Is It Safe to Pressure Wash in Winter?
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As a homeowner living in Cincinnati or Northern Kentucky, it's important to be aware of the risks of pressure washing in winter. Here at Kings of Clean, we understand that pressure washing can be a great way to clean your siding and other surfaces, but when temperatures drop and snow begins to fall, pressure washing can become a dangerous endeavor. In this blog post, we'll discuss the risks of pressure washing in winter and why homeowners should exercise caution.
Hazardous Chemicals
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High-pressure water is required to break down stubborn dirt and grime, but using chemical cleaners in cold weather can cause serious risks. The pressure of the water combined with the harshness of the chemicals can create a toxic mix that can be damaging to the environment and hazardous to those around it. When combined with cold weather, these chemicals can freeze and form ice dams, which can lead to broken pipes and flooding. Additionally, these chemicals can also be extremely hazardous for those who come into contact with them when it's cold outside. As such, homeowners should avoid using any chemicals during winter pressure washing to ensure their safety.
The Risks of Frozen Pipes
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When it comes to pressure washing in winter, the risks of frozen pipes are a major concern. Pressure washing with high pressure and cold weather can cause pipes to freeze and break. Ice dams are also a problem for homeowners who pressure wash during winter. As water is sprayed onto a home's exterior, the cold temperatures can cause it to freeze, leading to ice dams on the roof. This then causes pressure to build up on the pipes, eventually causing them to break or burst.
In addition to broken pipes, there is also the potential for flooding caused by frozen pipes. When frozen, the pipes can no longer drain properly, leading to an overflow and potential water damage in the home. In extreme cases, this flooding can be quite extensive, resulting in thousands of dollars of repairs.
For these reasons, it's important for homeowners to avoid pressure washing during winter and instead wait until the temperatures are warmer. By doing so, they can reduce the risk of broken pipes and flooding.
The Consequences of Ice Dams
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Winter pressure washing can be incredibly dangerous for homeowners living in cold climates like Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. When the temperature drops, high-pressure water combined with cold weather can create ice dams on your roof and in your gutters. Ice dams form when the melting snow from your roof is not able to properly drain, causing an ice buildup. When this happens, it can cause serious damage, including broken pipes and siding. Furthermore, freezing temperatures can cause the high-pressure water to become so cold that it could lead to hypothermia for the pressure washer. Ice dams can also trap moisture and debris, leading to further damage and costly repairs down the line.
Hypothermia
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Being outside and exposed to the elements is inherent with pressure washing. Getting wet in the summer might be an inconvenience, but in the winter could lead to hypothermia. If you do decide to pressure wash during winter, you must ensure that you take proper precautions to avoid hypothermia. It is important to wear protective clothing such as multiple layers of warm clothes, hats, and gloves. Additionally, you should take frequent breaks and be sure to stay hydrated throughout the process.
Pressure washing your home during the winter months can be a risky venture. Cold weather and high-pressure water can cause ice dams to form, leading to broken pipes and other damage. Hypothermia is also a risk when operating a pressure washer in cold weather. If you must use a pressure washer in winter, exercise caution and wear appropriate clothing. Make sure to watch out for potential dangers and always consider the potential consequences before taking on any projects that involve pressure washing in the winter.
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