How to Buy a Pressure Washer

For general and heavy-duty cleaning, a pressure washer may be the perfect tool. Pressure washers combine a motor and a pump to provide a powerful stream of water that can blast away muck and grime from driveways, decks, fences, siding and even cars. Pressure washers, also called power washers, allow you to clean large areas and remove dogged dirt quickly and easily.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Assess how you will use a pressure washer to help you select a pressure washer that is appropriate for most or all of your needs.

2. Determine the appropriate pressure. Water pressure is the most important variable when choosing pressure washer. Pressure washers are rated by water pressure, expressed as pounds per square inch, or PSI; a typical garden hose delivers about 40 PSI, whereas pressure washers range from 1400 to 4000. PSI ratings divide pressure washers into three general categories: light, medium and heavy duty. Light-duty pressure washers are typically rated less than 2000 PSI and work well for boats, cars and general cleaning. Medium-duty models provide 2000 to 3000 PSI that will remove grease and grime from concrete, decks and siding. Heavy-duty pressure washers rated 3000 PSI or more work well for stubborn stains, stripping paint and large areas.

3. Estimate the size of your projects to determine appropriate flow rate for your needs. The flow rate for pressure washers is expressed in gallons per minute, or GPM. The flow rate determines the area a pressure washer can clean and how quickly. A higher GPM means more surface area in less time: a 3 GPM model with the same PSI as a 2 GPM model can clean approximately 60 percent more surface area in the same amount of time. Most pressure washers have a GPM between 2 and 4; a 2000 PSI, 3 GPM pressure washers will clean approximately 8 to 10 square feet per minute.

4. Gauge the need for accessories. Most pressure washers come with accessories, such as extension wands for reaching high places or water brooms for large flat areas. The objects or surfaces that you'll pressure wash should determine the accessories. Each brand of pressure washer has its own unique accessories, but most manufacturers make accessories for common tasks.

5. Compare pricing. Pressure washers range in price from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Although price is important, selecting a model that fits your needs is essential. After narrowing the choices to models that meet your PSI, GPM and accessory needs, compare prices between brands and models. Compare models side-by-side at PressureWashersDirect.com or visit your local home improvement or equipment retailer for a hands-on review before making a purchase.

Tips & Warnings

• Typically, lower PSI pressure washers (1400-1700) are electric-powered and higher (1700-4000) PSI are gas-powered. Pressure washers come equipped with nozzles that allow you to adjust the water pressures for different materials and surfaces. In general, medium-duty models are the most versatile because they allow for the broadest range of use.
• If you've never used a pressure washer before, consider renting one before you buy. After using one, you'll have a better understanding of how they work, how you'll use a pressure washer and what features and accessories you need.
• Several manufacturers and retailers sell reconditioned pressure washers, including PressureWashersDirect.com. Reconditioned models typically cost 20 percent less then new models and many include manufacturer's warranties.