Clean cars are more than just about clean cars. Every day, dirt can accumulate on cars, trucks and work vehicles from mud, road dust, bird droppings and more. Access to areas like wheel arches and underbody areas can be challenging with a sponge or garden hose.
Using a controlled stream of water to loosen and remove dirt, a pressure washer can help to make vehicle washing quicker. But, the correct equipment and water pressure are important, particularly when cleaning painted surfaces, tyres and vehicle parts.
The right equipment is essential for a vehicle wash.
Vehicles gather a variety of dirt. The family car can collect road dust, and farm vehicles and commercial trucks can collect thick mud, grease and other deposits.
A standard garden hose will only dislodge loose dirt, and possibly be ineffective for tyres or wheel arches that are muddy. Washing with a high pressure cleaner may help to remove these deposits before washing.
Dirt should be removed first so that a dirty surface won’t be scratched by rubbing it with a sponge.
It is necessary to also control water pressure. Problems can result when the spray is applied too close to paintwork, rubber seals or damaged areas. This risk can be reduced with a wider spray pattern and also by maintaining a safe distance to the spray.
Electric models are designed to handle the daily tasks of cleaning.
An electric pressure washer can be a good option for those who wash their vehicles at home. These machines are attached to an appropriate water supply, and are equipped with an electric motor which operates a hydraulic pump to provide a flow of water through a hose and nozzle.
Electric models can be used in smaller washing applications, such as car, motorcycle and light commercial vehicle washing.
They tend to be quieter than petrol-powered machines and don’t need petrol fuel. They’re easy to install in houses that have an outside power grid.
An electric pressure washer should always be used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Do not place all electrical connections in standing water and ensure the use of outdoor rated electrical equipment with adequate safety protection.
The right machine should be capable of supplying the necessary amount of water but not more or with a pressure than necessary.
Remove dirt from Wheels, Wheel Arches and Hard to Reach areas.
A lot of dirt is likely to get on the wheels and wheel arches. Rims, suspension components and other surfaces can become dusty, dirty and muddy with brake dust, road grime and mud.
A pressure washer can assist in getting rid of loose deposits from these regions, so more cleaning can be achieved.
Rinse the vehicle from a distance first. Be sure to use the appropriate spray nozzle and never pour high pressure water on wheel bearings, electrical connectors, broken seals or sensitive parts.
A vehicle safe cleaning product may be required for stubborn dirt. Let product act for the recommended duration and then rinse.
A high pressure cleaner will also work for washing larger vehicles, but extra precautions must be taken around mirrors, lights, decals and painted panels.
Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on washing to prevent any damage.
Consistent good habits to help preserve vehicle surfaces.
A vehicle’s appearance over time is the result of the quality of its washing habits. If washing is done in the shade, it can help to slow the drying process for cleaning products and water on the surface.
Clean with a light wash first to wash away loose soil. Afterwards use a suitable car shampoo and soft wash mitt and rinse well.
Don’t use high pressure when cleaning chipped paint, trim or older rubber sealing. These areas could already be compromised and can be further damaged.
Once cleaned, use a clean microfibre to dry the vehicle and minimise water spots.
Moreover, owners of the vehicles can also spot any paint damage, worn seals and other problems that might require fixing with regular washings.
The owners of vehicles can maintain their vehicles’ cleaner and ensure that exterior surfaces are not damaged by unnecessary wear and tear by using proper vehicle cleaning equipment and methods.
