Many consumers may be unaware of the environmental hazards of power washing. Here’s the issue: The dirt, grime, and grease that pressure washing blasts away eventually enters the local water system. Furthermore, nearby parking lot pollutants such as antifreeze and engine oil are also lifted by pressure washing wastewater. These toxic chemicals (including fertilizers, bacteria, heavy metals, pesticides and other engine fluids) are then washed down storm sewers and into local watersheds. Each of these substances has its own deadly effect on nearby ecosystems. For example, 250,000 gallons of fresh water can be contaminated by a single quart of motor oil. Indeed, most automobile waste materials are extremely toxic. For instance, cars shed the heavy metal cadmium during normal operation. This toxin is then deposited on roads, and washed into storm sewers. Even small amounts of cadmium are deadly for soil microorganisms and humans alike. Literally hundreds of hazardous compounds linger on roadways and parking lots. When a pressure washing service is carried out, excess wastewater washes these noxious chemicals into storm drains and local water supplies. In this way, careless wastewater management threatens both drinking supplies for both wildlife and humans alike. As consumers choose which pressure washing service
read more