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You should avoid using a pressure washer on any surface or item that could be damaged by the high-pressure spray, as some materials are too delicate to withstand the force.

Key items and surfaces to avoid include:

• Electrical Components: Never pressure wash electrical systems, as water can cause short-circuits and create a safety hazard. This includes utility meters, breaker boxes, electrical outlets, generators, and HVAC or air conditioner units.

• Delicate and Fragile Materials: Fragile items can crack, shatter, or be stripped by the pressure. Avoid pressure washing windows, glass, light fixtures, shingled roofs (especially asphalt), and stucco.

• Painted, Stained, or Sealed Surfaces: Unless your goal is to strip the finish, do not pressure wash painted surfaces, stained wood (like decks), or anything with a protective seal that could be stripped away. Be especially cautious with older surfaces that may contain lead paint.

• Soft Woods and Certain Decking: Delicate surfaces like softwood, composite decking, and antique or wooden patio furniture can be etched or damaged. If you must wash wood, use a lower-powered pressure washer with a wide-angle nozzle to prevent damage.

• Living Things: Never use a pressure washer on people, pets, or plants. The force can cause serious injury and will destroy landscaping.

You can expect your carpet protection to last about six months to two years. It will last longer in low-traffic areas (compared to busy areas, where your carpet experiences more wear and tear). Once the protector wears off, you’ll need to call your carpet contractor to reapply the stain protection treatment and revive your carpet. 

Spring and fall are the best seasons to clean your carpet because of the mud and leaves that tend to get tracked into the house. However, cleaning your carpet during the summer can be convenient as you can open your windows to allow the carpet to dry naturally rather than running the HVAC system.

It’s possible to DIY upholstery cleaning, but it’s usually best to leave the work to a professional. If you use aggressive cleaning solutions or are too rough with the material while trying to clean it, you could do permanent damage that demands repair or a full replacement. This issue is especially risky with more delicate materials, like leather, silk, and rayon. Some upholstery needs to be dry cleaned, and knowing how and when to use different cleaning methods is paramount for avoiding damage. A professional upholstery cleaner will know what products and methods are safe to use.