When it comes to maintaining the exterior of your home and surrounding outdoor spaces, keeping them clean can be a daunting task. Whether you’re dealing with pesky mold on a patio awning, stubborn stains on your house’s walls after a storm, or unsightly splatters from low-flying birds, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Hand-cleaning these areas can be a laborious process, requiring you to lean precariously over the side of a ladder.
But there is a way to simplify this task and regain control – by embracing the power of a pressure washer.
The 6 Best Pressure Washers
When it comes to selecting the best pressure washer for your needs, there are several top brands to consider. Our top pick is Sun Joe, which offers a range of models that cater to different users and tasks. For those looking for a more heavy-duty option, Karcher and Generac are also excellent choices. WEN and Simpson Cleaning offer more affordable options that still deliver impressive cleaning power.
Whether you’re a homeowner or a professional cleaner, there’s a pressure washer on this list that’s sure to meet your needs.
Our Top Pick for the Best Pressure Washer
When it comes to selecting the best pressure washer, our top recommendation is the Sun Joe Pressure Washer. This reliable model has earned its place in our hearts due to its exceptional build quality, robust motor and impressive water pressure capabilities. With a whopping 2030 PSI of water pressure and a 14.5 amp motor, it’s perfect for tackling light to medium-duty cleaning tasks around your home.
If you’re planning to use the washer at a distance from a power outlet, you may need an extension cord. Fortunately, Sun Joe has got you covered with its 20-foot high-pressure hose and generous 35-foot power cord. Whether you’re looking to clean your driveway, sidewalk or siding, this pressure washer is up to the task.
What is a Pressure Washer?
Imagine a powerful tool that combines the flexibility of a garden hose with the force of an air compressor. A standard pressure washer relies on a motor, either gas-powered or electric, which drives a water pump. This pump propels water through the hose and out of the nozzle via a trigger or spray gun. When you activate the trigger, compressed air mixes with the water stream, amplifying it to an astonishing 75 times faster than your typical garden hose flow rate.
And if you need extra cleaning oomph for stubborn areas, simply add detergent to the mix.
What to Look for When Buying a Pressure Washer
When it comes to purchasing a pressure washer, several key factors come into play. Specifically, three crucial specifications can significantly impact the device’s ability to effectively clean surfaces. These specifications include…
Gallons Per Minute (GPM)
The rate at which a pressure washer dispenses water is measured in gallons per minute (GPM). This capability varies greatly depending on the intended use, ranging from a mere 1 gallon per minute for residential purposes to an impressive 10 gallons per minute for commercial applications.
Pounds Per Square Inch (PSI)
When it comes to pressure washers, the PSI (pounds per square inch) is a crucial metric that determines the machine’s cleaning power. A higher PSI means a greater amount of outward water pressure, which enables you to tackle tough dirt and mold buildup with ease. For residential use, typical pressure washer PSI ranges from 500 to 4000, while commercial-grade models can reach upwards of 7000 PSI, making them suitable for heavy-duty cleaning tasks.
Nozzles
When it comes to tackling tough-to-reach areas, such as the underside of your roof or tight corners, a water pressure machine often comes equipped with a versatile array of tools. The typical package includes a spray gun or trigger wand that allows for precision control and ease of access to these hard-to-reach spots. Some high-end models also feature interchangeable nozzles, granting you greater control over the direction and angle of the water stream as well as the release of detergent.
This added functionality enables you to customize your cleaning experience and tackle even the most challenging areas with confidence.
Light, Medium or Heavy-duty
There are three primary categories of water pressure cleaners that cater to distinct cleaning needs. The light-duty option is suitable for small-scale applications such as washing compact cars, patios, outdoor furniture, and smaller concrete areas, including the exterior walls of your home. Medium-duty pressure washers excel at tackling larger projects like patio and decking cleanups, gutter maintenance under eaves, and grease removal from garage floors.
In contrast, heavy-duty pressure cleaners are designed for extensive use cases involving large properties, vehicles, and equipment, particularly in agricultural and farming settings.
Electric or Gas-powered Pressure Washers
When selecting a pressure washer, the decision between an electric and gas-powered model largely hinges on the specific application and environment. The choice ultimately boils down to how you plan to utilize your machine and the conditions in which you’ll be operating.
Electric
Electric pressure washers are an excellent choice for small properties due to their compact design, reduced noise level, and low maintenance requirements. They’re perfect for cleaning exterior surfaces of houses, vehicles, grills, patios, driveways, and other outdoor areas. What’s more, they tend to be more budget-friendly compared to gas-powered models.
One of the primary advantages of electric power washers is their efficiency, as they use less water and are emission-free, making them an environmentally friendly option. However, it’s essential to note that electric pressure washers may not offer the same level of power or portability as their gas-powered counterparts. Additionally, they require access to a power outlet, which can sometimes necessitate using extension cords.
While this might be inconvenient, it’s crucial to keep an eye on the cord to avoid any potential hazards.
Gas
For homesteaders with medium-sized properties or larger, gas-powered pressure washers are the way to go. These powerful machines can handle large areas around your home, as well as bigger outdoor vehicles like boats, tractors, and ride-on mowers, thanks to their high PSI ratings (around 4000). The portability of gas models makes them perfect for holiday use cases – just think about cleaning off the dust and dirt from your vehicle after a long road trip.
Some gas-powered washers even come with four wheels, making them easier to maneuver, despite being heavier than electric alternatives. However, you’ll need to consider the drawbacks: gas models require mixing oil and fuel, constant refueling for longer jobs, and aren’t exactly eco-friendly options.
Six Cleaning Uses for a Pressure Cleaner
Maintaining the exterior of your homestead is an ongoing challenge, with cleaning tasks competing for attention alongside other responsibilities. One particularly vexing issue is accessing those hard-to-reach areas, which often requires either wrestling with a garden hose or hiring professional help. Fortunately, a pressure washer can be a game-changer in these situations. This versatile machine offers a wide range of cleaning applications, making it an invaluable tool for outdoor upkeep.
Washing the Exterior of Your House
Regardless of the building material used for your home’s exterior, a pressure washer can be an effective cleaning tool. To use one effectively, simply adjust the nozzle to switch between detergent application and water rinse cycles. Start by spraying the desired detergent and then quickly transition to the water setting to remove any soap residue. This straightforward process makes quick work of dirt and grime accumulation, leaving your home’s exterior looking clean and refreshed.
Under the Eaves of the Roof and Guttering
While extendable wands are a common feature in most pressure washers, they’re incredibly useful for accessing hard-to-reach areas like under eaves or cleaning out gutters. But high-powered pressure washers have a multitude of other applications too, extending beyond residential use to also cover maintenance tasks on outdoor equipment and machinery.
Car, Boat or Caravan
When it comes to cleaning your car or caravan, a pressure cleaner is an efficient solution. With adjustable water streams (ranging from pinpoint to wide fan and turbo modes) and interchangeable nozzles, you can customize the spray angle and force to effortlessly clean hard-to-reach areas like underneath the vehicle.
Plus, many lightweight and portable pressure cleaners are designed for on-the-go use, making them perfect companions for road trips or boating excursions – simply pack them in your car or boat and you’re ready to go.
Removing Wasp or Spider Webs
As summer approaches, the threat of stinging insects becomes more pronounced, with spiders and wasps setting up camp on walls and even rooftops. To tackle these unwanted visitors, a pressure cleaner can be a reliable ally in eliminating spider webs or dismantling wasp nests. But for a more effective approach, consider taking aim at the wasps’ nest under the cover of night, when they’re most likely to be caught off guard and less aggressive.
Outdoor Equipment (Ride-on Mower, Lawnmower, Industrial or Farming Equipment)
For farmers and gardeners, heavy-duty pressure cleaners are an invaluable tool for maintaining large machinery such as tractors and ride-on mowers. These machines can quickly accumulate dirt, grass, and other debris, making it difficult to keep them running efficiently. By utilizing a pressure cleaner’s powerful spray gun, you can effortlessly remove stubborn grass and dirt without the need for manual labor or harsh chemicals.
Swimming Pool or Jacuzzi
When preparing your swimming pool or jacuzzi for the upcoming season, pressure cleaners are an essential tool to have in your arsenal. Not only do they effectively clean out debris and dirt, but some models also utilize hot water and steam to thoroughly remove any mold buildup that may have accumulated on the surface, ensuring a sparkling clean start to the new season.
6 Best Pressure Washers – Reviews
SUNPOW Pressure Washer
The SUNPOW Pressure Washer is an excellent option for those new to pressure cleaning, offering a lightweight yet powerful device. Its 1500-watt motor and high-pressure pump generate up to 2000 PSI and 1.32 GPM of water, making it suitable for small to medium domestic tasks like cleaning decks, patios, cars, and garden furniture. The compact unit is constructed from durable orange plastic, with a foam dispenser that evenly distributes soap over large surfaces.
Two innovative safety features, the Total Stop System and spray gun lock, ensure prolonged pump life and safe operation. The quick plug-in spray gun allows for adjustable water streams, ranging from pinpoint jets to powerful fan sprays. The pressure washer boasts an 18-foot high-pressure hose, providing greater reach and portability. Additionally, it has convenient storage space for the trigger gun and other accessories.
While it may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks, its compact design makes it ideal for lighter jobs. However, some users may find the hose’s durability to be lacking. Overall, the SUNPOW Pressure Washer is a great choice for those seeking an effective yet portable pressure washer. Its powerful spray, compact design, and innovative safety features make it an excellent option for small to medium-duty cleaning tasks.
Sun Joe Pressure Washer
The Sun Joe Pressure Washer is designed for versatility, boasting a sturdy build made from robust plastic components. Its 14.5 amp motor generates up to 2030 PSI, while its 1.76 GPM water flow makes it perfect for tackling tasks like cleaning walls, gutters, and garage floors with stubborn oil stains. The unit’s TSS (Total Stop System) automatically shuts off the pump when not in use, conserving energy and prolonging pump life.
Two detergent tanks ensure effective cleaning of surfaces with oil-based stains. With a trigger gun, spray wand holder, 20-foot high-pressure hose, and 35-foot power cord, this pressure washer excels at reaching difficult areas like gutters and drainage pipes. The five Quick-Connect spray nozzles offer precise control over water pressure, ranging from gentle to intense. Large wheels enhance maneuverability, even on uneven terrain.
While it’s not suited for heavy-duty cleaning, the Sun Joe is ideal for lighter tasks. Its lightweight design, ease of assembly, quiet operation, and dual detergent tanks make it a pleasure to use. However, some may find the hose connector’s plastic construction prone to leaks. Overall, this pressure washer is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable tool for everyday cleaning needs.
Karcher Pressure Washer
Karcher, a renowned German company, has been manufacturing reliable and efficient electrical home and garden cleaning products since 1950. The Karcher K3 Follow-Me Electric Power Pressure Washer embodies the company’s commitment to producing high-quality cleaning machines that excel at light-duty cleaning tasks around the home. This award-winning product boasts a water-saving feature that uses 80% less water than a traditional garden hose, making it an eco-friendly option.
With a powerful PSI of 1800 and a 120-volt motor, the K3 is capable of tackling larger areas with ease. The Quick Connect System makes it effortless to attach the hose or trigger gun with two spray wands, requiring only a simple push-and-click action to secure the desired connection. The water pressure can be adjusted for either a light spray or a strong jet, allowing users to tackle a variety of cleaning tasks.
The Dirtblaster turbo wand, featuring an integrated soap dispenser, and 15 feet of high-pressure hose enable users to access hard-to-reach areas such as spider webs or wasp nests under the eaves of the roof. The design also includes a handy detergent tank located at the rear of the cleaner for easy access.
Additional operator-friendly features include secure storage compartments on top of the unit for accessories, hoses, spray wands, and power cords, ensuring they remain within easy reach while working. The K3’s portability is another significant advantage, featuring four sturdy wheels and a handle that allows it to follow behind users without needing repositioning.
While the Karcher K3 excels at light-duty cleaning tasks, its limitations are acknowledged as not being ideal for heavy-duty or large property cleaning. It also requires proximity to a power outlet. Some notable pros include its lightweight design, ease of use, easy attachment connections, and integrated soap dispenser. However, users should consider the cons before making a purchase decision.
WEN Pressure Washer
The WEN Pressure Washer is an ideal choice for anyone seeking a powerful cleaning machine that can handle both light and heavy-duty tasks. Its OneWash system and robust 208cc 4-stroke OHV engine generate 2.5 GPM and 3100 PSI of pressure, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, from cleaning cars to reaching those hard-to-access areas like gutters and eaves.
The unit comes equipped with five nozzles – including a soap nozzle – allowing you to adjust the spray pattern to suit your specific cleaning needs. The Quick-change connectivity system also simplifies the process of switching between nozzles. Designed with the operator in mind, the WEN Pressure Washer features a comfort-grip handle and an Axial Cam Pump that provides a reliable spray while also granting quick access to hose connections, eliminating the need for kneeling on the ground.
Additionally, the unit boasts a large 32-ounce onboard soap tank, which allows for easy re-filling of detergent as you work. A massive 30-feet high-pressure hose enables extended cleaning above your head, while heavy-duty reinforced Never-flat 12-inch wheels make it easy to maneuver the trolley over various terrain types. Pros include ease of use, great value for money, four quick-connect spray nozzles, and a massive 30-foot high-pressure hose.
Cons include a higher price point, bulkiness, the need for a mixture of oil and gas, and connections made of plastic.
Simpson Cleaning Pressure Washer
Simpson Cleaning’s Pressure Washer is a powerful tool designed for commercial applications, making it an excellent choice for large properties and heavy-duty cleaning tasks. The HONDA GX200 OHV engine with Oil Alert and AAA industrial triplex plunger pump with PowerBoost technology delivers high water pressure to effectively remove stubborn dirt and algae from outdoor surfaces and large vehicles like farming equipment.
The unit’s durable construction, featuring a welded steel frame, steel engine plate, and solid steel axle, ensures it will withstand the demands of frequent use. Additionally, the 10-inch pneumatic tires provide maneuverability for longer jobs. A pro-style spray wand with 5 quick-connect nozzle tips offers flexibility in spray settings, while the soap applicator nozzle draws detergent directly from the downstream system.
The flexible MorFlex high-pressure hose is kink- and abrasion-resistant, eliminating worries about a defective garden hose. With its powerful performance, ease of assembly, and portability, this washer is an excellent choice for those seeking reliable cleaning results.
Generac Pressure Washer
The Generac Pressure Washer is a compact, powerful, and affordable solution for tackling light to medium residential cleaning tasks. Its robust OHV engine produces an impressive 2900 PSI water pressure output and 2.4 GPM flow rate, making it well-suited for blasting away stubborn grime, dirt, and deep stains around the home.
The user-friendly design of this pressure washer allows for quick and easy cleaning, while its never-flat 10-inch wheels and 25-foot flexible hose provide the necessary maneuverability to clean areas around a patio, vehicle, walkways, or negotiate stairs. The device comes with four quick-change spray nozzles (0°, 25°, 40°, and Soap) that can be used to clean a range of surfaces, including concrete, brick, tiles, and masonry.
Additional features include an ergonomic spray gun, a wand that can be stored in a side hook, and onboard storage for the spray nozzles. This compact design makes it easy to pack away in a garden shed or garage. The pros of this pressure washer include its ideal application for small to medium cleaning tasks, the choice of four nozzles, never-flat wheels and flexible hose that facilitate ease of use, ergonomic spray gun, and handy storage area.
However, it may not be suitable for heavy-duty cleaning, can lose water pressure easily, and plastic parts are not overly durable.
Our Top Pick for the Best Pressure Washer
Our top pick for the best pressure washer is the Sun Joe Pressure Washer, which boasts impressive credentials. Its robust construction, coupled with an impressive 2030 PSI water pressure and a powerful 14.5 amp motor, makes it an excellent choice for light to medium-duty cleaning tasks around your home.
If you plan on working at a distance from a power outlet, an extension cord may be necessary; however, the Sun Joe Pressure Washer features a convenient 20-foot high-pressure hose and a lengthy 35-foot power cord, providing ample flexibility. Check out the current price on Amazon.
