Best Electric Pressure Washers

Is it worth getting a pressure washer?

Pressure cleaning may be worth it if you need an appliance to help you with heavy-duty cleaning of outdoor areas. For example, when it comes to getting rid of hard-caked grime in fencing, a concrete driveway or timber deck, getting physical with a bucket of soapy water will likely be laborious and ineffective. A pressure washer can blast out the debris effectively and in a fraction of the time.

How does a pressure washer work?

An electric pressure washer connects externally to two places: a garden hose or water tank, and into a grounded outlet using a waterproof cord. The electric motor inside the unit uses water from the hose to amplify the water pressure using a pump. This pressurised water is released in a powerful jet via a nozzle when you pull the trigger.

How much power (or PSI) do I need?

This depends on the task at hand. Electric pressure washers vary in how much power they can deliver (measured in PSI, or pounds per square inch). Choosing the right PSI setting for your specific task is important. High pressure cleaners can be abrasive to more vulnerable surfaces. For example when cleaning your car you shouldn’t apply more than 1500PSI, as this can damage the paint and cause rust.

• 1500PSI: Maximum setting for timber decks and cars
• 2000-3000PSI: Suitable for concrete and tough stains

What are the water pressure cleaning alternatives?

• Petrol pressure washer: If you’re mainly using your pressure washer for concrete and tough stains, or you have a large outdoor area you need to cover, a petrol pressure washer is another option. They’re more powerful than electrical models and better equipped to deal with stubborn stains and debris. Their typical PSI ois around 2500-3500. However, they are heavier, noisier and less environmentally friendly than electric models.
• Power washer: This works similarly to a pressure washer, but heats the water to a high temperature. It's great for removing salt, mildew, mould and even chewing gum.

Other factors to consider when buying an electric pressure washer:

• Choose a model with durable wheels that will be easy to manoeuvre (or even better, a portable or cordless pressure washer - but this will have less horsepower)
• Consider whether you'd like a pressure washer with an in-built soap tank, or one that just uses water
• The safety of the person who’s operating the pressure washer and anyone else nearby is paramount. Since some high-pressure jets are sharp enough to slice like a knife, make sure there are no pets and kids nearby when you're operating the washer, and always wear safety goggles, enclosed footwear and earmuffs.