Commercial Power Washing Best Management Practices

• Prior to washing, dry-sweep the area to remove trash, dirt and debris.

• Prior to washing, use dry absorbents to soak up spills and small pools of contaminants, such as oil, grease, antifreeze and water-based liquids.

• Power washing runoff should never be discharged to a storm drain.

• Storm drains should be covered, or the path to the drain should be blocked during power washing.

• Degreasers and solvents should be used sparingly or preferably not at all.

• Minimize the amount of detergents used, and use biodegradable and low phosphate detergents.

• Avoid steam or very hot water sprays, as increased temperatures in streams can harm aquatic organisms.

• Direct the spray and wastewater into a confined area, then pump into a sanitary sewer cleanout, or, if not available, discharge to a landscaped area.

• Sump pumps and wet/dry shop vacuums can be used to pump the wastewater.

• If possible, direct the spray and wastewater into a vegetated sump area where the water and contaminants can be isolated and allow to soak into the ground.

Rev. October 10, 2007