After a hectic hundred hours of research, I found something that will blow your mind because of the pressure washers I have picked, be it your car, outdoor furniture, garbage cans, building exteriors, driveways, paint, patio, sidewalks, or fencing, I have the best pressure washer for everything. Let’s dive in and find out the best electric-powered cleaner for you.

Hello, everyone. Today, I will share my experience with two new electric pressure washers. However, Peter helped me and was with me throughout this test, where we took two ‘best electric pressure washers’ for 2024. I never added the word ‘best’ before any power washer or cleaner until I used it for a few months.
Anyway, I am happy that both pressure cleaners did a tremendous job and allowed me to list them on my 2024s list.
Before I tell you about those electric power washers, I would love to tell you that Peter and I not only tried them on light-duty tasks (such as vehicles, patio furniture, grills, gutter cleaning, window, and driveway washing, etc.) but also on Extra-heavy-duty tasks—paint stripping, cleaning a two-story building, graffiti removal, etc. Now, you get the idea.
So, the best electric power washers are – Powerhouse International 3000PSI and Sun Joe SPX3500 2300. Both are new and comparatively good electric power cleaners. If we compare both of them, you’ll see that, at some point, the Powerhouse stands far better in front of Sun Joe.
SPX3500, including cleaning power, GPM, Weight, and pressure power. However, Powerhouse is a bit more expensive than Sun Joe.
My recommendations: You can choose Powerhouse for medium—to heavy-duty tasks, while the Sun Joe SPX3500 would be better for light-duty to medium-duty tasks.
Note: Just after the comparison table, I reviewed the world’s top 10 most powerful electric pressure washers.
Comparison Table of Top Electric Pressure Washers
Rank | Name | Power Source | Power | Price |
#1 | Powerhouse | Corded-Electric | 3000 PSI | View Price |
#2 | Sun Joe SPX3500 | Corded-Electric | 3100 PSI | View Price |
#3 | Sun Joe SPX3000 | Electric | 2030 PSI | View Price |
#4 | AR Blue Clean AR383 | Electric | 1900 PSI | View Price |
#5 | GreenWorks GPW1501 | Corded-Electric | 1500 PSI | View Price |
#6 | Sun Joe SPX3001 | Electric | 2030 PSI | View Price |
#7 | AR Blue Clean AR390SS | Corded-Electric | 2000 PSI | View Price |
#8 | Ivation Pressure Washer | Electric | 2200 PSI | View Price |
#9 | Karcher K5 | Corded-Electric | 2000 PSI | View Price |
#10 | Powerhouse International Force 1800 | Corded-Electric | 1800 PSI | View Price |
Best Electric Pressure Washer Reviews 2024
1. Powerhouse International 3000PSI – Extremely Electric High Power
As its name implies, it is very powerful. The company claims that it has spent three years developing this electric pressure washer, keeping all types of people in mind. Yes, they did so. In my testing, I found one of the best features—its motor, which stops automatically when the spray gun trigger is released.
Regarding design and hardware, It has four casters that allow it to be rolled with you. Plus, it lets you lock it in place, meaning no hassle while working on your serious project.
The hose has also improved; it is more than 30% more flexible than the previous model. For light-duty to heavy-duty tasks, it includes 5 Quick Connect spray tips (0º, 15º, 25º, 40º, and watering). So it doesn’t matter whether you wash your car or do any heavy-duty hydrojet power washing with it.
In addition, it has a universal spray gun, which consists of two stainless steel lances: one with five tips and one proprietary. The telescoping handle makes maneuverability easy and portable.
Now, let’s discuss some of its highlights: The motor is quiet and exerts 3000 PSI, depending on the tips, which range from 2200 to 3000 PSI. In addition, it ensures a total cleaning power of up to 6,600.
Pros & Cons:
Pros:
- The removable cart with four wheels allows it to be locked into place with the toe.
- The trigger gun has two stainless steel lances.
- The Spinning patio cleaner allows decks and patios to be cleaned quickly.
- Its assembly is straightforward and quite easy.
- As mentioned, the hose is quite flexible and easy to use.
Cons:
- The power cord length is sufficient but feels a bit short.
Summary:
Under $300, this machine is a beast. You won’t believe it, but I’ve tested its PSI with all the different tips provided, ranging from 2200 – 3000 PSI. However, the red tip could generate the highest PSI.
Other essential accessories, including spinning patio cleaner and angle nozzle features, are excellent. So, if your pocket allows, go for it. If not, the Sun Joe SPX3500 is waiting for you below.
2. Sun Joe SPX3500 2300 – The Runner Up!
The second-best electric power pressure washer for 2025, a rival to Powerhouse International, is the Sun Joe SPX3500. The brand Sun Joe comes with an innovative and improved brushless induction motor, which not only blasts away dirt but is also less noisy.
The 13-amp motor is quite powerful compared to the previous one (the Sun Joe SPX3000 model, the third power cleaner on my list).
With 2300 PSI, this pressure washer can wash away all stubborn grime, tar, mud, or dirt. This time, the length of the hose also improved; now, it includes a 20-foot high-pressure hose with a 34-inch spray wand, allowing you to work with those portions that appear hard to reach.
Like Powerhouse, it also has a 35-foot GFCI extension cord, which helps while roaming around your working area. Besides, when it comes to heavy-duty tasks, it has a perfect squirt gun with five quick-connect spray nozzles (0º, 15º, 25º, 40º, and soap).
Pros & Cons:
Pros:
- The construction and overall design of the machine are sturdy and excellent; they use solid material.
- I found its assembly very easy, with straightforward setup and easy instructions.
- When the Wand trigger is released, the motor shuts off automatically.
- The induction motor is quite impressive and easily handles heavy-duty tasks.
Cons:
- Equipped with a powerful motor, this machine is a bit heavier than the previous model.
Summary:
Sun Joe is a well-known brand and innovative when it comes to outdoor tools. I tested this machine everywhere, whether you use it for ordinary dirt or stubborn grime.
It will never disappoint as long as you follow the instructions carefully. Under $200, you can’t get a better electric pressure washer than this.
However, if you’re looking for a more powerful electric cleaner, Powerhouse would be your best option.
3. Sun Joe SPX3000 – Top Rated Electric-Powered Washer
First on the list is the Sun Joe SPX3000. This is from a company called Snow Joe. Its powerful motor makes this product the ultimate dirt fighter.
The 1800-watt motor produces 2030 PSI, which shoots water at a rate of 1.76 GPM.
We used this one to clean the grime off the car, the lawnmower, the patio, the sidewalk, and the garage door with the utmost ease—so much so that it became fun.
We are not particularly impressed with corded washers because they limit mobility, but the SPX3000 has a 35-foot power cord to ensure you reach every corner.
I’ve been a member of an environmental conservation group all my life. The feature that made me love this particular unit is its smart energy-saving mode. The energy-saving mode works by shutting off the power whenever the trigger is not engaged to save on power and help prolong the pump’s lifespan.
What we did not like about the Sun Joe is the plastic connector that links the machine to the water hose. After screwing and unscrewing a few times, the connector seemed to lose its grip and would start spraying water.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Five Quick-Connect spray tips for tackling heavy, medium, and light-duty cleaning tasks.
- A powerful 1800-Watt/14.5-amp motor that generates up to 1.76 GPM/2030 PSI for maximum cleaning power
- The TSS, or Total Stop System, automatically shuts off the pump when the motor is left idle for a long period. This helps save energy and increases the pump’s lifespan.
- Dual detergent tanks with a 0.9 L capacity. They are removable and can hold two different types of detergents for various cleaning jobs.
- Comes with a full 2-year warranty.
Cons:
- Leaky hose fitting
Summary:
All things considered, this is a great electric washer, and I recommend it. It has many pros, and we had to nitpick to find a con, which happens to be a minor issue that is easily solvable.
4. AR Blue Clean AR383 Pressure Cleaner
The AR Blue comes second on our list because it does its job beautifully. One of our top requirements for electric washers is that the units be fitted with long cords for mobility and to avoid the need for power extension cords.
Besides the long power cords, the AR has many add-ons for various cleaning functions. The hose is also long, as required, and it helps us wash the car without constantly moving the machine around.
Within minutes of unboxing the AR, you can start cleaning your home because setting it up is a breeze. When it comes to environmental friendliness, it manages to use 80% less water than a garden hose while being power efficient by using 40% less power.
Also, the fact that it uses an electric motor allowed us to wash at night without disturbing our neighbors with noise. The washer comes with various add-ons, such as a detergent bottle, washer gun, variable nozzles, and more.
As is the case with most of the pressure cleaners we have featured, this unit is no different regarding its unreliable plastic adapter, which starts leaking water after several days of use.
However, this problem can be solved with a $10 budget if you replace the plastic adapter with a metal one at any local store.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Ample power for outdoor cleaning activities
- Comes with various attachments included to enhance the cleaning performance
- Environment-friendly nature conserves up to 80% more water than a garden hose.
- Quieter than gas engine models
- It is easy to assemble and use. Setting it up for the first time may take longer, but the time decreases by half once you get used to how it works.
- Customer service is available at all times.
Cons:
- Leaky plastic hose adapter
Summary:
The key takeaway is that this unit is lightweight and one of the easiest to operate. While it is not made to handle big jobs, it does its job superbly, like cleaning the sidewalk.
5. GreenWorks GPW1501 – Budget Power Washer
Unlike other manufacturers, GreenWorks does not make both gas and electric washers. The company has specialized in producing only electric units, and the GPW1501 is no exception.
I had the privilege of using this washer for two weeks and was completely satisfied with its performance. The first thing I noticed when it arrived was its lightweight nature. This factor came in handy a little later when I had to move it from the garage to the backyard to clean our dog’s house.
The setup was easy, and I had it up and running quickly. If you are on uneven ground, you can set it horizontally or vertically to achieve greater stability.
Its motor produces 1500 PSI power that easily discharges water at a rate of 1.2 GPM to blast through dirt and grime when cleaning.
The different angles of quick-tip nozzles included in the package can also alter the cleaning finesse. The GPW1501 features a 20-foot high-pressure hose that helps reachability, so you don’t have to keep moving the unit around.
On to the negatives, the soap dispenser is fragile and can start leaking if you drop it on a hard surface. You will also need to get used to the grinding sound that emanates from the motor whenever you power it up.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Capable of putting out 1500 PSI at 1.2 GPM to blast through the grime on surfaces
- Offers great flexibility and stability with vertical or horizontal use
- Includes various connect tips for handling a variety of cleaning jobs
- Comes with a 20-foot high-pressure hose to offer greater reach
- Soap applicator for deliberate soap application on tough grime
- Comes with a five-foot power cord
Cons:
- Leaky soap dispenser
- You can almost hear or feel like the motor is switching gears at the beginning of a cleaning session.
Summary:
The GPW1501 is an excellent option. It does not have the power to handle a large driveway but is adequate for small areas like garages, porches, cars, etc.
6. Sun Joe SPX3001
The SPX3001 is easy to set up right off the bat. As soon as you see it and hold it, you know that it is meant for small—and medium-sized cleaning jobs.
Despite one or two cheap and flimsy components, the overall design and build quality feel sturdy. The 1800-watt motor produces 2,030 PSI and shoots water at a rate of 1.76 GPM for maximum cleaning performance.
Despite its power, the SPX3001’s packaging includes quick-connect spray tips for handling different types of cleaning jobs.
The 20-foot high-pressure hose increases reach-ability, and the hose reel ensures it is well-secured for storage. In a competitive market, the specs for the SPX3001 are impressive for its price point.
It features an Automatic Total Stop System that increases power efficiency while helping prolong the motor’s lifespan. We got it in the winter and used it to clean all surfaces.
During this period, we can report that no special maintenance was required. Simply applying a lubricant on the seals to keep them running smoothly and efficiently was all that was needed.
The negatives include a hose that feels cheap. The attachment is an inconvenience and a poor decision by Snow Joe since it makes fitting a replacement much harder. Also, like other models, it comes with a plastic hose adapter that is unreliable for long-term usage.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Comes with five Quick-Connect spray tips to tackle all sorts of cleaning tasks
- A powerful 1800-watt motor that generates up to 2030 PSI to provide maximum cleaning power
- An onboard reel that stores the 20-foot high-pressure hose in an organized fashion for quick access
- TSS or Total Stop System acts as an energy saver while also helping prolong the pump’s life
- Comes with a full CSA-approved 2-year warranty
Cons:
- Lightweight Hose
- Unreliable plastic hose adapter
Summary:
Even though the build quality is not that great in some parts, the SPX3001 offers an easy-to-use design coupled with a good and quiet performance. The good thing is that it is fixable in all areas it lacks.
7. AR Blue Clean AR390SS – Under $200 (including attachments)
You can always tell if you have bought a high-quality product from its packaging. The AR390SS falls into this category. It is well packaged and has shock cushions to protect it from impact while being transported.
The AR390SS is highly rated. In fact, it received the highest rating in the 2016 electric pressure washer consumer report test.
Once you unbox it, setting up is easy, even for first-time users. It comes with several attachments, such as a washer wand, gun, detachable detergent tank, and washer nozzles.
It has a class-leading 30-inch high-pressure hose and a 35-foot power cord to maximize reachability. This unit has all the features you could possibly need and ample pressure power to complete most cleaning tasks at home.
As for power, AR Blue has limited the electric motor to just 15A to protect your home circuit breaker and make it environmentally friendly.
The AR390SS will help you conserve 80% more water and improve power efficiency to over 45% more than a standard garden hose.
On the negative front, the wand holder keeps falling when the wand is removed. AR should have secured it with more screws to keep it in place at all times.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Ample power to perform outdoor cleaning
- Highly rated by consumers for its convenience and reliability
- Various attachments are included to enhance cleaning performance
- Environment-friendly
- Easy to assemble
Cons:
- The wand holder lacks sufficient support and keeps falling out when the wand is removed
Summary:
In conclusion, the AR390SS is excellent for small tasks such as cleaning automobiles. It is a great tool to own because it provides convenience and reliability. I would recommend it to anybody who has house cleaning chores and needs to complete them easily and quickly.
8. Ivation 2200 PSI 1.8 GPM Cleaner – Best Performance Washer
I cannot praise the Ivation enough. The sides of my house had old, cracked paint that bothered me until we got this unit. I set aside a full day for scraping the old paint off, but the Ivation did all that for me, saving me a ton of time, energy, and the agony of scraping off paint.
The powerful 1800-watt electric motor makes cleaning grime easy. It produces 2200 PSI power and shoots water at a rate of 1.8 GPM. This unit excels in many other areas, such as car washing.
With this pressure cleaner, you will never have to pay $10 again to get your car cleaned. The interchangeable nozzles included in the packaging can produce high-pressure, medium-pressure, and high-pressure washing nozzles for cleaning various surfaces.
It comes with only three attachments. You barely need thirty seconds from the box to get it ready for the first wash. The durable copper connection from the hose to the nozzle makes connecting the attachments easy and secure.
It comes with a power-efficient and life-boosting Total Stop System (TSS), which enhances the washer’s environmental friendliness.
Despite having all the needed features, you cannot help but feel shortchanged with the power output. There are more powerful models out there for the same price.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Power Generated by the 1800 Watt Motor
- Produces 2,200 PSI for Maximum Cleaning Power
- Comes with Interchangeable Pressure Nozzles for Washing Various Surfaces
- Bonus Turbo Wand Included
- Easy-to-Use System R
- Automatic Total Stop System (TSS)
- Optional Self-Suction & Soap Dispenser
- Comes with a 1-Year Warranty
Cons:
- Less powerful
Summary:
The Ivation has proven tough and durable enough to handle any cleaning job. It is easy to use for both men and women, and the price and cleaning results make this unit worthwhile.
9. Karcher K5 Power Washer – Best Washer Under $250
By the time I received the Karcher K5 for testing, I had gained a lot of experience and expertise in pressure washers. Karcher has been in this space for a long time, and they have different washer models to show for it.
The K5 made our list for its value proposition and cutting-edge features that come with it. Perhaps the most appealing feature of the Karcher K5 is its water-cooled electric motor.
This feature increases the efficiency of the washer’s electric motor but helps prolong its life up to five times more than a regular electric motor.
Setting it up was easy, as expected. This unit is fitted with a maintenance-free, non-corrosive N-Cor pump for durability.
It also comes with all the bells and whistles you could ask for in a washer, such as multiple spray wands, including the dirt blaster spray wand, detergent tank, 35-foot power cord, and high-impact wheels.
Electric motors are quieter than gas-powered washers, but this unit almost defies the laws of physics for quietness.
This unit is well-suited for soft cleaning jobs at home, but it is not a good option if you’re looking for a commercial washer.
The thing that baffles me the most about the Karcher K5 Premium is that the makers have not included a powerful pump. This unit is capable of 2000 PSI, yet they have chosen to reduce the overall manufacturing cost by including a substandard pump that is only capable of shooting 1.4 GPM.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Clean quicker and more effectively with a 2000 PSI jet of water
- 25-foot high-pressure hose
- Includes various add-ons and attachments
- The dirt blaster spray wand halves the cleaning time
- N-COR pump for durability, maintenance-free, and non-corrosive features
- Water-cooled induction motor to boost its life span up to five times more
- Onboard detergent tank
- 7.7″ high impact wheels
- 35-foot GFCI power cord
Cons:
- Produces only 1.4 GPM, which is not as effective for cleaning as other models
Summary:
Overall, the Karcher K5 is a good balance between power and value. Since this is a $200 unit, it is not fair to compare it to a $500 unit, and for its value, it is a capable machine that will make your cleaning work much easier.
10. Powerhouse International – Best Compact Pressure Washer With TSS System
Last but not least is The Force 1800. As advertised, it is compact, easy to set up, and quiet despite its impressive 1800 PSI power output.
Sometimes, you may wish to get a 5000 PSI washer to clean the grime that has been building up your driveway and sidewalk for years, but if you’re like me, you’d look at the price, consider how many times you’re going to use it in a year, and finally decide that it is not worth the money.
This unit has a 90-degree nozzle for removing crud from hard-to-reach corners and edges. It is lightweight and has all-terrain wheels. It follows you whenever you reach the end of the pressure hose. Some other models may cause you to trip over them, but not this one.
The Force 1800 is power efficient because the pump stops when you release the handle. It is, without a doubt, the most self-sufficient electric washer we have featured. It comes with an automatic thermal sensor that senses when the motor is about to overheat and automatically provides better power regulation.
It has a functional design, which means that every attachment can be stored securely and compactly on the unit to provide maximum portability. A cool feature is a foot-operated on-and-off switch that is unique to this model.
I seem to have a problem with the gap in power between the gas-powered model and the electric model, and the Force 1800 is no different here. It has adequate power but constantly leaves you wishing it could put out just a little more.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Total Stop System or TSS for power efficiency and prolonging motor life
- Uniquely placed foot-operated on/off switch
- The motor features a thermal sensor to protect it from overheating
- Self Storing accessories provide an organized, compact, and portable storage space
- Safety and convenience features
- Capable of shooting 1.6 GPM at 1800 PSI pressure
Cons:
- Falls short on power compared to gas-powered models
Summary:
When you factor everything in, including the price of this washer, you realize how great of a deal it is. It feels solid and sturdy, which are great signs of durability. I believe it is the right choice for its price point, and therefore, I would strongly recommend it.
How Did We Pick?
Given the quality available, picking the best electric power washer was not easy. We considered everything, from the price to the type of motor and its power to convenience, durability, and environmental friendliness.
As you can imagine, most pressure washers have passed our rigorous tests with flying colors.
However, the Sun Joe SPX3000 stood out of the lineup. It checked all the right boxes, and what’s more, almost all the professionals we interviewed claimed that it was the best electric pressure washer they had used.
Winner: Powerhouse International 3000PSI
Like other models, the Powerhouse pressure washer was put through a rigorous testing process. We are glad to announce that it was the best electric pressure cleaner in 2024 and will continue to rule in 2024 and 2025, too. It works as advertised.
You can wash your front porch and driveway in minutes, a task that would normally take a minimum of two hours to complete using a garden hose.
You can also clean off the grime stuck on your brick walls and concrete floors without a single hitch. The Powerhouse has many different nozzles that let you easily complete various cleaning jobs.
For example, with the right nozzle, children as young as six can use it to clean their bicycles without problems.
Its low weight also helps in case children use it. Regardless of its ease of use, parent supervision is strongly advised when in children’s hands.
Buying Guide – 7 Factors to Consider Before Buying an Electric Pressure Washer
#1. Do You Really Need It?
Before purchasing a pressure washer, you should know that they are available for rent at decent rates. However, if you decide to buy, you should consider buying one with a built-in soap tank and cord storage space.
For heavy-duty models, ensure you get one with wheels to make moving it around easier.
Related: Pressure Washer Buying Tips
#2. Can You Handle it Yourself, or do You Need a Handyman for the job?
Are you too busy to clean or unsure about washer safety measures? No need to panic—you can look for professionals. Local contractors and professional cleaners in your area can easily be found online.
#3. Electric v/s Gas – Which One To Choose?
Gas-Powered Washer (Price: $250 to $500)
Pros
- More power
- Made of solid components, therefore, more durable
- More mobile due to lack of electric cords
Cons
- More expensive
- More maintenance required
- More noise
- More fumes
- Heavier and larger
Electric-Powered Washer (Price: $75 to $250)
Pros
- More affordable – Budget-friendly
- Quieter – Runs smoothly & silently as compared to gas washers
- Less maintenance required
- No fumes mean they can be used indoors
Cons
- Less power
- Less portable due to the electric cord
- Mostly made of plastic components, which means it is less durable
- Electric cord annoyance
#4. Potential Risks
Water from a pressure washer can be dangerous if exposed to the skin. It is expelled at 30 to 80 times more pressure than a normal garden hose and has strong cutting capabilities.
It is always advisable to use these machines with extreme caution, as contact with a misplaced jet of water could severely damage a person’s skin and land him or her in the emergency room.
#5. Safety
We’ve already covered the fact that the jet of water can severely damage your skin and also result in bacterial infections. In 2014, about 6,057 people had to be subjected to emergency treatment due to injuries sustained by washers.
Also, since gas motors are loud, we recommend you use hearing protection to protect yourself from noise damage from prolonged use. Here are some dos and don’ts to consider:
Do’s
- Carefully read the manufacturer’s manual
- Wear long pants, sturdy footwear, and protective goggles. Do not wear flip-flops
- Take extra care on slippery, wet surfaces
- Start at least two feet away from the surface and use the widest spray angle while moving closer
- Always turn off the washer and drain excess water before replacing the spray tips for safety
- Get as much safety practice as you can before you can start using the machine around people
- A garden hose may be more kind to your car’s paint job than an electric washer
Don’ts
- Never get closer than six inches to whatever surface you’re cleaning. You may end up punching holes in your deck wood or puncturing your car’s tires with a stream of water.
- Don’t let a gas motor pressure cleaner run idle for too long. If you don’t press the trigger, the pump can easily overheat.
- Never use a washer while standing on an uneven surface like a ladder, as the recoil could easily throw you off balance.
- Avoid pointing the nozzle toward the direction of any living beings, even plants.
- Avoid using an extension cord on an electric-powered pressure cleaner.
#6. Accessories
Now that you have decided to buy one, you must first check whether the accessories include the spray nozzles. If they are not included, you will have to spend more to buy them, as they are required for different washing chores.
Nozzles are placed at the tip of the washer wand, controlling the intensity and direction of the water being sprayed.
Nozzles come in two types: a single adjustable one or a set of interchangeable nozzles. Adjustable nozzles are more reliable and convenient, as you only have to twist them to change the pattern and width of the spray. Replaceable nozzles, however, allow you to alter the spray pattern by changing spray angles.
#7. Price
The market has many options, so tread carefully with the price. The list we have prepared above is faring in price-performance ratio. Hence, you can choose from this option blindly, as we have already analyzed the factors that decide the best washers. To round it off anyway, between $200 and $400 is an approximate range of good pressure washing machines.
More about Electric Powered Washers
Why should you use them?
Cleaning is an activity you would usually look forward to once you own a washer. They can help you clean hard-to-reach areas with complete ease. This cleaning tool will help you clean your home and vehicle with minimal effort.
How do they work?
These machines have electric motors or gas engines that power a pump. In return, the pump pushes water through a concentrating nozzle at high pressure to clean dirty surfaces such as patios, driveways, decks, etc.
3 Different Types of Pressure Washers By Their Washing Power
1. Light-Duty
A light-duty washer is suitable for cleaning relatively fragile things such as your bicycle, vehicle, furniture, and pet’s house. It is also useful for cleaning the mud off your vehicle’s tires or flushing away light dirt across your stairway and sidewalk.
You should expect to cough up about $100 to buy a decent washer that will serve you for years. Since that price is way higher than what a garden hose costs, you may have reservations, but rest assured, the cleaning results and convenience it offers are worth it.
2. Medium-Duty
Do you have stubborn, greasy stains stuck on your driveway or garage floor? Forget a regular garden hose and upgrade to a medium-duty washer that will leave your floor looking clean and fresh.
At about $150 and $350, you can get a highly powerful washer that will eliminate tougher grime with less effort and save you a ton of time. Most come equipped with a detergent tank to help flush tough grime from your home to achieve professional results.
3. Heavy-Duty
Due to their power, heavy-duty washers are top-tier washers priced well over $300. They can be used for more intense cleaning jobs on hard floors, such as cleaning muddy areas around your compound.
They are more powerful than light-duty and medium-duty pressure cleaners and are suitable for getting rid of caked grime anywhere.
For that price, you will no longer be worried about the toughest grime you can find. However, with all that power, you should be very careful not to inflict any injuries on live beings or cause any damage to fragile property.
Parts and Accessories: Top Accessories you must know regarding pressure washers
Engines/Motors
The engines produce power and send it to the pump to propel the water out at high pressure. Engine sizes are measured in ccs, and bigger ccs directly translate to more power in the engine. An example of a pressure cleaner engine is the Honda GCV190, where the 190 refers to the engine’s cc.
Motors are used to power the pump for electric cleaners. They are rated according to their Watts and Amps to indicate the energy they put out. There are three distinctive types:
1. Universal
They are the cheapest but most reliable for small jobs. They are also light, portable, and loudest.
2. Induction
They cost more than universal motors but less than water-cooled motors. For the extra money, you get quieter yet enhanced performance and durability.
3. Water-Cooled
As you guessed, these water-cooled motors are the most expensive but far more reliable than the previous two motors. The water you use to clean is also used to cool the motor, keeping it performing at the optimum level and increasing its lifespan.
Pumps
Entry-level washers use wobble pumps. Most washers are fitted with the mid-tier quality Axial Cam pump, while the heavy-duty pressure cleaners use Triplex Plunger pumps to handle the power produced. The pumps explained:
1. Wobble pump
They are the cheapest pumps available. They have a lifespan of approximately three years and are used for about two hours per weekend. They are not replaceable or repairable.
2. Axial
They are more expensive than Wobble pumps and have an estimated lifespan of double or triple the lifespan of wobble pumps.
3. Triplex
These are the most expensive pumps because they are designed for daily commercial use. They are ideal for contractors since they have an estimated lifespan of ten times more than Axial pumps.
Hoses
You can find hoses with various diameters, materials, connection types, and lengths. Standard pressure water hoses have a diameter of 1/4 inch, while professional pressure water hoses have a larger diameter of 3/8 inch to facilitate a higher water flow rate. Most washer hoses are made of plastic, but you can upgrade to a polyurethane hose for about $200 for enhanced flexibility, durability, and less weight carry around.
Nozzles
Nozzles are perhaps the most important tools for pressure cleaners. They come in seven different types, and they dictate the pressure of the water being propelled out. Each type of nozzle has unique properties and different uses.
Other Attachments
When you buy a pressure cleaner, it comes with over ten different attachments, depending on the brand and model you picked. A standard attachment with most washers is a surface cleaner, used to clean large, flat areas much faster. The other popular attachment is a brush, which complements the high-pressure jet by allowing you to scrub the dirty surface to achieve the best results.
Repairing Problems
Some common problems can be resolved easily if you know nothing about these machines. We have published a separate post for this, featuring tips & tricks for repairing minor pressure cleaner problems. For the major ones, you need not worry. Claim your warranty or contact your local mechanics or service centers.
6 Important Applications:
- Metal Roof Cleaning: Pressure Cleaners are suitable for removing grime from your metal roof.
- Lawn Equipment: Lawn equipment such as lawn mowers are normally neglected after use, but a pressure washing machine will allow you to clean the dirt off them to keep them well maintained.
- Cars and Bikes: Electric-powered washers have adjustable settings that allow you to clean your vehicles without damaging the paintwork.
- Garages and Outdoor Patios: Cleaning garages and outdoor patios can be strenuous and time-consuming if you use a garden hose. You can use a pressure washer to clean away the dirt to save time and effort.
- Outdoor Grills: Over time, outdoor grills gather and trap dust, making them unpleasant to look at. However, you can ensure they remain spotless by regularly cleaning the dust off them using a power cleaning tool like a pressure washer.
- Pool washing: The pool accumulates dirt over time, so it must be washed regularly to maintain cleanliness and hygiene.
Hot vs. Cold Water Pressure Cleaning Machines
This may be on your mind. First, let me tell you that we normally use a cold water pressure cleaning machine for our household cleaning chores, not a hot one. And it is not surprising that hot water machines clean better than cold water ones, as a hot water washer heats water to about 140F using its onboard heating coil.
However, due to its complex application methods and some serious safety requirements, it is not recommended for personal use. Instead, it is reserved for industrial use and is suitable for cleaning professionals only. Another important thing to consider is that it costs way more than cold water cleaning units.
Terms To Remember:
- Gallons per minute (GPM): This is the rate of flow of water or speed of water measured per minute. The faster the water flows, the faster it will clean a given area. If you’re planning to use your pressure water for commercial applications, it is advisable to buy the high GPM machines since they can complete more washing jobs per day and also require less effort.
- Pounds per square inch (PSI): This is the measurement unit for pressure in pounds exerted by an object per square inch area. PSI measures the pushing force of the pressure cleaner. PSI is greatly affected by the nozzle type and the distance the water is traveling to hit the surface.
- Cleaning power (CP): For those who like math, CP or cleaning power is the multiplication of GPM by PSI, or, in math terms, (GPM X PSI = CP). CP helps rationalize the washers’ cleaning power.
Top 7 Brands: Electric Power Washers
Snow Joe
The SnowJoe brand, established in 2004, produces electric washers. It is located in New Jersey and offers one light-duty and three medium-duty models, with the 2030 PSI unit being its best seller.
AR Blue Clean
The AR Blue Clean brand is well known for producing high-quality pumps and is the most popular electric pressure cleaner manufacturer on the market.
SIMPSON Cleaning
The Simpson brand has some of the best-rated gas washers. It is famous for offering products that are great value for money. Simpson Cleaning also has other cleaning products in its portfolio.
Karcher
Karcher is the inventor of power washers in Europe. Their lineup consists of various electric washers.
GreenWorks
GreenWorks is a company that produces niche electric power equipment. The brand specializes in creating the best electrical motors for its equipment.
Ivation
Ivation is one of the most respected electric cleaner brands. They produce high-quality, reliable units. Ivation also manufactures other electric appliances to complement the pressure cleaners.
Generac
Perhaps you have seen a gas-powered washer with the brand name Generac? This is because they mostly specialize in residential-use washers. They also produce other mid-tier washers. See 12 Pressure Washer Brand Reviews.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
Pressure Washer – Electric vs. Gas: Which Type Should I Get?
Before making this huge decision, you need to ask yourself what type of cleaning jobs you plan on using the pressure cleaner. You are better suited to use an electric washer for jobs such as washing your car or outdoor furniture. Not only is it light, but it also produces less noise, which might be good for your neighbors.
You don’t get the same convenience in a gas-powered pressure cleaner. You have to oil it and fill it up with gas to keep it running smoothly. Despite these minor inconveniences, this type of pressure cleaner has more power, making it ideal for cleaning hard surfaces. Also, unlike electric pressure cleaners, these gas-powered washers provide more mobility because you don’t need to connect power cables.
What Type Can I Use For Indoor Cleaning?
Electric Pressure washers are ideal for indoor cleaning since they do not emit toxic fumes. Overexposure to these fumes may result in serious health complications. If you plan on using a gas-powered washer for indoor cleaning, it is advisable to wear appropriate safety gear.
Hot Water Vs Cold Water: Which Fundamental Design Should I Get?
Both washers are effective in cleaning. However, hot water washers are best suited to removing the most stubborn stains, such as oil and grease. If you own a garage store, consider getting a hot water/steam washer to deal with stubborn grease and oil stains. However, a cold water washer is enough to eliminate most dirt problems if you’re a regular homeowner.
Should I Just Rent A Power Cleaner or Get Myself One Instead?
Pressure-washing appliances have become a must-have household item because they are convenient, and the cost of owning one is not as high as a few years ago. There is nothing wrong with renting a pressure washer if you need one urgently; however, it does not make sense to keep renting since you will spend more money than having one of your own. In conclusion, convenience and long-term spending make it worth investing money and buying one instead of renting.
Can I Attach Third-party Accessories To Improve The Performance Of My Power Cleaner?
Yes, you can. With more washers on the market, more companies are producing attachments to enhance cleaning performance. Some of the most popular third-party attachments include wands, foam cannons, spray guns, and surface cleaners to help with specific cleaning projects.
Is Washing My Car With A High-Power Electric Pressure Washer Safe?
Statistically, cars rank as one of the top objects to be washed with washers. However, cars have many sensitive parts, like mirrors and windows, so you need to select a nozzle that will release the right amount of pressure to clean without causing any damage. It would also help if you sprayed the car while standing a safe two feet away from it to minimize the impact of the high-pressure water.
Wrapping Up: So, What is the best electric pressure washer for you?
Whenever you’re expecting visitors, it has become second nature that one of the first things to do is to inspect the home for any signs of dirt. No one likes living in a dirty place and inviting friends and family to a messy house. However, as much as we like to clean homes, cleaning can be tedious and time-consuming. As established in the buyer’s guide, home maintenance is time-consuming and strenuous, especially when you let chores pile up.
That is why having a helper in the form of a pressure washing appliance will make your life easy. The “helpers” we have featured in this article will help you in your cleaning jobs to ensure your home and property remain clean. I consider it the best tool for cleanliness since it can handle various cleaning jobs with minimal effort. I am confident that this educative buyer’s guide will help you get your money’s worth.