The market offers a plethora of options, making it challenging to determine which electric pressure washer is the best fit for you. However, we aim to simplify the selection process by providing a detailed overview of the current landscape. Whether you prioritize the best overall performance, the most potent cleaning power, the best value for money, or you have a specific brand in mind, we have compiled our top recommendations for the year.
Ryobi RY142300 2300 PSI Brushless Electric Pressure Washer
The Ryobi model stands out as the most user-friendly electric pressure washer due to its extra-large wheels, long hose, high-end induction motor, and well-designed GFCI plug. For homeowners seeking an effortless cleaning solution, we recommend electric pressure washers over gas models since they are more straightforward to use and maintain. While gas-powered washers deliver more force, the Ryobi RY142300’s quiet-running brushless induction motor should last for years, and its weight makes it challenging to tip over, even when tugging on the hose. Its robust design, cable, hose management, and larger wheels also make it the easiest to maneuver among our test group. Furthermore, the manufacturer offers the longest warranty period, a three-year limited warranty, that we encountered. Although it is slightly more expensive than other models, the RY142300 offers the best value for those who plan to use it three or more times annually.
Simpson MegaShot
POSITIVES Incredibly powerful Durable construction
NEGATIVES Cumbersome to transport Expensive
Despite its high cost, we believe the Simpson MegaShot’s exceptional power justifies the expense. With five quick-connect spray tips, a maximum PSI of 3,200, and a flow rate of 2.5 GPM, this model is comparable to professional-grade equipment. While it may be more than the average homeowner requires, it is an excellent choice for DIY enthusiasts who prioritize performance and strength. However, at 65 pounds, it is not as portable as other models and may be challenging to move around.
MegaShot MSH3125 Pressure Washer
The MegaShot lives up to its name as an appropriately named outdoor power tool. It boasts a large Honda engine with substantial air cooling fins on its head, which is widely regarded as one of the best engines available. In addition, it has a robust pump with anodized hose fittings, resulting in powerful cleaning capability. Although not a commercial-grade pressure washer, it comes close to commercial-level performance at a fraction of the cost. We tested the MegaShot on various surfaces, including concrete, vinyl siding and trim, wood affected by mildew, dirty outdoor furniture, and vinyl fencing, with excellent results. The machine also features a pull rod choke and a large red on/off switch, making it a no-nonsense, productive pressure washer. However, the hose is quite stiff, although it appears to be extremely durable. It may take a considerable amount of usage before the hose softens up a bit. Overall, our verdict is that the MegaShot is an impressive pressure washer that delivers high performance and exceptional value.
Sun Joe SPX3000-MAX Electric Pressure Washer
Pros:
- Dual detergent tanks
- Auto shutoff
- Reasonably quiet
- Compact design
Cons:
- No onboard storage for hose
- No long attachments for floors
Our top pick for the best pressure washer is the Sun Joe Electric Pressure Washer. It offers a maximum pressure of 2,030 psi at 1.76 gpm, making it a powerful and affordable option. The Sun Joe comes with five quick-connect spray tips and dual detergent tanks, which enable you to easily switch between different types of cleaning agents. We tested this pressure washer on a wooden fence, concrete walkway, and a car, and it proved to be highly effective.
One of the standout features of the Sun Joe is its compact design. Despite its small size, it offers excellent cleaning ability and can handle a range of tasks around your home. The pressure washer also has a 20-foot high-pressure hose, a 34-inch extension wand, and a 35-foot power cord, which provides a decent amount of reach. Assembly was relatively easy, taking us only around 15 minutes to complete.
We were impressed with how quiet the Sun Joe was compared to other pressure washers we tested, and the machine’s auto shutoff feature was a nice touch. The oversize wheels also made it easy to maneuver on grass or uneven ground. However, we would have appreciated onboard storage for the hose and long attachments for floors.
Overall, the Sun Joe Electric Pressure Washer is a versatile and effective option for homeowners who want a compact and affordable pressure washer that can handle a variety of cleaning tasks.
Greenworks GPW3000
Advantages: User-friendly, highly powerful for an electric model, convenient storage features Disadvantage: Slightly heavy
If you’re looking for a pressure washer that packs a punch without relying on gas, the Greenworks GPW3000 is an excellent option. Recommended by LeVesseur, this machine combines top-notch performance with ease of use. With a maximum PSI of 3,000 and the ability to produce 2.0 GPM at 1,000 PSI, it’s a highly productive tool that’s ideal for handling large-scale projects.
The Greenworks GPW3000 is also equipped with five quick-connect nozzles, including a turbo option to tackle stubborn dirt and grime, as well as a built-in soap tank. It’s incredibly straightforward to operate with its simple push-start button, and the brushless motor ensures a longer lifespan compared to older non-brushed models.
One of the standout features of this pressure washer is the emphasis on on-board storage. Each of the five nozzle heads has its own color-coded slot to prevent confusion, and the hose has an elastic tie-on to keep it secure when coiled up for storage or transport. The storage arm also provides ample space to wrap up the power cord when not in use.
Although it’s slightly heavy, the Greenworks GPW3000’s combination of power, convenience, and storage features make it an excellent choice for anyone in need of a reliable electric pressure washer.
What to look for in a pressure washer
When shopping for pressure washers, it’s important to pay attention to the details. While some models may look identical, small differences can have a big impact on performance. One important consideration is the type of nozzle included. Adjustable spray nozzles offer more control, while quick-connect nozzles have predefined spray patterns that make it easy to switch between different pressure levels. However, quick-connect nozzles can be easily lost, so keep an eye on them.
Another factor to consider is whether the pressure washer has a soap tank, which can be useful for cleaning cars and windows. Additionally, the wheels and base of the unit should be sturdy to prevent toppling. The type of hose can also affect maneuverability, so it’s worth choosing a unit with a flexible hose.
Portability and weight are also important, especially if you need to move the unit around frequently. Smaller, portable pressure washers may sacrifice some power, but they can be more practical for certain jobs. Finally, look for a pressure washer with a brushless motor, as these tend to be more reliable, powerful, and durable than their brushed counterparts.
FAQs
What are the benefits of an electric pressure washer?
If you’re deciding between gas and electric, neither one is necessarily better than the other, but they are each suited to different tasks. Generally speaking, gas pressure washers are more efficient than electric pressure washers. They’re also better designed for removing materials like paint. However, gas pressure washers are also typically larger, making them harder to store, and require more of an upfront investment and maintenance, explains Schultz. “Electric pressure washers are budget-friendly, lightweight, and low maintenance,” Schultz says. “However, they’re usually not as powerful as gas models.”
What is a good PSI for an electric pressure washer?
According to Schultz, an 1,800 to 2,000 PSI is a great range for an electric pressure washer. “This PSI is great for light-duty jobs such as cleaning your car or grill,” says Schultz. Every pressure washing project will require a different PSI, so it’s worth remembering that 1 to 1,899 PSI is considered low, 1,900 to 2,788 is considered medium-duty, 2,800 or more is heavy duty, and 3,100 or more is considered commercial grade. Something light-duty would be used for tasks like washing vehicles, boats, etc, whereas something commercial is for tougher tasks like graffiti removal, paint stripping, and more.
Can you use an extension cord with an electric pressure washer?
You can use an extension cord with an electric pressure washer, but it’s imperative to read the manufacturer’s instructions ahead of trying anything new. However, it is typically fine to use an extension cord with a pressure washer.
“It’s important to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for operating the pressure washer,” says Schultz. This is because it won’t provide enough power to your machine, which is why you should use a twelve gauge wire with a length of over 25 feet. Any cord that’s 16, 18, or lighter will likely not provide enough power.
David Henry
Hello, everyone! I'm David Henry, a dedicated customer and enthusiastic reviewer of Tractor Supply Company. As a farmer and agriculture enthusiast, I frequently visit Tractor Supply Company to explore and purchase a wide range of agricultural supplies, tools, and equipment. Over the years, I have accumulated extensive experience and knowledge in shopping at Tractor Supply Company, and I aim to help others make wiser choices through my sharing. I understand the importance of selecting the right products for farmers, ranchers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. That's why I enjoy sharing my insights and recommendations to assist individuals in finding the best-suited products for their needs. Join me as we embark on a journey of discovering quality products and making informed decisions at Tractor Supply Company. Together, let's enhance our farming and outdoor experiences through valuable insights and practical advice.
