What Size Pressure Washer For 2 Story House?
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Just because you have a two-story house, doesn’t mean you need a gigantic pressure washer.
If you buy too big of a machine, not only will you be wasting your money, but you’ll also be putting undue wear on the equipment.
So, what size pressure washer for 2 story house? Let’s take a look.
What Size Pressure Washer For 2 Story House?
You’ll need a pressure washer that can generate at least 2200 to 2300 psi (pounds per square inch).
This will ensure that the water pressure is strong enough to reach the second story.
If you only plan on using the pressure washer for light cleaning tasks, such as washing your car or cleaning your deck, then you can get away with a lower psi rating.
Table: Recommended Pressure Washer Size for 2-Story House
| House Size (in square feet) | PSI (Pounds per Square Inch) | GPM (Gallons per Minute) | Recommended Pressure Washer Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 1,500 | 1,500-2,000 | 1.2-1.5 | Electric pressure washer with 1,800-2,000 PSI |
| 1,500-3,000 | 2,000-2,500 | 1.8-2.3 | Gas-powered pressure washer with 2,500-3,000 PSI |
| 3,000-4,000 | 2,500-3,000 | 2.4-3.0 | Gas-powered pressure washer with 3,000-3,500 PSI |
| 4,000+ | 3,000+ | 3.0+ | Professional-grade pressure washer with 3,500+ PSI |
How To Pressure Wash A 2-Story House?
To pressure washer a two-story house, you’ll need to follow the below steps:
Step 1: Close The Windows And Doors
Make sure all the windows and doors on the second story are closed before you start pressure washing.
This will prevent water from getting inside the house. If you want to secure the plants in the area, you can cover them with a tarp.
Step 2: Mixture of the Cleaning Solutions
Now it’s time to mix the cleaning solutions. You can either use a commercial pressure washer solution or make your own.
If you’re making your own, then mix 1 part of bleach and 3 parts of water in a mixing bowl. Fill the tank of your pressure washer with the solution.
Step 3: Set Up Your Pressure Washer
Now set up your pressure washer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Please turn on the machine and let it warm up for a few minutes.
Start pressure washing from the bottom of the house and work your way up.
Begin by spraying the solution on the lower part of the house, and then work your way up.
Be sure to hold the sprayer about 10 to 12 inches away from the surface that you’re cleaning. Also, overlap the strokes as you move up the house.
Step 4: Rinse The House
After you’re done cleaning, turn off the pressure washer and let the house dry for a few minutes.
Rinse the entire house with clean water from top to bottom.
This will remove any leftover bleach solution and dirt. And that’s it! You need to follow these steps to pressure wash a two-story house.
Also, make sure of the time and wear protective clothing, such as gloves, goggles, and a mask.
Tips For Pressure Washing A 2-Story House
Pressure washing a 2-story house can be a daunting task, but with the right equipment and techniques, it can be done efficiently and safely.
Here are some tips for pressure washing a 2-story house:
Safety First:
Wear appropriate clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and pants, closed-toe shoes, and eye protection.
Never point the pressure washer at people or animals, and make sure to keep a safe distance from electrical outlets and fixtures.
Choose the Right Equipment:
Select a pressure washer with the appropriate PSI and GPM for your house size (see table above). Use a telescoping wand or extension ladder to reach high areas safely.
Prep the Area:
Cover nearby plants and outdoor furniture with plastic or tarps to protect them from the high-pressure spray.
Remove any obstacles that may hinder your movement while pressure washing.
Use the Correct Nozzle:
Use a 25- to 40-degree nozzle for general cleaning and a 0- to 15-degree nozzle for tough stains and grime.
Start from the Top:
Begin pressure washing from the highest point of the house and work your way down. This will prevent dirt and debris from settling on cleaned areas.
Work in Sections:
Divide the house into sections and work on one section at a time. Rinse each section thoroughly before moving on to the next.
Apply Detergent:
Use a detergent formulated for pressure washing to remove stubborn stains and mildew.
Apply the detergent from the bottom up and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing it off.
Rinse Thoroughly:
Rinse the house thoroughly with clean water to remove all detergent and dirt residue.
Clean Up:
Turn off the pressure washer and disconnect the hose. Store the equipment properly and dispose of any leftover detergent and wastewater according to local regulations.
Safety Precautions Before Using A Power Washer
Power washers, also known as pressure washers, are powerful tools that can help you clean outdoor surfaces quickly and efficiently.
They can also be dangerous if not used properly. Here are some safety precautions to take before using a power washer:
Read the User Manual:
Before using a power washer, read the user manual carefully and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Make sure you understand how to operate the machine safely.
Wear Protective Gear:
Always wear appropriate protective gear, such as eye protection, closed-toe shoes, long pants, and gloves.
Avoid wearing loose clothing or jewelry that could get caught in the machine.
Inspect the Machine:
Inspect the power washer for any damage or lose parts before using it. Check the hoses, nozzles, and fittings for signs of wear or leaks.
Replace or repair any damaged parts before using the machine.
Check the Environment:
Make sure the area around the power washer is free of obstacles and tripping hazards.
Keep children and pets away from the work area. Avoid using the machine near electrical outlets or power lines.
Choose the Right Nozzle:
Choose the right nozzle for the job you are doing. Use a wide-angle nozzle for general cleaning and a narrow-angle nozzle for tough stains and grime.
Always point the nozzle away from people or animals.
Adjust the Pressure:
Adjust the pressure of the power washer according to the surface you are cleaning.
Higher pressure may be needed for tough stains, but lower pressure should be used for more delicate surfaces.
Be Careful with Chemicals:
If you are using a detergent or other chemical with the power washer, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and wear appropriate protective gear.
Avoid mixing chemicals or using chemicals that are not designed for power washers.
Turn Off the Machine:
Turn off the power washer and disconnect the hose when not in use. Store the machine properly and keep it out of reach of children.
FAQs about What Size Pressure Washer For 2 Story House
What Size PSI Do You Need To Pressure Wash Your House?
The psi needed to pressure wash a house depends on the type of siding.
For example, if you have vinyl siding, then you’ll need a pressure washer with a psi of at least 2,000.
If you have brick or stone siding, then you’ll need a pressure washer with a psi of at least 3,000.
It’s the best idea to use the right psi pressure wash to clean the house.
Can You Pressure Wash Your House Myself?
Yes, you can pressure wash your house yourself.
It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and to use the right cleaning solution.
You might damage your house. It’s also a good idea to wear protective clothing, such as gloves, goggles, and a mask, while you’re working.
What’s The Best Time Of Year To Pressure Wash House?
The best time of year to pressure wash your house is in the spring or fall.
This is because the weather is not too hot or cold, so you won’t have to worry about the cleaners drying out or freezing.
As a result, you’ll be able to clean your house more effectively.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind when pressure washing a two-story house.
Just remember to take your time and be careful while you’re doing it.
We hope this guide was helpful and you now know What Size Pressure Washer For 2 Story House.
