How To Soft Wash With A Pressure Washer?

How To Soft Wash With A Pressure WasherIf you are a frequent user of the pressure washer and are willing to use it to clean various hard and delicate surfaces such as sidings or cars, you must have come across the term ‘soft washing’ with little to no information about it. You would probably be thinking about the soft washing and whether you can do it with your pressure washer.

This article will teach every detail about soft washing using the pressure washer. We will also discuss the procedure and whether you are required with any unique accessories for soft washing or not.

What Is Soft Washing?

Soft washing is similar to pressure washing, but the only difference is the pressure. Some experts think that soft washing is washing with a force of less than 500 psi, while for most of them, less than 1000 psi is considered soft washing. 1000 psi may seem like much, but many objects require a pressure of about 3500 psi, and 1000 psi is a lot less in front of it.

It is a broad term that depends on the type of surface and the type of pressure washer. Soft washing is used to clean the vinyl siding, wooden floors, roofs, trucks, RVs, or cars.These surfaces are delicate and can be damaged by ordinary pressure washing, so a soft washing term is introduced in which the pressure is brought to a minimum range.

Soft Washing Using Pressure Washer

If you think that you can use your electric power pressure washer for soft washing, then the answer is yes. With some modifications and pressure control, you are all set to use them for gentle washing. The soft wash pump manufacturers will try to tell you that soft washing is very different from ordinary pressure washing, and you can damage your surface by using the pressure to gentle wash but by adjusting the pressure, you can use them for different purposes.

Here is how you can use the pressure washer for soft washing:

  • By adjusting the pressure if your pressure washer is enabled.
  • By changing the nozzle and spray distance, you can also change the pressure washer’s pressure.

 

How To Soft Wash With A Pressure Washer?

You can use your regular pressure washer for soft washing with some modifications. The electrical pressure washers are recommended in this situation because they already have low pressure that is easier to control and decrease. These are the tips for preparing the pressure washer for a soft wash.

Appropriate Nozzle

Nozzles are the main factor in controlling the pressure of the pressure washer. There are many types of nozzles that include 0 degrees, 15 degrees, 25 degrees, 40 degree, and 65 degree nozzles. It is better to use the 40-degree nozzle for soft washing because they offer a gentle pressure range while being effective against dirt, dust, and deposits.

Do Not Use The Unloader Valve

Most people think that unloader valves adjust the pressure, but that is not entirely true. Its primary purpose is to send the water back to the pump so it does not build the tension. It is a safety instrument that should not be disturbed otherwise it causes damage not only to the pressure washer but also to the user.

Use Good Detergent

When you are soft washing, the pressure might not be enough to do the job flawlessly, so you require an appropriate detergent. Consider the pressure washer specification and the surface properties to choose the proper detergent. Use the recommended and authentic detergent to use in a soft wash.

Maintain The Distance

The distance of the spray nozzle to the surface is the primary factor in the pressure. Water will strike the surface with more force if the distance is less. In the soft wash, it is recommended that you maintain a distance of approximately 20 inches or more. Many experts use the distance as pressure control if it is not available in the pressure washer.

Conclusion

Soft washing is not so different from regular pressure washing, and by following the right strategy, you can convert your pressure washer to gentle washing. The ideal pressure for soft washing is less than 1000 psi and sometimes 500 psi. The stress might be less, but you should follow all the precautions and wear personal protective equipment when using the pressure washer. The nozzle is the primary pressure controller in the pressure washer, and you can also control it by maintaining the proper distance.

Jose Kelly