Simple Green is a popular cleaner because it’s environmentally friendly and versatile. I’ve used it for everything from cleaning driveways to washing outdoor furniture, and it works great with a pressure washer. However, using it properly ensures you get the best results without damaging your equipment or surfaces.
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Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use Simple Green in a pressure washer.
1. Choose the Right Simple Green Product
There are various types of Simple Green cleaners, so make sure you choose one that’s specifically designed for pressure washers or is safe for the surface you’re cleaning.
- Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner: A general cleaner that works for most surfaces like decks, patios, and siding.
- Simple Green House and Siding Cleaner: This is formulated specifically for house exteriors and siding, making it safe and effective for cleaning dirt, mildew, and grime.
- Simple Green Heavy-Duty Cleaner: For tougher jobs like cleaning oil-stained driveways, this product is more concentrated for extra strength.
Check the label to ensure that the cleaner is safe for pressure washers and won’t harm the surface you’re cleaning.
2. Dilute Simple Green Properly
Proper dilution is essential for the cleaner to work effectively without wasting product or damaging your pressure washer.
- Dilution Ratio: Simple Green products typically need to be diluted with water. For the All-Purpose Cleaner, the recommended dilution is 10:1 (10 parts water to 1 part cleaner) for pressure washers.
- For tougher jobs, you can reduce the dilution (e.g., 5:1).
- For light cleaning, increase the dilution (e.g., 20:1).
Tip: Always read the instructions on the Simple Green bottle for specific dilution recommendations based on your cleaning task.
3. Set Up Your Pressure Washer for Soap Application
Pressure washers have special features for using detergents, which often work at lower pressure. Here’s how to prepare:
A. Fill the Detergent Tank
- For Models with a Detergent Tank: If your pressure washer has a built-in detergent tank, fill it with your diluted Simple Green solution.
B. Use a Detergent Siphon Hose
- For Models with a Siphon Hose: Insert the detergent siphon hose into a container of the diluted Simple Green solution.
4. Attach the Soap Nozzle
To apply the detergent, you’ll need to switch to the low-pressure soap nozzle, often the black-colored nozzle that comes with your pressure washer. This nozzle allows the soap to flow through the system while keeping the pressure lower to avoid stripping paint or damaging surfaces.
- Remove the current nozzle and attach the black soap nozzle to the spray wand.
5. Apply the Simple Green Solution
Now you’re ready to clean! Here’s how to apply the Simple Green detergent:
- Start the Pressure Washer: Begin spraying at a low pressure using the soap nozzle.
- Apply Evenly: Work in sections, applying the detergent evenly across the surface. For vertical surfaces like siding, start at the bottom and work your way up to avoid streaks.
- Let it Sit: Allow the Simple Green solution to sit on the surface for 5 to 10 minutes to break down dirt, grime, or grease. Don’t let it dry on the surface, as it can leave residue.
6. Switch to a High-Pressure Nozzle for Rinsing
After letting the Simple Green do its work, you need to rinse the surface:
- Switch to a High-Pressure Nozzle: Remove the soap nozzle and attach a higher-pressure nozzle (typically a 25° or 40° nozzle) for rinsing.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Use the pressure washer at high pressure to rinse off the soap, dirt, and grime. Move from top to bottom when rinsing vertical surfaces like walls or siding to prevent streaking.
7. Flush the System
Once you’re done, it’s important to clean out any leftover soap from your pressure washer:
- Run Clean Water: Disconnect the detergent system or empty the detergent tank, then run clean water through the pressure washer for a few minutes to flush out any remaining Simple Green. This helps prevent clogging or soap buildup in your system.
Final Tips
- Test First: Before applying Simple Green to a large area, test a small, inconspicuous spot to make sure the solution won’t harm or discolor the surface.
- Use Appropriate Nozzles: Always use the right nozzle for the job. The low-pressure soap nozzle is essential for applying detergent, while a high-pressure nozzle is needed for effective rinsing.
- Avoid Letting Soap Dry: Make sure to rinse the soap before it dries on the surface to avoid streaks or residue.
Conclusion
Using Simple Green in a pressure washer is an effective way to clean a wide range of surfaces, from driveways to house siding. Just make sure to dilute it correctly, use the proper nozzles, and flush the system after use. By following these steps, you’ll get the best cleaning results and keep your pressure washer running smoothly.