Pressure Washer Review

Even inexpensive pressure washers can speed cleaning tasks

Even the least expensive pressure washers offer at least 15 times the water pressure of a regular garden hose. This makes washing cars, bicycles and lawn furniture faster and easier. Additionally, pressure washers also use only about a fifth of the water a garden hose would use to do the same job. While gas pressure washers are the most powerful, cheaper electric models are fine for spraying off cars and sports gear.

Although it's dated, CNNMoney.com has the best comparison review of electric pressure washers, where five electric models are tested. Popular Mechanics hasn't reviewed electric pressure washers since 2003. ConsumerReports.org updated its review in 2007, but the comparison tests were done back in 2005. Also, editors evaluated electric models so different in power that we can't consider the results conclusive. ConsumerReports.org also tested 10 gasoline-fueled pressure washers, but many of those models have now been discontinued.

We found the most current recommendations at a retailer website called PressureWashersDirect.com. Another specialty retailer, The-Power-Washer-Advisor.com, doesn't recommend specific pressure washers but provides detailed information on how to evaluate the parts used in them. Owner-written reviews at six other retailer sites not only provide more details about specific pressure washers from a homeowner's point of view, but also report valuable information about reliability, durability and customer service.

Although there's a clear trade-off between price and durability -- the best pumps are expensive -- paying just a little bit more brings a much better quality part. For example, the little Karcher K 2.93 electric pressure washer (*Est. $130), suitable for washing cars, costs more than the Campbell-Hausfeld PW1350 (*Est. $100). But the Karcher pressure washer uses a quieter, more durable motor plus a pressure-boosting accessory nozzle. Among gas pressure washers, the Ridgid RD80701 (*Est. $550) stands out for its top-quality Cat triplex pump -- unusual in this price range. Reviews say paying more for better-quality parts can cost less in the long run.

Even a top-rated pressure washer needs careful maintenance. Gasoline engines need more than electric motors, but the pumps on both types of pressure washer need careful winterizing. We found quite a few sad reports from homeowners who found this out the hard way.