How to Avoid Electric Shock from a Pressure Washer
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Safety Guide for using Electric Pressure Washers: Safety Measures When Using an Electric Pressure Washer or a Electric Power Washer. © By: Dave Rongey |
Safety Guide When Using an Electric Pressure Washer
Electrical Question: If I plug the GFCI plug of my electric pressure washer into a GFCI outlet will that give me an extra measure of protection?
- Ground Fault Circuit Protection, GFCI
When having two sources of GFCI, if one GFCI should fail will I have added protection from the 2nd one? - Electric Pressure Washer
I’m terrified of electric pressure washers. I always end up with soaked sneakers, am standing on a wet deck or patio and there is water and electricity going into a gadget which I have to trust is not faulty. - Electrical Parts, Shock Hazards and Water
The unit has a new “water cooled motor” It seems there’s water in even closer proximity to electricity than before.
I know there are no guarantees, I’m just looking for a bit of reassurance. I don’t want to use gas washer because they are too noisy, inconvenient and I don’t like dealing with gasoline.
Thanks, Richard.
This electrical wiring question came from Richard, in Seattle, Washington.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Richard .
Application: Wiring an Outdoor GFI Outlet.
Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate – Best if wired by a Licensed Electrical Contractor.
Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools and a Voltage Tester.
Estimated Time: Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools and the number of exterior outlets that will be installed.
Precaution: Identify the power source circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.
Notice: Outdoor receptacle outlets must have GFCI protection. Installing wiring for an outdoor outlet should be done according to local and national electrical codes with a permit and be inspected.
Safety Measures When Using an Electric Pressure Washer or Electric Power Washer
- GFCI Protection
Make sure the unit is protected by a GFCI device. Two levels of GFCI protection really does not help – in fact sometimes it will cause nuisance tripping – so be aware of that. - Grounded Receptacle Outlet
Be very sure that the outlet being plugged into is in fact grounded, and TEST the GFCI of the equipment before using. - UL Approved Equipment
The GFCI protection for the pressure washer should be adequate, especially if it has an authentic UL approved label. - Frayed or Damaged Electrical Cords
If the equipment has any frayed or damaged electric cords or the unit is not in top shape then I would not take a chance. - Areas of High Risk Electric Shock
Higher level risks of electric shock hazards are in livestock areas or gardening areas, or any area where there are higher levels of conductive elements, such as fertilizers and chemicals. - Insulated Boots and Personal Protection
Wearing insulated rubber boots and gloves are always highly recommended as well - Follow Instructions and Warnings
Last but certainly not least is to read an follow all of the guidelines found in the owners manual or users manual.
More about Wiring GFCI Outlets
Wiring Electrical Outlets for the Home
Home electrical wiring includes 110 volt outlets and 220 volt outlets and receptacles which are common place in every home. See how wiring electrical outlets for the home are done.
GFCI and GFI Wiring Diagrams
The features and benefits of GFCI outlets and receptacles will give you a clear understanding of the importance why these safety devices are required by code to help protect you and your family against accidental electrical shock hazards.
GFCI Wiring
This list of articles will help you learn about the features and benefits provided by GFI and GFCI Receptacles and how they are wired.
The following may also be helpful for you:
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Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.
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Electrical Wiring for Two GFCI Outlets |
Adding an Outlet to a Wall Switch |
