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Do Pressure Washing Companies Use a Lot of Water?

When considering professional exterior cleaning services, a common concern many homeowners have is water consumption. It’s easy to think that the high-pressure stream of water might be wasteful, but the reality is quite the opposite. Pressure washing and soft washing are more efficient than traditional methods, using significantly less water while achieving a deeper clean. Let’s dive into how much water these services actually use and why exterior cleaning is a sustainable and beneficial option for your home.

How Much Water Does Pressure Washing Actually Use?

The amount of water used in pressure washing is measured in gallons per minute (GPM). Most pressure washers, whether residential or commercial-grade, operate between 2-6 GPM. For context, a standard garden hose can flow at about 6-10 GPM. So, while pressure washers apply water at a much higher pressure, they actually use less water per minute than your average hose.

For a typical house washing job, the total water consumption can range from 240 to 360 gallons, depending on factors such as:

• Size of the house: Larger homes will naturally require more water.

• Surface condition: A heavily soiled surface may need more cleaning time, thus using more water.

• Equipment used: Newer, high-efficiency pressure washers can further reduce water usage while still delivering excellent results.

In short, pressure washing is efficient, and with the right equipment, you can clean a large area with minimal water waste.

Water Usage for Different Services

Different exterior cleaning services vary in water usage. Here’s a breakdown:

• House Washing (Soft Wash) 60 gallons per hour: This is where we often see soft washing, a low-pressure cleaning method that uses specialized cleaning agents to remove dirt, mold, and grime. Soft washing systems operate at lower GPM than pressure washers—often around 2-3 GPM. Since the chemical solution does most of the work, less water is needed to achieve a thorough clean.

• Driveway and Concrete Cleaning 240 gallons per hour: Cleaning hard surfaces like driveways and sidewalks may require 4-6 GPM, depending on the surface condition. This service often needs higher pressure but still uses less water than traditional cleaning methods like scrubbing with a hose.

• Roof Cleaning 60 gallons per hour: Similar to house washing, roofs are usually cleaned using soft washing techniques to avoid damage. Since soft washing is gentler, it uses around 3 GPM or less.

• Gutter Cleaning 10-180 gallons per hour : Gutter cleaning typically requires minimal water. In some cases, a dry clean is sufficient, while others may require a small amount of water to flush out debris. The overall water consumption is negligible compared to full house washing.

Pressure Washers vs. Traditional Methods

One of the biggest advantages of pressure washing over traditional cleaning methods is its efficiency in water usage. When compared to using a standard garden hose, pressure washers can save up to 50-70% of water. Here's why:

• Higher Efficiency: Pressure washers deliver water at a higher force, meaning you need less water to dislodge dirt and grime. This efficiency not only reduces water usage but also shortens the time needed to clean.

• Faster Cleaning: Pressure washing allows you to clean surfaces 4-5 times faster than with a hose or manual scrubbing. Less cleaning time equals less water used overall.

• Eco-Friendly Options: Many modern pressure washers come with eco-modes, further minimizing water consumption without sacrificing cleaning power.

How to Reduce Water Use While Pressure Washing

For homeowners concerned about water conservation, there are several ways to minimize water use while pressure washing:

1. Choose the Right Equipment: Invest in a pressure washer that has adjustable settings for both PSI (pressure per square inch) and GPM. This ensures you’re only using the amount of water necessary for the task at hand.

2. Use a Soft Wash System: For surfaces like siding and roofs, a soft wash system is ideal. Since it relies more on cleaning solutions and less on water pressure, it uses significantly less water.

3. Regular Maintenance: Scheduling regular cleanings can prevent heavy dirt buildup, meaning you’ll need less water during each cleaning session. For example, a bi-annual cleaning schedule could prevent the need for deep cleaning, which typically requires more water.

The Cost of Water for Pressure Washing

Water usage in pressure washing is not just about the amount of water—it’s also about cost. On average, the cost of water in the U.S. is around $0.002 per gallon. Let’s calculate the water cost for a typical pressure washing job:

• Average Water Usage: 300 gallons (for a full house wash). For reference the average bathtub holds 40 to 60 gallons of water.

• Cost: 300 gallons × $0.002 = $0.60.

So, for a homeowner using their own water, the cost of water for an average pressure washing job is just under $1.00.

However, if a cleaning company needs to bring its own water, the costs increase. They’ll need to account for:

• Water hauling costs: Purchasing and transporting water.

• Insurance: Covering potential damages.

• Transportation fees: Fuel and equipment wear-and-tear.

• Specialized equipment: Water tanks, pumps, and hoses for remote jobs.

These additional costs can add up, and companies may charge an extra fee if they need to supply water, often ranging from $50-$100, depending on the size of the job and distance traveled.

Why Exterior Cleaning is Worth It

While some may worry about the water usage in pressure washing, it’s important to remember the long-term benefits of maintaining a clean exterior:

• Property Preservation: Regular cleaning prevents mold, mildew, and dirt buildup, which can damage siding, concrete, and other surfaces over time.

• Increased Home Value: A well-maintained exterior boosts curb appeal, making your home more attractive to buyers.

• Health Benefits: Removing mold, algae, and grime improves air quality around your home, reducing potential health risks.

Additionally, many pressure washing companies offer discounts or deals for scheduling regular cleanings. For example, a bi-annual package could save you money in the long run while ensuring your home stays in top shape year-round.

Conclusion: Do Pressure Washing Companies Use a Lot of Water?

The short answer is no—pressure washing companies do not use as much water as you might think. In fact, pressure washing is a water-efficient cleaning method, using far less water than traditional methods like scrubbing with a garden hose. By choosing professional pressure washing services, you can maintain your property, save water, and even lower costs in the long run.

When done properly, exterior cleaning not only keeps your home looking great but also prevents long-term damage, saving you money on costly repairs. Whether you’re scheduling a soft wash for your house, a driveway cleaning, or gutter maintenance, pressure washing is an eco-friendly choice that delivers results with minimal water waste.