Which Portable Pressure Washer is Right for Me?
Anyone who has used a pressure washer knows the sore muscles that usually come afterward. Controlling high water pressures and avoiding hitting windows can be a real workout! No one wants to also be lugging around a heavy system or struggling to access tight spots. Every pressure washer has a different degree of portability and it’s important to pick the right one!
Pressure washers come in so many shapes and sizes that it can be hard to figure out which will give you the maneuverability needed. When deciding between washers, always consider where you’ll be cleaning, how the washer will get there, and where it will be stored (especially for large properties). These factors will help you choose the right equipment for the job, making your projects easier and safer.
Hand-Held Pressure Washers
The smallest types of portable pressure washers are carried by hand. These are usually electric models that are plugged into the wall or use rechargeable batteries. Many hand-held washers have a contained system within the body of the nozzle and weigh between 5-10 pounds.
Larger hand-held pressure washers have a separate nozzle and unit with handles that stand on the ground. These simply get picked up from the handles whenever you need to move and then rest on flat land while you’re working.
Hand-held pressure washers are the most compact options and are ideal for accessing areas where you couldn’t take a rolling system. These also transport and store very easily, so you can take them on-the-go for cleaning your boat, RV, or other gear.
Two-Wheel Pressure Washers
Pressure washers on wheels add a huge convenience. Take any stress of carrying a washer off your shoulders and roll the system instead! Gas-powered washers are best on wheels because of their weight, but many electric models now use wheels as well. The various designs can be compact and lightweight or much bulkier. These smaller washers are ideal for navigating around fencing or in tight corners.
However, one tricky thing to keep in mind about these lighter-weight models is their likelihood of tipping over when traveling over gravel, mud, or uneven ground. If your property has some inclines and other areas where stability might be an issue, consider a larger two-wheel or three-wheel washer.
Three-Wheel Pressure Washers
The latest in pressure washer innovation, three-wheel washers are the cleaning solution that moves with you. Just pull the pressure hose along as you work, and the system will keep up on its own. This agile design eliminates down time for repositioning the unit and decreases walking by about 50%. Three-wheel pressure washers can easily travel over uneven land and come with locks for extra stability on hills.
These pressure washers range between 3,300 - 4,200 PSI and are very powerful, so they’re only available in gas-powered options. Be mindful of this if you plan on using your pressure washer inside or in areas with limited ventilation, like a garage or workshop. Only use an electric pressure washer indoors.
Four-Wheel Pressure Washer Carts
Some portable pressure washers come on four wheels. These are big, boxy washers that can either be pushed or pulled. Most four-wheel pressure washers are commercial-grade and not intended for residential purposes. These can reach very high pressures and damage property quickly. We recommend choosing a smaller model unless you’re a landscaper or power equipment professional.
Learn More and Shop All Pressure Washers
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Last updated: 5/12/23