After some off-road escapades on a rainy or dry season, your car will need some refreshing through thorough cleaning to retain its integrity. Whether you decide to clean it at your home or in the nearest car wash park, you want the quickest and easiest way to make it clean.
The days of using buckets and garden hoses to clean your car are gone, it is time to acquire an effective high-pressure washer, thanks to the technological advancement in the automotive industry. The use of pressure washers has come to simplify this task that was once very difficult.
In this article, you will learn all you need to know about pressure washers and the best brands currently in the market. You can use the navigation menu below to take a whole look of the article. If you have limited time, please check the comparison table to go to our top recommendations. Let’s get started.
Image | Features | Further information |
|---|---|---|
| - Brand: Sun Joe - Item Weight: 31 pounds - Item Dimensions: 15.6 x 13.5 x 33.9 in - Voltage 120 V ~ 60 Hz - 9L onboard detergent tank - 5 quick spray nozzles | |
| - Brand: AR Annovi Reverberi - Item Weight: 12.95 pounds - Item Dimensions: 11.2 x 12.2 x 28.5 in - 14 oz. detergent bottle - 2 High-pressure quick change wands - Storage hose reel | |
| - Brand: Sun Joe - Item Weight: 32 pounds - Item Dimensions: 14.4 x 16.5 x 33.5 in - 1.2L onboard detergent tank - 5 quick-connect spraying tips | |
| - Brand: Greenworks - Item Weight: 16.65 pounds - Item Dimensions: 11.4 x 17.1 x 9.4 in - 9L onboard detergent tanks - 25° and 40° quick connect tip - Soap applicator | |
| - Brand: AR Annovi Reverberi - Item Weight: 42 pounds - Item Dimensions: 16 x 38 x 17 in - 48 oz. detergent tank - 4 QC nozzle spray tips - Functional, pressurized hose reel | |
| - Brand: Sun Joe - Item Weight: 38.6 pounds - Item Dimensions: 21.2 x 19.3 x 36.6 in - low 1450 PSI & high 2030 PSI - 54.1 oz. detergent tank - 5 quick connect tips | |
| - Brand: Greenworks - Item Weight: 10.3 pounds - Item Dimensions: 13.2 x 24 x 11.2 in - 1700 PSI at 1.2 GPM - 25° and 40° quick connect tip - Soap applicator | |
| - Brand: PAXCESS - Item Weight: 23.5 pounds - Item Dimensions: 11.4 x 8.3 x 14.2 in - 2150 PSI at 1.85 GPM - Removable detergent tank - Adjustable high/low pressure nozzle | |
| - Brand: Stanley - Item Weight: 25.6 pounds - Item Dimensions: 14.6 x 13.6 x 26.8 in - Foam cannon/detergent tank - Brass garden hose connector - 4 quick connect nozzles | |
| - Brand: Generac - Item Weight: 62 pounds - Item Dimensions: 24.2 x 18.9 x 35.5 in - Turbo nozzle, soap blaster sprays & power broom - Onboard detergent tank - 4 quick spray nozzles |
Benefits of a Car Pressure Washer
When it comes to making your car sparkling clean, nothing beats the power of a pressure washer. Here are some of the benefits of using these machines:
Efficient cleaning
Time is money and if you are a busy person, you need your car to be cleaned within the shortest time possible. If you have ever hand-cleaned your car, you notice how long it takes because of the multiple water refills in your bucket.
If you are using a garden hose, some dirt will not be removed because the water is not pressurized enough. However, pressure washers make car cleaning very effective and efficient.
Safe to use
Many people have complained of back pain and sore muscles after hand washing their cars. This is because of the hard exercise of going to and from the water faucet to refill the bucket. However, with pressure washers, your body is safe as long as you follow the given safety precautions.
More thorough cleaning
Some areas in your car are a bit hard to reach when cleaning without pressure washer. You may think you have done quite a good after cleaning the car’s exterior but still, there are some dirt particles in some areas. Pressure washers come with diverse types of nozzles that give you the ability to clean even those hidden parts of your car.
Easily removing stubborn dirt
Cleaning some stubborn dirt from your car like bird dropping will require you to use your hands in removing it if you are using a garden hose in cleaning your vehicle. On the contrary, if you are using high pressurized water from the washer, every dirt and debris will be blown away easily. There will be no need for scrubbing or manipulating any dirt physically.
Cost-effective
Did you know that you use 80% less water when using a pressure washer than when using a standard garden hose or bucket to clean your car? That means you will have a reduced water utility bill if you are using the machine in your compound.
Assuming that your car cleaning saves half an hour of your time, you will do some important catch-ups within those 30 minutes. Besides, there will be no need for buying different tools to do the cleaning when using a pressure washer.
Of course, there are many other benefits that you can enjoy by using a pressure washer. But the question is, which one do you use; Gas or Electric? Well, let us help you narrow down to the best for your car.
Gas or Electric Car Pressure Washers?
This is a common dilemma for many newbies in this field, after all, everyone wants the best. Well, both gas and electric car pressure washers do the same thing but their capabilities and delivery are different.
When it comes to power ratings, there is a huge difference between electric car pressure washers and gas-powered pressure washers. Most electric washers range between 1500 to 2000 PSI because of their limited 15-AMP motor. On the other side, gas-powered pressure washers range from 2800 to 4000 PSI.
When you check their water flow ratings, gas-powered pressure washers get the upper hand because of their 1.5 to 2.5 GPM delivery. An electric washer ranges between 1.4 to 1.5 GPM.
Electric car pressure washers are the best when doing indoor cleaning because they don’t emit any harmful fumes. Fuel-powered washers are not a good fit when it comes to indoor car cleaning because of their injurious emissions.
Gas-powered car pressure washers are sturdy, stable, portable, and more durable compared to the electric washers. It becomes to move electric pressure washers because they need a power source. However, they are cheap to buy.
Well, it is not an easy thing to determine which one is the best but one thing that will help you out is the type of task you will do with them. For the indoor light tasks, buy electric washers and choose fuel-powered pressure washers for heavy tasks. So, which factors should you consider to come up with the best among gas or electric car pressure washers? Keep reading.
What to Consider When Buying a Car Pressure Washer
It is no surprise that most car owners and car wash operators are overwhelmed when it comes to getting their best car pressure washer. Considering the many brands in the market, you are prone to get confused.
However, we don’t want that to continue happening. That’s why we decided to list the following tested and approved considerations before buying any car pressure washer:
1. Power
As previously indicated, a pressure washer can be gas or electric powered. These two vary from each other despite performing similar work. Generally, gas-powered pressure washers are expensive, durable, and meant for heavy and extra heavy duties. However, electric pressure washers cost low but appropriate for only light duties.
2. Power Rating
Every pressure washer indicates how much Pounds per Square Inch (PSI) it dispenses. It also has Gallons per Minute (GPM) that measures the water flow rate of the machine per minute. You can easily get the efficiency and performance of your machine by multiplying the PSI by the GPM. Get a pressure washer that has enough PSI to deal with the stubborn debris and dirt.
3. Purpose
This is another factor you will need to consider to get the right machine. These pressure washers come in different capacities ranging from light, medium, heavy, and extra heavy duty. Depending on what you are going to do with the machine, you should get the appropriate capacity. For small cars, you can go for light-duty pressure washers.
4. Location
This simply relates to the place where you will be carrying out your tasks. It can be indoor or outdoor in a residential or public place. If you have some sensitive neighbors, you may need to get electric pressure washers to avoid any complaints that may arise from fumes and noise of a gas-powered washer. If you are doing indoor cleaning, then you will need to use an electric pressure washer.
5. Cost
Gas-powered washers tend to be more costly than electric powered. This could be due to their high PSI and GPM. Besides, they are made of more heavy-duty and sturdy materials. In whichever choice you make, always ensure that it is within your budget.
6. Portability & Maneuverability
Sometimes you may want to clean your car or the driveways that need you to take the pressure washer close to them. Most of the pressure washers are fitted with wheels that ensure easier maneuvering. Electric pressure washers will limit you because they need a power source while fuel-powered washers are easily portable to a different location where there is no electricity.
7. Durability
No one loves visiting the store for a similar purchase after a few months of using their pressure washer. You need a machine that can last for years especially after maintaining it properly. A gas-powered pressure washer has a strong body that makes it more durable than an electric pressure washer. However, after buying the best brand, ensure you carry out maintenance procedures regularly.
8. Ease of use
If you are looking for a pressure washer that will not give you a hard time operating it, then you should buy an electric pressure washer that has hose reels, on-board detergent tanks, and all that you need in one place. Gas-powered washers can sometimes be hard to operate because of their belt drive which you need to pull for them to start.
9. Brand & Warranty
Finally, you may need to consider the brand and its warranty. Companies do not produce the same product quality. Some companies give you a warranty for their product and include all the accessories you need in your package while others don’t. Buy from a brand that is well-established in this industry.
Here are some of the best car pressure washers we came up with, after thorough research.
Top Best Car Pressure Washer Reviews
1. Sun Joe SPX3000 Electric Pressure Washer
Besides cleaning your car, truck, or RVs, you can use this Sun Joe SPX3000 Electric Pressure Washer to carry out various tasks, including cleaning your house, patios, boats, deck, and lawn equipment among other things.
This pressure washer operates with 1800-watt motor or 14.5-AMP, which generates a maximum of 2030 PSI or 1.76 GPM.
You have the liberty of removing and refilling diverse types of detergents in its two detergent tanks each 0.9 L. It also features an automatic Total Stop System which ensures that your machine lasts longer while saving on the amount of energy you use. This electric pressure washer measures 15.6 x 13.5 x 33.9 inches and weighs 31 pounds.
Pros
Dual 0.9 L removable detergent tanks
Total Stop System
CSA test standards rating
2 years warranty
20-Feet high-pressure hose
35-feet GFCI protected power cord
2030 Maximum PSI
14.5-AMP/1800-Watt Motor
Voltage 120 V
2. AR Blue Clean, AR383 Electric Pressure Washer
This is another electric pressure washer from AR Blue Clean, a company that has been in this field for over 58 years. This AR Blue Clean AR383 Electric Pressure Washer is known for its durability and ease of use.
It quickly deals with moss, dirt, and grime from your car. Besides cleaning your car, this AR Blue product can be used in cleaning your concrete surfaces, outdoor equipment, lawnmowers, patio furniture, decks, and other wooden surfaces.
It comes with its high-pressure gun and a hose diameter of 0.25 inches. Its universal motor uses 13 Amp or 1.5 HP and delivers 1900 maximum PSI or 1.5 GPM. It has on-board storage for the storage of all the accessories.
Its spray gun is well-designed with Quick-Release Bayonet fittings that make it easy to assemble and disassemble. It measures 11.2 x 12.2 x 28.5 inches and weighs 12.95 pounds.
Pros
1-year warranty
Total Stop System (TSS)
14 oz. Detergent tank
35-feet GFCI power cord
20-feet high-pressure hose
Quick-Release Bayonet fittings
13 AMP, 1900 PSI
Adjustable Spray and Turbo wand
3. Sun Joe SPX3001 Electric Pressure Washer
Sun Joe has gone further to release another electric pressure washer that can easily tackle some of your outdoor and auto cleaning tasks. Sun Joe SPX3001 Electric Pressure Washer operates with 14.5 AMP or 1800 Watt motor, which generates 2030 Maximum PSI.
It comes with quick-connect tips which can be fixed depending on the tasks you want to do. It provides an onboard reel that ensures that the 6-meter hose pipe is well-stored.
With this pressure washer, you can save much energy because of its Total Stop System. It also features a large detergent tank for easy cleaning. Besides, it comes with a 34-inch extension wand. It measures 14.4 x 16.5 x 33.5 inches and weighs 32 pounds.
Pros
Features Total Stop System
Five Quick-Connect spraying tips
14.5 AMP motor, 2030 PSI
On-board hose reel
20 feet high-pressure hose
35-foot GFCI power cord
1.2 L onboard detergent tank
2 years warranty
4. Greenworks Pressure Washer GPW1501
Now you can clean your cars and trucks among others, with a lightweight and quiet pressure washer. Greenworks has released this pressure washer into the market considering both performance and economical aspects.
Greenworks Pressure Washer GPW1501 operates with 13 AMP motor which produces 1500 PSI. It uses 1.2 gallons per minute. Although it lacks an onboard hose reel and a built-in soap tank, it is easy to connect.
This pressure washer measures 11.4 x 17.1 x 9.4 inches and weighs 16.65 pounds.
Pros
1500 PSI/ 1.2 GPM
13 AMP motor
20-feet hose length
35-feet GFCI power cord
Two-Quick-Connect spraying tips
Lightweight
5. AR ANNOVI REVERBERI AR390SS Electric Pressure Washer
This universal 120V, 60Hz electric pressure washer is not just meant for cleaning your vehicle. It is made in such a way that it can clean thoroughly the driveways, outdoor furniture, siding, decks, and even patios.
AR ANNOVI REVERBERI AR390SS Electric Pressure Washer is environmentally friendly in that it consumes 80% less water compared to a typical garden hose. It is usually less noisy than a gas engine pressure giving it an ample working environment for the operator.
It is one of the easy-to-assemble pressure washers in the market that many car owners and car washers are finding appropriate for their work. It is durable and reliable with its 14 AMP universal motor which delivers 2000 maximum PSI.
It features 4 QC nozzle spray tips than deliver your desired cleaning. It has on-board storage where you can store your accessories. It measures 16 x 38 x 17 inches and weighs 42 pounds.
Pros
1-year warranty
Total Stop System (TSS)
48 oz. Detergent tank
35-feet auto-Reset GFCI power cord
30-feet high-pressure hose
14 AMP, 2000 PSI
Adjustable Spray Lance nozzles
6. Sun Joe SPX4000-PRO Electric Pressure Washer
With its powerful 14.5 AMP motor, which generates 2030 PSI, Sun Joe SPX4000-PRO Electric Pressure Washer is good enough to release the required power to clean your car and other surfaces.
It gives you two choices when it comes to releasing power. If the dirt is not tough, you can use 1450 PSI, but when the dirt is proving to be stubborn, you have the option of 2000 maximum PSI.
Sun Joe has designed this electric pressure washer with easy-gliding wheels, which ensures that you have maximum maneuverability. It comes with a rotary wash SPX brush kit that eases your cleaning.
It features Pressure-Select innovation technology and an onboard detergent bottle. This pressure washer measures 21.2 x 19.3 x 36.6 inches and weighs 38.6 pounds.
Pros
Five Quick-Connect Spaying tips
Total Stop System (TSS)
14.5 AMP, 2030 PSI/1.76 GPM
54.1 fl oz. On-board detergent tank
2 years warranty
CSA test standard approved
A 25-foot high-pressure hose
Total Stop System (TSS)
7. Greenworks Pressure Washer GPW1702
Whether you are doing your cleaning in commercial or residential places, this pressure washer makes less noise compared o gas pressure washers. It comes with two QC spray tips for diverse cleaning applications.
Greenworks Pressure Washer GPW1702 operates with 13 AMP motor that produces 1700 PSI/1.2 GPM. Since it does not have a detergent tank, it comes with a soap applicator that ensures that you apply enough soap on your car.
One distinguishing feature of this pressure washer from other washers from Greenworks is on-board hose reel. Besides, it is economical and of great performance, making your automotive cleaning simple. It measures 13.2 x 24 x 11.2 inches and weighs 10.3 pounds.
Pros
On-board hose reel
QC soap applicator
Two high-pressure nozzles
1700 PSI, 13 AMP
20-feet high-pressure hose
35-feet GFCI power cord
8. PAXCESS Electric Pressure Washer
Now you can retain the integrity of your car by cleaning it regularly using the PAXCESS Electric Pressure Washer. You don’t have to do scrubbing any more because this electric pressure washer is designed to give you the reliability and cleaning that you have been looking for.
This high-pressure washer operates on a powerful motor of 1800-Watts which releases 2150 PSI/1.85 GPM. This means it can easily blast away the dirt from your car including the sticky mud.
This washer from PAXCESS comes with a pressure nozzle that can be adjusted accordingly to give narrow and wide fan patterns. You just need to twist it until you get your desired outlet. You also have a removable detergent tank that makes it easy for you to load enough soap.
Winding and unwinding your pipe is quite simple because of the hose reel in it.
With PAXCESS Electric Pressure Washer, you save energy because of the Total Stop System fitted in it. It measures 11.4 x 8.3 x 14.2 inches and weighs 23.5 pounds.
Pros
33-feet GFCI power cord
Total Stop System (TSS)
26-feet high-pressure hose
Removable detergent tank
Adjustable pressure nozzle
1800-Watt motor, 120 volt
2150 PSI/1.85 GPM
9. Stanley SHP2150 Powerful Pressure Washer
Blast a thick mud layer from your car by using this washer from Stanley. It is known for its efficiency in deep cleaning because of its foam cannon feature in it. With its high pressure of 2150 Maximum PSI, this washer spends less water than a normal 7 PSI garden hose.
It comes with quad QC nozzles that are quick and easy to connect. Stanley SHP2150 Powerful Pressure Washer features a zinc-steel spray wand and a professional heavy duty gun. The pressure washer measures 14.6 x 13.6 x 26.8 inches and weighs 25.6 pounds.
Pros
Brass garden hose adapter
QC cord hook
2-year warranty
35-feet GFCI power cord
A 25-feet soft and flexible pressure hose
2150 Maximum PSI
28 oz. foam cannon
4 diverse QC pressure nozzles
Two-Wheeled
10. Generac SpeedWash 7122 Gas Powered Pressure Washer System
To close our list is this great and powerful product from Generac. Unlike the pressure washers we have reviewed above, this Generac SpeedWash 7122 Gas Powered Pressure Washer is the only one that operates using gas.
Consequently, it happens to be the most powerful compared to electric washers. It releases 3200 Max PSI with 2.7 GPM. This gas-powered washer makes cleaning 50% faster and cleaner compared to the above.
It gives you the capacity to adjust your pressures to fit the surface that you want to clean. The pressure washer comes with a power broom, turbo nozzle, and soap blaster sprays.
This washer has an onboard detergent tank and never-flat tires that give you better mobility no matter the terrain. It measures 24.2 x 18.9 x 35.5 inches and weighs 62 pounds.
Pros
3200 PSI
Power dial spray Gun
Turbo Nozzles
Soap blasters
On-board detergent tank
30-feet flexible hose
4 QC nozzle tips
Having known the car pressure washers that are leading in the market, how do you use them on your car after purchasing any one of them?
How to Use a Pressure Washer for Car Cleaning?
For electric car pressure washers to work, you need to have a power source while for gas pressure washers, you will need to fuel them with petrol or diesel depending on what they are using.
Ensure that you have connected all the accessories and attachments to the machine and refill the detergent soap. After connecting to the water source adjust the nozzles and wands to high pressure or low pressure depending on the dirt rigidity.
If your car is extremely dirty, power-wash the dirt first before applying the detergent. In case the car is hot, cool it off first before applying the soap or detergent. After that, you can now apply your detergent to your car and do the pressure washing from the top.
While cleaning keep the nozzle at an optimum range to avoid getting it too close or far from your target areas. In case you decide to apply a protective seal through Plex-Master, ensure you rinse the car after applying it. Then wipe with a clean towel to dry your vehicle.
Pressure Washer Safety Tips for Beginners
Although a pressure washer, especially an electric washer is easy to operate, it can be very hazardous when used wrongly. Here are some safety tips that should always be in your mind as a beginner:
- Never point the spray gun at any person
- Never allow your underage minors to play with it or around it when in operation
- It is forbidden to use the pressure washer without water – this will reduce the lifespan of your machine. Shut off the machine immediately if the water stops.
- Before disconnecting the nozzles and hoses, squeeze the gun trigger to release any hidden pressure inside.
- Never point the spray gun or wand on your pet or any part of your body. It causes serious injuries.
- Always wear protective gear – wear boots, apron or long pants, hearing buds, glasses, and gloves. This will protect you from any flying debris.
- Never use a gas-powered pressure washer in an enclosed place – it releases some dangerous fumes.
- Avoid using ladders when cleaning high objects like trucks, you can easily lose balance and fall.
- Check electrical cords to ensure no damage – this avoids electric shock.
- Always plug the machine directly to the wall, don’t use extensions.
- Use the right nozzle degree spray tip.
Conclusion
In our millennial age, a pressure washer is one of the indispensable tools that you need to keep your car from any kind of dirt. Of course, there are multiple brands in the market but after reading this review, you can never get it wrong.
You now know what to ask the seller and the brands that you can consider when buying your machine. It is time to trend on this right track and get yourself the best car pressure washer.
