1. Start with your surfaces
| Job | Suggested PSI | Suggested type |
|---|---|---|
| Cars, bikes, outdoor furniture | 1,200–1,900 | Electric or cordless |
| Wood decks & fences | 1,500–2,000 | Electric |
| Patios, pavers, light concrete | 2,000–2,800 | Electric or gas |
| Driveways, siding, paint prep | 2,800–3,500+ | Gas |
2. Don’t ignore flow (GPM)
Pressure breaks dirt loose; flow rinses it away. Two machines with the same PSI can differ hugely in speed if one moves 1.2 GPM and the other 2.5. See PSI vs GPM explained.
3. Pick a power type
- Electric: quiet, light, no fuel or oil changes; limited flow.
- Gas: the most cleaning power; louder, heavier, needs maintenance and outdoor-only use.
- Cordless: portable rinsing anywhere; not for deep stains.
4. Check the build
Look for brass or metal pump fittings, a stable frame, quick-connect nozzles, a hose of at least 25 ft and good parts availability. Brand support matters more than an extra 100 PSI.
5. Budget for accessories
A surface cleaner and a foam cannon often improve results more than upgrading the machine.