Choosing to pressure wash your own home for the first time can be a daunting yet very satisfying experience. Being able to see your house transforms into a “like-new” condition in only a few hours goes unmatched. However, with so many different kinds of pressure washing machines out there, it’s hard to know where to start. We wanted to highlight 5 pressure washers we think work well for beginners to help you along with your exterior cleaning journey. Please note: we are not sponsored by any of the companies who produce these pressure washers, links to all the machines featured will be at the end.
1) The Best Overall Machine
PowRyte Electric Pressure Washer
The PowRyte Electric Pressure Washer is a great overall choice for any beginner not only for its performance, but because it’s electric, meaning there’s no need to worry about mixing oil and gasoline. It has a powerful motor which generates 2,100 PSI of pressure at 1.8 GPM meaning it can handle heavy-duty cleaning tasks efficiently. The machine also comes with a spray nozzle that easily adjusts between 0 and 40 degrees.
Applying detergent is also very straight forward, and this pressure washer lets you choose from low-pressure to high-pressure settings with ease. For maximum cleaning power, the unit comes with an extra “turbo nozzle” that features a 0 degree pencil jet that rotates 360 degrees, which increases the cleaning performance effectively by up to 50%.
Note: using a pencil jet nozzle can be very dangerous for both you and your property if used incorrectly. It should only be used by those with previous pressure washing experience. For more information, check out our guide on pressure washing safety.
Another great feature of the PowRyte Electric Pressure Washer is its energy consumption. The unit comes with a “Total Stop System”, meaning the machine automatically turns off the pump when the trigger isn’t engaged, helping to both save electricity and extend the life of your pump.
Pros:
-
Generates 2,100 PSI of pressure at 1.8 GPM
-
Two 16in wheels included
-
Comes with .21-gallon onboard detergent tank
-
35ft Cord has GFCI plug
-
Features Total Stop System
Cons:
-
May produce unpleasant smell
-
The plastic parts could damage easily if abused
2) Best Versatile Pressure Washer
Sun Joe SPX3000 Pressure Electric Pressure Washer
Whether you need to clean your home, patio, driveway, boat, or RV, this machine by Sun Joe has your back. It can output a whopping 2,030 PSI maximum pressure at 1.76 GPM water flow.
The beauty of this pressure washer is that it has two different detergent tanks that can easily be switched between. So if you have two jobs that each require a different type of detergent, you’re all set to go! Each tank can hold .9 gallons of soap.
The SPX3000 comes with a 20ft cord and a 34in extension spray that’s perfect for hard to reach areas such as the underside of cars, lawn equipment, and two-story buildings. It also comes with rear wheels for easy maneuverability.
The machine also allows you to select your desired pressure output with ease. It comes with five quick-connect spray nozzles that range from 0 to 40 degrees. This unit also features the “Total Stop System”, saving you electricity and money.
Pros:
-
2,030 PSI maximum pressure
-
Dual detergent tank system
-
Comes with 5 spray nozzles
-
35ft power cord
-
Features Total Stop System
Cons:
-
Needs assembly
-
Plastic parts could damage easily if abused
3) Best Gas Pressure Washer
WEN PW31 Gas Pressure Washer
This gas powered pressure washer features a powerful 3,100 PSI at 2.5 GPM and features a 208cc OHV air-cooled 4 stroke engine, meaning you can take on almost any cleaning task at hand. The unit also comes with five interchangeable nozzles: 0-degree, 25-degree, 40-degree, and a soap nozzle.
Because it’s not electric, you don’t need to worry about dragging around extension cords to use this machine. Though it can be quite heavy, the unit is equipped with two 12in, heavy-duty wheels.
Pros:
-
12in wheels for easy transport
-
Pumps up to 2.5 gallons per minute at a maximum of 3,100 PSI
-
30ft hose
-
Five quick connect nozzles included
-
Features 42in spray nozzle
Cons:
-
Some users experience problems with the wheels
-
It doesn’t have an electric start
-
Can be heavy for some users
4) Best Pressure Washer for Medium-Duty Applications
Greenworks GPW1950 Pressure Washer
With a powerful 13 amp induction motor, this pressure washer will help you slean, strip, and brighten surfaces. The unit operates at 1950 PSI of pressure at 1.2 GPM, making it great for removing grime and filth in hard to reach areas.
The motor and pump are encased by a water-resistant cover to keep them safe from water and other external forces. The unit also comes equipped with two wheels for easy transport and has a long frame to make for easier handling. To suit your cleaning needs, it also comes with a 0-degree, 25-degree, and 40-degree nozzle tips. The 35ft power cable that comes with the unit features inline GFCI for added safety in addition to the 25ft high-pressure hose being both kink and abrasion resistant.
Pros:
-
Performance rating of 1.2 GPM at 1950 PSI
-
Includes a 35ft power cord with GFCI
-
Two storage compartments for soap & accessories
-
25ft hose reel
-
4 quick connect nozzles included
Cons:
-
The machine is on the heavier side
-
Small tires can be difficult to maneuver
5) Best Portable Pressure Washer
Greenworks GPW1501 Portable Pressure Washer
Ideal for cars, boats, and trucks, this lightweight pressure washer is one of the best units produced by Greenworks. With it’s high efficiency, you’ll be done cleaning your property in no time. The SPW1501 runs at 1500 PSI at 1.2 GPM, making it great for cleaning more vulnerable surfaces such as a boat or truck.
This machine comes with 0-degree, 25-degree, and 40-degree angle nozzles to accommodate all your cleaning needs. A soap blaster attachment is also included to push soapy water further than other tips.
The 35ft power cable comes equipped with GFCI for added safety and the unit can be used horizontally or vertically depending on your needs. Even though it can’t be used for heavy-duty jobs, it’s great for smaller tasks such as decks, windows, and other areas of the home which can be vulnerable to higher pressure machines.
Pros:
-
Great for cleaning cars and boats
-
20ft pressure hose
-
35ft power cord with inline GFCI
-
Two nozzle tips included
-
Can be used vertically or horizontally
Cons:
-
Not for heavy-duty tasks
-
Hose connector may leak
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a quick and efficient way to clean your property, a pressure washer may just turn into your best friend. Before purchasing a unit, it’s important to consider what you’ll be using the machine on to inform which pressure washer is best for you. We hope our list of recommended pressure washing machines helps guide you on this decision and we wish you luck with your exterior cleaning journey!
