Match the Pressure to the Job: Pressure Washer Buying Guide
Pick the right pressure washer for the job.
Start with the job, not the biggest number. Electric washers suit cars, decks and patios near an outlet. Gas washers suit big surfaces outdoors. Cordless power cleaners suit rinsing away from an outlet. Use the lowest pressure that does the job.
Find the right type for your job
Find your main job in the pressure washer chooser table. For each job it gives a suggested type of washer with an outdoor outlet and with no outlet, a starting nozzle angle and anything worth checking. It suggests a type of washer, not a product.
Electric, gas or cordless: choose your power
Electric pressure washers
For cars, decks, patios and outdoor furniture near a grounded outdoor outlet. Test the GFCI before each use.
Gas pressure washers
For large driveways, siding and fences, away from an outlet. Run them outdoors only, away from windows, doors and vents.
Cordless power cleaners
For rinsing bikes, furniture and boats where there's no outlet.
Still weighing it up? Read gas vs electric, or see all pressure washer picks.
PSI, GPM and cleaning units
PSI is the force of the water. GPM is how much water flows each minute. Multiply them and you get cleaning units: Simpson's FAQ says "Cleaning units is calculated by multiplying PSI and GPM." Compare machines on the same basis, max against max or rated against rated. More in what PSI and GPM mean and the cleaning units calculator.
Accessories that fit your washer
Surface cleaners, nozzle sets, hoses and extension wands. Check the PSI rating and connection type before you buy. See accessories that fit your washer and nozzle colors.
Detergents by surface
Use only detergents labeled for pressure washers, and follow the label. See detergents by surface.
Before you spray: safety basics
Read the full safety guide, and the how to choose guide if you're just starting.
FAQ
What pressure washer should I buy for home use?
It depends on the job and your power source. Electric washers suit cars, decks and patios near an outlet. Gas washers suit big surfaces outdoors. Cordless power cleaners suit rinsing away from an outlet. See the chooser table.
What should I look for when buying a pressure washer?
Start with the job. Then check PSI and GPM as the manufacturer states them (max or rated), the power type, the nozzles included, hose and cord length, and the connection type for accessories. See how to choose a pressure washer.
Is HydroWashers affiliated with any pressure washer brand?
HydroWashers.com is an independent guide. We are not affiliated with any pressure washer, accessory or detergent maker. Brand names belong to their owners.
Last updated: