High Pressure Washer - Analysis and Buying Guide - 2023
When exterior deep cleaning is needed, such as the driveway or siding, nothing gets the job done as effectively and efficiently as a pressure washer. A pressure washer can remove mud, algae, gum, loose paint, and more. But there are several models available and each one is different. For example, some may be great for your patio but won't make it to the second floor. How do you decide which one is best for you?
If you need power, go for a gas pressure washer. Electric models are lighter but do not have the same weight. Most homeowners can get by with 2,000 to 3,200 psi, but needs vary, so choose what works best for you. Weight and speed are also important to consider; If you can't move the unit easily, cleaning will be difficult.
For usage tips and more detailed information on the different features you may want to have, read on. If you're ready to buy now, consider one of the pressure washers we've chosen as our favourites.
Types of Pressure Washers
First, let's examine the two main types of pressure washers, along with their pros and cons.
- Electric Pressure Washers
As the name suggests, electric pressure washers are powered by electricity, using a cord connected to an outlet.
Pros :
Electric pressure washers tend to be lighter and easier to transport than gas versions.
Since electric pressure washers don't need to be filled with fuel, you avoid the mess of refilling and the hassle of storing gas cans.
The lower pressure of electric models means they are well suited for more delicate jobs, such as washing cars and outdoor furniture.
Electric pressure washers are generally more affordable than gas ones.
Cons :
At lower pressure, electric models aren't as good at tackling the toughest jobs.
You're limited in where you can take an electric pressure washer, as you need to be within reach of an outlet.
- Gas Pressure Washers
Gas pressure washers have a gasoline-powered engine, which means you have to manually refuel when you run out.
Pros :
Gas pressure washers tend to be more powerful.
Higher wattage models can be used for tasks that electric pressure washers couldn't easily do, like removing paint.
Cons :
Gas pressure washers tend to be heavier than their electric counterparts.
You have to refuel when they run out of gas, which can be a disaster.
As a general rule, gas pressure washers cost more than electric ones.
Considerations for Selecting a Pressure Washer
- Psi
Pounds per square inch (psi) is a unit used to measure the power of a pressure washer. As a general rule, the higher the psi, the more powerful the pressure washer, although there are other factors at play (more on that later).
Electric pressure washers tend to have a psi between 1,000 and 2,000 – suitable for washing cars, outdoor grills, plastic games, patio furniture, driveways and patios.
Residential grade gas pressure washers typically offer between 2,000 and 3,200 psi, suitable for washing boats, cars (on low pressure nozzle settings), decks, patios, house siding, and fences.
Commercial grade gas scrubbers tend to have a psi between 3,200 and 4,500, or sometimes higher. They are suitable for paint stripping, surface preparation, heavy-duty or construction site cleaning, and graffiti removal.
- Cleaning Units
While psi is a good indicator of how powerful a pressure washer is, cleaning units (CUs) are also worth looking at. This rating takes into account the volume of water a unit puts out, as well as the pressure. Suppose you have two pressure washers of equal psi. If one of them pumps more water per minute than the other, it will clean faster.
A basic consumer model may have a CU rating of 2,000 to 8,000, while a more powerful gas model may have a CU rating of between 8,000 and 16,000.
Commercial models can have CU ratings of up to 30,000 – but that's too much pressure for the average user.
- Weight
Think about the weight of your chosen pressure washer. Will you be able to easily move it around your home or property?
Electric pressure washers are relatively lightweight, weighing between 20 and 45 pounds. Gas pressure washers, on the other hand, are heavier...an average model weighs between 55 and 90 pounds.
- Adjustable Spray
All pressure washers are capable of adjusting their spray. A smaller, more concentrated spray has higher pressure and is good for extremely tough jobs, while a wider angle spray has lower pressure and is better for lighter or more delicate jobs.
The spray adjustment method varies. Some pressure washers have an adjustable nozzle that is rotated for different spray angles. Other models have interchangeable nozzles that are changed depending on the desired spray angle.
- Maneuverability
How important is it that your pressure washer is easy to move?
The lighter electric models are usually strapped to the back like a backpack, while the heavier gas models usually have wheels so you can drag or push them.
If you'll be using your pressure washer over rough terrain, you may prefer to have a model you can carry, or one with large, air-filled tires that will handle bumps better.
Tips
It is best to use the widest angle nozzle that will adequately perform the task at hand. Use a spray that is too narrow and you could cut the surface you are trying to clean.
If you have a gas pressure washer, don't forget that the engine will need occasional maintenance.
Never use a pressure washer while on a ladder. Kickback can cause you to lose your balance and fall.
When cleaning a vertical surface, such as a wall, best results are achieved by cleaning from the bottom up, then rinsing from the top down.
FAQ
Que. Are pressure washers safe?
Ans. Pressure washers are safe to use as long as common sense and caution are exercised, but the extreme pressure of the water could cause injury, so never point the water at anyone. It is also wise to wear safety glasses and long pants when using pressure washing equipment.
Que. Can you use a pressure washer to wash a car?
Ans. You can, but be careful not to use too high a psi. Our expert, Luke, says, "Thinking about using your pressure washer to clean your car? An electric pressure washer, with psi, might be better suited for this task. Be careful when applying pressure washer water to the delicate paint of your car.
Que. Do more powerful pressure washers give better results?
Ans. The most powerful pressure washers – with the highest psi and CU ⸺ ratings don't necessarily give better results, but they do give quicker results. An 8,000 psi pressure washer can typically achieve the same results as a 16,000 psi one, but it will take about twice as long to do so.
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