Pressure Washers Buyer's Guide

A pressure washer is an essential tool for tackling stubborn dirt, grime, and algae on various surfaces. Whether you need to clean your car, refresh your patio, or maintain heavy-duty industrial equipment, the right pressure washer can make the job faster and easier.

However, with so many types available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. This guide will help you understand the different pressure washer types, power levels, features, and accessories to ensure you get the perfect model for your needs.

How Does a Pressure Washer Work?

A pressure washer works by forcing water through a high-pressure pump and out of a nozzle at varying pressures to remove dirt and grime. The key components include:

• Motor/Engine: Powers the pump and determines the pressure output.
• Pump: Pressurises the water before it exits the nozzle.
• Hose: Delivers high-pressure water to the cleaning surface.
• Nozzle: Adjusts spray patterns for different cleaning tasks.

Pressure washers can connect to a standard water supply or, in some cases, pull water from a tank, making them versatile for various cleaning environments.

Types of Pressure Washers

Electric Pressure Washers

Electric pressure washer models are lightweight, easy to use, and ideal for home use. They are best suited for cleaning cars, garden furniture, patios, and decking. These washers require a power source and generally offer lower pressure than petrol or diesel alternatives.

Petrol Pressure Washers

Petrol pressure washers provide higher pressure and increased mobility since they do not require an electrical connection. They are excellent for large driveways, heavy-duty cleaning, and commercial jobs. However, they require more maintenance than electric models.

Diesel Pressure Washers

Diesel pressure washers are even more powerful than petrol ones and are commonly used in industrial and construction environments. They can handle extensive cleaning tasks, including machinery, large-scale surfaces, and even removing graffiti.

Hot Water Pressure Washers

Hot water pressure washer models use heated water to break down grease, oil, and other stubborn substances more effectively than cold water washers. They are particularly useful for vehicle cleaning, industrial sites, and food production facilities.

Cold Water Pressure Washers

Cold water models are more common for general cleaning tasks such as patios, fences, and cars. They rely on high-pressure water rather than heat to remove dirt, making them a cost-effective option for most homeowners.

Cordless Pressure Washers

Cordless or battery-powered pressure washers offer unmatched portability. They are perfect for locations without easy access to mains power or a water supply, such as camping, remote vehicle cleaning, or boats. However, they typically have lower pressure and shorter battery life, making them best suited for light cleaning jobs.

Understanding Pressure Levels and Flow Rate

When choosing a pressure washer, two key factors determine its effectiveness:

Pressure (PSI - Pounds per Square Inch)

• Light-duty (1000-1900 PSI): Ideal for bicycles, garden furniture, and car washing.
• Medium-duty (2000-2800 PSI): Suitable for patios, driveways, and fences.
• Heavy-duty (2900+ PSI): Best for industrial cleaning, graffiti removal, and large-scale jobs.

Flow Rate (Litres per Minute - LPM)

Flow rate determines how much water is delivered. A higher flow rate helps rinse dirt away faster. Domestic models usually range from 5-8 LPM, while professional models can exceed 10 LPM.

Choosing between a domestic and commercial pressure washer depends on how frequently you plan to use it and the intensity of the cleaning tasks. While both types function similarly, there are key differences in power, durability, and design.

Domestic Pressure Washers

Domestic pressure washers are designed for occasional use around the home. They are typically electric-powered and have lower PSI ratings, usually ranging between 1000-2800 PSI. These models are perfect for light to medium cleaning tasks such as washing cars, garden furniture, patios, and driveways. They are lightweight, easy to manoeuvre, and require minimal maintenance, making them ideal for homeowners who need a practical and user-friendly solution.

Commercial Pressure Washers

Commercial pressure washers are built for heavy-duty and frequent use in demanding environments. They often feature petrol or diesel engines, offering significantly higher power levels, usually 2900+ PSI, and increased water flow rates for more efficient cleaning. These machines are ideal for professional cleaners, construction sites, agricultural equipment, and industrial facilities. Many commercial models also support hot water functionality, which helps break down grease and oil more effectively. With more durable components, including reinforced hoses and heavy-duty pumps, they can withstand prolonged operation and rough conditions.

Motor Types and Why They Matter

The type of motor in a pressure washer plays a crucial role in its performance, durability, and suitability for different tasks.

Brushed Motors

Brushed Motors are commonly found in entry-level electric pressure washers. They are lightweight and cost-effective, making them suitable for light-duty cleaning. However, they tend to wear out faster due to the friction generated by the brushes, which can reduce their lifespan over time.

Universal Motors

Universal Motors are compact and deliver a high power-to-weight ratio, making them ideal for portable electric pressure washers. While they are affordable and efficient, they are generally less durable than induction motors and may not withstand prolonged heavy use.

Induction Motors

Induction Motors are quieter and more efficient than universal motors. They are designed for long-term, heavy-duty use, making them ideal for those who require a more reliable and durable pressure washer.

Petrol/Diesel Engines

Petrol and Diesel Engines offer significantly higher power and greater mobility, as they do not require a mains power source. However, they require more maintenance and fuel, making them better suited for commercial or industrial applications where high-pressure cleaning is essential.

Pressure Washer Features to Look Out For

When selecting a pressure washer, consider these essential features:

• Adjustable Pressure Settings: Allows flexibility for different cleaning tasks.
• Interchangeable Nozzles: Provides multiple spray patterns for varied cleaning needs.
• Detergent Tanks: Helps apply soap or chemicals for enhanced cleaning power.
• Hose Length and Reel Storage: Longer hoses improve reach, and reels make storage easier.
• Auto Shut-Off: Protects the motor and reduces energy consumption.

Essential Pressure Washer Accessories

The right accessories can improve cleaning efficiency and make specific jobs easier by enhancing the pressure washer’s capabilities and ensuring better results.

Turbo Nozzles

Turbo nozzles increase power by creating a concentrated, rotating spray that delivers greater cleaning force. This makes them highly effective for removing stubborn dirt, mud, and stains from hard surfaces such as concrete, brickwork, and heavily soiled driveways.

Surface Cleaners

Surface cleaners are designed specifically for cleaning patios, driveways, and large flat areas. They feature a rotating spray mechanism that distributes water evenly, reducing streaks and ensuring a uniform clean. By covering a wider surface area than a standard nozzle, they significantly speed up cleaning times.

Foam Cannons

Foam cannons are an excellent addition for car washing, as they produce a thick layer of foamy detergent that clings to the surface. This allows the soap to break down dirt and grime before rinsing, reducing the need for scrubbing and minimising the risk of scratching delicate paintwork.

Brush Attachments

Brush attachments provide a gentler cleaning action, making them ideal for delicate surfaces like windows, conservatories, and vehicles. They help loosen dirt while preventing damage that could be caused by high-pressure sprays alone, ensuring a thorough but safe clean.

Extension Wands

Extension wands are useful for reaching high or difficult-to-access areas such as gutters, roofs, and second-storey walls. They allow users to clean safely from the ground without the need for ladders, improving both convenience and safety when tackling elevated surfaces.

Storage and Maintenance Tips

Proper storage and maintenance ensure your pressure washer lasts longer:

• Drain Water After Use: Prevents damage from freezing in colder months.
• Clean the Nozzles and Filters: Reduces clogging and maintains efficiency.
• Store Indoors: Protects from weather damage and prolongs lifespan.
• Use Fuel Stabiliser (For Petrol Models): Prevents engine problems during long periods of inactivity.

Choosing the Right Pressure Washer for You

Cleaning Requirements

Determine the type of cleaning you need. Light-duty models are suitable for small tasks, medium-duty washers work well for household surfaces, and heavy-duty options are best for industrial jobs.

Portability

Consider how mobile your pressure washer needs to be. Cordless models offer convenience, electric washers provide a steady power source, and petrol-powered options deliver maximum mobility and strength.

Features and Accessories

Evaluate the available features and accessories to ensure they match your specific cleaning tasks. Adjustable pressure settings, detergent tanks, and specialised nozzles can improve efficiency.

Cost and Durability

Compare different models based on price and longevity. Investing in a durable machine with the right features will provide better long-term value and reliability.

A pressure washer is a valuable tool that makes cleaning tasks quicker and more effective. Whether you need a light-duty cordless model for quick washes or a powerful petrol washer for commercial use, choosing the right machine is essential. Be sure to match the pressure level and features to your cleaning needs to get the best results.

For a full range of pressure washers, explore Machine Mart’s selection to find the perfect model today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a power washer, pressure washer and a jet washer?
There is no difference. Different people refer to pressure washers as jet washers and power washers but they can all be considered as the same thing.

What is the difference between a pressure washer and a steam cleaner?
The short answer: temperature. Both types of machines work on the same principle but a steam cleaner has a separate, usually diesel-fired, hot burner that heats the water up to above 100°C and is more effective on grease and oil removal. At this temperature, steam not only increases cleaning performance but can sterilise surfaces as well - extremely important for many hygiene-dependent applications.

Is flow or pressure more important?
For the vast majority of customers looking to use pressure washers for a variety of tasks, neither is significantly more important. Higher pressure creates a better cleaning performance while higher water flow creates a better rinsing action making something quicker to clean. There is usually a trade-off between one or the other and apart from for very specific industrial tasks, the ratio on the majority of machines gives an excellent all-round balance. A good general indication of a machine's performance against another is the motor size, which is measured in kW.

What pressure washer do I need to wash my car and occasionally my patio?
Any of our basic electrical pressure washers will be fine, or our more basic petrol & diesel-driven pressure washers will give you the power to clean your car and a medium-sized patio if electrical power is not available.

Can I run a domestic electric pressure washer on an extension cable?
We strongly advise against the use of extension cables, as this can affect the performance of the power output, as well as the machine itself and can cause damage to the electrical components.

Can I put hot water through my pressure washer?
The unit produces its water pressure through seals which have a high tolerance. Having hot water pass through a standard pressure washer will make the seals expand, reducing their effectiveness. If you require a hot water pressure washer then we would recommend a hot washer from our range.  Hot water pressure washers generally will increase the temperature of intake by 40C on average. Therefore, if your hot water boiler is set to 40C your output will be 80C. See our hot washers here.

Where and how should I store my pressure washer when it’s not in use?
Whilst it may be tempting to leave pressure washers outside, doing so can radically reduce the lifespan of your machine through exposure to the elements. Ideally, your pressure washer should be stored in a frost-free environment and somewhere under cover where it is not exposed to the extremes of temperature or bleaching from the sun. To prevent cracking through frost, always ensure all of the water is drained from your device before storage.

Can I take water from a water butt or other supply?
Yes, pressure washers can 'draw' water through the intake hose as they operate, providing the water supply is above ground level or siphoned. Although this can be difficult with the domestic range. Some industrial pressure washers can draw water from a depth of 2-3 metres provided it has the function. This function can usually be found on our "PLS range".

Care must also be taken to avoid running the machine dry once the supply has run out. Although the flow rate of a machine may be 500 litres an hour, for example, the machine is not usually in continuous use and will often only consume half this volume. Care must always be taken when using an alternative water supply to avoid contaminants entering the pump and that the inlet water temperature is no more than 30 degrees.

What is 'Lifetime Technical Support'?
Even pressure washers don't last forever, but we aim to help you keep your machine in peak performance for many years to come. By doing this we hope you will recommend us to friends, family and colleagues, so that we can continue to grow our business through a satisfied customer base. Our customers are the lifeblood of our business and we take a long-term view of the benefits of supporting them long after their warranty has run out. At any point during the life of your machine you can rely on technical backup and support from Machine Mart.

Useful to Know for Planning Your Jobs
Another way to compare pressure washers is to multiply the PSI (Pounds per Square Inch) by the LPM (litres per minute) and you obtain a "work" value. For example, for a pressure washer operating at 1500 PSI and 10 LPM, the work value is 15000 (1500 x 10). At 1300 PSI and 16 LPM the work value is 20800 (1300 x 16). Flow or LPM affects the time it takes to clean something. The higher the figure, the shorter the length of time it takes to clean - this generally being achieved by having a more powerful (higher rated) motor or larger pistons in the pump. In real terms, pressure (in PSI or Bar) determines how well the water will break the bond of the material from the surface - the higher the pressure, the more force will be applied to an area, giving you greater potential to tackle tougher cohesion.

Water Flow Rate
LPM = Litres per minute. This is the flow rate of the water leaving the washer. The higher this figure is, the faster you will be able to clean a given area. This is probably the most important selection criteria when choosing a commercial unit.

THE FLOW (LPM) OUTPUT MUST NOT EXCEED THE INPUT FLOW e.g. YOU CAN'T GET MORE WATER OUT THAN YOU PUT IN

Electrical Power
Horse Power (HP) = Watts or kiloWatts (1kiloWatt = 1000 Watts = 1.3HP) - This is used to indicate the power of the electric motor. Generally, if you require a high PSI and flow you will need more Watts or HP to provide it.

Should you only have a domestic power supply I.e. 13A 230V then the maximum kW rating you are capable of running is 2400 Watts or 2.4kW. Should you need a higher kW-rated unit for your cleaning requirements, then we advise you to contact an electrician to calculate your needs and a suitable power supply. This may also include 3-phase, which has the most electrical power and performance available converted into efficient usability.

Pressure Washer Health and Safety

Electrical Safety Checks

Is the mains electrical system in good condition?

Has it been inspected?

Have you ensured ALL electrical equipment - including plugs and any other connections - is in good condition and inspected regularly?

Is there a circuit breaker in the system for use with pressure washers? Visually check portable tools, e.g. pressure washers etc., before use and have them regularly tested by a competent person

NEVER use pressure washers without an RCD or earth monitoring device.

TEST YOUR RCD REGULARLY

Keep away from the water jet
High pressure jets can force the fluid through the skin and this can be dangerous. No one should stand in front of the cleaning jet. Also, the spray from your cleaner could drift into other work areas, or over other people, and this could be dangerous too.

Wear suitable clothing
You should always wear suitable eye protection while the machine is working, and you may need special clothing such as wellington boots and waterproofs to protect you.

Contact with cleaning chemicals
Be aware of correct handling and storage instructions for any chemicals or detergents you are using. Read the COSHH sheet for the product, if available.

Slips and trips
Provide non-slip floor surfaces. Repair holes and clear up spillages immediately. DO keep work areas tidy and clean, and avoid trailing leads and hoses.

SHOP OUR FULL RANGE OF PRESSURE WASHERS HERE!