoid using it in heavy rain or in thunderstorms, and follow some safety tips to prevent accidents and injuries. If you are not sure about using your pressure washer in the rain, it’s better to wait for a sunny day or hire a professional to do the job for you.

References:

How to use a pressure washer: A guide for beginners – CNET

Pressure Washing Tips for Absolute Beginners | Best Pick Reports