Best Reviewed
Pressure Washers
- Budget electric pressure washer AR Blue Clean AR383 *Est. $165
- Budget gas pressure washer Troy-Bilt 20415 *Est. $340
- Best pressure washer Ridgid RD80701 *Est. $600
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- Induction motor
- Turbo nozzle
- Dual detergent tank
- 1.6 gpm flow rate
- Wobble pump
- One-year warranty
- A few reports of switch breaking
- Poor customer reviews
Reviewers say this medium-powered electric pressure washer has a quiet, durable induction motor and is convenient to use -- judging it adequate for most homeowner tasks and even fun to use. The dual detergent tanks and adjustable nozzle are useful, as are the handle, wheels and onboard storage. For blasting tougher stains, a turbo nozzle boosts the pressure from 1,800 pounds per square inch (psi) to 2,050 psi. If you want to use a pressure washer beyond the reach of a 100-foot extension cord, or to clean big decks or wash siding, reviewers recommend stepping up to a gas model such as the 2,600-psi Troy-Bilt 20415 (*Est. $340).
We found the best comparison tests of the Campbell Hausfeld PW181000AV at CNNMoney.com, where it's tested in comparison with four other models. ConsumerReports.org tests a smaller, less powerful Campbell Hausfeld electric pressure washer. The comments at PressureWashersDirect.com are more recent, but not based on objective testing. We found useful owner-written reviews there, as well as at Amazon.com and ToolsDirect.com. Owner reviews are overwhelmingly negative for the most part. A review at The-Power-Washer-Advisor.com provides general advice on the durability of parts.
Our Sources
1. CNNMoney.com
This review gives top ranking to the Campbell Hausfeld PW181000AV after comparing it with four other electric pressure washers (one now discontinued), testing each on a different section of a grimy patio. The reviewer praises the turbo nozzle (which boosts pressure for especially dirty areas) and says this model is fun to use.
Review: The Pressure's On: Five Power Washers vs. One Really Dirty Patio, Charles Passy, April 2007
Staff here at this retail site recommend the Campbell Hausfeld PW181000AV, noting that they've sold thousands and that most customers have been very satisfied with it. Some owners complain of problems with the switch breaking.
Review: Campbell Hausfeld 1800 PSI (Electric-Cold Water) Power Washer, Editors of and contributors to PressureWashersDirect.com
3. ConsumerReports.orgDetails/Subscribe
Tests here cover a smaller, less powerful Campbell Hausfeld electric pressure washer, comparing it with three other electric and nine gas models.
Review: Pressure Washers: Quicker Cleaning for Less, Editors of ConsumerReports.org, Nov. 2007
This review doesn't compare specific brands, but editors note that the type of pump used in the Campbell Hausfeld PW181000AV is the least durable type, and not cost-effective to repair.
Review: Compare Pressure Washers Like a Pro, Editors of The-Power-Washer-Advisor.com
5. Amazon.com
More than a dozen owner/reviewers hammer the Campbell Hausfeld PW181000AV with a very low average rating of just 2 stars out of a possible 5, with only about 13 percent really happy with it. This is typical for ratings of electric pressure washers in this price range, which pros say are basically throwaway models.
Review: Campbell Hausfeld PW181000AV, Contributors to Amazon.com
6. ToolsDirect.com
The sole owner reviewing this model here gives it high praise, saying he uses it on a 3,000-square-foot deck, but notes that it's a good idea to use plumber's tape at the hose connection to avoid getting sprayed.
Review: Campbell Hausfeld PW181000AV, Contributors to ToolsDirect.com
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