Can You Pressure Wash In The Rain? (Solved)

Rainy day and still got that to-do list staring you down? If pressure washing is on it, you might be wondering if it’s okay to get the job done while it’s wet outside. 

The short answer is yes, you can pressure wash in the rain. But it depends on a few things. 

Some conditions are totally fine, but others are not worth the risk.

In this post, we’ll explain when it’s safe to pressure wash in the rain, and when to avoid it. Plus, we’ll also go over the pros and cons.

Is It Safe To Pressure Wash In The Rain?

Yes, it’s safe to pressure wash in light rain. In fact, a little drizzle can actually help with the job. It keeps surfaces damp, which can stop detergents from drying up too fast. 

Some people actually prefer working in light rain for this reason.

You should also use a gas-powered pressure washer if you’re doing it in the rain. 

Electric pressure washers are a totally different story. These aren’t designed to be out in wet weather. Using one in the rain can be straight-up dangerous.

Another thing to think about is your footing. Wet ground gets slippery fast. And pressure washers aren’t exactly gentle. You don’t want to be slipping mid-spray. That’s how injuries (and broken things) happen.

Also Check Out Our Powhatan Deck Pressure Washing Services

So, there’s a lot to consider before you pressure wash in the rain.

When You Should NOT Pressure Wash In The Rain

There are a few situations where it’s just not worth powering through the rain. If any of these apply, it’s probably best to hold off on the power washing session:

#1 During Thunderstorms Or Lightning

This is the one situation where it’s absolutely not worth taking any chances. 

If you hear thunder or see lightning, pack it up immediately. Water is a conductor, and if you’re outside holding a metal wand, you’re basically waving around a lightning rod. 

Even if the storm seems far off, lightning can travel miles. 

It’s just not worth risking your safety over a cleaning job. Wait until the sky clears up and it’s totally calm.

#2 Heavy Rain Or Wind

A light drizzle might be fine, but heavy rain is a whole different story. 

You’ll have trouble seeing what you’re spraying, which can lead to uneven cleaning or missed spots. And the rain will wash away your cleaning detergent before it has time to work. 

On top of that, strong wind can blow spray back at you, spread grime to clean areas, or knock over your tools and equipment. 

Basically, it turns a simple task into a soggy, frustrating mess. 

You’ll probably spend more time fixing your work than actually finishing it.

Also Read: When To Power Wash Your House

#3 If Using Electric Pressure Washers

Electricity and water don’t get along. If your pressure washer plugs into a wall or extension cord, skip the rainy-day washing. 

Even if the machine has some level of water resistance, most outlets and cords are not meant to be wet. One splash in the wrong place could short out the unit – or worse, shock you. 

Unless your gear is specifically designed for wet conditions (which is rare), it’s better to play it safe and wait for dry weather. 

Gas-powered washers are a bit more forgiving, but still need to be handled with care.

#4 If There’s Slippery Or Uneven Surfaces

Rain turns steps, decks, driveways, and walkways into slick traps. Add in the force of a pressure washer, and you’re just asking for a fall. 

If the surface you’re working on isn’t flat, stable, and grippy, the risk of slipping goes way up. 

Combine that with uneven ground, hoses underfoot, and water flying everywhere, and it’s a situation to avoid. 

So wait for better footing or bring in slip-resistant mats if it really can’t wait.

Pros And Cons Of Pressure Washing In The Rain

Still thinking about pushing through? Here’s a quick look at the ups and downs of pressure washing in the rain:

Yes, there are perks, but they don’t outweigh the risks in bad weather.

Also Read: Should I Pressure Wash My House Before Painting?

Tips For Pressure Washing In Light Rain

If you look outside and it’s just a gentle, steady drizzle, you might still be good to go. Here are some of our best tips for pressure washing in the rain:

• Wear waterproof boots with good traction
  
• Use a gas-powered pressure washer instead of electric
  
• Avoid ladders – use extension wands to reach high spots
  
• Keep your machine on dry ground or elevated on a board
  
• Watch out for puddles, mud, and hoses that can trip you up
  
• Take breaks to check your progress since rain can hide what’s already clean

Alternative Options When It’s Too Wet

Sometimes, it’s just not the day for outdoor power washing. That’s okay. You’ve got options.

You could shift your focus indoors. Clean up the garage, reorganize the shed, or even tackle some indoor deep-cleaning projects. 

If you’re set on getting the outside sparkling, maybe do some prep work instead. Pull weeds, sweep, or spot-scrub surfaces by hand. These jobs help get things ready for your next sunny-day power washing session.

Or hey, just take the day off. Rest is productive, too.

Bottom Line

You can pressure wash in the rain if the conditions are safe. 

Light rain is usually fine, especially with gas-powered equipment and good footing. But once you add thunder, heavy rain, electric gear, or slick surfaces to the mix, it’s time to pack it up.

At the end of the day, pressure washing isn’t worth risking your safety (or your equipment). Rain comes and goes. That grime will still be there tomorrow. 

If it’s just drizzling and you’re prepared? Go for it. Otherwise, play it smart, stay dry, and live to spray another day.