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Our Reviews Team Take:
- The best pressure washer in 2024 is the Westinghouse Pressure Washer as it stood out against the competition for its durable design and powerful performance.
- Top-rated pressure washers vary in price dramatically, with options as low as $150 to high-end models that exceed the $600 mark.
- A quality pressure washer removes stuck-on dirt and mold from your home’s siding, driveway, and walkway to restore their natural appearance.
The best pressure washers clean and restore the look of a variety of different surfaces. While all pressure washers are designed to clean your home’s exterior, not all models have the same features. Finding the best pressure washer for your needs can depend on a variety of factors, such as the type of job, your budget, and if you prefer gas or electric.
You can also find more information to help you make a smart purchase in our buying guide to tools.
Pressure Washer Reviews
Before our team reviews the best pressure washers in great detail, we think it’s worth taking a look at key features at a glance below:
Compare Pressure Washers
| Pressure Washer | PSI | GPM | Engine Type | Nozzle Tips | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Westinghouse 3200 PSI Pressure Washer | 3,200 | 2.5 | Gas | Five | 3-year limited |
| Sun Joe Electric Pressure Washer | 2,030 | 1.76 | Electric | Five | 2-year limited |
| DEWALT 3300 PSI Pressure Washer | 3,300 | 2.4 | Gas | Five | 2-year limited |
| WHOLESUN 3000 PSI Pressure Washer | 3,000 | 2.4 | Electric | Four | 2-year limited |
| Generac 2700 PSI Pressure Washer | 2,700 | 1.2 | Electric | Four | 2-year limited |
| Simpson 3300 Pressure Washer | 3,300 | 2.5 | Gas | Five | 3-year limited |
| BILT HARD Pressure Washer | 3,500 | 2.5 | Gas | Five | 90 days |
| Pressure Washer | PSI | GPM | Engine Type | Nozzle Tips | Warranty |
Below are my picks for the best pressure washers on the market:
Best Pressure Washer
Westinghouse 3200 PSI Pressure Washer
- $329
- $349
- 6% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Built with robust steel framing for protection
✔ Has a foam handle that offers comfortable gripping
✔ Includes color-coded quick-release heads
✘ The hose isn’t long enough to reach the second story of homes or businesses
✘ Has loud operation
What Customers Are Saying About The Westinghouse 3200 PSI Pressure Washer
Customer reviews that we found say that the Westinghouse pressure washer is well-built and reviewers compliment its ease of use. While most reviews rave about this pressure washer, a handful said it broke after a few uses. A couple of people also mentioned that they didn’t receive all the necessary parts for operation.
Best Electric Pressure Washer
Sun Joe Electric Pressure Washer
- $179
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Outfitted with a total-stop system, which automatically powers off the pump when the trigger isn’t engaged
✔ Allows you to reach hard-to-access spaces with its 34-inch extension spray wand
✔ Lighter and quieter than gas-powered options
✘ Doesn’t offer the same level of pressure as gas models
✘ Some customers felt it was not well-designed
What Customers Are Saying About The Sun Joe Electric Pressure Washer
We saw that reviewers like the Sun Joe Electric Pressure Washer because it has a lightweight design and a long extension wand. Others were pleased with its variety of quick-connect nozzles and high-pressure level for an electric washer. On the other hand, there were others that claimed this pressure washer broke easily and was made with cheap parts, while others felt it was too limiting for large jobs.
Best Gas Pressure Washer
DEWALT 3300 PSI Pressure Washer
- $399.99
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Includes a thermal relief valve to prevent overheating
✔ Is available in both gas and electric
✔ Includes a 25-foot pressure hose and rear-load spray gun
✘ Some customers mentioned the engine was difficult to start
✘ Can’t be shipped to California
What Customers Are Saying About The DEWALT 3300 PSI Pressure Washer
Customers who were satisfied with their purchase note that this pressure washer from DEWALT was easy to assemble and had a heavy-duty power level that worked efficiently. Others were pleased with its durable design. However, a few customers had issues getting the engine to start, while others claimed the wand holder was poorly made.
Best Budget Pressure Washer
WHOLESUN 3000 PSI Pressure Washer
- $159.99
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Has a lower price point than other, similar models
✔ Most lightweight model in this review
✔ Is not battery-powered and also doesn’t require oil
✘ May strip water-based paint
✘ Some customers said that this product doesn’t deliver as much pressure as advertised
What Customers Are Saying About The WHOLESUN 3000 PSI Pressure Washer
Many of the reviews we looked at said that this pressure washer worked better than their former gas-powered unit. Customers also like how affordable the machine was. However, some customers said it didn’t deliver the advertised amount of pressure, and some said it leaked.
Best Pressure Washer for Home Use
Generac 2700 PSI Pressure Washer
- $447.58
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Includes an automatic-stop switch feature
✔ Comes with a one-gallon on board detergent tank
✔ Is lightweight at under 50 pounds
✘ Has fewer nozzles than some other, similar units
✘ Not meant for large, commercial-grade jobs
What Customers Are Saying About The Generac 2700 PSI Pressure Washer
Our research shows that customers who left positive reviews for this pressure washer like that it was easy to use and set up and features a long hose. Others call out how it has large wheels that made it easily maneuverable. However, there were some less positive reviews that said this model lacked power, that it was not well designed, and the hose often dragged on the ground.
Best Pressure Washer Warranty
Simpson 3300 Pressure Washer
- $610.67
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Comes in other styles with less pressure
✔ Has a 3-year warranty on service, labor, and parts
✔ Comes with never-flat wheels
✘ Some customers said it had flimsy parts
✘ May arrive with a fuel smell or residual oil on its body from factory testing
What Customers Are Saying About the Simpson 3300 Pressure Washer
Pleased customers experienced excellent customer service from the manufacturer. Others pointed out that this gas pressure washer from Simpson is easy to use and highly maneuverable. However, some unhappy customers said that this washer leaked oil and was poorly packaged, which sometimes led to damage.
Most Powerful Pressure Washer
BILT HARD Pressure Washer
- $329.99
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Has a powerful operation and gas engine
✔ Comes with 10-inch never-flat wheels that make it easy to transport
✔ Comes with a built-in one-gallon soap tank
✘ Some customers found it difficult to start
✘ Can run out of gas quickly G
What Customers Are Saying About the BILT HARD Gas Pressure Washer
Our team noticed that several customers who give this product a positive review appreciate its interchangeable quick-connect nozzles and its high power level, especially for its size and price point. Several others also comment on how easy it was to set up and start. On the other hand, some customers had issues with the hose breaking after minimal use, and others said the soap was cheaply made.
Pressure Washer Buying Guide
Before buying a pressure washer, it’s important to consider how each model’s accessories and specifications affect its user experience. Our team determined four factors to consider to help you find the best pressure washer for you.
Pressure Washer Power
Pressure washers are gas- or electric-powered. Gasoline-powered pressure washers deliver more power than their electric counterparts, though they require more maintenance because of their motor’s oil use. Electric-powered pressure washers use power cords instead of gas, making them lighter and easier to move around your yard.
Pressure Washer PSI Guide
Pounds per square inch (PSI) refers to how much pressure the washer’s stream of water creates. The higher the PSI, the higher pressure the machine can generate. Most gas-powered pressure washers we researched deliver around 3,000 PSI, while most electric models generate around 2,000 PSI.
Pressure Washer Weight
The weight of a pressure washer directly affects its portability. Most gas-powered models are over 50 pounds, which is why they’re usually equipped with heavy-duty wheels to make transportation easier. We noted that electric pressure washers are lighter, so they come with small wheels or handles for transportation.
Pressure Washer Nozzles
The spray nozzles used by a pressure washer are typically color-coded to correspond with a specific angle degree and water pressure. For example, most pressure washers use red to signify the zero-degree nozzle, which sprays a high-pressured, direct stream fit for cleaning stains off hard surfaces, such as concrete.
Best Pressure Washer Brands
While there are dozens of brands that make pressure washers, we’ve found that the most trusted are:
- DEWALT
- Generac
- Greenworks
- Karcher
- Predator
- Ryobi
- Simpson
- Stihl
- Sun Joe
- WEN
- Westinghouse
- WHOLESUN
Pressure Washer Safety
Pressure washers have immense power that can lead to a dangerous situation if you don’t take the right precautions. Here are some tips on how to stay safe when using a pressure washer:
- Before starting the job, take 5 minutes to think through and develop a game plan for the cleaning task ahead. Be sure to identify any potential hazards and ensure all pets, children, or items that could be damaged are clear from the area.
- Wear appropriate protective gear, such as protective goggles, closed-toe shoes, and clothing that covers your arms and legs. This will help keep you protected from direct spray, debris, and chemicals.
- Make sure the pressure washer is on a flat surface and stable before turning it on. This will prevent it from tipping over during use.
- Avoid spraying the pressure washer at any people or delicate surfaces such as wood or glass, as this can cause injury or damage. Instead, aim the nozzle at the surface you want to clean from a safe distance.
Pressure Washing Wood
If you plan to use your pressure washer on a wood deck or siding, there are a few important tips to remember to ensure you’re completing the job safely and efficiently. Here are our top tips for cleaning wood.
- Fit the wand with the soap-dispensing tip and spray the siding with a cleaner, then switch to the 25-degree tip to rinse.
- Move side to side, keeping the tip 12 to 18 inches off the siding and the spray fan perpendicular to the grain.
- Angle the wand slightly downward to prevent water from being forced behind the siding. Move in closer if you have a less powerful unit.
Pressure Washing Wood Deck
Start by spraying on a cleaner made for decks; use the soap-dispensing tip and follow the cleaner’s directions. With a 25-degree tip held 9 to 12 inches off the deck, hold the spray fan perpendicular to the grain but move the wand with the grain. Don’t linger—you may gouge the wood.
Top Rated Pressure Washers: Our Conclusion
The top rated pressure washers are powerful, versatile, easy-to-use, and easy to maneuver. However, the power source you prefer and the places you want to power wash will ultimately determine what pressure washer is best for you. Below our are top picks:
- Best Pressure Washer: Westinghouse 3200 PSI Pressure Washer
- Best Electric Pressure Washer: Sun Joe Electric Pressure Washer
- Best Gas Pressure Washer: DEWALT 3300 PSI Pressure Washer
- Best Budget Pressure Washer: WHOLESUN 3000 PSI Pressure Washer
- Best Pressure Washer for Home Use: Generac 2700 PSI Pressure Washer
- Best Pressure Washer Warranty: Simpson 3300 Pressure Washer
- Most Powerful Pressure Washer: BILT HARD Pressure Washer
Pressure Washers: FAQ
Below are some frequently asked questions about pressure washers:
Can you pressure wash your car?
Yes. However, we’ve found that it’s important that you use the right pressure washer and correct setting so that you don’t strip or damage your car’s paint. Usually, a 2,000-PSI washer with a 40-degree nozzle is suitable for cleaning your car’s exterior.
What type of fuel can I use in my gas pressure washer?
We recommend using fresh, unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane of 87 to fuel your pressure washer. The gas should not contain more than 10% ethanol.
What is a good PSI for a pressure washer?
It depends on the job you want to tackle. If you’re cleaning vinyl siding or driveway, a high-powered gasoline pressure washer with around 3,000 PSI is your most robust option. However, if you want to complete small jobs around the house, such as cleaning patio stairs or your car, we advise using a lower-powered model that delivers approximately 2,000 PSI.
How can you lower the PSI of a pressure washer?
To reduce a pressure washer’s PSI, increase your distance from the material you’re cleaning or switch nozzles. Nozzles with a greater angle degree have a lower PSI because the water is less concentrated.
Why does my gas pressure washer need oil?
Oil keeps the engine lubricated, preventing it from wearing out. Two-stroke models mix the oil with the gas, but four-stroke models have a compartment just for gas.
What types of jobs can I use my gas pressure washer for?
Gas pressure washers have so much power that they’re really only safe for use on hard surfaces, such as concrete driveways and brick walls. If you use them on delicate surfaces, such as cars, you could cause irreversible damage.
Pressure Washer Ratings
To provide our readers with the best pressure washer recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
Initial Research: Our research process began by generating a list of pressure washers with a significant number of verified-buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.
Expert Insights: Through our years of experience, we’ve learned that listening to what others have to say is key to building accurate, well-rounded articles. To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
Final Product Selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we pared the list down further by comparing each model’s feature set and selecting the best-in-class options for a variety of buyers, budgets, and scenarios.
Why You Can Trust Us
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Our Reviews Team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published countless reviews of garden, lawn, and outdoor products—from fertilizer and garden hoses to patio furniture and snow blowers.
Once we conclude our research, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.
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