Can Pressure Washers Damage Car Paint?
People commonly use pressure washers to remove dust from the surface of their cars. It has become a go-to method for many car lovers who want a detailed cleaning of their cars, as it is powerful and effective to remove stubborn dust. Many people consider this technique an effective shortcut to hand washing and car waxing.
However, people are wondering in their minds whether the high pressure of water can damage the car paint and its finishing or not. Yes! It can damage your car’s exterior surface if it is not used properly; it can damage the car’s paint, revealing the underlying metal that leads to the car rust.
This article covers all the information you need to know about pressure washers and their safety measures.
Incorrect Usage Of Pressure Washer:
Here are some common mistakes that many people do because of less knowledge about pressure washers and how they affect their car’s paint.
1. Sing high pressure with the wrong nozzle:
Using the pressure washer with a pressure of more than 1600 psi and a narrow nozzle provides a powerful spurt of water at a single point that can affect your car’s paint and push the water into sensitive areas and past seals.
2. Getting too close:
People use the pressured water hose from a small distance that can affect the paint’s layer and its protective coating.
3. Spraying at a single spot:
Keeping a pressure washer in the same area for a long period to remove a specific stain can cause the paint to peel off and scratch. Move the pressure hose evenly on the entire car’s exterior surface. Use a sponge to remove any stubborn stains by hand.
4. Using near the locks:
Use of this pressured water near door locks and window glass can cause a damp interior and affect your car upholstery.
5. Spraying at cracked painted areas:
If you spray over the peeled or cracked paint work, it can make this problem worse and widen these cracks and peel off the paint. Wash these areas gently using a soft cloth or sponge to protect them from further damage.
6. Trying to remove particular dust particles:
Using this pressure washer to remove any grim or leaves dirt on the car’s surface. It can become harsh when combined with the high-pressure water stream, causing scratches over the surface. Try to remove this type of dust particles manually or with a sponge to avoid these problems.
Correct ways to use a pressure washer without affecting car paint:
You should always consider some important things to protect your car paint from stripping off.
Select the right pressure of water:
There is no ideal pressure washer for all cars. You should choose the pressure washer with the optimum pressure that is compatible for your car type and paint condition. There are two basic determining factors for pressure washers.
Pressure should be between 1000 and 1500 PSI and 1.4 and 1.6 GPM to clean your car’s body without risking your paint.
Choose a suitable type of pressure washer:
There are three types of pressure washers.
All these types have different PSI, GPM ranges, mobility, and power to clean a car’s surface. In general, electric and cordless pressure washers are suitable for car washing at home. Those users who have a good power supply near the washing area go for an electric pressure washer, while a cordless pressure washer provides maximum mobility to every single point of the car’s body.
Use the correct nozzle angle:
It is essential to make sure that you choose the correct nozzle above 25 degrees to remove debris from the car’s surface. Small nozzles are not safe for a car’s surface as they spray a direct, targeted, powerful stream, causing paint damage.
Maintain distance from car:
Maintaining a distance is as important as selecting the correct pressure washer. You should go for the six-twelve guideline: make sure that the nozzle of the pressure washer is 6 inches away from the car’s surface and 12 inches away from the trim. It provides a water stream that is suitable for tackling stains and removing dirt without affecting your paint’s surface.
Protect other sensitive areas:
You should never use the same pressure washer to clean engine, plastic and rubber made things, and peeled or cracked painted areas. However, a low-pressure setting can be used to remove dirt and dust from these parts and undercarriage.
Choose detergent:
Use the detergent that is compatible with your car and pressure washer.
Be careful with a pressure washer:
Before using a pressure washer, make sure that you’ve worn closed shoes, as it can take off your skin if it meets your feet. Also ensure that there is no human or pet near the cleaning area, as it may be injurious for them.
Consult professional:
If you’ve no idea about how to use a pressure washer, then consider hiring a professional. The use of a pressure washer looks like an easy thing, but it can affect your car’s surface if you are not experienced. You can consider Car Detailing Abu Dhabi for handling the pressure washer to clean your car without risking your car finishing.
Conclusion:
A pressure washer is a good option for quick car wash, but you have to use the correct pressure setting and nozzle size carefully. Otherwise, it can affect your car’s look and pant finishing.
