Among today’s best electric pressure washers, you’ll find equipment capable of blasting grime from nearly any surface, including windows, intricate woodwork, and large areas of siding. Not every pressure washer is right for every job, though. Before you make your choice, research the ins and outs of each popular model to find the one that will let you get the most out of modern pressuring washing technology.
Sun Joe SPX3000
One of the most popular electric power washers on the market this year, the SPX3000 is a smart choice for tackling light to medium residential cleaning jobs. Equipped with a 14.5-Amp/1800-watt motor, it provides up to 2030 PSI and 1.76 GPM to clean dirt, mildew, and stains from siding, pavement, decks, vehicles, and many other surfaces around your property.
The standard 20-foot high pressure hose isn’t as long as you’ll find on some pressure washers, but it’s sufficient for most uses. If you need extra length, Sun Joe sells extension hoses separately. With five Quick-Connect spray tips (0º, 15º, 25º, 40º, and soap), you’ll have a nozzle for every type of cleaning job. The brass garden hose connector is made to outlast plastic and even copper connectors.
The washer’s TSS (Total Stop System) automatically shuts off the pump when you release the trigger, saving water, detergent, and energy, as well as reducing noise. It also prevents the pump from overheating, extending its lifespan. At 31 pounds, the washer is stable, yet light enough to carry. It’s fit with two 30-ounce on-board, removable detergent tanks that let you use two different types of detergent during one cleaning session.
While the washer is powerful enough for most typical cleaning jobs, keep in mind it’s working pressure is just 1450 PSI. What’s more, some users find it reaches its maximum pressure only with the smallest nozzle, which covers relatively little surface area.
Sun Joe SPX3500
If the Sun Joe’s SPX3000 looks tempting, but you need a little more pressure to tackle stubborn mildew, oil stains, and caked-on mud, consider the SPX3500. Equipped with a 13-Amp brushless induction motor, the SPX3500 generates up to 2300 PSI and 1.48 GPM.
With a 20-foot high pressure hose and five Quick-Connect spray nozzles (0º, 15º, 25º, 40º, and soap), it works well for most surfaces below the second floor. The adjustable dial on the detergent container lets you choose just the right amount of soap. The 34-inch spray wand helps you reach tight spots, such as inside gutters or under the car.
Like the SPX3000, it uses a Total Stop System to save energy, protect the components, and reduce noise. It’s a hefty 46.5 pounds, but mounted on two easy-glide wheels, making it both stable and easily maneuverable. This washer is a little pricier than average, but not unreasonably so considering its wide range of capabilities.
Karcher K 5 Premium Full Control Plus (Model 13246440)
Designed by one of the most trusted names in power washers, the K 5 Premium is an all-around reliable performer that can handle most light to medium cleaning projects ranging from patio furniture and grills to driveways and siding. The water-cooled induction motor generates a maximum of 2000 PSI and 2.2 GPM, and Karcher claims its lifespan is up to five times that of standard power washer motors.
The 3-In-1 spray lets you switch between flat spray, rotary (rotating), and detergent just by rotating the nozzle. With the digital +/- pressure control feature, you can adjust the pressure with the press of a button. The 25-foot hose is longer than most, but the storage space on the back of the unit is a little too small to hold the entire hose, leading to storage problems.
The pressure gun communicates with the main unit through a wireless connection, so there’s no need to drag the whole 39-pound unit around as you work. On the downside, the system requires two AAA batteries, and each time you use the washer, you’ll need to link it up with the main unit, a process that doesn’t always go smoothly.
As you might expect for a premium model, this power washer doesn’t come cheap. It can cost three or four times the price of the average electric pressure washer.
Powerhouse International Platinum Edition
If you’re looking to remove stubborn dirt and grime from larger surfaces, this is the power washer for you. Offering 3000 PSI and 2.2 GPM, it’s designed for heavy residential work such as blasting stains off the driveway and cleaning mold from concrete, wood, and brick.
The washer comes with two stainless steel lances: a proprietary lance and a universal lance that fits other attachments and comes with five tips of its own, (0º, 15º, 25º, 40º and watering) for car washing, gutters, and heavy duty hydro jet power washing. A soap-foam sprayer, a patio cleaner, and a brush are also included.
The hose is an updated design with 30 percent more flexibility than Powerhouse International’s previous model. The connection is proprietary, but there is a 20-foot hose extension available.
The 32-pound unit is mounted on four casters, giving it the stability to roll along with you without tipping over. Lock and unlock the wheels with your toe or remove them if you prefer to carry the unit. As an extra benefit not every power washer manages to provide, the hose and power cord both fit efficiently into storage spaces on the unit.
WHOLESUN 3000 PSI Electric Pressure Washer
This highly rated washer combines power and simplicity in a design that’s easy for a novice to handle on a wide range of cleaning jobs, including siding, driveways, and large vehicles.
The 1600W motor generates an impressive 3000 PSI and 1.85 GPM. The unit comes with five Quick-Connect nozzles (0º, 15º, 25º, 40°, and soap), a brush, and a 20-foot high pressure hose with a hose reel to keep it neatly stored away when you’re done. A Total Stop System is included. The electrical cord is a little on the short side, though, at just 32.8 feet compared to the standard 35-foot cord.
The washer is small at 18.85 pounds, but stabilized in a wheeled upright trolley, so it’s easily maneuverable.
GreenWorks 13-Amp 1500 PSI 1.2 GPM Electric Pressure Washer (Model GPW1501)
For small jobs such as cleaning light grime from outdoor furniture, patios, and cars, the 1500 PSI of pressure and 1.2 GPM flow rate of this electric pressure washer is just right. The washer can also handle dusting off the deck and siding, but with its relatively low pressure, it’s not ideal for cleaning the whole house.
The 20-foot high pressure hose, two Quick-Connect nozzles (25° and 40°), and soap applicator will cover most simple cleaning jobs. The unit is a light 16.65 pounds, but can be used vertically or horizontally for optimal stability.
The hose can be troublesome, though. It’s not always able to extend to its full length, and the hose connection point is prone to leakage. As another minor issue, when the unit first starts up, the pressure produced can vary between low and high before it finally stabilizes. Overall, it’s a good bet if you’re looking for a low-cost power washer for light cleaning.
Briggs & Stratton 2000 MAX PSI / 1.2 MAX GPM (Model 020681)
This power washer is well suited to light and medium jobs such as cleaning patio furniture, fences, walkways, and vehicles, although it doesn’t quite have the power for tougher jobs involving siding and driveways.
You’ll get four Quick-Connect spray tips (15°, 25°, turbo, and soap) for the 25-foot hose. The turbo nozzle is designed to clean 40 percent faster than standard nozzles. Whichever nozzle you choose, you’ll need to hold it close to the surface you’re cleaning to get good results. Wood surfaces are the exception because these could be damaged if the nozzle is held too close. The generous 1/2 gallon on-board detergent tank ensures you won’t run out of soap while you work.
The quiet, efficient finned brushless induction motor is housed in a plastic cover equipped with a fan, a design that keeps the motor cool to increase its efficiency and lifespan. The 45.5-pound washer is solidly built and encased in a welded-steel frame that protects it from damage, but it’s designed to be easy to carry and wheel around. If you’re short on storage space, you’ll appreciate the space-saving foldaway design.
Following the maintenance guidelines is critical. The inlet and outlet o-rings require lubrication (not included) in order to form a tight seal. Skip this step, and you’re liable to end up with a leak. One minor drawback is the lack of on-board storage. The unit has a place for either the hose or the power cord, but not both.
Stanley SHP2150
With a maximum pressure of 2150 PSI and flow rate of 1.4 GPM, the SHP2150 is a small, yet versatile electric power washer for cleaning grime off most surfaces, including walkways, vehicles, and siding. This model comes with a 25-foot hose and four Quick-Connect nozzles (0º, 15º, 25º, and 40º) that will take care of most typical cleaning jobs.
For tougher jobs, the 28-ounce detergent bottle also functions as a high pressure foam cannon. The variable spray wand gives you more precise control without the use of multiple nozzles.
While the durable brass garden hose connector reduces the risk of leaks, the part it connects to is plastic, so you’ll need to use care to avoid cross-threading when attaching the connector. The washer comes with an o-ring replacement kit for convenient repairs.
At just 16 pounds, it’s small and exceptionally lightweight, making it easy to carry around and store. Note that the pump has difficulty creating pressure when the trigger is pulled and released too quickly, so you’ll need to pause for a moment between each spritz.
iRozce Pressure Washers 2610 PSI 1.85 GPM Max
The new 2020 version of iRozce’s smallest power washer is designed for power and durability, and capable of handling just about any cleaning job you might take on around your home. The 20-feet high pressure hose design has been rigorously tested to stand up to long-term use without cracking. The hose connector is brass for optimal durability. To maximize efficiency, the washer is equipped with a brushless motor and Total Stop System.
While you work, you can choose between a high pressure spray to remove stubborn grime from siding and other hard surfaces and a low-pressure spray to clean more delicate surfaces such as your windows or car. The manufacturer offers a two-year “attentive service” plan giving you access to help that’s always on call.
AR Blue Clean AR2N1
This 2-in-1 pressure washer offers both a handheld and in-cart mode for exceptional flexibility that’s perfect for large properties or multiple sites. The in-cart mode is ideal for moving the unit around your house to clean the windows, patio, and walkways. When you want to take the washer up a ladder or to an outbuilding, switch to the handheld mode by disconnecting the washer from the main unit. This mode also makes it easy to take your pressure washer out to your vacation property or to an RV or boat you keep off site.
A 25-foot hose, durable brass garden hose adapter, and four Quick-Connect nozzles (0°, 15°, 25°, and soap) are included. The 25-ounce on-board detergent tank is removable for easy filling and carrying. The side holster gives you a convenient place to store the wand and electrical cords. The washer is equipped with the energy-saving Total Stop System.
Keep in mind the fittings have an inside diameter of 15 mm, rather than the standard 14 mm, so this model can’t be used with parts from other power washers. The price is a little higher than average for a consumer-grade electric power washer, but still reasonable considering you’re getting two power washer designs in one.
The best electric power washers are built with durable parts, come with a range of attachments, and include handy features to help you finish your work fast, but every model has its specialties. When you’re shopping around, consider the types of jobs you’ll be working on. Look beyond the pressure rating and pay attention to the accessories and features that will meet your most frequent cleaning needs.