As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Prices are approximate and may vary.
| Model | PSI / GPM | Type | Price | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sun Joe SPX3000Best Overall Electric 🏆 Best Overall |
2,030 / 1.76 | Electric | ~$170 | ★★★★★ 4.5 (30k+) | View → |
Sun Joe SPX3000-XT1Mid-Range Electric |
2,500 / 1.3 | Electric | ~$200 | ★★★★★ 4.5 (8k+) | View → |
Westinghouse ePX3050Best Budget 💚 Best Budget |
2,100 / 1.76 | Electric | ~$180 | ★★★★★ 4.4 (2.5k+) | View → |
Westinghouse WPX3400eBest for Concrete (Electric) 🔴 Best Heavy Duty |
3,400 / 2.0 | Electric | ~$350 | ★★★★★ 4.5 (3k+) | View → |
Westinghouse WPX3400Best Gas Under $400 |
3,400 / 2.6 | Gas | ~$350 | ★★★★★ 4.6 (4.5k+) | View → |
Simpson PS3228 PowerShotBest Pro-Grade |
3,300 / 2.5 | Gas | ~$430 | ★★★★★ 4.6 (5k+) | View → |
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
How it works: Select every task you plan to tackle. The calculator recommends based on your most demanding job and highlights the best-matched products above.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Prices approximate.
Pressure Washer Buying Guide
The right pressure washer depends on two things: what you're cleaning and how often. Here's everything you need to know.
PSI vs. GPM — What Actually Matters
PSI is force. GPM is volume. Real cleaning power = PSI × GPM (called Cleaning Units). A 2,500 PSI / 2.0 GPM machine has 5,000 CU and cleans significantly faster than a 2,500 PSI / 1.2 GPM unit (3,000 CU) — even though the PSI number looks the same on the box.
Electric vs. Gas
Electric: quieter, instant start, no oil changes, great for 95% of homeowners. Modern brushless motors now hit 3,400 PSI.
Gas: higher GPM, no cord, better for large areas and contractor use. Requires seasonal maintenance.
Nozzle Color Guide
Wrong nozzle = surface damage. This matters more than PSI for delicate surfaces.
PSI Quick Reference
| Task | Recommended PSI | Tier |
|---|---|---|
| Car / motorcycle | 1,200–1,900 PSI | Light |
| Patio furniture / grill | 1,300–1,800 PSI | Light |
| Wood deck | 1,500–2,500 PSI | Medium |
| House siding / fence | 1,800–2,500 PSI | Medium |
| Mold & mildew | 2,000–2,500 PSI | Medium |
| Concrete driveway | 2,500–3,200 PSI | Heavy |
| Brick / stone | 2,500–3,000 PSI | Heavy |
| Oil stains | 2,800–3,200 PSI | Heavy |
| Paint stripping | 3,000–4,000 PSI | Extra Heavy |
5 Tips for Better Results
- Start far, move closer. Begin 2–3 feet away and close the gap gradually. You can always add pressure; you can't undo surface damage.
- Keep the wand moving on wood. One spot = etched grain. Work in long strokes parallel to the wood.
- Pre-soak concrete. Apply detergent with the black nozzle, wait 5 minutes, then rinse. Chemistry does half the work.
- Match the nozzle to the surface — not just the PSI. A 15° yellow nozzle at 1,500 PSI can still damage soft wood.
- Never point at people or pets. Light-duty washers can cut skin at close range.