Pressure washing is a powerful and efficient way to clean outdoor surfaces, from driveways and decks to patios and sidewalks. However, as with any cleaning method, pressure washing can have unintended consequences if not done responsibly. One of the biggest issues with pressure washing is the water and chemicals that are used in the process. These substances can be harmful to the environment, wildlife, and even human health if not handled properly.
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to ensure that your pressure washing practices are environmentally friendly and sustainable. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the importance of recycling pressure washing water and avoiding harmful chemicals, and what you can do to make sure your pressure washing is as eco-friendly as possible.
Why recycling pressure washing water matters
One of the biggest concerns with pressure washing is the amount of water that is used. Depending on the size of the surface being cleaned, a pressure washer can use anywhere from 2 to 5 gallons of water per minute. That means that even a short pressure washing session can use a significant amount of water, which can have serious consequences in areas where water is scarce.
To combat this issue, many pressure washing professionals have started to recycle the water that is used during the cleaning process. This involves capturing the wastewater and filtering it so that it can be reused. By doing this, pressure washing professionals can significantly reduce the amount of water they use, which is not only better for the environment but can also help reduce water bills.
Recycling pressure washing water also helps to prevent pollutants and chemicals from entering waterways. When you pressure wash a surface, the water that is used can pick up dirt, oil, and other substances, which can then flow into storm drains and eventually into rivers, lakes, and oceans. By recycling the water, you can filter out these pollutants and prevent them from harming aquatic life and ecosystems.
How to recycle pressure washing water
Recycling pressure washing water is a fairly simple process, but it does require some specialized equipment. To get started, you’ll need a wastewater capture system that can collect the water that is used during the pressure washing process. This system should include a collection tank, a filter, and a pump to transport the filtered water to where it can be reused.
Once you have the equipment, the process is straightforward. Simply use your pressure washer as you normally would, but direct the wastewater into the collection tank instead of letting it flow into storm drains. From there, the water will be filtered and pumped back to your pressure washer for reuse. Depending on the size of your operation, you may need to dispose of the filtered water periodically, but overall, this process can help you reduce your water consumption and protect the environment.
Why avoiding harmful chemicals matters
Another issue with pressure washing is the use of harsh chemicals to clean surfaces. Many pressure washing professionals use chemical cleaners to help break down dirt and grime, but these chemicals can be harmful to both people and the environment.
Some of the most commonly used pressure washing chemicals include bleach, ammonia, and phosphates. These substances can irritate the eyes and lungs, and they can also be toxic to plants and animals if they enter waterways. In addition, many of these chemicals can contribute to air and water pollution, which can have long-term effects on the environment and human health.
How to avoid harmful chemicals
The good news is that there are plenty of alternatives to harmful pressure washing chemicals. For example, many pressure washing professionals use environmentally friendly cleaners that are free from bleach and other harmful substances. These cleaners are made from natural ingredients like citrus and vinegar, and they can be just as effective at cleaning surfaces as traditional chemical cleaners.
If you’re pressure washing at home, you can also use natural cleaning solutions to avoid harmful chemicals. For example, a mixture of baking soda and water can be used to clean many outdoor surfaces, including concrete and wood. You can also use a solution of vinegar and water to clean outdoor furniture and other items. These natural solutions are not only safer for the environment and human health, but they are also often less expensive than commercial cleaners.
Another way to avoid harmful chemicals is to choose a pressure washer that is designed to use less water and fewer chemicals. Many pressure washers now come with adjustable pressure settings, which can help you avoid using too much force or too many chemicals on a given surface. Additionally, some pressure washers have built-in filtration systems that can help you avoid introducing harmful chemicals or pollutants into the environment.
In conclusion, pressure washing can be a great way to clean outdoor surfaces, but it is important to do so in a way that is environmentally friendly and sustainable. By recycling pressure washing water and avoiding harmful chemicals, you can reduce your environmental impact and protect the health of yourself and those around you. With a little effort and the right equipment, you can pressure wash your outdoor spaces with confidence, knowing that you are doing your part to protect the environment.
