What is the best gas-pressure washer? Primarily, you should pay attention to the products of the well-known and trusted manufacturers with a sufficient experience in this branch of industry. Gas-pressure washers are very powerful thus they can deal with a really heavy-duty cleaning routine depending on your needs and applications. That’s why it’s highly important to select a product with suitable power settings.
In particular, if we are talking about gas pressure washers for residential purposes like cleaning the outdoor area of your household, the PSI up to 3500 pressure would be more than enough. It should be equipped with a powerful engine which will enhance cleaning efficiency, thus saving your time and contribute to higher reliability and durability of the gas pressure washer. More than that this equipment should be easy to operate and perform multiple tasks. I believe that Generac SpeedWash 7122 totally meets all the above-mentioned expectations!
Why have I chosen this model? Because it is made by Generac Power Systems, Inc. with its 60 years of experience on the market. They were the first to engineer affordable home standby generators, and is now the # 1 manufacturer of home backup generators. Besides, Generac features a full line of innovative, industry-leading power washers suitable for virtually any application, including the toughest commercial and industrial environments. Generac SpeedWash 7122 rolls on 10-inch never-go-flat wheels and cleans with 3200 PSI at 2.7 GPM. It's powered with a Generac 196cc OHV engine. It includes a 30-foot flex hose and 4 quick-change nozzles (0, 25, 40 degrees & soap) plus additional attachments including a turbo nozzle, soap blaster, and power broom. All this enable the product to clean up to 50% faster than other cleaning units in the same range.
I guess that back in 1927 Frank W. Ofeldt, a pioneer of a general concept of pressure washers, had no idea about success and high demand for his invention in the present days. Since that time pressure washers have been modified and improved to the state-of-the-art condition. The advanced pressure washers will make it easy to get rid of annoying dirt and grime on the surface of your car and maintain it in a brand-new appearance. Besides, you can use this unit for other needs like cleaning your driveway or garage. Nowadays pressure washers are available in a wide range on the market, that’s why picking the right product can be a real challenge because of the abundance of options.
There are two types of pressure washers which are commonly used and preferred by the users. In particular, there are electric pressure washers and gas pressure washers, the latter you are going to learn about in more details below.
So, let’s find out what is the best gas pressure washer? But first, let’s learn about
Table of Content
- 1 The most trusted gas pressure washer brands
- 2 What should you know about gas pressure washers?
- 3 What type of gas and oil does a pressure washer use?
- 4 How To Start A Pressure Washer
- 5 How long do gas pressure washers last?
- 6 Top-5 Best gas-pressure washers
- 7 10 Best Gas-Pressure Washers Comparison Table
The most trusted gas pressure washer brands
Simpson Cleaning - They offer a large variety of gas pressure washers of a great value for money.
Karcher - Inventors of the first power washer used in Europe. They offer a wide range of electric pressure washers on the market. Besides manufacture powerful and reliable gas pressure units.
Generac - Famous gas power washer manufacturer. They are popular for their range gas powered washers for households.
Craftsman - It is a very well-known brand and has been rated the No.1 brand among all American brands in previous years. They offer a growing line of outdoor power equipment including gas pressure washers.
DeWalt - They are well known as a power tool manufacturer. They offer gas pressure washers that are Honda engine powered.
What should you know about gas pressure washers?
In general, gas pressure washers are perfect for hard to clean areas like those around your house and yard since their power is twice that of the electric counterparts. Gas pressure washers are larger and heavier and mounted on a robust frame with larger wheels.
Gas engines of these washers can produce more power and they are a lot more mobile as they do not need to be plugged in to an electric power source. Since gas engines are more powerful, the pump can generate considerably more PSI and GPM so that they can clean faster and deeper than any electric pressure washer could.
So if you face heavy-duty cleaning from time to time, you will be saved by a gas pressure washer for residential use with its PSI range up to 5000. They must be used outdoor areas because of the emission of carbon-monoxide fumes and higher levels of noise. Of course, they do require a little more maintenance and cost more to operate, but anyway they are worth its price.
Using this type of equipment is quite easy, but it is important that you do it in right way otherwise you could damage the equipment or lose the desired efficiency and effectiveness of a cleaning process. So, keep reading this guide to learn about the essential life hacks on how to maintain and operate your gas pressure friend easily.
What type of gas and oil does a pressure washer use?
Every gas pressure washer is different. Depending on an engine type some operate with regular gasoline, others require using a two cycle mix. Some gas pressure washers use a mixture of gasoline and oil. You must read instruction manual carefully. Using a wrong product or mixing your products the wrong way will damage the engine.
Besides you have to pay an extra attention to fuel requirements, otherwise your gas pressure washer will cease to work. With that said, what kind of oil does a pressure washer use is an important knowledge since oil might affect the functionality of the gas pressure washer.
Fuel type recommendations
- Use fresh, clean, unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane in a pressure washer. Gasoline with up to 10 percent ethanol (gasohol). Don’t use unapproved gasoline such as E15 and E85.
- Fuel RVP is a critical rating too. Gasoline refineries raise and lower fuel RVP ratings depending on a season with its temperature differences (low RVP for summer fuel and high RVP for winter fuel). This rating is specific for different regions or states.
WARNING: Fuel and its vapors are extremely flammable and explosive. Always handle fuel with extreme care.
Oil type recommendations
For best results, especially if you really don’t want to worry about what type of oil is best suited for the temperature that you are operating your pressure washer in, you should use oil with low consumption. You can use any high quality detergent SAE 30 or synthetic 5W30 oil which is recommended for temperatures above 40ºF. However, if temperature falls below 40 ºF, it is recommended that you use the 10W-30 oil to help your power washer start better.
Before starting your pressure washer, you should always check the oil level. Some washers are equipped with a sight window that allows checking the oil level without opening the cap. Otherwise, you have to open the cap and check the quantity left. The oil should be a transparent yellow / gold color.
Change the oil in a new pressure washer after the first 5 hours of operation. After that, if you live in a region with a moderate climate, you should change your oil every spring, or as soon as you start your unit at the end of winter. During winter, the oil tends to thicken and thus even a properly run pump can be damaged. Hence, always refill accordingly. In the tropics, the oil should be changed every fifty hours.
How To Start A Pressure Washer
Pre-start and starting activities are described in the following steps below:
STEP 1: CHECK GAS AND OIL
Before getting started, always make sure your pressure washer's oil is clean and at the appropriate level. (Always turn the fuel valve to OFF before adding oil.)
STEP 2: ATTACH HIGH PRESSURE HOSE
Fasten the hose you will use to the pump of your washer and connect everything in place so that it is secure. Uncoil and straighten it to prevent tangles. Choose your nozzle and install this properly.
STEP 3: ENSURE WATER SUPPLY SOURCE
Connect a water supply hose to the pressure washer's pump. Turn the water on.
STEP 4: TURN FUEL VALVE TO OPEN & PUT ON / OFF SWITCH IN ON POSITION
STEP 5: START YOUR PRESSURE WASHER
- Pull the engine cord while you are holding spray wand trigger
- Allow engine to run for several seconds, then move the choke to the OFF or RUN position.
- If the pressure washer doesn't start in a few pulls, try one of the following:
- If the rope is difficult to pull, try again after squeezing the trigger to release pressure built up in the pump.
- Check fuel levels and make sure both the on / off switch and the fuel valve are in the correct positions.
How long do gas pressure washers last?
First of all, durability of gas pressure washers depends on an engine model built in the unit. For instance, pressure washers powered by Honda engines are considered to be highly reliable and long-lasting units.
Another factor that can influence durability of a gas-pressure washer is its design peculiarities. As these units have bigger overall dimensions and weight in comparison with electric pressure washers, a heavy-duty robust frame and larger wheels must be provided to enhance their maneuverability and durability.
Besides, gas pressure washers do require maintenance, like refilling with a suitable type of fuel or checking of the oil level, winterizing procedures, etc. But, if you keep up with the routine maintenance, they may last you for many years.
Another reason that could affect negatively pressure washer's life is lack of water in it. Although you can start a pressure washer without water, it is not advisable to do it. When you start a pressure washer without water supply, you are taking a huge risk. The damage will be immediate and irrevocable to the pressure washer's internal mechanisms. Firstly the pump will be damaged, and then other components such as seals, gaskets, etc., may become damaged in a while. The more often you start your gas pressure washer dry, the more damage will be inflicted.
Top-5 Best gas-pressure washers
Having analyzed the market of gas-pressure washers and studied loads of customers' reviews and real feedbacks, knowing pros and cons of their operation, I managed to figure out Top-5 Best products within the price range from $ 250 to $1000.
1. Karcher G3500 OHT Gas Pressure Washer
Karcher, a German company, has been in the industry since 1950. In 1962 Karcher expanded internationally. The family-run company employs 13,027 staff in more than 120 companies in 70 countries. Over 50,000 service outlets worldwide ensure uninterrupted supply for customers all over the world. Kärcher currently holds over 630 active patents.
Karcher G3500 OHT can deal with the most heavy-duty cleaning tasks as it is operated by a powerful Honda GX200 engine and equipped with a professional-grade three piston crankshaft (triplex) pump. The design represents a durable 18 gauge welded frame which outlasts riveted / bolted frames and is powder coated to resist corrosion. Pneumatic tires with metal wheels enhance its maneuverability. It comes with 5 Pro-style quick connect nozzles (0 °, 15 °, 25 °, 40 °, 65 ° / detergent), thus it can be used for various tasks. However the manufacturer warns that this product can expose you to chemicals that are included in the latest Prop 65 warning, lead and Diisononyl phthalate, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer.
Features
- Pressure (PSI): 3500
- Engine type: Honda GX 200
- Flow rate (GPM): 2.6
- Weight w / o accessories (lbs): 76
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 24 x 20 x 23
- Hose length (ft): 25
Pros & Cons
Pros:
| Cons:
|
This is where you want to go if you really want to get the best power out there. It is a strongly powerful model which is ensured by Honda engine. All the advantageous features of this model promised by the manufacturer make it even stronger and ensure you can take it with you anywhere. Only one thing left to be considered, in particular, whether it is affordable depending on the budget you have.
Karcher G3500: Check the current price
2. Generac SpeedWash 7122 Gas Powered Pressure Washer
Generac Power Systems, Inc. was started in 1959 to make home-use portable generators for Sears under the Craftsman name. Generac's core focus is power generation products. To support their business focus, they have an extensive in-house engineering, design and manufacturing capability. This allows them total control over the specs and features of each model of pressure washer gas engine and pump, for example. Their manufacturing facilities are in 8 different locations: 5 in Wisconsin, 1 in Italy, 1 in Mexico and 1 in Brazil. Generac SpeedWash 7122 is specifically designed for a powerful and faster cleaning - the manufacturer claims that this product can clean up to 50% faster than other cleaning units in the same range. Also, this gas unit comes with plenty of handy attachments like power broom which allows performing multi-tasks. It’s clear that Generac intended this product to be easy to use, and they did it with all the additional features like quick-change nozzles. This unit is very durable and comes with a kink resistant high-pressure hose.
Features
- Pressure (PSI): 3200
- Engine type: Generac 196cc OHV
- Flow rate (GPM): 2.7
- Weight (lbs): 62
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 24.2 x 18.9 x 35.5
- Hose length (ft): 30
Pros & Cons
Pros:
| Cons:
|
The SpeedWash 7122 is one of the most powerful tools in its class on the market. It is offered with multiple user-friendly accessories which considerably speed-up a cleaning process. It's a big advantage in the course of a high-tempo modern living. So, if you’ve decided to purchase gas pressure washer, this unit should be at the forefront of your considerations. In my opinion it’s one of the best model among other counterparts.
Generac: Check the current price
3. Briggs & Stratton 20545
Briggs & Stratton is an American Fortune 1000 manufacturer of gasoline engines with headquarters in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. The company reports that it has 13 large facilities in the U.S. and 8 more in Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Mexico, and the Netherlands. The company's products are sold in over 100 countries across the globe.
Briggs and Stratton 20505 Gas Pressure Washer is less powerful as its gas pressure counterparts in this class on the market, but nevertheless it can handle most of household cleaning challenges. It delivers a pressure of 2,200 PSI at a flow rate of 1.9 GPM, which is enough to get rid of rust and old car paint. It also has a maintenance-free axial cap pump with easy-start technology to give you an easy time when starting up and working the washer.
Features
- Pressure Max (PSI): 2200
- Engine type: 550e Series OHV
- Flow rate (GPM): 1.9
- Weight (lbs): 50
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 28 x 22 x 50
- Hose length (ft): 25
Pros & Cons
Pros:
| Cons:
|
Briggs & Stratton 20545 is one of the less powerful gas pressure washers in its class on the market, but still it solves multiple of challenging cleaning tasks. This model is suitable for heavy-duty cleaning and car detailing. The Briggs and Stratton 20545 is a reliable and user-friendly gas pressure washer. I would strongly recommend it for those who strive for quality but don’t want to pay much.
Briggs & Stratton: Check the current price
4. Simpson MSH3125-S
Simpson Cleaning is a world class brand of outdoor power equipment and one of the industry leading pressure washer brands with more than 50 years of experience. They tend to design and make durable heavy-duty cleaning machines. Even the customers claim that Simpson pressure washers are lasting a long time. The fact that they were acquired by the FNA group, which is known as a powerhouse in the pressure cleaning industry, only goes to prove the quality of their service and products.
Simpson MSH3125-S is mostly used for residential purposes. However, with its 3200 PSI pressure, the Simpson Cleaning unit is a versatile model indeed. It comes with 5 quick connect nozzles to provide you a variety of choices suitable for your cleaning needs. You can clean windows, any type of floor, patios, furniture, preparing the house before it is painted, the roof clean-up and so on. This model is powered by a Honda gas motor and comes with a maintenance-free axial cam pump. But you still need to winterize the washer to ensure safe and proper usage in the future. That means proper maintenance and storing before the winter.
Features
- Pressure (PSI): 3200
- Engine type: HONDA GC190
- Flow rate (GPM): 2.5
- Weight (lbs): 65
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 34.7 x 21 x 23.2
- Hose length (ft): 25
Pros & Cons
Pros:
| Cons:
|
Simpson MSH3125-S is a big, powerful, residential gas pressure washer. If you want a machine that can take care of the toughest jobs, then this is the one for you, in spite of the few minor drawbacks that it does have.
Simpson Cleaning: Check the current price
5. Karcher G2700R
The G2700 R portable gas pressure washer is powered by a Karcher KPS 196 cc engine with auto choke for easy starting. It's quipped with oversized 12 "wheels, onboard accessory storage, four spray nozzles and easy-access hose connections. Its rugged welded-steel frame is easy to transport and requires no tools for assembly. The manufacturer promises an easy 5 minute setup with no tools required.
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead and Diisononyl phthalate, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer.
Features
- Pressure (PSI): 2700
- Engine type: Karcher KPS 196
- Flow rate (GPM): 2.4
- Weight w / o accessories (lbs): 60
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 16 x 20 x 52
- Hose length (ft): 25
Pros & Cons
Pros:
| Cons:
|
Overall Karcher G 2700 does its job. Not a bad option if you only use it occasionally or need something cheap. It will be useful for cleaning different types of patios, driveways and other elements of houses. Professional level jobs like cleaning construction areas demand much more powerful engines and pumps.
I have described the most desirable pressure washing tools above, thus you can save the time needed for the research, and choose the best product which will meet your requirements.
Karcher G2700R: Check the current price
10 Best Gas-Pressure Washers Comparison Table
1
Karcher
Karcher G3500 OHT Gas Pressure Washer with VersaGRIP, Powered by Honda, 3500 PSI, 2.6GPM
2
Generac
Generac SpeedWash 7122 3200 PSI 2.7 GPM 196cc Gas Powered Pressure Washer System with Attachments
3
Briggs & Stratton
Briggs & Stratton 20545 2200Psi 1.9Gpm Vs Washer, Red
4
Simpson Cleaning
SIMPSON Cleaning MSH3125 MegaShot Gas Pressure Washer Powered by Honda GC190, 3200 PSI at 2.5 GPM
5
Karcher
Karcher G2700R Gas Pressure Washer, 2700 PSI, 2.4 GPM
6
Simpson Cleaning
SIMPSON Cleaning PS3228 PowerShot Gas Pressure Washer Powered by Honda GX200, 3300 PSI at 2.5 GPM, Black
7
Generac
Generac Gas Pressure Washer 3100 PSI 2.5 GPM Lithium-Ion Electric Start with PowerDial Spray Gun, 25 'Hose and 4 Nozzles
8
Simpson Cleaning
SIMPSON Cleaning CM60912 Clean Machine Gas Pressure Washer Powered by Simpson, 2400 PSI at 2.0 GPM
9
A-iPower
A-iPower APW2700C 7HP High Pressure Washer 2700 PSI 2.3 GPM CARB Complied Gas Powered
10
Westinghouse
Westinghouse WPX2700 Gasoline Powered Pressure Washer 2700 PSI and 2.3 GPM, Soap Tank and Four Nozzle Set, CARB Compliant
