10 Best Gas Pressure Washers of 2024 [Reviews]

Best Overall

Simpson Cleaning PS60843 4400 PSI & 4.0 GPM

Runner-Up

Champion Power Equipment 4200 PSI & 4.0 GPM

Best Value

Generac 7122 3200 PSI & 2.7 GPM

Best Value Runner-Up

WEN PW3100 3100 PSI & 2.5 GPM

Dirt, muck, and mildew won’t stand a chance against a gas-powered pressure washer. But what is the best gas pressure washer that is the right one for you?

We removed much of the guesswork so that you can make the smartest choice for a gas pressure washer for your home, landscape, and wallet. We scouted the market for the best gas pressure washers, and we added a buyers guide so you can shop with our favorite tips. 

How did we compare these pressure washers? We ranked each gas-powered pressure washer in four categories and took a weighted average of their scores: 

  • Cost: 5%
  • Pump Type: 20%
  • Hose Length: 10%
  • Cleaning Power: 65%

So which pressure washers proved to have the toughest cleaning power? Find out below which 10 gas pressure washers made our top picks. 

10 Top Gas Pressure Washers – Reviews

1. Simpson Cleaning PS60843 4400 PSI & 4.0 GPM

Best Overall SIMPSON Cleaning PS60843 PowerShot 4400 PSI Gas Pressure Washer

Simpson Cleaning PS60843 4400 PSI & 4.0 GPM

With the highest cleaning power on our list, the Simpson Cleaning PS60843 is perfect for homeowners and pros alike.

Need a pressure washer designed for professional cleaning? The Simpson Cleaning PS60843 will blast 4400 PSI and 4.0 GPM against that stubborn grime those other pressure washers can’t seem to wash away. 

This gas pressure washer’s 50-foot, kink-resistant, and abrasion-resistant hose lets you navigate your workspace with ease. With such an extended reach, you’ll worry less about lugging a 138-pound machine behind you.

And when you need to maneuver this powerful gas tool over the terrain, its 13-inch premium pneumatic wheels will help move things along. 

Adjust for the task at hand with this pressure washer’s multiple spray tips, including a soap nozzle and 0-, 15-, 25-, and 40-degree nozzles –– all of which are corrosion resistant. The pressure washer also features a corrosion-resistant steel frame and an AAA Industrial triplex plunger pump. 

Specifications: 

  • PSI: 4400
  • GPM: 4
  • Pump: Triplex
  • Weight: 138 lbs
  • Hose Length: 50 feet
  • Wheel Height: 13 inches

Pros: 

✓ Highest cleaning power on our list
✓ AAA Industrial triplex plunger pump
✓ 50-foot long kink and abrasion-resistant hose
✓ 13-inch premium pneumatic wheels
✓ Corrosion-resistant steel frame
✓ Four stainless steel, corrosion-resistant nozzle tips: 0-, 15-, 25-, and 40-degrees
✓ One plastic corrosion-resistant plastic soap nozzle

Cons: 

✗ Some users report the pressure washer is challenging to start

2. Champion Power Equipment 4200 PSI & 4.0 GPM

Runner-Up Champion Power Equipment 4200-PSI 4.0-GPM Commercial Duty Low Profile Gas Pressure Washer

Champion Power Equipment 4200 PSI & 4.0 GPM

This Champion Pro pressure washer has tons of power, five quick-connect nozzles, and a 50-foot hose for extended reach.

Powered by a Champion 389 cc engine, this Champion Power Equipment pressure washer will have your landscape, worksite, or home sparkling in no time. 

This Champion pressure washer includes five quick-connect nozzles for tackling any cleaning job. These handy nozzles allow you to adjust the water stream’s pattern and spray pressure so that you can clean a variety of surfaces.

The tool’s 50-foot commercial-grade, steel-braided, rubber high-pressure hose also gives you an extended reach so that you don’t have to miss a spot. 

Want even more cleaning power? The pressure washer features a 1-gallon detergent tank and a 2-foot detergent hose for that extra shine. 

Specifications: 

PSI: 4200
GPM: 4
Pump: Triplex
Weight: 124.6 lbs
Hose Length: 50 feet
Wheel Height: 10 inches

Pros: 

✓ Champion 389 cc engine
✓ 5 quick-connect nozzles: 0-, 15-, 25-, and 40-degree and soap
✓ 50-foot commercial-grade, steel-braided, rubber high-pressure hose
✓ 1-gallon detergent tank and 2-foot detergent hose
✓ Ergonomic comfort grip trigger gun helps reduce fatigue
✓ (Annovi Reverberi) AR Commercial-Grade Triplex Brass Head pump
✓ 10-inch tires

Cons: 

✗ Some users report poor experience with customer service.

3. Simpson Cleaning ALH4240 4200 PSI & 4.0 GPM

SIMPSON Cleaning ALH4240 Aluminum Series Gas Pressure Washer Powered by HONDA GX390

Simpson Cleaning ALH4240 Gas Pressure Washer

This Simpson pressure washer is designed for durability and super powerful at cleaning driveways and other surfaces.

Spray down farm equipment, remove graffiti, or begin paint preparation with the Simpson Cleaning ALH4240 pressure washer. Equipped with a Honda GX390 engine, CAT PUMPS Industrial triplex pump, 4200 PSI, and 4.0 GPM, the Simpson Cleaning ALH4240 maximizes cleaning performance. 

This gas pressure washer is designed for durability. The tool’s steel-braided, 50-foot monster hose boasts three times more abrasion resistance than rubber hoses. The aircraft-grade aluminum-framed pressure washer also has five corrosion-resistant quick connect nozzles, including four stainless steel 0-, 15-, 25-, and 40-degree spray tips and a plastic soap nozzle. 

Specifications: 

  • PSI: 4200
  • GPM: 4
  • Pump: Triplex
  • Weight: 133 lbs
  • Hose Length: 50 feet
  • Wheel Height: 13 inches

Pros: 

✓ Ergonomic spray gun
✓ Honda engine (GX390)
✓ CAT PUMPS Industrial triplex pump
✓ Features a steel-braided, 50-foot monster hose that’s three times more abrasion-resistant than rubber hoses. 
✓ Aircraft-grade aluminum frame 
✓ 13-inch premium pneumatic wheels.
✓ Four stainless steel, corrosion-resistant nozzle tips: 0-, 15-, 25-, and 40-degrees
✓ One corrosion-resistant, plastic soap nozzle

Cons: 

✗ Expensive
✗ Some users experienced the tool dying after only a few uses

4. Simpson Cleaning ALH3425 3600 PSI & 2.5 GPM

SIMPSON Cleaning ALH3425 Aluminum Gas Pressure Washer Powered by Honda GX200

Simpson Cleaning ALH3425 Gas Pressure Washer

This lighter-weight Simpson pressure washer has a little less power of spray but gives you more control of that blast of water.

If 4000+ PSI sends you flying across the lawn, try your hand at a PSI in the 3000 range. A 3000+ PSI is still sufficient for those heavy-duty jobs, and it allows you to have a bit more control over the blasting water stream. You’ll even get additional command with this gas pressure washer’s ergonomic gun designed for comfort and control. 

The Simpson Cleaning ALH3425 tackles demanding cleaning jobs with its 3600 PSI, 2.5 GPM, and HONDA GX200 engine. It features an AAA Industrial triplex pump so that you can rely on greater efficiency and long tool life. 

And if maneuvering a gas pressure washer was ever a challenge before, the Simpson Cleaning ALH3425 weighs about 50 pounds less than the leading pressure washers on our list. A lightweight design matched with 10-inch premium wheels and a 35-foot abrasion-resistant hose will make navigating your workspace a breeze. 

Specifications: 

  • PSI: 3600
  • GPM: 2.5
  • Pump: Triplex
  • Weight: 83 lbs
  • Hose Length: 35 feet
  • Wheel Height: 10 inches

Pros: 

✓ HONDA GX200 engine
✓ AAA Industrial Triplex pump
✓ 35-foot MorFlex hose is kink and abrasion-resistant
✓ Aircraft-grade aluminum frame 
✓ 10-inch premium pneumatic wheels
✓ Five quick-connect nozzle tips: 0-, 15-, 25-, and 40-degree and soap.
✓ Ergonomic high-pressure gun designed for comfort and control

Cons: 

✗ Some users report their pressure washer broke down after minimal use

5. Generac 7122 3200 PSI & 2.7 GPM

Best Value Generac 7122 SpeedWash, 3200 PSI

Generac 7122 3200 PSI & 2.7 GPM

Generac’s 7122 combines all of the best features of pressure washers with an affordable price.

The Generac 7122 pressure washer is loaded with attractive features. Its bells and whistles may make it just the tool you need in your shopping cart. 

Let’s ring some of those bells and blow some of those whistles:

  • A power dial that lets you adjust the pressure for the task at hand. Switch between car, wood, concrete, and soap with a simple twist. 
  • Four quick-change nozzle tips: 0-, 25-, and 40-degree and soap
  • 25-foot kink-resistant hose
  • Built-in detergent tank

Specifications: 

  • PSI: 3200
  • GPM: 2.7
  • Pump: Axial
  • Weight: 62 lbs
  • Hose Length: 25 feet
  • Wheel Length: 10 inches

Pros: 

✓ Power dial allows the user to adjust the pressure
✓ Four quick-change nozzle tips: 0-, 25-, and 40-degree and soap
✓ Affordable
✓ 25-foot kink-resistant hose
✓ Built-in detergent tank
✓ Power broom accessory features 12 inches of cleaning coverage and cleans four times faster than a standard nozzle. 
✓ Turbo nozzle removes tough muck 30% faster than standard nozzles and has a rotating pinpoint stream. 
✓ The high-pressure soap blaster sprays soap three times farther than a standard nozzle.

Cons: 

✗ It does not come with a 15-degree spray nozzle

6. Simpson Cleaning PS3228 3000 PSI & 2.5 GPM

SIMPSON Cleaning PS3228 PowerShot Gas Pressure Washer Powered by Honda GX200

Simpson Cleaning PS3228 PowerShot Gas Pressure Washer

The Simpson PowerShot doesn’t skimp on the features and doesn’t inflate the price. It’s on the lighter side, too.

The Simpson Cleaning PS3228 pressure washer has nearly all the great features as the high performing Simpson Cleaning models, but without breaking the bank. Plus, it’s a lightweight — and that’s a good thing — at only 77 pounds. That’s far less heavy than those other Simpson models on our list.

The Simpson Cleaning PS3228 gas pressure washer’s powerful Honda engine makes it great for medium to heavy-duty work.

Bonus points: This pressure washer comes with a 25-foot kink and abrasion-resistant MorFlex hose, 10-inch premium pneumatic wheels, and five corrosion-resistant quick-connect nozzle tips. 

Specifications: 

  • PSI: 3300
  • GPM: 2.5
  • Pump: Triplex
  • Weight: 77 lbs
  • Hose Length: 25 feet
  • Wheel Height: 10 inches

Pros: 

✓ HONDA GX200 engine 
✓ Affordable Simpson Cleaning Tool
✓ AAA Industrial triplex pump 
✓ 25-foot kink and abrasion-resistant MorFlex hose
✓ 10-inch premium pneumatic wheels
✓ Five corrosion-resistant quick-connect nozzle tips: 0-, 15-, 25-, and 40-degree and soap 
✓ Lightweight design (77lbs)
✓ Durable and corrosion-resistant steel frame 

Cons: 

✗ Some users report oil leakage and defective parts 

7. Simpson Cleaning MSH3125 3200 PSI & 2.5 GPM

SIMPSON Cleaning MSH3125 MegaShot 3200 PSI Gas Pressure Washer, 2.5 GPM, Honda GC190 Engine

Simpson Cleaning MSH3125 MegaShot 3200

The Simpson MegaShot 3200 PSI at 2.5 GPM is ideal for pressure washing siding, driveways, cars, RVs, paint prep and more.

Simpson Cleaning pressure washers have taken home the gold, so what makes the Simpson Cleaning MSH3125 stand out from similar sibling models? A key difference is the Maintenance-free OEM Technologies axial cam pump, and of course, the low price. 

So far, all the Simpson Cleaning pressure washers on our list have triplex pumps. Triplex pumps offer greater tool efficiency and longer tool life than axial pumps, but they come with a few strings attached. Triplex pumps are expensive, and they need regular maintenance to stay in tip-top shape. 

The Simpson Cleaning MSH3125’s axial pump won’t need that type of maintenance, and it lowers the price tag, too. If you don’t plan to use your pressure washer for frequent heavy-duty jobs and need it only for a few landscape cleanings, a maintenance-free axial pump ought to be the best bang for your buck. 

Specifications: 

  • PSI: 3200
  • GPM: 2.5
  • Pump: Axial
  • Weight: 55 lbs
  • Hose Length: 25 feet
  • Wheel Height: 10 inches

Pros: 

✓ HONDA GC190 premium residential engine
✓ Affordable
✓ Maintenance-free OEM Technologies axial cam pump
✓ Welded steel construction frame
✓ 10-inch premium pneumatic wheels
✓ 5 quick-connect nozzle tips: 0-, 15-, 25-, and 40-degree and soap
✓ 25-foot kink and abrasion resistant MorFlex hose

Cons: 

✗ Some users report the pressure washer has heavy vibrations
✗ Some users report defective or missing parts

8. Westinghouse WPX3200 3200 PSI & 2.5 GPM

Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment WPX3200 Gas Powered Pressure Washer

Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment WPX3200

The Westinghouse WPX3200 has the muscle to blast away grime from even your toughest cleaning jobs.

Want to pressure wash with peace of mind? The Westinghouse WPX3200’s spray gun features a locking trigger to ensure complete and safe shut-off, so you don’t have to worry about accidental startups. 

This pressure washer also has five quick-connect nozzles so you can adjust for the cleaning task at hand and keep your surfaces safe from damage. 

Bonus points: The Westinghouse WPX3200 has a maintenance-free axial pump, so you can focus on removing the grime instead of maintaining the tool. This robust machine rolls on 12-inch wheels for easy transport and has a 1.6-liter soap tank. 

Specifications: 

  • PSI: 3200
  • GPM: 2.5
  • Pump: Axial
  • Weight: 63 lbs
  • Hose Length: 25 feet
  • Wheel Height: 12 inches

Pros: 

✓ 1.6-liter soap tank
✓ 25-foot abrasion-resistant super-flex hose
✓ 5 quick-connect nozzles: 0-, 15-, 25-, and 40-degree and soap
✓ Maintenance-Free Axial Cam pump 
✓ 12-inch wheels
✓ Spray gun features locking trigger to ensure complete safety shut-off

Cons: 

✗ Some users report their pressure washer broke down after minimal use
✗ Some users report poor experience with customer service

9. WEN PW3100 3100 PSI & 2.5 GPM

Best Value Runner-Up WEN PW3100 3100 PSI 2.5 GPM 208cc Gas Pressure Washer

WEN PW3100 3100 PSI & 2.5 GPM

The WEN 3100 PSI pressure washer will blast away unwanted filth and won’t take a big bite out of your wallet.

Moved into your new home and wondering why the back porch or deck appears so dark? Chances are, it needs a deep clean. Add some sparkle and shine with the WEN PW3100 pressure washer to get your hardscapes looking good as new. 

The WEN PW3100 pressure washer includes five quick-connect nozzles that let you change the spray pattern for the best clean possible. Need to put that stubborn grime and mildew under pressure? Show them your pressure washer’s mighty force with the 15-degree nozzle. 

Lower the water’s intensity with the 40-degree nozzle tip for those lighter jobs around the house. 

Specifications: 

  • PSI: 3100
  • GPM: 2.5
  • Pump: Axial
  • Weight: 74.8 lbs
  • Hose Length: 30 feet
  • Wheel Height: 12 inches

Pros: 

✓ 30-foot long hose for extended reach
✓ Soap tank
✓ 208 cc 4-stroke OHV engine
✓ 5 quick-connect nozzles: 0-, 15-, 25-, and 40-degree and soap
✓ 12-inch wheels for easy transport
✓ Affordable

Cons: 

 ✗ Some users report the pressure washer broke after minimal use

10. Generac 7132 3200 PSI & 2.7 GPM Lithium-Ion Electric Start 

Generac Gas Pressure Washer 3100 PSI 2.5 GPM Lithium-Ion Electric Start with PowerDial Spray Gun

Generac Gas Pressure Washer 3100 PSI 2.5 GPM

The Generac 7132 pressure washer is the easiest to start on our list. With one click, you’ll be cleaning surfaces all around your property.

One of the biggest challenges with gas pressure washers is the draining startups, but with the Generac 7132 pressure washer, getting started cleaning grimy surfaces is as easy as clicking a button. 

What’s the secret? The Generac 7132 gas pressure washer’s bonus electrical system includes an auto-choke that provides stress-free startups. The system’s rechargeable lithium-ion battery can start the machine up to 50 times so you can operate with reliability right at your fingertips. No more pulling, no more grunting, just press a button and get cleaning. 

And did we mention this machine has an adjustable spray gun that lets you work between four different tasks? Turn the dial to car, wood, concrete, or soap, and you’ll have nothing stopping you from having the most pristine landscape on the block. 

Specifications: 

  • PSI: 3200
  • GPM: 2.7
  • Pump: Axial
  • Weight: 58.1 lbs
  • Hose Length: 25 feet
  • Wheels: 10 inches

Pros: 

✓ Electric one-touch push start system provides hassle-free startups
✓ Lithium-ion battery and charger included
✓ The battery provides up to 50 startups
✓ User can easily adjust the pressure between four different tasks- car, wood, concrete, and soap
✓ Detergent tank
✓ Four quick-connect nozzles: 0-, 25-, and 40-degree and soap

Cons: 

✗ It does not have a 15-degree spray nozzle
✗ Some users report the tool fails to start.

Buyers Guide

If your mind is buzzing with questions about pressure washers, we have the answers. In the buyers guide below, we’ll cover basic pressure washer terms and offer smart shopping tips so you can find the best gas pressure washers for the cleaning jobs around your home. 

PSI and GPM

As you shop around for your pressure washer, keep your eyes open for the PSI and GPM. These numbers will help you measure the pressure washer’s cleaning power. Let’s review what they mean: 

What is PSI?

PSI measures water pressure and stands for pounds per square inch. If a pressure washer has a 3000 PSI, it can exert a maximum of 3000 pounds per square inch against the dirty surface. 

What is GPM?

GPM measures water flow and stands for gallons per minute. If a pressure washer has 2 GPM, 2 gallons of water are flowing through the pressure washer per minute. The higher the GPM, the faster the pressure washer can wash away debris 

How to Calculate Cleaning Power:

Sometimes it can be challenging to compare the cleaning power of different pressure washers. To calculate a cleaning power unit that makes comparing cleaning powers easy, multiply the tool’s PSI by its GPM: 

PSI x GPM = comparable cleaning power unit

PSI Levels

Always wash your dirty surface with the appropriate PSI level. If you only need a pressure washer for light cleaning around the home, there’s no need to pay extra for power you don’t need. 

If you need a pressure washer for demanding jobs, consider a gas-powered or corded electric pressure washer with a high PSI. 

Remember, higher PSI levels may damage some surfaces. If you need to lower the intensity, connect the appropriate spray tip to adjust the water stream. 

The Pressure Washer Manufacturers’ Association breaks down appropriate PSI levels into three categories:

Best for Light-Duty Work

  • Up to 1900 PSI
  • Between 1.1 GPM and 1.4 GPM

Surfaces including:

  • Patio furniture
  • Grills
  • Cars
  • Walkways
  • Boats
  • Windows
  • Dirt bikes

Best for Medium-Duty Work

  • Between 1900 PSI and 2800 PSI
  • Between 1.8 GPM and 2.5 GPM

Surfaces including:

  • Driveways
  • Sidewalks
  • Siding
  • Paint prep

Best for Heavy-Duty Work

  • 2800 PSI or more
  • 2.5 GPM or more

Surfaces including:

  • Decks
  • Patios
  • Oil stains
  • To remove rust, paint, or graffiti. 

Power Source 

Pressure washers can have multiple power sources, including gas, corded electric, and battery. Users often find that each power source serves their needs differently. Consider which cleaning-needs take priority and which power source meets those needs the best. 

Gas-powered: 

Pros:

✓ Best power source for frequent heavy-duty cleanings or commercial work. 
✓ Typically has a higher cleaning power than corded electric and battery models. 
✓ Does not need an outlet to operate. 

Cons: 

✗ Most gas-powered models are heavier, noisier, and more expensive than corded electric and battery-powered pressure washers. 
✗ Emits exhaust fumes that are harmful to the user and the environment
✗ Can be difficult to start
✗ High-maintenance
✗ Gasoline creates a smelly workspace

Corded electric:

Pros: 

✓ Most models are suitable for medium to heavy-duty work. 
✓ An eco-friendly alternative to gas-powered pressure washers
✓ Unlimited run time (as long as the machine doesn’t overheat)
✓ Low-maintenance
✓ Typically lighter, quieter, and more affordable than gas-powered models
✓ Usually has a higher cleaning power than battery-powered pressure washers. 
✓ Easy to start

Cons: 

✗ Needs an outlet to operate
✗ Cleaning power usually not as high as a gas model’s cleaning power

Battery: 

Pros: 

✓ Low-maintenance
✓ Easy to start
✓ Typically lighter, quieter, and more affordable than gas-powered models
✓ An eco-friendly alternative to gas-powered pressure washers
✓ Does not need an outlet to operate
✓ Most models can pull water from a bucket, river, or barrel, making them more portable than most gas-powered or corded-electric models
✓ Some models have a built-in water reservoir 
✓ Great for on-the-go cleanings, such as on camping, beach, or cabin trips. 

Cons: 

✗ Best for light-duty cleanings. Cannot handle heavy-duty jobs. 
✗ Limited run time 
✗ The batteries need frequent recharging 

Pump

When shopping for your gas-powered pressure washer, an essential item to consider is the pump. Your pressure washer will likely have one of two types of pumps: axial or triplex. 

Which pump is best? That depends on how you plan to use your pressure washer. 

Axial

An axial pump is best for homeowners who plan to use their pressure washer for a few jobs around the home. These low-maintenance pumps won’t be much of a bother, and they’ll get the job done with ease. 

Triplex

Triplex pumps are best for operators who plan to use their pressure washer for frequent heavy-duty work. Although these pumps are high-maintenance and raise the shopping bill, they provide the tool a longer lifespan and greater efficiency than the axial pump. 

Amperage

Amperage is the strength of an electric current in amperes, written amps for short. Amps help measure the maximum time a motor can run continuously without exceeding its temperature limits. 

The more amps your corded electric pressure washer has, the better it will be at cooling itself down when the work gets tough. Low temperatures will help prevent the tool from shutting off in the middle of your work. 

Hose Length

Whether you’re operating a gas, corded electric, or battery pressure washer, a long hose can enhance user mobility. Consider whether a 50-foot high-pressure hose would make a significant difference over a 20-foot high-pressure hose in your workspace. 

Remember, some pressure washers can be very heavy. Some users may prefer a long hose over lugging a hefty machine around. 

Power Cord Length

Power cords often restrict a user to a specific workspace. A power outlet is necessary, and the power cord can only go so far. 

If shopping for a corded electric model, consider whether the power cord is long enough for the machine to reach the dirty surface while remaining connected to the outlet. 

Wheel Size

Working on rugged terrain? A pressure washer with wheels can help you maneuver from place to place. Bigger wheels can increase tool portability and make transportation easier. 

Water Source

A pressure washer can use lots of water in a single clean. Will you have a good water source to connect your pressure washer to?

Remember, your water source must be able to provide the required GPM consistently. If your pressure washer has a 4 GMP, your water source must be able to provide 4 gallons of water per minute. 

A well won’t always be a good water source, as it may dry out if you use too much water. A city water supply will usually be a more reliable source for consistent water. 

If you don’t have access to a consistent water supply, consider buying a water tank for your pressure washer. Some pressure washers even come with a built-in water reservoir you can refill in the sink or river. 

Remember: You may need a garden hose to connect the pressure washer to the water source. 

Detergent 

Need a dose of extra cleaning power? You may prefer a pressure washer with a built-in detergent tank. Some models have two detergent tanks so that you can store different cleaning aids for various jobs. 

Pro Tip: Always read the instruction manual to ensure your chosen cleaning aid is compatible with the machine. 

Nozzle Tips

Different nozzles apply different water pressure. When you need to lower the pressure washer’s intensity, connect the appropriate nozzle tip to adjust the water’s spray pattern, angle, and power. 

Your pressure washer’s spray tips will either be interchangeable quick-connect nozzles or an all-in-one adjustable nozzle.

Noise 

Check your pressure washer’s noise level, measured in decibels (dBA). Many counties and cities have laws in place to limit noise. Make sure your new tool’s noise level is legal in your area. 

Potential Risks

Never misuse a pressure washer; otherwise, you risk causing serious injury to yourself or others. You also risk damaging some surfaces if you do not follow all user instructions. 

If you’re not confident in your ability to use a pressure washer safely, consider leaving the tool on the store shelf and contacting a professional to spray down the grime for you. 

FAQ About Pressure Washers

1. What is the difference between a power washer and a pressure washer?

Both a pressure washer and a power washer use highly pressurized water to wash away dirt and grime. The key difference is that a power washer heats the water. A pressure washer uses only cold water. 

Never assume you can use a power washer on the same surface you used a pressure washer. Hot water can cause significant damage to some surfaces.

2. How do I use a pressure washer safely?

Here is a checklist for how to operate a pressure washer safely:

Avoid using the 0-degree nozzle. This nozzle channels the stream’s intensity into one single point, making it dangerous to use. 
Use the appropriate nozzles for the surface you are cleaning. 
Be aware of your surroundings as you use your pressure washer.
Read and follow the instruction manual. 
Always wear safety gear, including safety goggles, gloves, long pants, and hearing protection.
Check electrical cords before use to avoid shock.
Check the user manual before plugging an electric pressure washer into an extension cord. 
Never aim the spray wand at another person. 
Never clean a surface with a PSI that is too high. 
Never operate a gas-powered pressure washer in an enclosed space. 
Never operate a pressure washer while on a ladder.

When to Call a Professional

Worried about ruining your outdoor furniture or your car’s new paint job? Want to spend the weekend relaxing instead of cleaning? Let a professional take the pressure off your hands. 

Call a pressure washing professional near you to take care of the dirty work for you. The No. 1 pressure washer in our books? That may be the one that stays in the hands of a professional while you get to sit back and relax. 

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Jane Purnell

Jane Purnell

Jane Purnell is an artist, writer, and nature lover. She enjoys teaching readers about the importance of eco-friendly lawn care, integrated pest management, biodiversity, and sustainable landscaping.