Pressure Washing Your Camper: Safe Or Not?

Pressure washing your camper or RV can be a risky business. While it may be tempting to blast away the bugs, dirt, and grime that accumulate on your vehicle, it's important to proceed with caution. The high-pressure water from a pressure washer can damage the exterior surfaces and components of your camper, including seals, vents, and decals. It can also cause water to seep into crevices, leading to potential leaks and water damage inside your camper. However, with the right precautions and a suitable pressure washer, it is possible to safely pressure wash certain parts of your camper, such as the roof.

Pressure washing an RV can cause water intrusion

Water intrusion can occur when high-pressure water is sprayed directly onto windows or doors, damaging fittings, caulk, and seals. This can result in water making its way inside the RV. This is especially dangerous when it comes to electrical components, as water intrusion can lead to electrocution or fire due to electrical shorts.

Newer RVs often have exterior speakers, electric outlets, and USB ports that are not designed to withstand direct high-pressure water infiltration. Pressure washing can damage these components and their housings, as well as internal wiring.

Water intrusion can also occur through roof vents and skylights, which can be cracked by the force of a pressure washer. This can damage adhesives and roof sealants, as well as components such as television antennas and satellite dishes.

To avoid water intrusion and potential damage to your RV, it is recommended to hand-wash or use a low-pressure washer with a wide nozzle, being careful to avoid sensitive areas such as seals, vents, and electrical components.

It can damage the caulking and seals

Pressure washing your camper can damage the caulking and seals. The high-pressure water can loosen or remove the protective sealant, causing leaks and water damage. This is especially true for older campers, where the seals and caulking may already be worn down.

The seals and caulking are essential for preventing water intrusion. If water gets into the interior of your camper, it can cause serious issues, such as mould and electrical shorts. Water intrusion can also affect the safe operation of your camper's components, posing serious health hazards or even fatal consequences.

Additionally, the high-pressure water can force its way into crevices and seams, causing further water damage. This is a particular risk for campers with metal bodies, as the water can seep in between the seams and affect the interior.

To avoid damaging the caulking and seals, it is recommended to wash your camper by hand or use a pressure washer with reduced pressure. If you do use a pressure washer, it is important to keep the pressure low, use a wide nozzle, and maintain a safe distance from the camper. Stay away from seals, vents, and AC units, and be cautious around caulking, decals, and painted areas.

It can be dangerous to use a pressure washer

Risk of Physical Injuries

The high-pressure water emitted by pressure washers can easily cut through flesh and cause severe wounds. The sheer force of the water makes it challenging to control the hose, increasing the risk of the hose becoming a runaway and causing injuries. The pressurised water can strip flesh from the bone and cause intense physical injuries to the hands and feet. It is important to wear protective gear, such as gloves, long pants, and closed-toe shoes, to reduce the risk of injury.

Risk of Electric Shock

Pressure washers, especially those powered by electricity, pose a high risk of electric shock. As they involve mixing water and electricity, any seepage of water into cords or electrical outlets can result in electric shock and even fire. It is crucial to use a grounded power source and ensure that all electrical connections are secure and dry.

Damage to Property

The high pressure of the water can also cause extensive damage to property. It can chip away paint, fade surfaces, and damage wood. If used too close to surfaces, it can harm hardscape, insulation, and wiring. It is important to maintain a safe distance from surfaces and never aim the pressure washer at windows or other breakable materials.

Chemical Exposure

Pressure washing often involves the use of various cleaning chemicals. If these chemicals come into contact with the skin, they can cause adverse health problems, such as bacterial infections and other health hazards that can enter the bloodstream. It is important to wear protective gear, such as long pants and gloves, to minimise skin exposure to these chemicals.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Gas-powered pressure washers emit carbon monoxide, a colourless and odourless gas that can be deadly. Operating these machines in enclosed spaces, even with windows open, can lead to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide buildup. It is crucial to only use gas pressure washers in well-ventilated outdoor areas to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

Risk of Infection

Even a small cut or puncture wound from a pressure washer can have serious consequences. The high-pressure water can transmit chemicals and bacteria directly into the bloodstream, leading to severe bacterial infections. It is important to treat all wounds caused by pressure washers seriously and seek medical attention if necessary.

It can damage the exterior

Pressure washing your camper or RV can be very harsh on its exterior. The high-pressure water can damage the paint, decals, seals, and caulking. Overlapping layers or gaskets can be damaged by pressured water, resulting in leaks. Areas sealed with silicone or other malleable materials can be pulled loose and seriously damaged.

If your camper has a metal body, the high-pressure water can creep between the metal layers, damaging cabinetry and walls inside the camper. If the inner water seals are old, they can rot or tear. Therefore, it is recommended to keep the direct water pressure low and maintain a safe distance of 18-24 inches between the pressure washer and the camper body.

If your camper has decorative decals, a pressure washer can damage them by popping small pieces away along the edges. The pressure can also cause an unevenly applied decal to show a spider web of micro-cracks. This will reduce the value of your camper at the time of sale or trade-in.

Tires should never be pressure washed as they could get sliced by the power of the washer.

In conclusion, while pressure washing can be tempting to quickly clean your camper, it can cause significant damage to its exterior. It is recommended to wash your camper by hand or use a pressure washer with reduced pressure and maintain a safe distance from the camper body.

It can be better to hand-wash an RV

Secondly, hand-washing an RV is a more controlled process. With a pressure washer, it is challenging to maintain a safe distance and angle from the surface, and it is easy to accidentally focus on one point for too long, potentially causing damage. Hand-washing allows for a more precise and gentle clean, especially when using brushes with soft or medium bristles and mild soap. This is important for older RVs with more vulnerable exteriors.

Thirdly, hand-washing is recommended by many RV manuals and experts. The recommended method for washing an RV often involves using a brush with an extended handle, gentle soap, and a bucket of water. This process protects the exterior from harsh pressure and can contribute to a longer-lasting RV. It is also a good way to inspect the RV for any damage or issues that need addressing.

Finally, hand-washing can be customised depending on the specific materials and features of an RV. For example, if your RV has a rubber roof, it is crucial to use a rubber roof cleaner and avoid climbing on the roof to prevent damage. Similarly, for metal RV bodies, it is important to wash with a mild soap and soft brush to avoid removing paint layers.

While pressure washing may be tempting for a quick and powerful clean, hand-washing is a safer, more controlled, and customisable option that can ultimately save you time and money in the long run.

Frequently asked questions