There can be no better way to clean just about anything than using a pressure washer or if you prefer, a power washer. These machines are found in most professional auto shops and many other commercial settings. Power washers are also very popular amongst homeowners. For cleaning your car, getting rid of stubborn dirt and oil stains from your driveway, deck, roof, drain or cleaning sidings and other exterior walls you can’t beat a pressure washer. They clean about five times faster than using a hosepipe and use about five times less water.
This article is going to help you understand these machines better and provide a review of the best pressure washers on the market. Whether it’s an electric pressure washer or gas-powered model you’re looking for, we’ve done some in-depth research to find the best options in a variety of price categories. I have no doubt that you should find the best option for needs and your budget amongst the power washers in this review.
To help you make an informed decision, let’s first cover some of the terminology and technical details concerning pressure washers.
First, Some Technical Stuff....
Deciding between a gas pressure washer and one that’s powered by an electric motor isn’t too difficult. Like most equipment, using a gas engine means more power. Of course, gas has its disadvantages. These engines can be quite noisy and they require maintenance. Not to mention that starting an electric power washer is effortless – it starts with the touch of a button. In a nutshell, electric pressure washers are the ideal choice for most homeowners and small auto shops. Farmers and large-scale commercial enterprises might prefer the extra water volume and pressure that you’ll get from a gas-powered machine.
A pressure washer uses a specialized pump to generate a high-pressure water stream that is then sent through a pipe to the wand which is held by the operator. The wand has a nozzle that controls the aperture of the water feed. Basically, the width of the water stream is controlled by the nozzle. This means that you can choose a lower water volume with higher pressure for removing particularly stubborn dirt or a higher volume with less pressure for surfaces that may become damaged by the intense pressure of a narrow nozzle. At extremely high pressure, painted surfaces can easily be damaged.
There are two types of pumps that are commonly used in a power washer. Axial cam pumps are the cheaper option, running directly off the pump motor or engine. These are considered to be light to medium duty pumps and are very common in the pressure washers used by homeowners. A triplex pump uses three pistons and are known as reciprocating positive-displacement pumps. This gives them a much smoother water flow, as well as increasing the water flow. Because of their heavier duty application, triplex pumps have stronger components and bearings.
When distinguishing the power and, therefore, the cleaning capabilities of a pressure washer, three units of measurement are used.
Having covered the basics, it’s time to move onto our review of the best performing pressure washers. To keep things easy for you, we’ve separated this into two sections namely , Gas Powered and Electric Power Washers.
Electric Power Washers Reviewed
These machines are generally more popular among home users. This is both because of their lower cost and the fact that they are compact portable machines. There are a few simple safety aspects to remember when using an electric pressure washer. Most importantly, electricity and water are not friends – we all know this. Electric pressure washers will be GFCI protected to prevent injury from contact between the electric current and the ground through the water. It’s still advisable to keep your electric socket elevated so that there is no chance of it becoming submerged in water as you use the power washer. They are, none the less, very easy and safe machines to use. In most cases, an electric pressure pump will use an axial cam pump – they’re not intended for heavy-duty work. The pumps specs are seldom given for these, smaller, power washers. Unless otherwise specified, we can assume that an electric pressure washer uses an axial cam pump.
1. Sun Joe SPX3000
The Sun Joe brand is synonymous with affordable, good quality outdoor equipment for the domestic user. So we can’t call the Sun Joe SPX3000 pressure washer an industrial machine – you’d have to pay a lot more if that’s what you’re looking for. If you want an excellent power washer to use around the home without paying too much, this one will make your day.
With a very powerful 14.5A (1800W) motor, the Sun Joe SPX3000 will blast away any dirt and grime with 2030 PSI pressure at 1.76 GPM. It’s built to be user-friendly and very safe with a Total Stop System (TSS) that will switch the power washer off completely when the trigger is released.
A selection of 5 quick-connect spray tips come with the pressure washer. A 0-degree nozzle gives you very high-pressure pin spray for removing heavy dirt like from underneath your car’s engine. You can step up the angle of the spray nozzle incrementally: 15; 25 and 40-degrees. There’s also a soap nozzle for applying detergent. Two detergent bottles, each holding 0.9L (30.4 Oz) make this pressure washer really convenient. The detergent reservoirs unclip easily and you can switch between them with a simple dial. The 20-Ft high-pressure hose gives you a really good working area and a 34” extendable wand helps you reach all sorts of places easily. You’ll have no problem reaching the second story of your home or underneath your car. It has a 20-Ft power cord which is a really convenient length. It weighs only 31 LBS and has a good carrying handle for easy portability.
Storage is effortless and tidy with a hanger for the hose and power cord, as well as a convenient position for stowing the wand. There is a great selection of optional extras for the Sun Joe SPX3000 which include extension high-pressure hoses, a rotary brush and patio cleaning attachment.
After following up on customer reviews, I found that there have been some complaints about the plastic fitting that connects the water inlet to your garden hose. The plastic fitting that comes with pressure washer doesn’t seem to be all that great. Sun Joe will replace this with a brass fitting under warranty. This leaves me wondering why they don’t just supply the brass fitting as standard. Perhaps this is only a problem in areas that have a higher water pressure from the utility company. Either way, this is a minor problem and is easily rectified.
When it comes down to it, the Sun Joe SPX3000 is a really fantastic power washer at a great price and comes with a 2-year warranty.
2. GreenWorks GPW1602
Another brand that has won the hearts of homeowners everywhere is GreenWorks. The GreenWorks GPW1602 is a good deal cheaper than the Sun Joe SPX3000. It is, however, slightly limited when compared to the Sun Joe, both in terms of power and functionality.
The 13A motor provides 1600 PSI pressure and 1.2 GPM of water flow. So it’s a fairly light-duty pressure washer, though it’s powerful enough for car cleaning and most other home DIY purposes. It’s also limited to two quick-change nozzles (15 & 45-degrees).
The detergent bottle is an in-line design, meaning that it fits onto the high-pressure hose at the wand. There are mixed feelings as to whether the detergent should be supplied at the pump or at the hose. Personally, I don’t feel too strongly about this – both system work just fine. Having the bottle at the wand can mean that it gets in the way sometimes whilst working, though it isn’t really a big inconvenience.
One thing that makes the GreenWorks GPW1602 really easy to use is the very compact and lightweight design. It weighs only 17.5 LBS. This means that it’s super easy to carry in one hand while you’re working. Being able to carry it with you as you move means that you won’t be snagging the high-pressure hose too easily. The pressure hose is still conveniently long at 20-Ft and the power cord is longer than many others at 35-FT. It’s a very versatile little power washer for moving about.
For convenience and compact storage, you really can’t beat the GreenWorks GPW1602. Even though it’s not the most powerful machine, I can see why many people rate this as one of the best small electric pressure washers. It’s a great little machine and comes with a 1-year warranty.
3. Yard Force 1600
In many ways, the Yard Force 1600 PSI pressure washer compares very closely to the GreenWorks model that we’ve just reviewed. Both power washers have the same power, using a 13A electric motor, they cost almost the same and are equally lightweight and compact.
The Yard Force weighs half a pound less than the GreenWorks model at 17 LBS. It’s a very different shape and offers better storage solutions for the high-pressure hose and wand. There are two small wheels that allow you to pull it around like a cart.
Though with such a low weight, I wonder how important these wheels are. With 1600 PSI pressure and 1.2 GPM water flow, the Yard Force has the same cleaning power as the GreenWorks GPW1062. It has two standard quick-connect nozzles – a 25-degree and soap nozzle. It also has a high-pressure turbo nozzle, which is basically a low angle nozzle – I guess somewhere around 5-degrees or less which is great for high-pressure intensive cleaning.
The Yard Force 1600 PSI pressure cleaner has a large built-in detergent bottle, holding 32-OZ. The 19-Ft quick connect pressure hose is convenient and easy to use as is the trigger control wand.
Easily the best power washer when it comes all-in-one convenience. The Yard Force 1600 PSI pressure washer has really easy storage options and is in compact square shape, making it easy to store anywhere. This is as good as any of the best smaller pressure washers when it comes to quality and has a 2-year warranty.
4. Powerhouse International - The Force 2000
If you want more power from a compact electric pressure washer, the Powerhouse International Force 2000 is going to blow yo away. It costs a little more than the previous two but offers you quite a lot more, making it worth the extra dollars. The Powerhouse deserves its name with 2000 PSI pressure (3000 PSI initial boost pressure) and 1.6 GP water flow.
Apart from being a powerful machine, you’re also getting a lot of extras when you buy the Powerhouse International. You’ll get a rotating brush patio cleaner and a spinning turbo nozzle.
Of course, there’s an adjustable multifunction nozzle which adjusts from a wide to narrow angle. It has the inclusion of TSS, like most electric power washers and you get a reasonably sized soap dispensing bottle that attaches to the wand.
The Powerhouse weighs only 23.8-pounds, has large wheels and an easy-grip handle. It’s a great machine as far portability goes and all your pipes and accessories store perfectly on the pressure washer. This includes a storage drum for the high-pressure hose which has a retractable handle. The 30FT power cord gives a good range for working and the power socket is GFCI protected.
The powerhouse International Force 2000 offers you a lot for your money and has been met much praise from countless customers. As one of the best pressure washers in its class, this machine is really worth considering.
5. Realm BY01-HBE 1500
The Realm BY01-HBE can be seen as the best budget pressure washer. It’s also incredibly compact and easy to use. Being a cheaper power washer than most, it doesn’t have the best power but this shouldn’t a big sacrifice for most users as it’s still a reasonably powerful machine with 1500 PSI and 1.5 GPM flow.
Weighing only 17.45-pounds with a design that resembles a small canister vacuum cleaner with large wheels, the Realm is a really easy power cleaner to use and just as convenient when it comes to storage.
From the multi-piston 1600W pump to the 19 FT high-pressure hose, this pressure washer shows a high level of quality. This is great to see on a power washer that costs less than most.
The trigger wand has an adjustable nozzle for wide angle gentle cleaning and narrow-angle intensive blasting. A 15.2 OZ detergent bottle comes with the pressure washer and there’s a whole bunch of optional extras which includes a turbo brush patio cleaner and an extension wand. As to be expected, the Realm also has TSS auto shutoff.
Bargain hunters who don’t want to sacrifice on quality or customer service will be rushing to get their hands the Realm BY01-HBE. For a small sacrifice as far as power goes, you’re getting a great power washer at a magnificent price.
6. Karcher K1700
If you know anything about power washers, you’ll know that we can’t give a review of the best electric pressure washers without including a Karcher model. We’ve chosen the Karcher K1700 which is one of their cheaper models and isn’t the most powerful in their range of electric power washers. Even though Karcher supplies more powerful machines, the K1700 compares well with the others in this review. It has an excellent pressure rating of 1700 PSI and the flow rate is perfectly acceptable at 1.2 GPM.
The Karcher K1700 simply smacks of quality. The metal (looks like aluminum) frame is tough, lightweight and very well constructed. It has a great handle and large wheels, so moving the 20.7-pound Karcher K1700 is a breeze.
The quality of this power washer carries through into the details, like the brass quick connect fittings that are made to last. It comes with three standard nozzles – Turbo for high-pressure cleaning; a 15-degree all-purpose nozzle and a soap nozzle.
It has a 0.5-gallon detergent tank with a large filler cap and is really convenient and easy to use. The standard 20Ft hose is standard for a power washer this size, but there’s an optional 50Ft pressure hose available for those who require a longer one. The power cord is 35Ft, which is a good length. A removable bin provides storage for the pipes, wand and any other accessories and it has a neat position on the handle for storing the power cord. The foot operated on-off switch is a really useful feature, this is a very convenient and easy pressure washer to use and store.
Many of us have come to trust Karcher as one of the best brands when it comes to pressure washers. The Karcher K1700 is very reasonably priced for such a quality piece of equipment. It’s powerful, user-friendly, incredibly durable, and has a 3-year warranty.
7. Stanley SLP2050
The Stanley SLP2050 may cost more than some of the others in its class, but it does have some outstanding features. The build quality is excellent with a sturdy metal frame and large wheels for easy portability. It provides above average pressure for a power washer of this size – 2050 PSI. Water flow is also good at 1.4 GPM. It’s nice to see that Stanley has chosen to use high-quality brass quick connect fittings. Looking at all the components of this pressure washer, it seems to be a very durable machine.
It comes with five interchangeable nozzles: a 0-degree high-pressure nozzle; 15-degree nozzle; 25-degree nozzle; a rotary (turbo) nozzle for extra cleaning power and a low-pressure soap nozzle. The 25 Ft high-pressure hose should be long enough for most people and, like most others, this power washer has the option of extending the hose if needed. The power cord is 35-feet long and it has a 28 OZ detergent tank.
The design of the Stanley gives you the best versatility with onboard storage and really cool frame design. The pressure washer can be detached from the frame in seconds. This means that you can choose to wheel it around or carry it in one hand whilst working. Though it’s not the best for carrying as it’s heavier than many others at just over 36 LBS. Of course, a few of these pounds make up the weight of the frame, so you won’t be carrying all this weigh when it’s detached from the frame. There’s also an optional wall-mount kit for those who prefer to keep it permanently installed. The 28 OZ soap tank is easily accessible and you won’t have any problem filling it.
The Stanley SLP2050 certainly ranks highly amongst the best pressure washers. It’s a well-made piece of machinery and has one of the most versatile designs, excellent for all kinds of jobs around the yard. Stanley has a long-standing reputation for quality and this power washer comes with a 2-year warranty.
8. Greenworks GPW1702
The Greenworks brand has become a trusted name amongst homeowners. For an affordable product that will meet the basic needs of any home user, the Greenworks GPW1702 is a fantastic pressure washer. It’s not the most powerful in their line of power washers. In fact, it’s the second smallest. Though for cleaning, decks, outdoor furniture and your car, the Greenworks GPW1702 is certainly up to the task and you’ll be hard-pressed to find a pressure washer of a similar quality standard at a better price.
The 13A 110V electric motor is a reliable unit with a reasonable power output. I say reasonable because this is not the kind of power you’d get from a heavy-duty machine. It’s designed for the weekend home user and for this purpose, it’s one of the best. With 1700 PSI pressure and a maximum water flow of 1.2 GPM, it’s on the lower end of the scale but you won’t have a problem using this power washer for your general domestic cleaning needs.
It’s fantastically light, weighing only 25-pounds and the fairly large wheels combined with an excellent handle, make the Greenworks GPW1702 a very portable machine. The Hose reel makes storage for the long 25-foot high-pressure hose perfectly simple and trouble-free. It has a conveniently long 35-foot power cord with GFCI protection at the power socket. This takes the stress out of using an electric machine in the wet conditions that come with operating a pressure washer.
Along with a user-friendly wand, you get two quick connect spray nozzles (25 and 40-degrees). There’s no needle spray nozzle, something I’d prefer to have – it’s very useful for engine cleaning. It also doesn’t have a built-in soap tank, though this isn’t a big deal. It does have a soap applicator, so you can apply detergent like any of the best power washers. My only concern with the design of this power washer is the molded plastic connector for the water inlet that protrudes from the side of the machine. There’s no reason why this should be a problem, as long as you take care not to snag this connector when moving the pressure washer. The way it’s positioned, can cause it to break off if treated roughly – something to be aware of when using the power washer.
As one of the more affordable options available, the Greenworks GPW1702 is one of the best for general household use. You won’t be spending a lot on this pressure washer and, if used as intended, it will give you years of trouble-free cleaning. Greenworks is an established brand and they give you a one year warranty on the GPW1702 power washer.
9. AR Blue Clean AR383SS
Annovi Reverbi (AR) is an Italian company that has a longstanding reputation for building some of the world’s best high-pressure pumps for industrial applications, farms, and home cleaning. The AR383SS forms part of their line of domestic power washers and is built to an extraordinarily high standard for a non-industrial machine. You need have no fears about buying an imported power washer from AR, they have service centers in the US.
The pressure washer has a robust plastic housing as well as a great aluminum handle with a soft grip and high-quality wheels. The extra-long 30-foot high-pressure hose is super convenient and stores onto a reel at the handle.
A 35-foot power cord is also great and the AR383SS has auto-reset GFCI protection for added convenience. The strong metal pipe connectors for the hosepipe inlet and high-pressure hose are excellent and positioned in such way that it’s easy to connect and there’s virtually no chance of these being damaged. The wand is also of the highest quality and you get 4 quick connect nozzles: 25-degrees; 0-degree needle spray; a rotary or turbo nozzle which is great for extra cleaning power without being abrasive, and a low-pressure soap nozzle.
The AR383SS is not the lightest, weighing 33-pounds. Though the extra weight does give us an indication that they’ve used heavier, stronger components in the manufacturing of this power washer. The pump is certainly one of the best, delivering 1900 PSI. This is excellent pressure for a small power washer. There’s no water flow (GPM) spec, though AR pumps are among the best in the world and one can expect this pressure washer to have above average water flow. It also has a large 28 OZ detergent tank at the pump.
To my mind, the AR3833SS is just about the best in its class. Unsurpassed quality combined with excellent performance makes this an incredible pressure washer. Given the level of quality that you’re getting, the price is very reasonable and it comes with a 1-year warranty.
10. Sun Joe SPX4000
Sun Joe is another one of those brands that Americans have come to depend on for affordable reliability and quality. The Sun Joe SPX4000 looks very different to most power washers and I like this design, purely for the durability that it offers.
Unlike the molded plastic housing that makes up the body of regular pressure washers, the Sun Joe SPX4000 is mounted onto a metal frame. This protects the pump and fittings from knocks and bumps. It’s a great design.
Another outstanding feature of the Sun Joe is the power selection mode. You can choose to run the motor at a low setting that will reduce its power consumption and provide 1450 PSI which is perfect for gentle cleaning. For tougher lobs, where more power is needed, it can be cranked up to a full 2030 PSI. The maximum flow rate is 1.76 GPM which is pretty much the norm for this size power washer.
The 35-foot power cord and 20-foot high-pressure hose give you a similar working range to most of the best power washers. It has a great selection of nozzles: 0-degrees; 15-degrees; 25-degrees; 40-degrees and a soap nozzle. The large detergent tank has a very convenient filler cap at the front. The wheels are as good as good as any of the best pressure washers and onboard storage for the wand and high-pressure hose make things very convenient.
This is a robust and versatile power washer with a host of great features. Like many people, I have complete faith in the Sun Joe brand and the service that they offer. This includes a full 2-year warranty.
11. Karcher K5 Premium
As one of the top brands when it comes to power washers, Karcher is going to cost more than many comparable machines. Though this means a high level of quality and outstanding design and features.
There’s a good reason why many people are prepared to pay
extra for the Karcher K5 Premium power washer – even though there are cheaper machines with a higher pressure and GPM specs. Quite simply put, when it comes to improved design and build quality, Karcher’s experience makes them among the best manufacturers of high-end power washers.
With a pressure of 2000 PSI and water flow of 1.4 GPM, the Karcher K5 Premium is not far behind the best when it comes to power specs. What makes this machine a cut above the rest is in its durability. The water-cooled electric motor is likely to last much longer than most others. All the molded plastic and solid brass fittings are of the best you’ll find. It has two wands that offer not only excellent quality but great versatility and ease of use. An adjustable general purpose wand allows you to select the spray angle at the wand and is one of the best of its kind. The detergent will be automatically dispensed from the onboard tank when the pressure is set to minimum. For increased cleaning power, there’s a second, Dirt Buster wand which is a sophisticated version of a turbo wand.
Even the handy storage reel for the long 25-foot high-pressure hose has been thought out very carefully. The pressurized hose reel reduces kinks in the hose. This is certainly the best and most convenient hose storage system that you’ll find.
Karcher has made a name for themselves, both professionals and home users will agree that the K5 Premium is the best power washer that you’ll get in this class of light to medium-duty pressure washers. It would certainly be my first choice and it’s worth paying extra for. Along with excellent backup service, the Karcher K5 Premium also has a 2-year warranty.
12. NorthStar Electric Cold Water Pressure Washer
If an industrial-grade heavy-duty power washer is what you’re looking for, the NorthStar 3000PSI is going to be your best option. It’s in a completely different class than the other pressure washers in this review. This machine is designed for the professional shop or serious DIY enthusiast and has a price tag to match. The NorthStar is way more expensive than light to medium-duty power washers. Though this is to be expected – it’s built tougher and is much more powerful.
This is a large machine, weighing around 130-pounds and is mounted to a strong steel frame with large wheels for transportation. One look at the Cat DNX pump fitted to this pressure washer, and you can see it’s designed for heavy-duty work. The forged brass head and large 5HP motor make for an impressive sight. This is a heavy-duty power washer and this means running it on a dedicated 30A 230V power circuit. This gives it the power to pump out 3000 Psi pressure and an incredible 2.5 GPM water flow. A far cry from the small domestic power washers.
The high-pressure hose, lance, and nozzles are about the best that you can get. Every aspect of the design and build of this machine is aimed at making it the best industrial-grade pressure washer. When all this taken into account, it doesn’t cost all that much when compared to pressure washers in the same class. As a manufacturer of professional-grade power washers, NorthStar provides a full range of additional accessories for this pressure washer.
13. Ford FPWEF2.1-1800
The Ford FPWEF2.1-1800 comes at a very reasonable price and you get a full spectrum of accessories with your purchase. It’s a nicely designed power washer and is built to an excellent quality standard, using aluminum and durable plastic.
The 13.5A motor provides a good deal of power, giving you 1800 PSI pressure with a rated flow of 1.6 GPM. The adjustable nozzle on the wand has four positions providing for a turbo wash, a high-pressure spray, wide fan spray, and low-pressure soap setting. It has an onboard soap tank which is easy to remove.
The 25-foot high-pressure hose stores neatly onto a caddy with a handle for rolling it up and the 35-foot power cord also has a well-placed storage solution at the back of the handle. All the bits and pieces have been thought about and have excellent storage compartments. Over and above the usual pressure washer items, you also get a rotating brush attachment as well as a wheel-detailing brush. It’s always nice to get a few extras for your money and these attachments will come handy.
At 24.5-pounds, the Ford FPWEF2.1 is an easy machine to move around and an excellent handle along with large wheels make this a pleasure to use anywhere. A great combination of affordability and some really handy extras make this a fantastic deal. The Ford FPWEF2.1 is certainly one of the best value pressure washers in its price bracket.
14. AR Blue Clean AR390SS
Annovi Reverberi is an Italian company that has been manufacturing world-class high-pressure pumps for every type of application for over half a century. Considering the design and build of this remarkable machine, it’s exceptionally cheap. In my opinion, the AR Blue Clean AR390SS is the best pressure washer in that it offers an excellent machine at a very affordable price.
Using a 14A motor to drive the really efficient tri-axial (three pistons), the AR390SS has some of the best power specs – 2000 PSI with 1.4 GPM water flow. The standard 30 FT high-pressure hose is longer than most and has a really convenient storage drum on the handle. Like most of the best pressure washers, there’s great onboard storage for all the components. The 35 FT power cord also stores away neatly.
The professional wand is super cool and you get a full selection of quick-change nozzles: 0-degrees; 25-degrees; a turbo nozzle and a soap nozzle. A large onboard 48 OZ detergent tank also makes things easy. For this class of power washer, the AR Blue AR390SS is heavier than most. It weighs 40-pounds which may be on the heavy side for some, but this also gives one an indication that this pressure washer probably uses some heavy-duty components which really isn’t a bad thing.
There’s no need to be concerned about customer service. Even though AR is an Italian company they have service centers in the US and their reputation for customer service is known to be great. Possibly the best combination of quality, power and price, the AR390SS is a remarkable pressure washer with a 1-year warranty. I can wholly recommend this as my personal choice amongst the best electric pressure washers.
Gas-Powered Pressure Washers Reviewed
You’re going to be paying more for a gas-powered pressure washer than you would for an electric one. Then you also have some maintenance costs that you wouldn’t have with an electric machine. So you’d expect to get more from a gas-powered pressure washer.
Using a gas engine generally means that the machine has more power and you can expect higher water pressure and GPM flow rates from a gas power washer. Because gas pressure washers are intended for heavy-duty use, they are usually more robust than electric equivalents. Some will use a triplex pump as opposed to the axial cam pumps used in most electric machines. Though, this doesn’t mean that all gas-powered pressure washers use triplex pumps. Even when an axial cam pump is fitted to a gas engine, it will be larger and tougher than those used in cheaper electric machines.
So for commercial use, like auto shops and factories, a gas-powered pressure washer is the machine for the job. While most home users prefer the convenience and affordability of electric pressure washers, there are those may require more pressure or simply want a more robust machine for doing more than just the odd cleaning job or weekly car wash.
1. SIMPSON MSH3125-S 3100
Between the best gas-powered pressure washers that we’ll be reviewing, the Simpson MSH3125-S is the most expensive. It’s one of the most powerful and there are several reasons why I fell it’s the best of the gas models that we’ll be reviewing. A big reason why I say this is the fact that they use a Honda engine, though there are a few more aspects to the Simpson that seems to suggest that this is a very robust machine.
The Honda GC190, 187cc, OHV engine that powers the Simpson MSH3125-S is a magnificent beast. It is very fuel efficient, as well as being both EPA and CARB certified – good news for Californians.
This is certainly one of the best small engines ever built. In my experience, Honda engines last for decades and parts are always easy to get. When you take your first look at the Simpson MHS125-S, it’s clear that this power washer is built to work. It has an incredibly strong steel frame with a front end that bends upward to protect the engine and pump. Then there are those huge 10” pneumatic tires, fitted to tough steel rims. It’s clear that there’s been no compromise when it comes to durability and quality.
The OEM axial cam pump is bigger and more robust than most and uses solid brass fittings. It produces 3100 PSI pressure and 2.5 GPM flow rate. The 25 Ft Moreflex high-pressure hose is yet another example of no expense being spared on quality components. This is a strong hose that will not kink easily and wraps neatly around a hose hanger on the handle. The professional grade wand has a safety lock-out and you get 5 nozzles with the pressure washer: 0; 15, 25 and 40-degrees as well as a soap nozzle. The nozzles are color-coded for quick selection and store on a dashboard that’s quick and easy to access.
Despite being a heavy-duty power washer with a very solid frame, the Simpson MHS125-S is refreshingly light, weighing only 74 LBS. One thing that might concern some users is that the Simpson doesn’t have a detergent tank. It has a siphon pipe for using detergent, so this is not really a big deal. It means that when using soap, you’ll need to place the detergent pipe into the bottle or use any container that works for you.
If you’re looking for a tough powerful gas-powered pressure washer, the Simpson MHS125-S is easily the best that you’ll find. When compared to other heavy-duty gas power washers, the Simpson really isn’t too expensive. The engine is warrantied for 2 years, the pump for 1-year and the frame carries a 5-year warranty.
2. Duromax XP3100PWT
The DuroMax brand has earned my respect, I’m quite familiar with their generators and the XP3100PWT gas pressure washer meets my high expectations based on what I’ve come to know about their products.
What impresses me about DuroMax (this power washer included) is the high level of quality that you get from a machine that costs so little. This is the cheapest pressure washer in this review and, for the most part, matches even the really expensive models when it comes to quality and durability.
When I said that this pressure washer is of a high quality standard, there are two areas where I feel this isn’t entirely the case. For one thing, I don’t particularly like those thin plastic wheels. Though if you look at most of the other power washers in this class, the wheels are not always their strong point. The other area where the DuroMax XP3100PWT doesn’t display the level of industrial build quality that I’d like to see is in the plastic rivets used for some of the mounting points. Though, in general, these are more like petty issues. Neither the wheels nor the hangers for the pipe and wand are crucial to the operation of the machine. For what this pressure washer costs, I’d be happy to replace the wheels (if needed) and the plastic rivets with steel bolts. Neither of these tasks take much effort and won’t cost anything worth mentioning. It still remains excellent value for money.
If we ignore these minor issues and look at the actual machinery (which is what really counts), the DuroMax really comes into its own. The 7HP engine is a truly capable unit and starts effortlessly. This runs a 3-piston axial cam pump with a solid brass head. Like any self-respecting modern gas engine, it has low oil shutoff protection.
Using the pressure washer is an absolute pleasure, it certainly has the power that one is looking for – 3100 PSI maximum pressure and a water flow of 2.5 GPM. This is close to highest power spec for a gas power washer in this class, it’s one of the better performers in this review. The wand is great with plenty of reach and a soft grip handle with an easy to use trigger. A good-quality 30 FT high-pressure hose comes with it and there’s a storage hanger on the frame for the hose. The wand also has a neat storage position, as do the nozzles. An excellent selection of 6 quick connect nozzles is as good as it gets. It’s supplied with 0; 15; 25 and 40 degree nozzles, as well as a soap and a turbo nozzle. This gives you the perfect water flow and pressure combinations for any application for which you’d want to use a high-power pressure washer.
High-quality brass connectors always impress me and this is what you’ll find on the DuroMax XP3100PWT. The water intake connector has a mesh filter to protect the pump from harmful abrasive particles in the water supply. The metal frame also looks tough enough and it’s nice to see a large metal gas tank. The soap dispenser is safely tucked away under the base of the frame. It has a filler that’s easy to access with a decent sized opening, so you won’t be spilling detergent all over the place. Soap is supplied to the pump outlet by means of a clear hose, you can see when it’s flowing.
So with the exception of the minor issues I mentioned at the beginning, this is one impressive piece of machinery. It’s a great pressure washer, capable of meeting the needs of any auto shop, farmer or serious DIY enthusiast. It would be hard to dispute the excellent value for money that you get from this power washer. It’s as cheap as you can hope for, with no real compromise when it comes to quality. Apart from a broken spark plug and a damaged choke lever component, I haven’t found any legitimate complaints about the DuroMax XP3100PWT. In both these cases, I wouldn’t blame the manufacturer, this probably happened during transportation and both are easily rectified problems. A 1-year parts warranty is pretty standard, though this is nothing to brag about and it comes with a 30-day replacement warranty.
3. Karcher G2200
The Karcher G2200 gas-powered pressure washer isn’t much more expensive than a lot of electric power washers. Then again, it isn’t much more powerful either. Being a Karcher, you can bet that it’s a quality robust pressure washer. Though I wouldn’t say it’s of the same heavy-duty quality as the mighty Simpson MHS125-S. The powder coated frame seems durable enough but pales in comparison to that of the Simpson. Likewise, the solid rubber wheels aren’t as impressive and more like the standard wheels you’ll find on most equipment of this nature.
The Karcher KPS 159cc engine is a good unit and works perfectly, delivering 2200 PSI and 2 GPM from an axial cam pump. Although this is not a triplex pump (neither is the Simpson), it’s a tough piece of machinery with an aluminum head and quality brass fittings.
The engine is both CARB and EPA certified. It comes with four professional-style nozzles, 0; 25 and 40-degrees, as well as a 65-degree soap nozzle. Like the Simpson, the Karcher has no detergent tank, only a siphon pipe that works in the way as the Simpson. All the pipes, the wand, and nozzles have excellent storage on the pressure washer.
At a weight of 60-pounds, this is no heavyweight. It’s really easy to move and the handle folds down for compact storage. The PVC high-pressure hose 25 FT long and seems to be of a high quality standard.
Whether for home or professional use, the Karcher G2200 Performance series is an excellent power washer at a price that makes it more than worthwhile. The Karcher reputation for building some the best pressure washers is undisputed and you’ll get a 3-year general warranty with a 2-year warranty on the pump.
4. Briggs & Stratton 20545
Comparing the Karcher G2200 to Briggs & Stratton 20545 leaves one wondering a little. The Briggs & Stratton is noticeably more expensive, yet has a very similar power spec to the Karcher. By the looks of things, the Briggs & Stratton has a frame and wheels that are of a better quality standard than that of the Karcher. So it may be a better machine, there’s no real way of saying this for sure.
The 550e 140cc OHV engine is one of the best that Briggs & Stratton has come up with. In recent years, the company has come a long way in producing truly excellent engines. A far cry the spluttering clunkers of years gone by. The maintenance-free axial cam pump performs well, giving you 2200 PSI of pressure and 1.9 GPM water flow.
Nozzles are a little limited, being 0-degree power spray, 25-degree general purpose, and a soap nozzle. This pressure washer also uses only a suction pipe instead of having a soap tank fitted to the machine. The wand is as good as the best you’ll find and it has a 25 Ft high-pressure hose. The wand, pipe, and nozzles all have storage places on the power washer and are conveniently stored with easy access.
As a brand, Briggs & Stratton has a stellar reputation and are known for great customer service. You can be very confident about your purchase and they provide a 2-year warranty for domestic use and 90-days for commercial use.
5. WEN PW31 3100
WEN is a brand that has grown on me for the incredible value that they offer. The WEN PW31 pressure washer is much cheaper than the Simpson MSH3125-S and has very similar specs with identical pressure and a GPM flow rating that comes very close (3100 PSI and 2.5 GPM).
Admittedly, the WEN doesn’t have the oversized tubing frame and steel-rimmed pneumatic wheels like you’ll find on the Simpson, but WEN equipment is by no means a joke. They offer a level of quality and durability to rival the best brands and are way cheaper.
In my opinion, the WEN PW31 is the best budget gas-powered pressure washer out of the models in this review. Though many may feel that the Excell EPW2123100 (which we’ll be reviewing next) is the best. It’s a really close call, they cost almost the same and have very similar specs.
The 208cc, OHV engine is a solid workhorse and is certainly up to the task of driving the axial cam pump. It’s mounted to a good frame with large 12” solid rubber wheels. These wheels are certainly big, but my only complaint is that they may be a little flimsy if you’re going to be moving the WEN over a rough surface. Though my general opinion is that this is a well-built machine.
It’s one of the few gas power washers to have a soap tank. So if using a separate detergent container bothers you, the WEN PW31 is going to appeal to you. The rust-free wand is top grade and comes with 5 nozzles, you get the full range: 0; 15; 25 and 40-degrees along with a soap nozzle. This wand also provides you with plenty of working length – 42 inches gives a lot of versatility when using the wand. The high-quality flexible hose is really great and is an impressive 30 FT long. At 67 LBS, it’s also no problem to transport.
The WEN PW31 pressure washer is a real winner in every category, especially the price. It will hold up to the challenges of a professional shop and be equally as versatile at home. Great quality at a fantastic price with a 2-year warranty is tough to beat.
6. Excell EPW2123100
Choosing between the WEN PW31 and the Excell EPW2123100 power washers might come down to flipping a coin, they are the same in most aspects. The low profile design of the Excell EPW2123100 can be seen as an advantage for storage, it will fit under many workbenches which could work better for some people.
The Excell pressure washer uses a 212cc OHV engine driving an impressive axial cam pump with stainless steel pistons and a brass head. This should mean that this pump will outlast many.
The frame is great and encloses the pump at the front, protecting it from bumps. It has 5-nozzles, just like the WEN and has onboard storage for these, the pipe and wand. The high-pressure hose is 25 FT long and, like most, it has a soap suction pipe without a detergent tank. The Excell weighs 76 LBS so it’s pretty much as portable as any.
As one of the two best gas power washers for people buying on a budget, the Excell EPW2123100 is a worthy contender. It’s been met with great praise by satisfied customers everywhere and has a standard 2-year warranty (90-days for commercial use).
7. Briggs & Stratton 20655
In the past, I’ve had some issues with Briggs & Stratton engines. They never seem to die and will keep chugging for years, but they used to be somewhat temperamental. I often used find myself pulling on the recoil starter with no luck. Check all the obvious things, sparkplug and carb – but still nothing. Then, for no apparent reason, the engine will suddenly spring to life with one pull.
Once running, they would purr without a hiccup. Though this is history, late in 2016, Briggs & Stratton unveiled a completely new range of engines.
They haven’t been around long enough for me to say that they hold true to the Briggs & Stratton reputation for engines that seem to last forever, but I see no reason to doubt that they are very durable engines. They’ve certainly improved on the starting problems that I mentioned. The new Briggs & Stratton engines, start like a dream, even in very cold weather. This makes the Briggs & Stratton 20655 pressure washer a mighty contender as one of the best.
If first impressions are anything to go by, then this power washer can only be described as wow! It has a seriously thick tubing frame with massive, tough 10” wheels and a bumper at the front to protect the engine. The engine and pump are mounted to a sturdy pressed steel base plate. It certainly looks the part – ready to take on the tough conditions of any busy shop.
As I mentioned in the intro, Briggs & Stratton have really improved their engines and the CR950, 208cc variant used to power this pressure washer delivers on this promise. The heavy-duty axial cam pump is perfectly matched to the impressive engine to deliver 3200 PSI pressure and 2.7 GPM water flow. In this class of power washer, you won’t easily find a better spec than that. It has a great ratio of pressure to flow rate. At its maximum rated pressure (3200 PSI), the Briggs & Stratton still has a great water flow of 2.4 GPM and if you’re going for the maximum flow of 2.7 GPM, you’ll still get a pressure of 2600 PSI. These pressure specs have been verified by the Pressure Washer Manufacturers’ Association (PWMA).
The 30 FT high-pressure hose looks like it’s going to last for some time and stores onto the frame. The wand is equally great and also stores on the unit. Four nozzles are slightly limited, but should be versatile enough for most people. You’ll get 0; 15 and 40 degrees and a soap nozzle. There’s no detergent tank, just a siphon hose that you can place directly into your soap container, which works just fine. The brass head and quality fittings on the pump are up there with the best of them and add to the general high-quality look and feel of this, already impressive, pressure washer.
The Briggs & Stratton 20655 is far from being the cheapest in this lineup. But with a powerful engine, excellent pump and all-around high level of quality, it’s certainly worth its price tag. The pressure and water flow specs are higher than most and this makes it great for demanding work situations. The warranty is also above par, being 2-years for residential use and 3-months for commercial use.
8. Ford FPWG2700H-J
For generations, we’ve come to know Ford as a name that that stands for reliability and no-nonsense dependability. In developing their power products, Ford has collaborated with Pulsar, another brand with the same common sense values. These brands, together, have an important common ground: supplying products that you can depend on at a price that makes them accessible to everyone.
Ford power products are not aiming to be the cheapest, yet they’re far from being the most expensive.
This means there are no cost-cutting measures that compromise their quality standards, at the same time keeping the price well within the norm. You just need to think of the legendary Ford F250 pickup to know what I mean by this. While we’re talking about a pressure washer here, not a pickup, the basic philosophy remains the same.
Every time I look at any of the Ford power products, the 8-year-old kid in me gets excited by those shiny, chrome-finished wheels. Though my adult brain soon comes to reason – spraying a cool chrome paint on the wheels is attractive, but this is going to get scuffed and the allure of brilliance will fade. So, when it comes down to it, I want to know how this machine is going to perform and will it stand the test of time? The Ford branding always gives me a sense of comfort and the FPW2700H-J pressure washer certainly inspires confidence.
The general sense of quality is displayed in every part of this power washer. The frame is expertly designed, well-made and remarkably tough. The 10” wheels are not only cool-looking and suitably large, they’re also tough and durable. These wheels actually deserve some mention because they are quite remarkable, apart from being tougher than most. You usually have the choice of solid rubber (never flat tires) or pneumatic (air-filled) wheels. Solid wheels are maintenance-free but can be a hassle when moving the machine over bumps or stairs. By filling their tires with foam, Ford gives you the best of both. They have the soft forgiving nature of pneumatic tires without the hassles of leaks and punctures.
There’s a great handle for moving the machine, with thick foam padding. The storage solutions for the pipe, wand, and nozzles are also well thought out and display the same level of quality that you see throughout the pressure washer. This engine is CARB certified and runs a magnificent 3-piston axial cam pump.
If you’re looking for the most power from your pressure washer, the Ford FPW2700H-J is going to fall short of your expectations. The pressure spec of 2700 PSI and a water flow of 2.3 GPM can best be described as average for a pressure washer in this class. However, as far as economical running goes, the Ford is probably going to come up tops. The 180cc, 5HP, OHV engine is a really tough and reliable machine, it won’t break unless seriously abused. This engine is quite a bit smaller than many of the others and this should mean better fuel consumption. If you’re going to be saving even $5 a month in gas bills, the pressure washer is likely to pay for itself over its lifetime. I suspect the Ford FPW2700H-J is going to keep working reliably for many, many years, in which case it will more than pay for itself in gas savings over time. So this is food for thought if you’re a budget-minded buyer.
If you’re not put off by the slightly lower pressure and water flow spec, the Ford is a fantastic option. The brass and stainless steel fittings are of the highest standard and the wand impresses me more than most. It has a great handle and trigger. Though, more importantly, it looks like it’s going to work well for many years. The same can be said for the 25-foot braided high-pressure hose. The soap tank is nothing short of enormous, it has an excellent filler cap and is protected from knocks by the thick tubing frame. A total of 4 quick connect nozzles is pretty standard. I’m not sure, but I think the spray angles are the regular 0; 15 and 40 degrees, as well as a low-pressure soap nozzle.
While I would have preferred to see more power, I cannot fault the Ford FPW2700H-J in any way. Like all Ford products, this pressure washer has been met with great enthusiasm from consumers. It’s, as they like to say, “Built Ford tough”. My guess is that it will be one of the most economical power washers to own, both when it comes to maintenance and gas costs. This, despite the rather average 1-year warranty.
9. Generac SpeedWash 7122
So the price of the Generac SpeedWash 7122 is well above average for this caliber of power washer. My first question was: is it worth the extra money? Depending on your needs, the answer is probably yes. This is especially true for home users because it has some extra attachments that will make your life a lot easier. It’s the best power washer to clean your driveway, deck, or patio and this review will reveal why. The Generac name also carries quite a bit of weight and many are prepared to pay a little extra, based on the brand reputation alone.
Firstly, I like the engine power to pump output ratio. The 196cc, OHV engine is reliable and isn’t the largest that you’ll get. Despite having a few ccs less than some others, this engine delivers excellent power and it utilizes a super-efficient high-pressure pump.
The result, an excellent pressure rating of 3200 PSI with a maximum flow rate of 2.7 GPM. This is exactly the same as the Briggs & Stratton 20655 which has a larger engine. Big up to Generac on the energy efficiency side of things.
The general quality of this power washer is, without a doubt, among the best. The frame is strong, with thicker than average steel tubing. The pump, with its brass head and quality fittings is certainly a durable item and looks incredibly easy to service, with easily accessible bolts. The super-durable 30-foot hose is fantastic. It’s kink-free and stores very compactly onto a steel hanger. All the other components, like nozzles and the wand store with the same ease. This wand is also better than most, with high-quality plastic and stainless steel components.
When it comes to quick connect nozzles and other attachments, the Generac beats the rest in a big way. You get 3 regular nozzles (0; 25 and 40 degrees), no big deal. But there’s a whole more, the turbo nozzle is truly awesome and cleans with great efficiency. The soap nozzle is also extraordinary, it has a wide directional spray head and sprays much further than any other. Then there’s the bonus broom attachment that has a wide 12” floor-cleaning head. This makes it the best power washer for cleaning any large floor area, like the driveway, deck, patio, or around your pool. This is a marvelous addition to an already superior pressure washer.
I’ve seen some customers grumbling about the service they’ve received from Generac, though this defies the general impression that most people have of the brand. Not only are their products known to be among the best, but their service is also seen as being better than most in the industry. A 3-year warranty is certainly nothing to complain about and seems to suggest that Generac are out to look after their customers for the long haul.
The result, an excellent pressure rating of 3200 PSI with a maximum flow rate of 2.7 GPM. This is exactly the same as the Briggs & Stratton 20655 which has a larger engine. Big up to Generac on the energy efficiency side of things.
The general quality of this power washer is, without a doubt, among the best. The frame is strong, with thicker than average steel tubing. The pump, with its brass head and quality fittings is certainly a durable item and looks incredibly easy to service, with easily accessible bolts. The super-durable 30-foot hose is fantastic. It’s kink-free and stores very compactly onto a steel hanger. All the other components, like nozzles and the wand store with the same ease. This wand is also better than most, with high-quality plastic and stainless steel components.
When it comes to quick connect nozzles and other attachments, the Generac beats the rest in a big way. You get 3 regular nozzles (0; 25 and 40 degrees), no big deal. But there’s a whole more, the turbo nozzle is truly awesome and cleans with great efficiency. The soap nozzle is also extraordinary, it has a wide directional spray head and sprays much further than any other. Then there’s the bonus broom attachment that has a wide 12” floor-cleaning head. This makes it the best power washer for cleaning any large floor area, like the driveway, deck, patio, or around your pool. This is a marvelous addition to an already superior pressure washer.
I’ve seen some customers grumbling about the service they’ve received from Generac, though this defies the general impression that most people have of the brand. Not only are their products known to be among the best, but their service is also seen as being better than most in the industry. A 3-year warranty is certainly nothing to complain about and seems to suggest that Generac are out to look after their customers for the long haul.
10. YARD FORCE 3200
Yard force is known to supply quality affordable products for the home user. Though as an economical option for the light to medium-duty shop or a farmer, the Yard Force pressure washer is a great option. It’s in the lower to the mid-price range and offers exceptional value for money.
The 208cc engine is quite a brute with a lot of power. Their EZ start technology holds true to its name, this engine is simple and quick to get going and then purrs like a baby. The axial cam pump is just as great, giving you 3200 PSI maximum pressure and 2.7 GPM water flow.
The frame is very impressive and the handle folds down for quick and compact storage. The quality 30-foot rubber high-pressure hose is also designed for ease of use. The hose is permanently connected to the pump, so there’s no connecting and disconnecting. It stores on a caddy with a handle so you can unwind only as much pipe as you need to use and then quickly and easily retract it again. This makes yard cleanups as effortless as possible. All the other components store just neatly onto the frame. The 12” wheels are bigger than just about any other and this makes it very easy to move over rough terrain.
You get 15-degree and 40-degree quick connect nozzles, as well as a soap nozzle and a turbo nozzle with an adjustable rotating spray for intensive cleaning. The soap dispenser is large enough for most purposes and easy to fill. You also have to option of placing a siphon hose directly into the detergent container if this is easier for you.
So for affordable quality and a good deal of versatility, the Yard Force is also one of the best power washers. They have very friendly and helpful service agents, which is reassuring and you get a 2-year warranty on the engine as well as the pump.
How to Choose a Good Power Washer
People use a pressure washer for different purposes. An auto shop will most likely be using the power washer to clean engines and then clean the body of the car before handing it back to the customer. At home, we’ll use a pressure washer to clean decks, driveways, and cars. Both contractors and home users will often use a pressure washer to remove old paint from a building before renovating. One can also use a pressure washer to clean gutters and downpipes. Some people even use a power washer to unblock drains. There are many other uses for a pressure washer that I haven’t mentioned, but we’ll stick to the basics here.
Water Flow and Pressure
The two most important specs for any pressure washer are the water flow, expressed as Gallons per Minute (GPM) and water pressure, measured in Pounds per Square Inch (PSI). European manufactures will give the water flow in liters per minute and pressure specs will be given either in Kilo Pascal (KPA) or bar – conversions for these units are easily found on Google.
Both water flow and pressure are equally important and we use these differently, depending on our application. A power washer uses a pump (an axial cam or a triplex pump) to pressurize the water and send it through a high-pressure pipe to the wand. At the wand, a nozzle determines the spray angle. The spray angle (expressed in degrees) determines our ratio between the water flow and pressure. One will always come at the sacrifice of the other. A narrow-angle of 0-degrees is known as a needle spray, this will give you the maximum pressure but will provide the minimum water flow. A wide 40-degree nozzle will increase the water flow and proportionally decrease the pressure.
When using a pressure washer, our requirements will differ. A low volume, high-pressure spray is used for removing grease and stubborn dirt from a small concentrated area. However, this high-pressure spray will easily damage paintwork and even remove it. You should never use a needle spray on your car’s bodywork – it will damage the paint. A wide-angle nozzle with a low pressure is great for general cleaning – decks and car bodywork.
In most cases, the highest pressure with the greatest water flow is the best pressure washer. However, these will usually be the most expensive. If your budget is limited, look at which of these specs are going to work the best for you. High GPM is the best for general cleaning and will clean the largest area in the least amount of time. High pressure is the best for intensive cleaning over a small area – like removing oil from the underside of your car or the garage floor.
Nozzles
As I mentioned, your nozzle determines the ratio between the pressure and the water flow. There are two systems used to control your spray angle.
Some power washers have a control knob on the wand. You turn this knob to change the spray angle. This system is convenient because you can change your spray angle and therefore, the pressure/water flow, as you work. Though these systems are not always precise and, over time, they can become problematic. You may find yourself toggling the spray angle knob back and forth a few times to get the correct setting as the machine gets older. Despite this drawback, I prefer the control knob at the wand. You can move from soap to medium spray and then to needle spray without stopping to change the nozzles.
Most pressure washers have interchangeable nozzles which are easy to remove and replace. However, you need to stop and change the nozzle each time you want to change your spray angle. The benefit of this system is that you know exactly what angle you’re selecting and it’s always 100% accurate. Generally, you’ll get at least 3 nozzles – a soap nozzle which has the widest angle and the lowest pressure, a medium to wide angle nozzle (usually 40-degrees) for general cleaning and a narrow-angle (usually 0-degrees) for a high-pressure needle spray to remove stubborn dirt and oil. Some power washers will have 5 or 6 different nozzles, offering the greatest versatility when it comes to spray angle. A turbo or rotating nozzle provides the most effective high-pressure cleaning by rotating the water stream as it leaves the nozzle. Not all pressure washers have these nozzles, so if you want the best high-pressure cleaning action, this may be something to consider.
Most pressure washers will also have a dial at the pump to control the pressure feed to the wand.
Detergent Dispenser
We often need to use detergent with a power washer and there are two basic ways in which this can be accomplished. Some pressure washers will use a siphon system with a detergent reservoir at the pump. Though, in some cases, it may just be a pipe that you place into a separate detergent bottle or a bucket. The other system uses a detergent dispenser on the wand. One system isn’t better than the other – it depends mostly on how you choose to use them.
My personal preference is a siphon system at the pump. This is because I mostly use a power washer for cleaning cars and engines. I find that the detergent bottle connected to the wand can get in the way when cleaning inside the engine compartment. However, there is a disadvantage to this system. The detergent has to flow along the entire length of the high-pressure hose before it reaches the nozzle. The main problem is when you turn the soap off. You have to wait for all the detergent to be flushed out of the hose before you can rinse. Though once you’re used to this, it’s not a real issue. After using your pressure for a while, you’ll know how long it takes for the soap to work its way through the pipe. I always turn the soap off a short while before I intend to stop applying it. This way I use the last bit of detergent in the pipe, instead of wasting it.
For cleaning driveways and decks, a detergent bottle at the wand can be better. You may only want to dispense the soap occasionally, like when you find a spot of grease or tree gum. So you can do a short burst of detergent and then resume cleaning with just water. You won’t be waiting for the pipe to draw in the detergent and then flush it out afterward. This saves time and you can waste a lot of detergent if you’re continuously changing between soap and rinse when using a soap dispenser at the pump.
Although the type of detergent that you use is of no consequence when choosing the best power washer, it deserves a mention. A pressure washer, its pipes, and the wand have many seals and “O” rings that are vital to the workings of the machine. These seals can be harmed by some harsh detergents, resulting in serious damage which could render the power washer unusable. Some power washer manufacturers recommend a particular detergent for their equipment and it would be wise to follow their recommendations. When in doubt, you can always use dishwashing liquid. These detergents are mild enough so as not to damage your hands. If it’s mild enough for your skin, it won’t harm the seals inside your pressure washer.
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