Comparing Gas and Electric Pressure Washers
Nothing beats a power washer when it comes to cleaning the exterior of your home. They’re perfect at cleaning outdoor furniture, patios, decks, driveways, oil spills, and so much more. But which model is the right one for you and your home’s needs? Find out in this article about the pros and cons of gas-powered pressure washers and corded-electric pressure washers to help with your dilemma.
Electric Pressure Washers
A corded-electric power washer uses electric power and has its own set of pros and cons you need to consider. There are models out there that can produce a pressure of up to 2,000 PSI but does not make any noise. You can make it more powerful by adding attachments. This cleaning machine is ideal for cleaning grills, outdoor furniture, and vehicles, as well as pool areas, patios, and other small outdoor areas.
It’s preferred by most homeowners because it’s easier to maintain. You don’t need to fill it with gas or change its oil since it uses electricity to run. You also don’t need to replace some of its major parts.
The biggest advantage of an electric power washer over a gas-powered is its price. However, according to some users, the drawback of its cheap price is that its quality tends to be poor. It has a shorter life span, and once it’s already failing, you have to dispose of it. Another shortcoming is the power cord’s length which can limit your work surface and using an extension cord is not recommended for safety reasons.
- Power Rating: An average of 1,300 to 2,000 PSI
- Water Flow: A rating of 1.4 to 1.5 GPM
- Noise: An average of about 70 to 80 dB
- Quality and Build: Lightweight, easy to maneuver, and parts are generally inexpensive to maintain
- Price: Starts at around $100 to a few hundred
Pros:
- Comes with a cheap price tag.
- Affordable and easy to maintain.
- Lighter, easy to carry, move around, and store.
Cons:
- Most models come with cheaper components.
- Comes with a shorter warranty compared to gas-powered.
- Low flow rating means less cleaning power.
Gas Pressure Washers
You can carry and transport a gas-powered washer anywhere. It may have a heavier built, but it’s portable thanks to its wheels at the bottom. You need to maintain it regularly though to ensure it’ll last longer. However, when it comes to cleaning ability, it’s definitely more powerful than the corded-electric type. There are even models you can use in your home that can produce up to 4,000 PSI.
If you’re on the market for one, the Dolly-Style gas pressure washer might be the one for you. It’s a powerful and versatile cleaning unit that provides high-performance. Watch this Dolly-Style (Champion) Gas Pressure Washer Review for more information.
Compared to electric power washers, these cleaning machines are more durable. Their brass and pumps are heavy duty, so replacing them is less likely. But you need to start them manually unlike with electric pressure washers that can run instantly.
You don’t need to plug gas pressure washers anywhere, so they’re ideal for getting rid of peeling paint, cleaning fences, exterior sidings, and large outdoor areas. The biggest drawback of these cleaning machines though is its engine maintenance such as gas level monitoring and regular oil change. Aside from its heavier build, it also produces louder noise.
- Power Rating: An average of 2,000 to 2,800 PSI and up to 4,000 PSI
- Water Flow: Its rating can go up to 2.5 GPM and even more
- Noise: An average of about 85 to 100 dB
- Quality and Build: Heavy built but with durable and high-quality components
- Price: From several hundred to thousands of dollars
Pros:
- A higher rating means more efficient performance.
- More durable and your work surface is not limited.
- There are models that can use warm water for cleaning.
Cons:
- Maintaining it is more expensive.
- Heavier and you may find it difficult to maneuver.
- You’ll need bigger storage because of its bulky built.
Which Pressure Washer Should I Choose?
Choosing between a gas-powered and corded-electric powered pressure washer will depend mostly on how often you’ll use it and what you’ll clean. You also have to consider how much you’re willing to spend. Gas pressure washers are great for tackling larger cleaning jobs and will give you the cleaning power you need. On the other hand, electric pressure washers are ideal for keeping your home clean both inside and out.