BACKYARD LIFESTYLE BLOG

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE WITH HELP FROM THE EXPERTS


 

How To Power Wash Your Home, Deck and Hot Tub

Outdoor hot tub installation on a patio in the spring.

Power washing is one of the best ways of cleaning the exterior of your home, your deck, and even your hot tub. However, you do want to make certain that you know how to power wash each of these three things before you start.

Otherwise, it’s possible you could damage them and end up doing an online search for “hot tubs for sale near me” to find a replacement spa! Here are some tips for using a power washer, so that doesn’t happen.

Power Washing Your Home

Power washing your home can remove a lot of dirt and make it look new, but you want to make certain you know what settings to use. If your home’s exterior includes stucco, you want to be very careful when power washing because the high-pressure water can damage the material.

Use a nozzle with a wide spray, and never use more than 1,500 psi. For brick, steel, vinyl, and stone, you can use a power washer rated for as much as 3,000 psi without worry.

Be sure you understand how to change the nozzles on the power washer and that you use all of the appropriate safety equipment, including eyewear.

Also, never use a power washer while standing on a ladder—use an extension wand instead if you need to wash a second story.

Power Washing a Deck

When power washing a deck, you don’t have to worry about getting on a ladder, but you do need to be safe.

You’re closer to the pressurized stream of water than you would be while washing the sides of your house, so it’s easier to accidentally hit yourself or someone else. You want to make sure you’re using a brush or fan-style nozzle.

If you use a jet nozzle, you may damage the wood. For pressure, you want to look at a low or a medium setting—no more than 1,500 psi is needed. Hold the power washer wand up away from the deck, and never hold it over the same spot for too long.

Power Washing Your Hot Tub

Power washing a hot tub should be done very carefully. You won’t want to direct the power washer towards any of the electronics or other parts that could be damaged. Cleaning the exterior, however, is fine. Use the same techniques you used in cleaning your home.

Keep the psi on the low side, so water isn’t forced through any seams. We don’t recommend power washing the inside of the hot tub, as the pressurized water could damage the nozzles.

Need More Hot Tub Tips?

If you’re looking for more information on hot tubs, including hot tub prices and options, check out Big John’s in Kalispell, Montana. We carry a wide range of spas and other outdoor living equipment and accessories.

Explore our website and read through our blog to learn more about the products we offer, or visit our store to discuss your hot tub needs with one of our experts.

FOLLOW US ONLINE