Generac 6022

Bottom line

The Generac 6022 is "an extremely versatile pressure washer," says Bill Mikenis of PressureWashersDirect.com. "It's strong enough to tackle most household chores, yet affordable enough to match the family budget." Reviews say that it's a top performer for cleaning vehicles, decks, siding and concrete. At 2,700 psi and 2.3 gpm, it's a little less powerful than the top-rated Generac 6024 (Est. $400) , but it's still backed with the same two-year warranty and excellent brand reputation.

Performance

Basic unit with broad cleaning abilities. The Generac 6022 is robust enough to clean decks and siding, yet gentle enough to wash cars and boats. Users can adjust the pressure by changing the four quick-connect nozzles: The zero-degree tip gives full power and "the other tips reduce the pressure by about 150 psi each," says Mikenis. One owner at PressureWashersDirect.com says, "The quick disconnects make changing the nozzles a breeze."

The 196-cubic-centimeter Generac engine includes a low-oil shutdown sensor and meets emission requirements for 49 states. At PressureWashersDirect.com, one owner says it "starts up very easily" with a footrest on the front for extra stability. Another owner at the same site says the 6022 is "one of the quietest pressure washers I have owned."

Ease of use

Basic features are user-friendly. Reviews say assembling and operating the 6022 is pretty straightforward, with 10-inch wheels and a tall handle for tip-free handling. It's "balanced and easy to maneuver, with an easily accessible detergent tank at the bottom," says Mikenis. The single detergent tank holds 0.75 gallon, though owners are mixed on how well the soap tube works. A few users say changing the oil can be a little awkward.

Value

Good price for a basic gas model. Overall, owners say this is a well-built pressure washer. "Generac is known for quality power equipment, and this unit is no exception," Mikenis says, praising the "robust" engine and "durable" AR axial cam pump. At HomeDepot.com, ratings don't decrease after owners have used the unit for a few months (as can happen with less-impressive pressure washers). Generac's two-year warranty is one of the longer warranties available in this price range. However, reviews are mixed on the customer service from Generac, and owners often say warranty help is slow and frustrating.