Best pressure washers for home use should be compact, reasonably economical, easy to use, easy to clean, and of course, powerful enough to wash off stubborn stains and sticky muck. A pressure washer is an amazing tool to clean your patio, exterior walls, car, garage, and any equipment. Here's the latest best home-use pressure washers for you.
Did You Know?
- The global pressure washer market size was valued at approximately $1.8 billion in 2020.
- It is projected to reach $2.3 billion by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 3.4% from 2020 to 2025.
- Residential pressure washers account for about 40% of the total market share.
- Electric pressure washers dominate the market, making up around 60% of sales.
- Gas pressure washers, while less popular than electric models, are prized for their higher power output.
Electric pressure washers are generally handy in size and easily affordable. Gas pressure washers can cost twice of electric's but they are much more powerful. The best washers listed here are mainly measured by;
- PSI (Pounds Per Square Inch - amount of pressure): the higher the PSI, the more powerful & intense it will be. To clean a concrete driveway, you ideally want 2,000 - 3,000. To clean a car or the exterior of your house, you need to set it much lower around 1,200 - 1,500. Higher than the setting of 2,000 can (and will!) damage painted surfaces.
- GPM (Gallons Per Minute - amount of water): the higher the GPM, the faster it will be to clean large surfaces.
Best Pressure Washers - Electric
Sun Joe SPX3000 Pressure Joe 2030 PSI
This Sun Joe model has been a best seller for a while. It has 5 x "Quick-Connect" spray tips (0º, 15º, 25º, 40º and soap) meaning heavy-duty cleaning, medium, and light spray for rinsing tasks.
It also has removal, dual detergent tanks so you can store different types of detergent to simultaneously tackle different cleaning projects.
PSI: 2,030
GPM: 1.76
Cleaning Units (PSI x GPM) = 3,573
Accessories: 35 foot power cord with GFCI protection, garden hose adapter, needle clean-out tool, 5 quick connect spray tips.
Dimensions: 13.5 x 15.6 x 33.9 in
Weight: 31 lbs
Warranty: 2 years
Did You Know?
- The average price of a residential pressure washer ranges from $100 to $400.
- Pressure washers can reduce cleaning time by up to 75% compared to traditional methods.
- Approximately 70% of users purchase pressure washers for home exterior cleaning tasks.
- Nearly 55% of pressure washer injuries involve lacerations or puncture wounds.
- The North American market accounts for around 35% of global pressure washer sales.
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Karcher K1700 Electric Power Pressure Washer
This compact pressure washer from Karcher includes three nozzles:
- Turbo nozzle for maximum cleaning power on stubborn areas.
- 15° all-purpose nozzle.
- Detergent nozzle.
Surface Cleaner by Karcher
I would recommend you get a surface cleaner if you intend to clean a patio, exterior walls, or pebble stones because it makes it amazingly effective. You can either buy a model with it or buy a surface cleaner separately (view from the "Buy now" button below).
If you buy a surface cleaner separately, I would recommend it with a bush around a rim - it's much more effective than the one without, like the image here.
PSI: 1,700
GPM: 1.20
Cleaning Units (PSI x GPM) = 2,040
Accessories: Removable detergent tank and large removable bin to store nozzles and other accessories such as a surface cleaner.
Dimensions: 17.2 x 16.5 x 33 in
Weight: 20.7 lbs
Warranty: 3 years
Ready, Set, Spray - Pro Tips
- Understand Pressure Washer Types: Know the difference between electric and gas models; electric for light-duty tasks, gas for heavy-duty work.
- Check PSI and GPM: PSI (Pounds per Square Inch) measures pressure, while GPM (Gallons Per Minute) measures flow. Higher numbers mean more cleaning power.
- Consider Portability: Electric washers are lighter and easier to move, while gas models are heavier but more powerful.
- Safety First: Always wear protective eyewear and footwear when operating a pressure washer to prevent injury from flying debris.
- Start with Lower Pressure: Begin with a lower pressure setting or nozzle to avoid damaging surfaces.
- Test on Small Area: Test the washer on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't damage the surface.
- Use Appropriate Nozzles: Different nozzles are suited to different tasks; using the correct one can improve efficiency and prevent damage.
Karcher K3 Follow-Me Electric Pressure Washer with 4 Wheels
This is "the only" pressure washer with 4 wheels in the market, Karcher claims. I thoroughly recommend this model as the best pressure washer for home use, if you intend to clean many parts in a large space. Such as stepping stones across the garden, concrete/patio areas around the house, etc.
Because with a conventional upright pressure washer, it is quite a job to move it around - you actually lift it up and place it at least a few feet away from the cleaning area so that the machine won't be soaking wet. You need to keep doing that as you move on to the next part.
Another thing about Karcher is its "Dirt Blaster" wand (the cone-shaped tip you can see in the image above). Extremely powerful! Regardless of the maximum PSI/GPM it can produce, this thing works so well on the concrete surface, but it can damage a painted or wooden surface, so you need to be careful with it. It also comes with an adjustable "Vaio Spray" wand that allows you to switch from low to high pressure easily.
PSI: 1,800
GPM: 1.30
Cleaning Units (PSI x GPM) = 2,340
Accessories: Dirtblaster Wand, Vaio Spray wand, onboard detergent tank.
Dimensions: 21.7 x 12 x 12.8 inches
Weight: 16.3 lbs
Warranty: 2 years
Ridicurrection
Modern heroes don’t need capes, just a pressure washer on the weekend.
Did You Know?
- Pressure washing businesses in the U.S. generate an estimated $9 billion annually.
- Over 80% of pressure washer users report high satisfaction levels due to the effectiveness of cleaning.
- Hot water pressure washers are preferred for industrial and commercial use, comprising about 30% of the market.
- The average water flow rate for home pressure washers is between 1.4 to 1.76 GPM (gallons per minute).
- PSI (pounds per square inch) ratings for residential models typically range from 1300 to 2800 PSI.
Stanley SHP1600 Electric Pressure Washer
If you are on a budget, Stanley is a great model at a reasonable price under $100.
At just over 15 pounds in weight, it's light and easy to carry around. Smaller than other models so it doesn't take up your storage space.
And it's still powerful enough to clean concrete surfaces, cars, outdoor furniture, and pools. Stanley also has great reviews from many current users who purchased via Amazon.
PSI: 1,600
GPM: 1.30
Cleaning Units (PSI x GPM) = 2,080
Accessories: Pressure washer gun, pressure washer wand, 20 foot high pressure hose, 14 oz. Detergent tank ,variable turbo nozzle lance and Extension lance.
Dimensions: 10.04 x 11.02 x 17.72 in
Weight: 15.21 lbs
Warranty: 2 years
Ready, Set, Spray - Pro Tips
- Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep the nozzle a safe distance from the surface to start; too close can damage some materials.
- Never Spray People or Pets: The high pressure can cause serious injury.
- Avoid Ladders: The force of the pressure washer can cause instability. Use extension wands for high areas.
- Use Detergents for Tough Grime: Some models have detergent tanks. Use the suitable cleaner for the job to improve cleaning effectiveness.
- Regular Maintenance: Regularly check and maintain your pressure washer according to the manufacturer's instructions to ensure longevity and safety.
- Winterize Your Machine: If you live in a cold climate, make sure to winterize your pressure washer to prevent damage from freezing.
- Stay Eco-friendly: Use biodegradable detergents and be mindful of water usage and runoff, especially when using chemicals.
PowRyte Elite Electric Pressure Washer
PowRyte also offers various different models, but this is one of the most powerful ones. It has a hose reel and it also comes with an extra turbo nozzle featuring a pencil jet that rotates 360 degrees.
With 3 spray tips (0º, 25º, and soap),
Also features a "Total Stop System" which automatically shuts off the pump when the trigger is not engaged in order to save energy.
PSI: 2,200
GPM: 1.80
Cleaning Units (PSI x GPM) = 3,960
Accessories: 3 x Quick-connect spray tips (0, 25, and soap), extra turbo nozzle, onboard detergent tank ready for washing at once.
Dimensions: 33.6 x 14 x 11.4 in
Weight: 22.4 lbs
Warranty: 2 years
Best Pressure Washers - Gas
Champion 3200-PSI 2.4-GPM Gas Pressure Washer
Champion's "Dolly-Style" model is one of the most powerful gas pressure washers at an affordable price. With a 224cc single-cylinder OHV engine, it makes your deep-cleaning job very quick and easy. It comes with five x quick-fit nozzle tips, and this is one of the most reliable machines according to many Amazon/Walmart customers.
PSI: 3,400
GPM: 2.40
Cleaning Units (PSI x GPM) = 8,160
Accessories: Trigger gun, wand, 5 x nozzles (0˚, 15˚, 25˚,40˚, soap), 25-foot high-pressure hose, 4-foot detergent hose and two ½-gallon onboard detergent tanks. Onboard storage for the hose, trigger gun and spray wand.
Dimensions: 18.4 x 26.8 x 38.3 in
Weight: 68.3 lbs
Warranty: 2 year warranty + lifetime technical support
Did You Know?
- Eco-friendly and water-saving features are a growing trend, with newer models offering up to 20% water savings.
- Online sales channels accounted for approximately 45% of pressure washer purchases in 2019.
- The demand for cordless, battery-powered pressure washers is increasing, currently holding about 10% of the electric washer market.
- Pressure washing services have seen a growth rate of 5% annually over the past five years.
- Over 65% of homeowners prefer to DIY with pressure washers for routine maintenance over hiring professionals.
Karcher G2700R Gas Pressure Washer
Karcher has a very good reputation for its reliability worldwide, for both electric and gas models. This one is a gas, 196cc engine with auto choke and cast iron piston sleeve.
12" flat-free wheels make it easy to maneuver. No tools are required to set it up within 5 minutes.
PSI: 2,700
GPM: 2.40
Cleaning Units (PSI x GPM) = 6,480
Accessories: 4 x spray nozzles (15°, 25°, 40°, Soap). Durable Axial Camp pmup with aluminum head, onboard accessory storage for hose, detergent siphon and any other accessories.
Dimensions: 25.12 x 19 x 37 in
Weight: 60 lbs
Warranty: 3 years engine / 2 years pump
Ready, Set, Spray - Pro Tips
- Understand Your Task: Match the pressure washer’s capabilities with the tasks at hand, whether it's cleaning a deck, siding, or concrete.
- Keep Water Supply Consistent: Ensure your water supply can meet the washer’s intake requirements to avoid damaging the pump.
- Ventilate Indoor Areas: If you must use a pressure washer indoors, like in a garage, ensure adequate ventilation.
- Avoid Delicate Surfaces: Some surfaces, like soft wood or old mortar, can be easily damaged by high pressure.
- Dry Before Sealing: If you're cleaning surfaces to be sealed or painted, allow ample drying time before applying any coatings.
- Read the Manual: Familiarize yourself with your specific model's manual for safety, maintenance, and operational advice tailored to your machine.
Ford FPWG2700H-J Gas Powered Pressure Washer
This Ford model has a 25' braided high-pressure hose with 3 x quick-connect nozzles plus an extra soap nozzle. Heavy at 70.5 pounds in weight, but easy to move around with "never-flat" 10-inch tires.
Uses unleaded gasoline and the tank is large enough to use up to 4-6 hours at a time (depending on the pressure level).
PSI: 2,700
GPM: 2.30
Cleaning Units (PSI x GPM) = 6,210
Accessories: Built-in reservoir, single onboard soap tank, 3 Quick Connect spray nozzles, 1 soap nozzle.
Dimensions: 25.6 x 25.2 x 19.7 inches
Weight: 70.5 lbs
Warranty: 1 year
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Pros and Cons of Pressure Washers [Home Use]
Pros:
- Saves Time: Zips through cleaning jobs way faster than scrubbing by hand.
- Effortless Cleaning: No need to scrub hard; just point and spray.
- Versatile: Cleans everything from patios to cars and driveways. You name it.
- Water Efficient: Uses less water than a garden hose for the same job.
- Boosts Curb Appeal: Makes your place look sharp without a ton of work.
Cons:
- Can Be Pricey: Good ones can dent your wallet a bit.
- Safety Hazards: They're powerful. Wrong move and you could damage surfaces or get injured.
- Maintenance: Gas models need more love with engine care and oil changes.
- Learning Curve: Takes a minute to get the hang of all the settings.
- Noise: Gas models can be loud. Might not be your neighbor's favorite sound.
I hope you'll find the perfect pressure washer to deep clean around your house. Needless to say, don't ever try to wash off your muddy feet with it at the high-pressure settings, or you'll injure yourself!
Hey Ray, awesome review. I hear from many car owners that pressure washers to excellent jobs. Do you need extra brush, sponge, detergent and things like that. My partner spends 1/2 day every Sunday washing his car, I thought a pressure washer would be a great gift. Good job Ray, John.
Hi John, thanks for your comment. No, you don’t need extra brush or sponge. You don’t need detergent either, but depending what you clean, you might want to use a special detergent, oily surface for example (see the Amazon page, you’ll see some detergent that’s recommended). Sounds like it’ll be a perfect gift for your partner. A pressure washer will be a great time saver too.
I like my Karcher pressure washer. I used to own a gas washer but it was too much of a fuss. Tricky to fill up and made a mess and smell. With electric all I have to worry about is my electricity cost, could use it for hours if I wanted to. I don’t remember which model I currently own at hand but I trust Karcher. Been using it for over 3 or 4 years I think.
Hi Jona, thanks for your comment. Karcher is no doubt my favorite too. It does last years, it usually gives 2 years warranty period, and the prices are reasonable. I agree with you about having to fill up the tank, although no need to worry about the electrical socket point, obviously.
Good for the summer. Cleaning with a water in winter is tricky where I live all freeze up. Definitely gas.
Hi Anson, yeah I wouldn’t want to use cold water in the winter…! It all depends on your circumstances but you shouldn’t need a pressure washer so frequently, you know. To wash your car, it’s good. But you don’t normally think about deep-cleaning outside the house in a bad weather or middle of winter, unless you really need it and on a warmer, sunny day. Thanks for your comment!
I took your advice and bought Karcher K1700 with extra surface cleaner. It works great so far. I have no complaint. I’ve used it to clean my car and the patio. The surface cleaner works extremely well.
Thanks for sharing your experience Dev, I’m glad you’re happy with your Karcher K1700 model!
Pressure washers are amazing. I have a balcony with gravel laid out. Over the years the gravel got moldy with green then dust and soil and all sorts of dirt. I would spray gallons of water every now and then and it was totally helpless. I got a pressure washer and it sorted all the problems. Got rid of the dirt pretty quickly like within 30mins. I’m so happy. I recommend anyone to get one. Mine’s not listed here San Jose but I paid less than $50 second hand.
Hi Ryan, thanks for sharing your experience. Pressure washers do great jobs on mouldy surfaces, take all the green & black stains out. The washer does not have to be the most powerful, most expensive one, if it has a rotating surface cleaner or a powerful wand. I’m glad to hear you’re happy with your San Joe model.
I LOVE my pressure washer I bought it like 3 years ago and have not taken my carwash since I do it all by myself but my car is 10 years old so it’s not like I’m clean it thoroughly lol. I’m 5’4” and my pressure washer is very light to carry I’m pleased I don’t use it for anything else rather than my car tho lol.
Hi Sarah, thanks for your comment. I’m glad to hear that you love your washer. Many people use it just for the car and I think it’s well worth it too. Thanks!
I use Karcher W3 model and it’s been working fantastically well. I think I’ve had this for >3 years or more and before the summer arrives I want to buy a new model. I’ll go for Karcher again definitely because of the reliability.
Cheers.
G
Hi George, thank you for your comment. I do too, use a Karcher model and am very happy with it. I hope you’ll have a good updated version such as the ones in the post above.
I haven’t been to a car wash in years thanks to my pressure washer, it does the job perfectly. Even in the middle of winter I use it every week to wash my car. I recommend it to anyone as long as they have a space to wash their car. I barely use it for other purposes but I guess it’s really useful. Thanks.
It’s a good timing at this time of year I found your website because I needed to give a good clean around my house. I have been planning since winter and it’s only in the summer I can motivate myself to do this. Thank you for the list, I will choose what I think will be the suitable for my small cottage house.
hi Johan, thanks for your comment. I totally understand it, depending where you are, it’s not ideal splashing water in an icy weather. I hope you’ll find a good pressure washer, good luck!
Hi Ray, I have a pressure washer to wash off my balcony in the summer. But it’s already 5-6 years old. I seem to remember I paid a lot more, $500 or above. Maybe the prices have come down since, I need a new washer pretty soon, your post helps. Thanks, I’ll take your advice. Joe
Hi Joe, thanks for your comment. Yes I think I remember too that pressure washers used to be much more expensive years ago. I’m glad my post helps. Any questions don’t hesitate to get back to me any time. Thanks Joe!