best pressure washer

The Best Pressure Washers: Reviews and Buying Guide

Welcome to our best pressure washer for the money reviews. Here, we list out the our top choices for both electric and gas power washers. If you’re new to these cleaning tools, our buying below will give you a good introduction into what they are and why they work better than your standard garden hose in getting rid of stubborn dirt that can get stuck on the side of your home, vehicle or furniture.

Use our reviews below so you get a good idea of what our top selections do. If you want something more in-depth, make sure to check out our specific product reviews which provide a thorough and extensive look at each of the products.

In a hurry? Here is our top pick.
AR Blue Clean AR383 Electric Pressure Washer-1900 PSI, 1.51 GPM, 14 Amps Bayonet Connect Accessories, On Board Storage, Portable Pressure Washer, High Pressure, Car Washer, Siding, Driveways, Patio
  • HIGH PRESSURE PERFORMANCE: This compact pressure washer is equipped with a powerful universal motor and a tri axial pump that produces up to 1900 PSI, 1.51 GPM, and 14 amp the perfect outdoor cleaner
  • COMPACT TROLLEY DESIGN: This portable pressure washer is built on a two wheel trolley making it easy to maneuver, this trolley also offers convenient storage for your pressure washer accessories
  • CLEANING VERSATILITY: Power wash through dirt and grime on your patio, siding, fencing, and car using the vari-spray and turbo lance, along with the 25 ounce bayonet foam cannon
  • DYNAMIC ACCESSORIES: Equipped with a range of versatile accessories to cut setup time in half, such as the bayonet trigger gun, bayonet vari-spray and turbo lance, and the 20 foot super soft hose
  • TOTAL STOP SYSTEM: The AR383 features a TSS (Total Stop System), which shuts off power to your pressure washer when the trigger gun is not engaged, this extends the life of your pressure washer.

Best Power Washer for the Money

#1 – AR Annovi Reverberi Blue Clean AR383

AR Blue Clean AR383 Electric Pressure Washer-1900 PSI, 1.51 GPM, 14 Amps Bayonet Connect Accessories, On Board Storage, Portable Pressure Washer, High Pressure, Car Washer, Siding, Driveways, Patio
  • HIGH PRESSURE PERFORMANCE: This compact pressure washer is equipped with a powerful universal motor and a tri axial pump that produces up to 1900 PSI, 1.51 GPM, and 14 amp the perfect outdoor cleaner
  • COMPACT TROLLEY DESIGN: This portable pressure washer is built on a two wheel trolley making it easy to maneuver, this trolley also offers convenient storage for your pressure washer accessories
  • CLEANING VERSATILITY: Power wash through dirt and grime on your patio, siding, fencing, and car using the vari-spray and turbo lance, along with the 25 ounce bayonet foam cannon
  • DYNAMIC ACCESSORIES: Equipped with a range of versatile accessories to cut setup time in half, such as the bayonet trigger gun, bayonet vari-spray and turbo lance, and the 20 foot super soft hose
  • TOTAL STOP SYSTEM: The AR383 features a TSS (Total Stop System), which shuts off power to your pressure washer when the trigger gun is not engaged, this extends the life of your pressure washer.

The AR383 from AR Blue Clean is among the most popular models in our best pressure washer reviews. It has the ability to produce 1900 PSI which is more than ample pressure for most types of jobs around the home.

It offers a good balance between affordable cost and more than sufficient power making it one of the best value for money units around. This electric pressure washer is very quiet, weights under 30 lbs. and comes with rolling wheels for ease of moving.

It includes a 20 ft long high pressure hose, a 14oz detergent bottle, and two quick change wands with turbo and variables nozzles. It also includes a 35 ft electrical cord. That should be long enough to get you to just about any place in your yard or shop.

The nozzle spray head lets you adjust how wide the water is sprayed letting you control how much power it delivers by adjusting the concentration of the water. For tough, hard to remove objects, use a small width while for greater force and for easier tasks you can open it to make the spray wider.


#2 – Generac 6692 Pressure Washer

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This is an excellent unit for home and residential use and packs a lot of power.

The Generac 6692’s powerful horizontal axial pump enables it to achieve up to 3100 PSI. As you’d expect it gives you more pressure than the electric models but it is also slightly bulkier and heavier but does have two over sized wheels for better mobility. 

As this unit comes with a 196cc gas powered engine, do make sure to only use it outside since the fumes from the gas motor are toxic to breath for long periods of time.

The Generac 6692 Pressure Washer comes with a 30 ft long hose and 3 quick change nozzle tips (0, 25, and 40). This unit is very easy to start. It also produces a lot less noise compared to some of the other gas models in our reviews. Keep in mind though, that it still makes a good amount of noise as you’d expect and is noisier than the quiet electric models.

The power washer’s control panel allows you to set precise washing for different task adds to the high ratings the machine gets. As well, features such as a low oil alert, water alert and the soft grip in the machine’s handle also make an appealing modern power pressure.

At around $350, the Generac 6692 comes packed with the power to take on any home cleaning requirement and lets you complete the job much faster.


#3 – Simpson Cleaning MSH3125 MegaShot

SIMPSON 3200PSI Gas Pressure Washer, 2.5GPM, Honda GC190 Engine, Spray Gun, 5 Nozzle Tips, 25ft Hose, 49 States
  • Premium Residential Performance: Easy-to-assemble and easy-to-start with its Honda GC190 Premium residential engine, the MegaShot power washer is great for cleaning decks, patios, outdoor furniture, house siding, and prepping home exteriors for painting
  • Power and Durability: A powerful, reliable, maintenance-free OEM Technologies axial cam pump delivers 3200 PSI at 2.5 GPM and includes thermal relief to prevent overheating; Welded steel frame construction with a powder-coated finish adds durability
  • Lightweight and Portable: The compact design is lightweight and small enough to be easily transported by one person; 10-inch premium pneumatic tires offer ease of maneuverability across various terrain and uneven ground
  • Includes Quality Simpson Accessories: MorFlex ¼-inch x 25-feet high-pressure hose is non-marring, flexible and abrasion-resistant; 5 Quick connect nozzle tips: 0°, 15°, 25°, 40° and Soap for any cleaning tasks; Ergonomic spray gun and 16-inch steel wand/lance
  • Important Notes: 49-state compliant; Keep max fuel level 1/2 Inch below bottom of filler neck to avoid spillage; All pressure washers are 100% functionally tested in factory and may contain minimum residual fuel/oil or fuel odor

For larger jobs or work that requires more power, the Simpson Megashot 3125 gives you a powerful 3100 PSI and 2.5 GPM flow. The higher pressure lets you make quick work of things you’d otherwise spend more time on.

The Simpson Cleaning 3125 MegaShot is built like a tank. It uses a welded steel construction frame and comes with a M22 threaded Pump/Hose connection. While the 25 ft kink and abrasion resistant hose and the 10″ pneumatic tires with 4 ply construction make it suitable for just about any terrain you may encounter.

The Simpson MegaShot comes with quick connect nozzles that you can attach to the end of the head to adjust water spray. The quick connect tips (0°, 15°, 25°, 40° and soap) will cover just about any job such as cleaning cars, ATVs, boats, driveways and walkways.

The Megashot 3125 runs on a very reliable Honda GC190 engine that’s easy to start up. Compared to the other models in our best pressure washer reviews, the Megashot, along with its bigger brother, the Simpson PowerShot 3228, give you more power so you have the ability to tackle on bigger cleaning tasks. Do take note that the both the Simpson models mentions are bulkier in size (about 55 lbs) which may or may not be an issue for you.


#4 – Karcher K5 540 Electric Pressure Washer

Sale
Kärcher K5 Premium Electric Pressure Washer 2000 PSI - with Vario Power & Dirtblaster Wands, Pressurized Hose Reel - 1.4 GPM
  • Powerful Performance: The K 5 pressure washer lasts longer than universal motors and delivers exceptional cleaning results! Water-Cooled brushless induction-motor and non-corrosive N-COR pump.
  • Pressure Regulating: Use the Vario Power spray wand for light-duty jobs, and a patented Dirt Blaster spray wand for superior cleaning performance on tough-to-clean surfaces.
  • High Pressure Hose: Comes equipped with a generous 25' kink-resistant high-pressure hose that offers plenty of reach, as well as an onboard pressurized hose reel for simple storage
  • Onboard Detergent Tank: The electric pressure washer features an onboard removable detergent tank for easy soap application, while an adjustable flow dial allows you to control how much detergent is applied
  • The Karcher Promise - Cleaner. Quicker: 2000 PSI and 1.43 GPM Motor. Adjust by twisting the Vario Power Spray Wand for effective and surface-friendly cleaning on concrete, pavement, driveways,sidewalks, patios, decks, cars, boats, homes, RVs, and more.

The Karcher K5 will get things cleaner quicker with less than 2,000 PSI and comes with a Dirt Blaster spray wand to tackle the hardest jobs.

The second wand that comes with this unit is a Vario Power Spray wand that allows you to simply adjust the spray setting.

This powerful machine economizes water. It uses only 1.4 GPM while still providing up to 40 times more cleaning power than your standard garden hose with a nozzle attachment.

It also does not waste power due to its patented water-cooled induction motor. This means it can stand up to a lot of continued use by its owners.

The N-COR pump is durable and, more importantly, non-corrosive. It requires very little maintenance on it.

The features of the K5 include a hose reel that holds it 25ft hose, the two spray nozzles, and a on on-board detergent tank. This ensures you have everything you need to get your “honey dos” done before the weekend is over.

This machine is easy to move around. It has large 7.7in high impact wheels and a tall handle that makes it easy for most people to move. It weighs in at around 32 pounds and measures 16.77 x 13.07 x 34.33 inches. This does mean it is a bit larger than some pressure washers, but overall, it is not that much larger.


#5 – Sun Joe SPX3000 Pressure Washer

Sun Joe SPX3000 Electric Pressure Washer, 2030-PSI Working Pressure, PWMA-Rated, 1.2-GPM Water Flow, Dual Onboard Soap Foam Tank, Metal Lance and Quick Connect Tips, Black
  • [ULTRA POWERFUL]: 14.5-Amp/1800-Watt motor generates 2030 PSI and 1.2 GPM to easily clean homes, buildings, RV’s, cars, trucks, boats, decks, driveways, patios, lawn equipment, and more!
  • [HIGH PERFORMANCE]: 5 Quick-Connect spray tips (0º, 15º, 25º, 40º and soap) tailor your spray from pinpoint jet to powerful fan with a convenient soap applicator to tackle light, medium, and heavy-duty cleaning tasks
  • [SUPERIOR QUALITY]: Built-to-last construction featuring a 34" stainless steel lance with solid brass fittings and all metal connections to prevent leaks and maximize performance; heavy-duty 20' high-pressure hose features rugged, high-tensile, wire-reinforced tubing over a smooth inner core to minimize pressure drop
  • [VERSATILE]: Two large capicity onboard detergent tanks carry and store different types of detergent for blasting away grime
  • [EASY TO USE]: Lightweight at only 24.3 lbs with rear wheels for easy portability around your yard

The Sun Joe SPX3000 Pressure Washer made our list because it offers the best cleaning ability for the price. While this unit ins’t the most powerful of the best pressure washers we reviewed, it did clean well for only 2000PSI. Combine that with the very affordable price, and you have a pressure washer that is hard to beat.

The Sun Joe SPX3000 stands out in terms of its included accessories. First, it comes with five nozzles. It includes 0-degree, 15-degree, 25-degree and 40-degree nozzles as well as a soap nozzle. The nozzles are color-coded and are easy to connect to the pressure wand. The base unit even includes nozzle storage on the back of the machine for easy access. There are also two detergent tanks on the top of the unit, so you can switch between mixtures while washing your car.

The Sun Joe SPX3000 comes with a shorter 20 ft hose and a pretty standard 35 ft power cord.

This was by far the quietest pressure washer (81 dB) we tested considering how powerful this unit is. All-in-all, this is a solid and affordable pressure washer that will be able to handle almost all of your home and garden needs.


#6 – Generac 7594 Speedwash

Generac 7594

If you are in the market of a pressure washer then you are probably familiar with the Generac name. Generac is one of the biggest and best pressure washer manufacturers in the world.

With such a huge consumer following it is no doubt that Generac has built a solid reputation of the decades. Today we will be reviewing, testing, and comparing the Generac’s new 7594 pressure washer.

With a powerful 196cc OHV engine Generac ensures that you as a consumer will always have enough power to get the job completed. This motor has the capabilities to deliver powerful cleaning performance while retaining reliability and efficiency.

The 7594 also incorporates an axial cam pump with easy to access connections. This prevents the operator from kneeling down to connect hoses. The spray gun is ergonomic and tough. It’s molded grip and easy to pull trigger allow for easy operation.

Just holding this spray gun you can feel the quality in the product. Generac has also included oversized never-flat tires. This is excellent for mobility on rugged terrain or for use on the work site.

Specs and Features of the Generac 7594

  • Has a very powerful 196cc OHV engine. This engine provides excellent performance, reliability, and efficiency. You can tackle most jobs with ease.
  • Axial Cam Pump that incorporates easy-access connections. taking the operator in mind Generac has included a technology that prevents kneeling down on the ground for hose connections.
  • Solid Spray Gun boasts molded grips and an easy-to-pull trigger. Many other competitors offer their products with cheap spray guns, and often these are the first things to break. Generac spared no expense with this spray gun.
  • Includes four standard quick click nozzle tips. these tips range from 0 degree, 25 degree, 40 degree and a soap tip.
  • Oversized never-flat tires offer improved mobility, especially on the job site and rugged terrain. You will never have to worry about your wheels again

What are Owners of the Generac 7594 Saying?

After reviewing hundreds of consumer reports there is a general consensus between generac 7594 owners, they love it! It was a rare instance to see someone who spoke negatively about this product and that was good to see.

As mentioned above, Generac is a manufacturer that takes pride in the integrity of their products. People love this product, and after rigorous testing so do we!

Final Verdict

If you could not tell by now, we love this pressure washer. Great power, great reliability, and great value. I love the way the 7594 operates. This is a pressure washer that was built to provide you with a lifetime of quality and service.

If you are in the market for a top-tier pressure wash, this could be perfect for you. For a reasonable amount, you can put one of the best pressure washer on the market in your garage

Generac 7954 Pressure Washer 2900PSI, One Size, Black, Orange
  • Ergonomic Spray Gun with cushion grip and easy-to-pull trigger reduce fatigue and improve comfort
  • Integrated spray gun holder holds spray gun securely during transport and storage
  • Quick change nozzle tips 0˚, 25˚, 40˚ and soap
  • High pressure hose connects to the rear of the spray gun for maximum convenience
  • Easy maneuverability engine and pump are perfectly balanced over the axle for almost effortless maneuverability

#7 – Briggs & Stratton 20593 Pressure Washer

Briggs & Stratton 20593

Briggs & Stratton has a long and proud history of making small engines for various types of outdoor equipment. They’ve been in business since 1908, and no more than a hundred years later they’re still producing superb tools. The Briggs & Stratton 20593 2.3-GPM 2800-PSI Gas Pressure Washer with 850- Professional Series 190cc Engine is a testament to their excellence.

Specs and Features of the Briggs & Stratton 20593

Here are some of the technical specs of the Briggs & Stratton 20593:

  • PSI: 2,800
  • 2.3 gallons per minute
  • All-steel, one-piece construction.
  • Easy Start Technology
  • Nozzle type: Quick-connect Tips
  • 4 spray nozzles
  • 11-inch “Never Go Flat” wheels
  • Engine type: Briggs & Stratton 850 Series OHV, producing 8.5-foot-
    pounds of gross torque
  • Maintenance-free axial cam pump
  • Hose length: 30 feet

For cleaning, the Briggs & Stratton 20593 offers medium-duty power which enables you to clean just about anything a typical owner needs to clean outdoors. Extra features include an injection system for detergents, along with a valve that automatically removes overheated water to boost the longevity of the pump. The handle folds down, and accessory compartments are built in for attachments and extra spray nozzles.

Pros:

  • As long as you don’t absolutely need a heavy-duty washer, the Briggs & Stratton 20593 is a great choice. There are many benefits to a pressure washer, but you can make sure you can enjoy them all when you use the Briggs & Stratton 20593.
  • You can use this to clean your decks, floors, walls, driveways, and your vehicles. It is very economical in its use of water, as you use 80% less water compared to the use of a traditional garden hose. With the detergent injection system, you can clean more effectively. The safety valve ensures its durability. The folding handle and the accessory compartments mean that you can store this easily enough, and the wheels ensure infallible transport. With the Easy
  • Start Technology, you won’t have to experience the frustration that happens when you encounter difficulties in starting a tool. As for maintenance, you don’t really need to do much at all. The axial cam pump actually needs no maintenance. Its durability is assured because it has an all-steel built and constructed in one piece.

Cons:

Of course, you still need to remember that this is a medium-duty pressure washer. The gunk on your floors may be tough enough to require a heavy-duty version. Also, while the regular warranty is for two years, for commercial use the warranty is only for 90 days.

Verdict

The Briggs & Stratton has enjoyed a sterling reputation for the quality of its products, and the Briggs & Stratton 20593 is proof that they deserve it. With the 20593, you can clean a lot more things at home than with a garden hose or with another medium-duty washer. And the price is affordable as well, so it won’t “clean out” your bank account.

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#8 – Duromax XP2700PWS Review

Duromax XP2700PWS

If your cleaning needs require some heavy duty pressure washer, you’re going to need one with a lot of muscle. This is especially true when you’re not in range of a power outlet, which means electric pressure washers are out. The good news is, there’s the Duromax XP2700PWS, which is the Arnie Schwarzenegger of the gasoline pressure washer industry.

Specs and Features of the Duromax XP2700PWS

Here are some of the eye-popping specs of the Duromax XP2700PWS:

  • It uses a powerful 5 HP motor.
  • The pressure output tops out at 2,700 PSI.
  • The maximum flow rate is 2.3 gallons per minute.
  • The hose is 20 feet long.
  • It comes with a built-in detergent tank.
  • 5 Quick Connect nozzles are included.
  • When the oil is low, it shuts down automatically to protect the motor.
  • The Quick Change connectors make it easy to install the hose.
  • Onboard storage for the nozzles, the high pressure hose, and the spray gun.
  • The engine and the 3-Piston Axial Cam Aluminum Pump are protected by a sturdy welded frame.
  • Comfort is provided by the cushion grip and a trigger that’s easy to pull.
  • The fuel tank is huge.

Pros

  • Just about any kind of cleaning job can be handled by the Duromax XP2700PWS. This is its most important advantage. The water pressure it offers is amazing, and with the right nozzle any type of item can be cleaned. And if the pressure doesn’t work, you can always use the detergent tank included in this unit.
  • But while it’s big, it is still easy to move around. It’s not all that heavy either, so you can use it for some heavy-duty roof maintenance. It’s very easy to use too and the hose is long enough that the unit can stay in one place when you’re cleaning. It is also stable enough so you won’t have to keep putting it back up because the hose keeps tipping it over.
  • Finally, the Duromax XP2700PWS can be set up quickly and you don’t need to be a genius to get it up and running. You just follow the instructions that come with the box, and it won’t take you half an hour until you’re all set.

Cons

  • So what’s wrong with it? Well, the thing is, there are still other more powerful pressure washers in the market but they tend to be more expensive as well. Besides, the more powerful washers may be more suitable for commercial use.
  • Another issue is that there are times when you’ll need more than a single pull to get this washer to start. But once it does, you won’t need to stop until the job is done. The fuel tank is very large so you won’t have to worry about running out of gas.

Verdict

Sometimes a little motor just won’t do, especially for tough outdoor cleaning jobs. That’s where the Duromax XP2700PWS comes in. It’s like the Navy Seals or Special Forces when it comes to handling tough jobs—they get the job done right

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#9 – Powerstroke PS80950 2700 psi Review

Powerstroke PS80950

Cleaning outdoor furniture is an ideal job for a pressure washer, especially if you have a good equipment to begin with. But sometimes an electric washer may not suffice. For example, if you want to clean outdoor furniture, you may not find an outlet to power your pressure washer. But that’s not a problem with a gas pressure washer like the Powerstroke PS80950.

Key Specs and Features of the Powerstroke PS80950:

  • 189cc Subaru motor
  • 2700 PSI
  • Dimensions are 23 x 20.5 x 37 inches, with the weight at 61 pounds.
  • Maximum flow rate is 2 gallons per minute.
  • It comes with a detergent tank.
  • Certified by the Pressure Washer Manufacturers’ Association

The features include storage options that conveniently allow you to store all your tools. You have compartments for the wand, nozzles, and the trigger gun. There are also several nozzle options as well. You have a soap nozzle, a couple of fan nozzles, and a 21-inch spray wand that comes with a nozzle coupler.

Pros

  • First of all, when it comes to power it beats out lots of electrical pressure washers. It only has a 189 cc motor so it’s very compact, which is great for portability and storage. You can bring it just about anywhere since it is light too, and storing it isn’t much of a problem.
  • But this compact sized motor comes with a maxim psi of 2200, while typical electric pressure washers usually top off a just 2700 psi. With just the water pressure, you can wash driveways and walls without ever needing to use the detergent tank.
  • You don’t even need to move the unit itself all that much, since the nozzle hose is very long. It’s also very maneuverable on its wheels.
  • The durability of the Powerstroke PS80950 has been attested to by numerous customers, so it’s a good buy especially for the price. And the smaller motor means that you don’t spend a lot of money on fuel.

Cons

As for the drawbacks, there is only one and it is typical in gas motors—starting it up. Some people may find it difficult to start, especially when using it for the very first time. But starter fluid does the trick, and just about everyone reports that it starts reliably after that.

Verdict

With a gas powered pressure washer, you better make sure you know how to start the motor. You just need to remember to prime the engine, and it should start on the first pull. As long as you accept this inherent design “flaw”, then what you have is a durable pressure washer that can clean everything and everywhere outdoors. Bring it with you to the park or in your pickup truck on a long trip. With the small motor and the price, you can really save a lot of money by cleaning your own car, driveway, and outdoor furniture yourself instead of paying someone else to do it.

Powerstroke PS80950 2700 PSI 2.3 GPM Pressure Washer with Subaru Engine
  • 2700 psi pressure washer with 2.3 gpm force and a reliable, commercial-grade 175cc OHC chain drive Subaru EA 175 engine
  • Includes 4, pro-style spray nozzles for job versatility
  • Features a 1 gallon on-board detergent tank
  • Flat free, 12", tread cap wheels - excellent for rugged terrain
  • Convenient hose, trigger gun, wand and nozzle storage

Best Pressure Washer Buying Guide

What is a Pressure Washer?

Pressure washers or power washers as cleaning devices that are similar to your run of the mill garden hose. But unlike your regular hose, these pressure cleaners come with a large motor a spraying gun and different types of nozzles.

So what you get is a pressurized tool that sprays high pressure water that’s capable of cleaning stubborn dirt and other materials that have stuck to surfaces that garden hoses aren’t able to.

Depending on the power of the pressure washer you choose, you can take off grime and mold from you decks or patios. At higher pressures, you’ll also be able to strip paint and wipe off graffiti off of walls.

The ability of these power washers run from those that are for home use, all the way to the industrial grade. This means you’ll want to select the one that fits your needs, so you won’t be overpaying.

Also, too much power can be a bad thing when it comes to these powerful water sprayers. The reason being that they can damage or destroy your furniture, wood, or brick paths if you use too much power. So be sure not to over do it or if you choose to get a unit with a high PSI, be sure to use the proper nozzle for the work or item that you’re doing.

Best Pressure Washer

Understanding Some Pressure Washer Features

Two of the most important things you’ll want to understand before even considering what type of pressure washer you’ll be getting are how much water it uses and how much power it is capable of producing.

  • GPM or Gallons Per Minute, tells you how much water flows through that particular product during operation. This is important because the higher the GPM, the faster you’ll be able to complete the work since more water is used every minute. This also means it is more suited for larger jobs compared to those with lose GPMs.
  • The next measure to observe is the PSI, which tells you how many pounds of pressure per square inch the pressure washer is capable of delivering. The higher the amount of pressure (PSI), the more powerful the unit.

As you’d expect, cheaper pressure washers will have lower PSI and GPM ratings. And if you want bigger and stronger units, you’ll often have to spend more.

How much PSI do I need?

This is one of the most common questions in choosing the best pressure washer. The simple answer lies in what you intend to clean with it. If you’re looking to use it for home maintenance like washing off the patio or even cleaning cars, bikes or your garden grill, then a light to medium duty consumer unit will do.

If you want to use it for a cleaning service for home improvement, to strip paint, or clean large driveways, the medium or heavy duty pressure washers will be more suited for you.

The following table below gives you an idea of what PSI is suggested for certain types of cleaning jobs.

pressure washer PSI recommendation

Will It Last the Test of Time?

It is vital to consider the quality of the machine as well as the manufacturer’s warranty. If you are really looking to get the “best bang for your buck” you need your machine to last several years and of course be problem free.

It is common sense that no machine will last forever, but with the proper maintenance, storage, and care, a quality washer can last decades. Some machines will require more maintenance and care than others, for instance, an electric power washer would be less maintenance than a gas counterpart, but with the proper care and minor mechanical abilities the gas powered machine could last longer.

For some people the ease of just plugging in your machine and operating it supersedes its gas counterpart. Everyone’s needs are different and you should address your concerns before you leap into a purchase.

Always consider what will benefit you personally the most. Just because someone else prefers gas powered over electric powered, does not mean that you will too.

Get the Most for Your Money

Often times people do not associate discounted prices with quality. There is a perception that the more machine you get for the cheaper of the price, the worse the overall quality and build of the machine.

As the old saying goes, “you get what you pay for”. I warn you to caution this thinking as many of the top manufactures out there today have the consumer backing and manufacturing capacities to build more high quality pressure washers at a reduced price.

As an example, if Generac produces 1,000,000 more machines a year than Karcher, Generac can use bulk manufacturing to their advantage in producing a high grade product for a fraction of the price.

Just because a pressure washer costs hundreds more than another does not necessarily make it worth the extra investment, sometimes it’s not worth it at all and many consumers become victims.

You want to get the most for your money and in this economy who could blame you, but you must be careful in making an informed choice. Many brands will advertise their products as “the best around” or “the best quality pressure washer on the market” and many of these assertions fall short of substantial tangible proof.

Could you imagine thinking that you just bought “the best” cleaner on the market and the motor seizes within the first year, followed by a lack of warranty to back up your product?

We will make sure you get the most for your money by providing you with the essential information necessary to help you in purchasing a quality product that is cost efficient.

Bigger Isn’t Always Better 

Size Does Matter

But how can this be true, bigger is always better, right?

It’s a concept that teeters back and forth, is bigger really better?

When it comes to the lump sum in your bank account well of course bigger is always better, but what about your pressure washer?

Do you really need all that extra power and do you really have the space to store this large sized machine? These are questions that you should consider when choosing the size of the pressure cleaner.

You would be surprised to know that many compact designed power washers are just as, if not more, powerfully than their larger counterparts. Your satisfaction in this element will come with making a smart strategic purchasing decision.

There are several residential grade pressure washers on the market today that can easily outperform those of commercial grade. Think of it as an automobile, sure a big cube van has a much larger stature and greater displacement than say a Corvette, but it’s the internals that make all the difference. With strategic engineering the corvette can easily outperform the cube van in almost any aspect.


Types: Electric vs. Gas Pressure Washer

Now that you have an idea of what these tools can do and how what specifications to look for, the next item you’ll have to deal with is picking out what type of pressure washer to get. There are two major types available, those that run on electric motors and those that are powered by gas engines.

Electric Pressure Washers

The main difference between the two is that electric pressure washers use electricity, so you’ll need to have a power socket on hand where you plan to use it, or at the very least have a good extension cord on hand.

Power washers that run of electricity are typically not as powerful as their gas counterparts, but they relieve you of having to make sure that the tank is filled, the extra work of getting gas every now and them.

Because run on electric motors, they don’t produce any exhaust, unlike those that are gas powered. This lets you use them indoors or outdoors, plus they also produce less noise.

Since they run on electricity, you’ll need to make sure that the unit you buy is insulated and have safety features that prevent them from getting damages in wet conditions, and more importantly keep you away from harm. With these units, do make sure to ready the user’s guide on safety before using them.

Electric pressure washers are also much lighter, making them easier to transport. This isn’t much of an issue since most units come with transport wheels. But if you need to go up stairs, when you want to store them away, or transfer them from one work site to another, weight can be an issue.

Advantages of Electric Power Washers

Between the two major types of pressure washers, the electric version gives you some of the benefits that you don’t get with the gas model. Here are the main reasons for picking up an electric based power washer over one that runs on gas.

  • No need to refill gas – In general, you don’t need to mess with gas and gas engines. With gas powered units, you’ll need to refuel regularly and your machine stops running when gas runs out. With electric units, just plug in the cord to the power outlet and you’re ready to go.
  • Quick Start – This is related to the first point. Gas engines take a lot more maintaining, and aren’t as easy to start up compared with electric units. With the electric power washers, just plug in the unit, turn on the power and you can start cleaning.
  • Low to No Noise – One of the main benefits of using this type of pressure washer is the low noise it produces. Depending on the model and brand you get, the electric pressure washer produces very little to almost no noise at all. Compare this to the louder engines of the gas powered models.
  • No Exhaust – When you use gas, you can expect to get some smoke exhaust, similar to that in cars. With electricity, there’s no smoke or exhaust produced. This makes them cleaner and also more environmentally friendly.
  • Lighter in Weight – In general, electric models weight close to about half the weight of a similar gas power washer.

Gas Pressure Washers

The main advantage of gas pressure washers is their power. These types of power washers are able to provide you with more pressure which makes them more ideal for larger jobs or those that require industrial strength.

Another benefit of gas pressure cleaners is they can be used anywhere. They aren’t limited by the location of the power socket since they don’t need to be plugged into one to work.

As mentioned, the carbon monoxide exhaust means that they aren’t supposed to be used in enclosed areas.

Hot Water Pressure Washers

Most people will only need cold water pressure washers. What this means is that the unit sprays cold water. These are more than sufficient for most people’s cleaning needs, and is the more popular choice because they are cheaper and less complicated.

If however, you want to clean faster, want to tackle larger jobs quickly and often deal with objects with grease and oil, the more expensive hot water pressure washer will work better. Instead of spraying regular temperature water, these units warm up the water before spraying it out the nozzle.

Overall, what a cold water power washer does, the hot water version does better and faster. Where it excels is grime, grease and oil removal where hot water is able to separate the particles much faster than cold water does.

Other Types of Power Washers

While gas and electric are the most common types of power washers, however, there are other common types. Here are the other common types that may meet your needs.

Wall Mount Units

Wall mount pressure washers are a growing trend that is starting to be incorporated into household garages and commercial buildings. These machines provide convenience for their users and are an effective tool for cleaning.

Belt Driven Units 

Belt-drive washers are known for operating at a much lower RPM than its competitors yet it maintains just as much, if not more, pressure washing power. This configuration helps in extending the durability and lifetime of the machine.

Portable Cleaners 

Not all tools are made equal, and for those of you who desire a maneuverable machine may not know which option best suits your needs. Many leading pressure washer manufactures take transportation and storage into consideration when engineering their products. Below we have listed some of the best portable buys.

Best Truck Mount Devices 
Truck mount washers are heavy duty units that are intended for larger jobs and heavy commercial use. These units are great for business owners who travel and require a solid machine to pressure wash with. We will now discuss some of the best truck mount kits.

Trailer Power Cleaners
Similar to truck mount unit, a trailer mounted counterpart has the capabilities to hook up to almost any vehicle with an appropriate hitch. These units are great for transporting and offer its operator a wide variety of services to help get the job done.

Top Cold Water Washers
Cold water units are quite standard. They allow you to directly hookup your garden hose to a threaded receiver. Once hooked up you can start your pressure washer and begin to spray. Most washers have the capabilities to run cold water. We will review the best ones on the market today.

Hot Water Cleaning Units

These allow hot water to circulate through its internals and spray out through the users hand wand. Hot water has its advantages over cold water in that it is proven to help loosen and remove dirt, gunk, and grime much easier.

Put Your Pressure Washer To Work

Working Pressure Washer

What work can you do with your new cleaner? This is a common question that we get from many of our clients.

The short answer is just about anything that that requires cleaning around the exterior of the house. To get into further detail you can use a pressure cleaner to clean stained concrete, maintain patio brick and walkways, clean stamped concrete driveways, clean stucco, brick, or stone exteriors, and clean decks and fencing.

This just names off a few of the common uses for a power washer as the list can get quite lengthy. It has become accustom for every residential homeowner to have a properly functioning machine washer to carry out common household maintenance.

Not only are these machines inexpensive, but they also save you incredible amounts of time.


Best Pressure Washer Conclusion

Power washers quicken the cleaning process so you don’t have to spend time spraying tons of water just to get rid of dirt or grime that’s stuck on your car, driveway or outdoor furniture. They save water, and save you from having to do any scrubbing.

Last update on 2024-10-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

James

I've worked in the landscaping industry ever since college. I love being outdoors and working on DIY projects around the farm.

3 Comments

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