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Frequently asked questions

Junk removal & pressure washing FAQ

Straight answers to the questions San Diego County customers ask us most. Don't see yours? Text it to us with a photo of the job.

General

What does Pacific Haul & Wash do?

Pacific Haul & Wash is a locally owned San Diego County company that does junk removal, property cleanouts and pressure washing. We haul away furniture, mattresses, appliances, yard waste and debris, clear out garages and rentals, and pressure wash driveways, patios, walkways and storefronts.

What areas do you serve?

We serve all of San Diego County, from the South Bay to North County and East County, plus Temecula and Murrieta in southwest Riverside County. That includes San Diego and its neighborhoods, Chula Vista, Oceanside, Escondido, Carlsbad, El Cajon, Vista, San Marcos, La Mesa, Santee and Poway. If your town isn't listed, text us and ask.

How do I get a quote?

The fastest way to get a quote is to text photos of the job to (619) 972-3798. You can also call, or fill out the quote form on this site with your address, the service you need, and up to four photos.

Are your quotes free?

Yes, quotes are free. Send photos or a description of the job and we'll reply with an estimate. There's no obligation to book.

How is pricing determined?

Pricing is based on the size and type of the job. For hauling, that means how much space your items take up, what they are, how heavy they are, and how easy they are to reach. For pressure washing, it's the square footage, surface type and how heavy the staining is. Photos let us price it accurately, so text them to (619) 972-3798.

Do you offer same-day or next-day service?

Sometimes. Same-day and next-day availability depends on our schedule, so ask us. Text (619) 972-3798 with photos and your timing and we'll tell you the soonest we can be there.

Do I have to move items to the curb?

No, you don't need to move anything. We pick items up from wherever they are, including inside the home, upstairs, in the garage or in the backyard, and do all the lifting and loading.

Do you take hazardous waste like paint or chemicals?

No, we don't take hazardous materials. That includes paint, solvents, pesticides, pool chemicals, motor oil, fuel, propane tanks, batteries in bulk, asbestos and medical waste. San Diego County offers household hazardous waste drop-off and pickup programs for those items.

Do you remove asbestos?

No, we don't handle asbestos. Materials that may contain asbestos, like some older popcorn ceilings, flooring and pipe insulation, must be tested and removed by a certified abatement contractor.

Do you donate or recycle items?

Yes, when possible. Furniture and household items in good condition can go to donation, and materials like metal, cardboard and green waste can be recycled. Everything else goes to licensed disposal facilities.

Can you haul junk and pressure wash in the same visit?

Yes, combining hauling and washing in one visit is what we do best. For example, we can clear out a side yard or garage and then pressure wash the concrete underneath, with one crew and one estimate.

Do you work with landlords, property managers and HOAs?

Yes, we work with landlords, property managers, HOAs and small businesses. We handle rental turnovers, dumped item cleanups and common-area washing, and can send after photos when the job is done.

What should I do before you arrive?

Before we arrive, set aside anything you want to keep, make sure we can get to the items, and let us know about gate codes, stairs or parking limits. For appliances, disconnect water and gas lines. For pressure washing, move cars and small items off the surface.

How do I contact Pacific Haul & Wash?

Call or text Pacific Haul & Wash at (619) 972-3798, or email phw.sdservices@gmail.com. Texting photos is the quickest way to get a quote.

What are your hours?

Pacific Haul & Wash is open 24/7 for calls, texts and quote requests. Call or text (619) 972-3798 any time with photos of the job and we will reply with an estimate and the soonest time we can be there.

Is Pacific Haul & Wash the same company as Pacific Haul & Removal or Pacific Haul SD?

No. Pacific Haul & Wash is not affiliated with Pacific Haul & Removal or Pacific Haul SD, which are separate businesses with similar names. Our only phone number is (619) 972-3798 and our website is pacifichaulandwash.com.

Where can I see what junk removal costs?

Our junk removal cost guide at pacifichaulandwash.com/junk-removal-cost collects national pricing from Angi and HomeGuide plus the City of San Diego's Miramar Landfill fees. For your actual price, text photos to (619) 972-3798 for a free quote.

Junk Removal

How much does junk removal cost in San Diego?

Junk removal pricing depends on how much space your items take up in the trailer, what the items are, and how easy they are to reach. A single mattress costs far less than a full garage, and heavy material like concrete, dirt or tile is priced differently than furniture. Stairs, long carries and disposal fees for certain items also factor in. The fastest way to get an exact number is to text photos to (619) 972-3798 and we'll send you a clear estimate before any work starts.

What items do you take?

We take most household and business junk: furniture, mattresses, appliances, electronics, yard waste, construction and renovation debris, boxes, bags and general clutter. If you can point at it and it isn't hazardous, we can usually haul it. Not sure about something? Text us a photo and ask.

What can't you take?

We can't take hazardous materials, including paint, solvents, chemicals, pesticides, motor oil, fuel, propane tanks, asbestos, medical waste or anything that might be contaminated. San Diego County runs household hazardous waste drop-off programs for those items. If you're unsure, send a photo and we'll let you know.

Do I need to be home for the pickup?

Not always. If the items are accessible, for example in a driveway, a side yard or an unlocked garage, and we've agreed on exactly what goes, we can often handle the pickup without you there. Just tell us when you book.

Do you donate or recycle what you haul?

Yes, when possible. Usable furniture and items in good condition can go to donation, and materials like metal and cardboard can be recycled. Anything that can't be reused goes to licensed disposal facilities.

Do you take couches and sectionals?

Yes, couches and sectionals are some of the most common items we haul. We carry them out of the house, load them and take them away, including sleeper sofas and multi-piece sectionals.

Can you take apart a sectional or bed frame?

Yes. If a sectional, bed frame, desk or entertainment center won't fit through a doorway, we take it apart to get it out without damaging walls or door frames.

Do you remove furniture from upstairs apartments?

Yes, we carry furniture down stairs and through tight hallways in apartments, condos and townhomes. Tell us about stairs or elevator rules when you book so we can plan the crew.

Can you pick up patio furniture?

Yes, we haul patio sets, umbrellas, loungers and outdoor furniture, including pieces that have been weathered beyond donation.

Can you pick up just one mattress?

Yes, we pick up single mattresses. Text a photo of the mattress and where it is to (619) 972-3798 and we'll send a quote. Adding other items to the same trip is often the most cost-effective option.

Can a wet or damaged mattress be recycled?

Usually not. The City's collection site turns away mattresses that are wet, severely damaged, soiled or infested with bedbugs. Those go to regular disposal instead, which we handle as part of the pickup.

Do you take box springs and bed frames too?

Yes. We take the mattress, box spring, frame and headboard together, and can take them apart in the room if needed.

Should I bag the mattress before pickup?

You don't have to. If you suspect bedbugs, tell us when you book and seal the mattress in a plastic mattress bag before we arrive.

Do you take old refrigerators?

Yes, we remove old refrigerators and freezers. Please empty them first. Because they contain refrigerant, we take them to facilities that handle appliances properly instead of a regular landfill.

Do you disconnect gas appliances?

No. For safety, gas stoves and dryers need to be disconnected and capped by you or a qualified technician before we arrive. Electric and water connections should be unplugged and shut off too.

Do you take water heaters?

Yes, once the water heater has been drained and disconnected by you or your plumber, we can haul it away for metal recycling.

Do you haul palm fronds and branches?

Yes, we haul palm fronds, branches, brush and bagged yard waste. Bundled or bagged material loads fastest, but we can take loose piles too.

Do you cut trees or trim brush?

We focus on hauling. If brush or branches are already cut, bagged or piled, we load and haul them. For tree work, hire a tree service first and we can clear the debris afterward.

Can you take dirt, rock or sod?

Small amounts, yes. Dirt, rock and sod are heavy, so they are priced by weight and volume differently than green waste. Mention them in your photos.

Is junk removal cheaper than renting a dumpster?

Junk removal is often more cost-effective than a dumpster for small and medium amounts of debris, because you only pay for the space your debris takes up and the loading is included. For a long, ongoing demolition project, a dumpster may make more sense. Send photos and we'll give you an honest recommendation.

Do you work with contractors?

Yes. We haul debris for general contractors, remodelers, handymen and DIY homeowners, including mid-project pickups to keep a site clear.

Can you remove old popcorn ceiling or vinyl tile?

Only if it has tested negative for asbestos. Older popcorn ceilings, flooring and pipe insulation can contain asbestos, which must be removed by a certified abatement contractor.

Do you remove the concrete pad under a hot tub?

The pad is a separate job. Tell us if the slab or a deck needs to go and we will quote it, or leave it in place and pressure wash it.

How do I drain a hot tub before removal?

Turn off the power at the breaker, then drain the tub with its drain valve or a submersible pump to landscaping, not a storm drain. Treated water should cool and sit uncovered for a few days to let chlorine dissipate.

Can you clean out the shed before taking it down?

Yes. We haul the contents and the structure in the same visit. Set aside any fuel, pesticides or paint for household hazardous waste.

Do you remove play sets and gazebos?

Yes. Wooden play sets, metal swing sets, pergolas and gazebos are taken apart and hauled the same way as sheds.

Should I wipe my computer before pickup?

Yes. Back up and wipe or remove hard drives before pickup. We do not provide certified data destruction, so keep or destroy drives that held sensitive data.

Do you take old batteries with electronics?

Remove loose batteries first. All batteries are hazardous waste in California and should go to a battery drop-off or household hazardous waste facility.

Do you take commercial e-waste?

Yes, we haul monitors, computers and printers for recycling. Wipe or remove drives first; we don't provide certified data destruction.

Can you work after business hours?

Often, yes. We are available around the clock and can schedule evening, early morning or weekend pickups when your building allows.

Pressure Washing

How much does pressure washing cost in San Diego?

Pressure washing cost depends mainly on the square footage, the type of surface and how heavy the staining is. A standard driveway is a different job than a large patio with oil stains or a commercial walkway. Access and water availability matter too. Text photos of the area to (619) 972-3798 and we'll send a clear estimate.

Will pressure washing remove oil stains?

Pressure washing with a pre-treatment removes most fresh and moderate oil stains and noticeably lightens old ones. Oil that has soaked into concrete for years may not come out completely, and we'll tell you honestly what to expect after seeing photos.

Can pressure washing damage concrete or pavers?

Pressure washing can damage surfaces if the pressure is too high or the nozzle is held too close, which is why we match pressure and technique to each surface. Concrete tolerates more pressure, while pavers, older concrete and painted surfaces need a gentler approach.

How often should I pressure wash my driveway?

Most San Diego driveways look their best with a pressure wash about once a year. Homes near trees, the coast or busy streets, and properties getting ready to sell or rent, often benefit from more frequent cleaning.

Should I pressure wash my driveway before selling my home?

Yes, pressure washing the driveway is one of the cheapest ways to improve curb appeal before listing photos and showings. A clean driveway makes the whole front of the house look better maintained.

Will pressure washing wash out paver sand?

Pressure washing can loosen some joint sand between pavers, which is why we use lower pressure on pavers and work at an angle. Pavers may need fresh joint sand after a deep clean, and we'll let you know if yours do.

Can you pressure wash before or after business hours?

Often, yes. Ask us when you request a quote and we'll work out a time that keeps your entrance open for customers.

Property Cleanouts

What is a property cleanout?

A property cleanout is removing everything unwanted from a home, unit, garage or lot at once, instead of item by item. It's common after a tenant moves out, before a home is listed, after a loved one passes, or when a space has been used as storage for years.

Can you clean out a rental after a tenant leaves?

Yes, rental turnover cleanouts are one of our core jobs. We haul out leftover furniture, bags, mattresses and trash, and can pressure wash the entry, patio or driveway so the unit is ready to show.

Do you do estate cleanouts?

Yes. We handle estate and downsizing cleanouts with care, working around anything the family wants to keep and donating usable items when possible.

Who is responsible for removing items dumped on my property?

In most cases the property owner or manager is responsible for removing items dumped on private property. You can report illegal dumping to the City of San Diego through its Get It Done app, and hire a hauler like us to clear private property quickly.

Do you work with HOAs and apartment communities on a recurring basis?

Yes. Communities with repeat dumping often book recurring visits for dumpster enclosures and common areas. Ask us about setting up a schedule.

What if the dumped items include chemicals or needles?

Tell us before we arrive. We don't handle hazardous waste or sharps; those need a hazardous waste or biohazard service. We can clear the rest of the pile around them.

How long does a garage cleanout take?

Most single-garage cleanouts take a few hours, depending on how full it is and how much sorting is needed. Text photos and we'll give you an estimate of both cost and time.

Can you take shelving and workbenches?

Yes. We take down free-standing shelving and haul old workbenches. Shelving bolted to the wall can be removed if you want the space cleared.

Do I need to sort before you arrive?

No. Sorting ahead helps, but you can also point out what stays as we go. Paperwork and keepsakes are set aside if you ask.

Can you clear out an apartment on short notice?

Often, yes. Availability depends on our schedule that week, so ask us. Text photos and your move-out date to (619) 972-3798 and we'll tell you the soonest time we can be there.

Do you clean inside the unit after hauling?

We leave the unit broom-clean after hauling. Deep cleaning such as carpets, kitchens and bathrooms is a separate service from a cleaning company.

Can you handle several units at once?

Yes, we can schedule multiple turnovers for property managers. Send the list of units and photos and we will quote each one.

Can you work with an executor or realtor who lives out of town?

Yes. Out-of-town family members, executors and agents can approve the estimate by text or email, arrange lockbox access, and get after photos when the home is empty.

What happens to paperwork and personal documents?

Tell us what to watch for. We set aside paperwork, photos, letters and keepsakes we find and leave them in a spot you choose, rather than hauling them.

Can you clean out the home before it is listed?

Yes. We empty the house, garage and yard, and can pressure wash the driveway and walkways so the property is ready for listing photos.

Do you handle biohazard or trauma cleanup?

No. Biohazard, trauma and heavy contamination cleanup must be done by a licensed remediation company. We can coordinate around them to haul the furniture, belongings and junk.

Is a hoarder cleanout kept confidential?

Yes. We don't post photos of hoarding jobs or share addresses, and we can use an unmarked approach to the home if you ask.

Looking for something specific? See junk removal, pressure washing or property cleanouts, the junk removal cost guide and the San Diego disposal guide.

Still have a question? Text us.

Send a few pictures of the job and get a clear, free estimate. No pressure, no surprises.

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