Best Electric Pressure Washers of 2022

Gas vs. electric pressure washers

Electric pressure washers are great alternatives to the gas-powered ones, but there are more differences between the two than just the power source.

• Gas pressure washers: Are capable of providing higher pressure and water flow. They are ideal to use for heavier-duty cleaning jobs, either in a domestic, commercial, or industrial environment. They are harder to start and heavier than the electric models though. You can find an extensive guide on the best gas pressure washers here.
• Electric pressure washers: Are much smaller and lighter than the gas machines, which is a big advantage for most homeowners. They vary in size and performance from entry-level units suitable for occasional cleaning to commercial electric pressure washers which resist high-volume and heavier-duty tasks. These power washers are also easy to start, easier to move, and require low

If you are looking for a domestic use power washer, an electric model will be a your best bet.

Electric pressure washer cleaning power

Just like the gas pressure washers, electric pressure washers have the cleaning power determined by the pressure, expressed in pounds per square inch (PSI) and flow rate, expressed in gallons per minute (GPM). Based on their rates, you can choose from light-duty and medium-duty electric pressure washers.

A frequent mistake homeowners make when buying a power washer is to weigh in more the PSI than the GPM specification. The truth is that the flow rate is much more important because, as any cleaning professional can tell you, you can control the pressure at the nozzle regardless of its actual rate.

Controlling the pressure at the nozzle

Controlling the pressure at the nozzle means changing between spray tips and the distance from nozzle to surface to obtain a weaker or more powerful jet. You can use this strategy on all power washers, but some nozzles require higher water flow to produce decent output. This is why the best electric power washer is that with the highest GPM regardless of its PSI specification.

The nozzles and the distance between the nozzle and the surface have an important role in this pressure management.

• You will have to use a small angle nozzle and keep it closer to the surface to achieve higher pressure.
• You will need a wider angle nozzle and keep it further away from the surface to get lower pressure.

Quick-change vs. multi-spray nozzles

There are two types of nozzles you can choose from, quick-change and multi-spray. They are similar in terms of performance but very different in terms of convenience.

• Quick-change nozzles: Are interchangeable and vary from 0° to 45°. The smaller the angle, the more powerful the jet; these nozzles do a fantastic job, but you will have to stop washing and change them each time you have to change the pressure.
• Multi-spray nozzles: Also have various angles, but you switch between them by simply rotating a dial. This one-fits-all solution allows you to switch from lower to a higher pressure as you’re working. Due to this design, they help you finish your tasks faster.

While most electric pressure washers come with quick-change nozzles, most models are also compatible with the multi-spray type, so you can simply convert to a dial style whenever you want in the future.

Do you really need a soap tank?

A controversial topic regards the soap tank. Some surfaces are easier to clean if you use a soapy solution instead of plain water, but this doesn’t mean you need a soap tank on the machine. While this is a nice addition indeed, it’s not necessary.

The reason why you don’t really need one is that on-board soap tanks are generally small. If you tackle a larger job, chances are you’ll have to refill it constantly.

A more convenient solution is to invest in a power washer with a siphon tube. These machines draw soapy liquid directly from a bucket or patio cleaner container, and you won’t have to worry about constantly refilling a small tank. Moving the bucket around can be a pain though, so which type is best for you ultimately depends on your circumstances.

Cold vs. hot water pressure washer

Another thing to decide is whether you need a hot or cold water electric pressure washer. The models are very different in both construction and capacities.

• Cold water pressure washers: Are the most popular due to their simplicity. They are lightweight, easy to use, and provide high pressure. They are ideal for cleaning dirt and grime from surfaces including patios, decks, and outdoor furniture.
• Hot water pressure washer: Incorporate a heating coil into their design, are heavier, more expensive, and need more maintenance. However, they do an excellent job in cleaning oil and grease from surfaces, including driveways and garage floors. Don’t expect them to work at very high pressure though.

Other important features

Other important things you can find on the best electric power washers are:

• Trigger gun: Gives you major control over the jet, and is ideal if you want to control the pressure at the nozzle.
• Dual pressure: It is not essential if you learn how to control the pressure by yourself, but it’s a nice feature for the novice.
• Auto shutoff: Turns off the unit if the water supply is interrupted. It is particularly useful when you’re using a cleanser from a tank or container.
• Safety valve: Lets you interrupt the water supply in case of emergency.
• Thermostat: It is an essential feature in hot water pressure washers, giving you complete control over the water temperature.

Best Electric Pressure Washer for the Money

Best value

Sun Joe SPX4000 2030 PSI Electric Pressure Washer

Best choice for most people

Two pressure settings and quick connect accessories to address all domestic cleaning needs.

Check price on Amazon