The Best Pressure Washers

The Best Pressure Washers

If you're a homeowner, a pressure washer is one of the most valuable tools you can own. This handy machine can be used to blast away old paint, clear oil stains and mud from the driveway, and clean mildew and other grime from fencing, among many other cleaning tasks. Of course, you shouldn't just pick any pressure washer. When it comes to investing in a powerful machine like a pressure washer, it's important to make an informed choice, which is where this list comes in handy.

The Sun Joe SPX3000 Pressure Washer

Tackle Gunk Like No Other

This washer gets the job done just right.
Best Overall

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Prepared to tackle any outdoor cleanup task, The Sun Joe SPX3000 Pressure Washer is the gold standard for pressure washing. Ideal for cleaning driveways, patios, decks, and furniture, this smooth-running washer generates up to 2,030 PSI for maximum cleaning power. It’s equipped with dual detergent tanks that can store different detergent types to address a manner of cleaning scenarios. Adding to the Sun Joe’s versatility is its 34-inch extension spray wand and rear wheels that provide easy maneuverability, allowing you to reach every last nook and cranny.

Pros:

  • Super-powerful motor
  • Able to tackle a wide variety of cleaning tasks
  • The pump shuts off automatically when the trigger is not engaged
  • Two onboard detergent tanks
  • Comes with several accessories
  • Rear wheels make it easy to move around

Cons:

  • The tips tend to clog from time to time, so make sure you keep up with maintenance

Westinghouse Gas-Powered Pressure Washer

Extra-Powerful and Ready to Clean

It's a tough and dirty world out there, which is why you need this pressure washer.
Most Heavy Duty

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Built to clear away the most stubborn dirt and grime, the Westinghouse Gas-Powered Pressure Washer boasts 2.3 GPM of powerful water pressure, making it a perfect choice for cleaning everything from decks and fences to cars and patio furniture. Compared to other gas pressure washers, this machine hums along quietly and smoothly while providing a formidable amount of cleaning power. The different-sized spray nozzles add convenience and versatility to this all-around powerhouse. Say goodbye to hardened mud, mildew, and tough stains for good.

Pros:

  • Provides a very intense blast (2.3 GPM) to scour away grime
  • Four quick-connect nozzles
  • Easy-to-use soap tank
  • Has a 1-gallon fuel tank capacity
  • Relatively quiet operation

Cons:

  • The manual could be clearer, but the machine is easy to operate once you get the hang of it

Green Works Pressure Washer

Everything You Need for a Deep-Clean

Talk about a wide range of cleaning solutions.
Best Set

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Customize your cleanup with the Green Works Pressure Washer and its impressive array of accessories. A pressure hose, a 35-foot power cord, an attachable detergent bottle, and a soap applicator put you in control so that you can always choose the right tools for the job. Use this pressure washer either horizontally or vertically for greater stability, and let the high-quality motor do the work for you.

Pros:

  • Comes with several accessories, from various-sized spray tips to a 20-foot hose to a rotary brush
  • Has a powerful 13-amp universal motor
  • Great at blasting through even the worst grime
  • Choose either vertical or horizontal positioning

Cons:

  • Not strong enough to strip paint. This may or may not be a bad thing depending on how you plan to use it

Simpson Gas Pressure Washer

Worth Every Penny

Blast away caked-on grime and debris with this luxe pressure washer.
Best Splurge

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The Simpson Gas Pressure Washer is exceptionally well-designed, with a welded steel construction frame built to stand the test of time (and any mess you can throw at it). This washer safely and efficiently strips away dirt and debris from many surfaces in a matter of mere minutes. It comes equipped with smooth-rolling, premium pneumatic wheels so that you can easily move it from place to place, along with a 25-inch polyester-braided hose and five quick-connect nozzle tips. This is one truly impressive machine built to deliver an equally impressive clean.

Pros:

  • Comes with five nozzles for an array of spray patterns
  • Heavy-duty matte black steel frame
  • Powder-coated for corrosion protection
  • Has a powerful GC 190 engine
  • 10-inch pneumatic wheels
  • Ergonomic spray gun

Cons:

  • All that power makes it vibrate quite a bit while in use

Zeccos Electric Power Washer

A Greener Clean

This one efficiently wipes away dirt and stains without guzzling up fuel.
Best Energy-Saver

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If you’re looking to save on energy, you would do well to check out this electric power washer from Zeccos. This innovative option automatically switches off when the trigger isn’t engaged, reducing energy consumption and prolonging the pump’s life. But this professional-grade piece of equipment doesn’t skimp on power when you need it, with plenty of safety features, spray tips, and an 1800-watt motor designed to tackle any light, medium, or heavy-duty cleanup tasks.

Pros:

  • Automatically switches off the pump when the trigger is not engaged
  • Has an 1800-watt brass motor that can handle any surface and any level of cleaning
  • Soap quick-connect spray tip and onboard detergent tank

Cons:

  • A little more expensive, but the durability and potential energy savings make it a smart choice

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different types of pressure washers?

It’s a good idea to know the difference between each type so that you can make an informed decision. Pressure washers fall into two main categories: electric and gas. In general, gas pressure washers are more powerful and are ideal for heavy-duty cleanup jobs. Electric washers are typically lighter and more portable, making them better suited to smaller jobs, like cleaning off patio furniture and general home maintenance. Electric units tend to be easier to maintain than gas ones, so it’s all about weighing your household’s needs with the features each variety provides.

How do I actually use a pressure washer? Do you have any tips?

Always read the instruction manual before you proceed. There may be plenty of how-to videos on the internet, but there’s no replacement for the manufacturer’s directions. Stand on a solid surface, wear proper eye protection, and use the correct nozzle and spray setting. Keep the washer away from any electrical power sources to avoid damage to yourself or the machine. Pressure washing is serious business, but once you learn the ropes, you’ll be glad you did.