Using dish soap in a pressure washer is generally not recommended. While dish soap is designed for hand washing dishes and contains surfactants that help break down grease and grime, it is not formulated for use in pressure washers. Here are a few reasons why using dish soap in a pressure washer can be problematic:
Excessive foam: Dish soap tends to create a lot of suds when agitated, which can lead to excessive foam in a pressure washer. The high foam can build up quickly and may cause the pressure washer to overflow or clog, resulting in reduced performance and potentially damaging the machine.
Damage to the pressure washer: Pressure washers have specific detergent tanks or reservoirs designed to handle the use of specialized pressure washer detergents. Using dish soap may introduce chemicals that are not compatible with the pressure washer's components, leading to corrosion, clogging, or other damage.
Environmental concerns: Dish soaps are typically formulated for household use and may contain additives that can harm plants, animals, or the environment when discharged into water systems. Pressure washers can generate significant runoff, so using detergent specifically designed for pressure washers is a more environmentally friendly choice.
Instead of using dish soap, it is advisable to use detergents specifically formulated for pressure washers. These detergents are designed to work effectively with the high-pressure water stream and the cleaning mechanisms of pressure washers. They are also formulated to be safe for the equipment and the environment.
Always consult the manufacturer's instructions for your pressure washer and use detergents recommended for your specific model. Following the guidelines will help ensure optimal cleaning performance while protecting your pressure washer from potential damage.