Best Electric Pressure Washers
Pressure washer also known as a jet washer or a power washer is a mechanical sprayer widely used to remove dust, mud, mold and grime from many different surfaces such as vehicles or buildings. The actual volume of pressure in the washing device is usually expressed in liters per minute or per one hour.
What is a Pressure Washer?
Basically, a pressure power washer is a machine which is capable of cleaning all the varied types of surfaces with the help of water pressure, which can be powered by petrol or electricity. It is a mechanical device that is composed of the following components enabling it to remove all sorts of unwanted materials like mould, dust, mud, dirt and grime.
- Pressure hose
- Trigger gun
- Water pump
- Motor
The device is filled with water (usually hot water) and then projected from an outlet with huge pressure. This pressure causes the dirt to be removed, thus cleaning the surface.
Types of Pressure Washer
You will find a lot of different pressure washer reviews in the market, all used for the same purpose – cleaning. A power washer is just another type of washer and one which is mainly of 4 different types:
Electric Powered
As the name suggests, electric powered washers utilise electricity as their main source of power. This kind of power washeris very simple to operate and also does not require too much maintenance. They are best used for decks, patios, small sized furniture and other small scale jobs. By comparison, they are lighter and quieter than other washers. Not only that, they do not have any major emissions. You can easily store them indoors due to their size.
5 Best Electric Pressure Washers in UK
Kärcher Pressure Washer K 2 Compact
£89.98
3 used from £79.70
The Kärcher K2 Compact Car & Home Pressure Washer is a versatile and lightweight cleaning tool designed for various outdoor cleaning tasks. With a maximum water pressure of 110 bar and a flow rate of 360 liters per hour, this pressure washer delivers sufficient power for everyday cleaning needs.
Kärcher K 7 Premium Smart Control Home high-pressure washer
The Kärcher K 7 Premium Smart Control Home High-Pressure Washer is a powerful and advanced cleaning tool that delivers outstanding performance and convenience. With its adjustable pressure, high flow rate, and efficient surface performance, it effectively tackles dirt and grime on various surfaces. The inclusion of the T 7 surface cleaner, 3-in-1 Multi Jet spray wand, and Home Kit enhances its versatility and cleaning capabilities. While the weight may be a consideration for some users, the overall performance and features make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking professional-level cleaning results.
Kärcher K7 Premium Full Control Plus Home Pressure Washer
The Karcher K7 Premium Full Control Plus Home Pressure Washer is a high-performance cleaning machine that delivers exceptional power and versatility. With its impressive maximum pressure of 180 Bars, it can handle the toughest cleaning tasks with ease. The included T 450 surface cleaner and stone and facade detergent provide efficient cleaning solutions for large areas and stubborn stains. While the weight and cord length may pose some limitations, the K7 Premium is a reliable and powerful pressure washer that is ideal for homeowners seeking professional-grade cleaning performance.
Kärcher K 2 Power Control Home high-pressure washer
£115.00
4 used from £93.15
The Kärcher K 2 Power Control Home High-Pressure Washer is a compact and efficient cleaning tool designed to tackle various outdoor cleaning tasks. With a maximum water pressure of 110 bar and a flow rate of 360 liters per hour, this pressure washer offers sufficient power for everyday cleaning needs.
Kärcher K 5 Premium Smart Control Home high pressure washer
The Kärcher K 5 Premium Smart Control Home High Pressure Washer offers exceptional cleaning performance and convenience. With its adjustable pressure, high flow rate, and comprehensive accessories, it tackles dirt and grime effectively on a variety of surfaces. The smart control technology and included accessories, such as the T 5 surface cleaner and 3-in-1 cleaner, enhance its versatility and cleaning capabilities. While the weight and sound level may be considerations for some users, the overall performance and features make it a reliable and efficient cleaning tool. With a 3-year guarantee, you can have confidence in the durability and longevity of this pressure washer.
Petrol Powered
As opposed to electric powered washers, this one runs of petrol. This implies that their source of power is far more plentiful compared to electric powered ones. Unlike the above mentioned type of washer, this one requires far more maintenance. However, one advantage that they have is that they are unrestricted in terms of use. This, you can use them pretty much wherever you want. The downside is that they cannot be used in closed indoor environments because of their tendency to emit poisonous gases.
Since you will be using it for the household purposes, you can use a premium overhead engine with a brass or aluminum head which handles higher pressure. It should be of heavy duty frame with poly-braided or steel high-pressure hose. All the above-mentioned qualities in a jet washer should be enough for household purposes.
Cordless Powered
On the one hand, cordless pressure washers have the advantage of being usable everywhere, but at the same time they massively limit the performance of the device.
There are many devices that have very low performance and do not really live up to the name high-pressure cleaner. One example is the Worx cordless pressure washer (performance data: 22 bar / 120 l/h).
These devices are only suitable for removing superficial dirt and are not suitable for removing stubborn discolouration or similar.
However, there are also cordless pressure washers with an acceptable output (min. 100 bar & 300 l/h), which are then suitable for cleaning trailers, boats, garden fences and the like.
The suction hose is then held in this bucket and the pressure washer sucks up the water by itself. However, with the high flow rate, you should be prepared to have to refill the water tank more often. You should also make sure that you have a full battery.
Replaceable batteries
Suction hose
Hot water
Like petrol and diesel high-pressure cleaners, hot-water pressure washers are used almost exclusively in the professional sector.
Such devices are especially popular with farmers who want to remove oil residues from their machines or clean grease and other contaminants from their cowsheds. Such contamination can often only be removed properly with the help of heat.
An additional advantage of hot water pressure washers is that hot water has a much higher cleaning power. This means that less pressure can be used, which is easier on the material to be cleaned.
Hot water pressure washers are usually operated with high voltage current (400 volts). However, there are also models that can be operated with 230 volts. These just cannot heat the water as much.
Areas of application
Paved parking areas; terraces; paths & stone walls
Moss, algae (the green coating) and lichens particularly like to settle in open pores of pavement slabs or similar. Unfortunately, this coating is difficult to remove with conventional means.
The solution for thorough and quick cleaning is a pressure washer equipped with a dirt blaster or surface cleaner.
Another point for this application is: The more delivery volume (l/h) with corresponding pressure (130 bar) the pressure washer has, the faster you will get the surface clean.
This is because with a higher output, you can hold the dirt tiller further away from the ground and thus cover more area at once. With a low power, you would have to hold the lance very close to the ground to be able to remove the coating.
Also, the surface cleaner works much more effectively with a powerful pressure washer.
Recommended pressure washer for paved car parks, terrace etc.
Kärcher K 4 Power Control high pressure washer
- Powerful pressure washer: The Kärcher K 4 Power Control cleans bicycles and motorcycles, small cars, garden tools and furniture, fences and paving stones with a maximum 130 bar pressure
- Total control: The pressure level can be adjusted by turning the spray lance, The setting can be checked at any time by looking on the G 160 Q Power Control gun display
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For instructions on how to best clean your paved patio with a pressure washer, see our article: Pressure washer for patio. We also clarify some myths and give practical tips.
Surface / floor cleaner
min. 130 bar & 420 l/h
Wooden terraces & floorboards
Wood is a much more sensitive material than stone paving slabs or concrete floors, so cleaning should be carried out with low pressures (80 bar) and adapted spacing. In order to still achieve a good result, the use of cleaning agents is recommended.
There are also special wood cleaners for pressure washers that loosen the dirt and care for the wood. A tip from us: Use the pressure washer in an inconspicuous corner first, so you can check whether your wooden terrace can withstand the chosen load.
The pressure (bar) you may use for cleaning depends largely on the wood. Hardwoods such as bangkirai, kempas and bamboo are more sensitive to pressure and can be cleaned with 80 bar.
Recommended pressure washer for wood – patio cleaning
Kärcher K 3 Home Pressure Washer
- Includes a Vario lance and Dirt blaster – Ideal for cleaning delicate surfaces such as car, or harder surfaces like stone and brickwork.
- Home Cleaning Accessory Kit – Includes a T 150 patio cleaner and 500ml Patio & Deck detergent, making cleaning larger areas easier and faster.
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You can find detailed instructions for cleaning wooden terraces with a pressure washer here: Pressure washer wood terrace instructions. It also tells you how much bar you should use to clean softer woods.
Suitable wood cleaner
min. 80 bar & 360 l/h
Flat-jet nozzle
Garden furniture, garden tools, bicycles, barbecue, etc.
Cleaning garden furniture, garden tools or the bicycle is not particularly difficult with a pressure washer. That is why we recommend the performance data of 20 bar and approx. 120 l/m delivery rate for these jobs.
Wooden garden furniture, however, needs a little more power because of its rough surface. Here you should orientate yourself to 80 bar and 360 l/h. However, garden benches made of steel or smooth surfaces should be cleaned with a pressure of 20 bar without any problems.
Recommended pressure washer for garden furniture, bicycles, barbecue etc.
Bosch 06008A7972 High Pressure Washer EasyAquatak 120
- The easy garden tools from Bosch – the handy helpers for small projects
- Versatile cleaning performance: From stubborn dirt to every day cleaning tasks as the tool is compatible with a wide range of accessories
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The same applies to: wheelbarrows, racks, barbecues and bicycles. Smaller pressure washers are particularly suitable for these jobs.
Car Wash & Motorcycle Wash
For car washing, a pressure of only 85 bar is recommended, but this is not the case for the delivery volume. Thus, a litre capacity of 420 litres is required for normal-sized vehicles.
Therefore, you still need to go for the pressure washers with a higher pressure, as you need the high litre output. How much pressure you can actually apply to wash the car depends, of course, on the vehicle.
Furthermore, a high-quality foam nozzle with the appropriate cleaner is recommended for thorough car washing.
With these, a dense foam carpet can be applied, which dissolves stubborn dirt such as insect remains. In this way, all dirt can be removed from the paintwork even with low pressure.
Recommended pressure washer for car & motorbike washing
Kärcher K 5 Premium Smart Control Home high pressure washer
- Note: UK Customer Support number 01295 234 020. NEW - Discover valuable tips from Kärcher experts with our Home & Garden App, such as the right pressure for your cleaning task - individually adapted to your device.
If you own a high-pressure cleaner with an integrated cleaning function, you should try out the function before buying a high-quality foam nozzle. Perhaps the result will already appeal to you.
High-quality foam nozzle
Suitable cleaner
Reasonable pressure regulation
Exterior facade, pools, boats etc.
If you want to clean an exterior façade, boat or pool, you must be aware that the surfaces are not designed to withstand high water pressure.
Therefore, you should only increase the pressure gradually and work at an angle.
Nevertheless, we recommend a powerful pressure washer with 130 bar, otherwise you will spend ages cleaning.
The higher the pressure and the litre capacity (500 l/h recommended), the more surface area you can cover with the water jet at once.
However, always keep a sufficient distance (which in turn increases the area covered by the water jet) to avoid damaging the surfaces.
Recommended pressure washer for exterior facades, boats, pools etc.
Kärcher K 7 Premium Smart Control Home high-pressure washer
- Powerful pressure washer: The Kärcher K 7 Premium Smart Control Home cleans cars, mobile home, bicycles, motorcycles, fences, paths, steps, walls and outdoor furniture with a maximum 180 bar pressure
- App control: The pressure washer can be operated via the application consultant in the Kärcher Home & Garden app, Commands are simply transmitted via Bluetooth
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Recommended accessories for building cleaning
Kärcher TLA 4 Telescopic Spray Lance High Pressure Washer Accessory
- Compatibility: K 2 - K 7 high pressure washers
- Part Number: 26441900
- Colour: black
- Power source type: hand powered
- Package Dimensions: 10.5 L x 120.0 H x 24.5 W (centimeters)
Commercial, industrial and agricultural
The requirements in trade or industry are so different that we cannot give you a general recommendation here. Of course, this also applies to agriculture, where many different high-pressure cleaners are used.
Hot water high-pressure cleaners are particularly popular in agriculture, as they achieve better results with barn cleaning or machine cleaning than normal high-pressure cleaners.
In the industrial sector, high-pressure cleaners are often specially adapted for the areas of application, so there are often no ready-made solutions for private individuals to buy here.
One of the best hot water pressure washers
Kärcher Compact hot water high pressure cleaner
- Current type Ph/V/Hz: 1/240/50
- Flow rate (l/h): 240-560
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (mm): 1060x650x920
- Max. temperature (°C): 80-155
- Pressure (bar/MPa): 30-120/3-12
Features of the high pressure washer
Pressure ( bar )
The term “pressure (bar)” is used to indicate the water pressure of a pressure washer. A distinction is made between the “maximum pressure” and the “working pressure”. The “maximum pressure” refers to possible pressure peaks, which can occur, for example, when the pressure washer gun closes abruptly.
Depending on the application, different water pressures are required. You can read more about this in our article: Pressure washer how many bar.
Flow rate / litre per hour ( l/h )
Powerful pressure washers consume 450 litres of water per hour. This consumption is called flow rate / litre capacity and is indicated as follows: “450 l/h”.
Inexpensive models often have a lower output per litre than expensive models at the same water pressure. A high flow rate is therefore an important quality feature of pressure washers.
Advantages of a high flow rate:
- Stronger water jet
- Increased distance
- Dirt is washed away better
- Larger areas can be cleaned faster
- It is possible to work with lower pressure, which protects surfaces
For all-round use, we recommend a litre output of 450 l/h or more.
Pressure regulation
If a pressure washer has a pressure regulator, you can determine at what pressure the high-pressure cleaner should work. This is especially practical for washing cars, as it is common to work with only 85 bar, otherwise the paint could quickly flake off.
Pressure regulation can be either stepless or stepped. Thus, some devices allow you to freely determine the pressure or have prescribed pressure levels.
If this feature is not available, you have to regulate the pressure with the distance. However, this takes some practice and caution because you can quickly damage some surfaces with too much pressure.
Integrated cleaning function
If a pressure washer has an integrated cleaning function, you can use cleaning agents without an additional attachment. Kärcher, for example, has this function on almost every pressure washer. You only need to put the bottle with the cleaning agent into the pressure washer and off you go.
Of course, these systems can vary among themselves. Some pressure washers have an extra hose that you have to dip into the detergent container.
However, these integrated functions often cannot replace professional foam nozzles. For normal use, however, the function is extremely practical, as you can clean patios or pavements quickly and easily.
Water suction
This feature states that the pressure washer is capable of priming water itself. This means that you no longer have to operate the pressure washer from the tap.
If you want to use this feature, however, you should read the operating instructions thoroughly. This is because there are systems that have to be vented first, otherwise the pump can be damaged. You can find instructions for correct use in our article: Pressure washer with suction function.
Operating mode
The operating mode indicates what the pressure washer can be operated with. There are five possibilities: 230 volts (normal socket), 400 volts (three-phase current or high voltage current), petrol, diesel or with a rechargeable battery.
The different attachments
The attachment is a decisive factor in determining which task the pressure washer is suitable for. For example, a dirt blaster can easily remove moss and deep-seated dirt, whereas a floor nozzle is better suited for larger areas. To give you an overview of which attachment is suitable for which task, we have put together a short overview.
Dirt blaster / rotor nozzle
The deck brush, also called the dirt blaster, is the most popular attachment for the high-pressure cleaner. It is used to remove stubborn incrustations or deep-seated dirt such as moss and the like.
It significantly increases the cleaning power and should not be used for sensitive materials. The attachment achieves this effect by focusing the water jet and simultaneously releasing it in a rotating circular motion.
Kärcher 2.642-728.0 Full Control Dirt Blaster for K4-K5-DB145
- Rotating spot jet: Effective removal of even stubborn dirt from sensitive areas
- Powerful cleaning with high pressure: targeted cleaning of stubborn dirt
- Bayonet connection: Particularly user-friendly
- Impresses with its large area performance
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In this way, the dirt is virtually flung out of the substrate. With most pressure washers, this nozzle is already included in the scope of delivery, but if not, it is definitely worth buying it separately.
Floor and surface cleaner
The floor or surface cleaner is an attachment with which you can clean flat surfaces quickly and easily. It resembles a bonnet and distributes the water pressure evenly over the surface.
Kärcher T 5 Patio Cleaner
- Compatible with class K 2 to K 7 pressure washers
- The surface cleaner floats slightly above the floor due to the buoyancy of the nozzles and thus ensures easy work
- Adjusting the nozzle spacing makes it possible to clean sensitive and insensitive surfaces such as wood and stone
The bonnet also prevents stones or other objects from being thrown up. In addition, the bonnet virtually eliminates splashing water. However, this attachment is not suitable for uneven surfaces in most cases.
Normal nozzle / Vario nozzle / flat spray nozzle etc.
High-quality pressure washers are usually supplied with a vario nozzle. With this nozzle you can adjust the water jet, whether you want it to be more selective or to cover a larger area.
For example, a Vario nozzle can make the flat-jet nozzle superfluous, as the Vario nozzle can emit the water jet just like a flat-jet nozzle. A good example of this would be the Full Control Lance from Kärcher. Before buying, however, check which functions the Vario nozzle has.
Kärcher 2.643-907.0 Full Control 3-in-1 Multi Jet for K7 Plus-MJ 180
- Continuous pressure regulation with the G 180 Q Full Control Plus gun
- Three spray types in one spray line: detergent jet, rotor nozzle and continuously adjustable HD flat jet - for flexible work
- The right jet can be easily selected by turning the beam tube
If no Vario nozzle is included in the scope of delivery, several nozzles are often supplied. The disadvantage of these is that you have to change the nozzles to change the water jet. This means that the Vario nozzle is much easier to use.
Foam nozzle / admixture / injectors / high pressure detergent nozzle
This nozzle does not actually have a specific name, but in most cases it is used to add detergent to the water flowing past. In addition, in most cases these nozzles atomise the water so that a kind of foam carpet is created from the nozzle with the right cleaning agent.
This snow foam lance is particularly popular for cleaning sensitive surfaces such as car paintwork or open-pored materials. This is because you can apply cleaning agent over a large area, which in turn loosens the dirt and allows you to rinse it away with low pressure.
Kärcher FJ6 Foam Nozzle
- Effortless cleaning on varied surfaces; Transparent detergent container
- For application of a powerful foam for deep cleaning on all surfaces
- Suitable for varnish on cars & motorbikes; Ideal for vehicles, garden furniture, facades, stairways, caravans, paths, walls, terraces, driveways glass, stone etc.
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However, there are also high-pressure cleaners that have a separate tank where detergent can be filled. Accordingly, such devices do not require a high-pressure detergent nozzle. When using them, however, care must be taken to select a low pressure.
Washing brush
A wash brush is similar to a hand brush, with the crucial difference that water is sprayed through the bottom by the brushes. This attachment is used to clean roller blinds or other delicate surfaces.
Since the water provides a protective film, there are few to no scratches. If you want to wash your car paint with such a brush, however, make sure that the brush is not dirty.
In addition to the various nozzles, there are other accessories or attachments that significantly change the operation of the pressure washer.
Kärcher 2643-233.0 Soft Washing Brush
- Machine washable up to 60ºC.
- Food holder machine washable up to 60ºC.
- Hand wash or cold wash with a damp cloth is recommended.
- Easy cleaning.
The correct use of a pressure washer
The protective equipment for a pressure washer
Even though many people use a pressure washer without any protective equipment, using a pressure washer is by no means harmless. This is because permanent damage can easily occur if the water jet hits the eye. In addition, bruises and the like can occur if the water hits bare skin.
The following protective equipment is recommended:
- Safety goggles
- Hearing protection
- Waterproof protective suit
- Waterproof protective gloves
- Waterproof protective boots
- Hard hat
- Face shield visor
Nevertheless, you should definitely wear protective goggles, ear protection, rubber boots and waterproof clothing.
The reason for this is that the high pressure can cause small stones or similar to be thrown in your direction.
If these hurled objects hit your eyes or other sensitive parts of your body, permanent damage can occur.
Furthermore, most pressure washers are very loud, which can damage your hearing in the long run. The most neglected protective equipment, however, is waterproof clothing.
In case you are hit by the pressure washer, they distribute the pressure over a larger area. This prevents severe bruising or open wounds. So remember, a pressure washer is not a toy and should be used with care.
The correct use of a pressure washer
Before using the pressure washer, the pressure washer hose must be checked for cracks or kinks. This is because even small cracks would tear the hose apart at the high pressure.
You should also check the power cable, because parts of the insulation may have been damaged during previous work. An open power cable in combination with water could lead to fatal electric shocks.
Safety-related behaviour:
- Never point the water jet at people or animals.
- Always work away from yourself
- Do not leave the appliance unattended, especially when children are around.
- Never place the high-pressure lance on the ground with the pressure washer switched on
The correct storage of a pressure washer
After you have switched off the unit, you should operate the lance for a few minutes so that the water pressure can be released and residual water is drained off.
In addition, there should be no more water in the accessories, hoses or the unit itself for storage. Otherwise, the unit or accessories may be damaged in sub-zero temperatures.
Care / maintenance of a pressure washer
If you own a normal pressure washer, you can usually assume that the device does not require any care or maintenance. However, there is a rumour that pressure washers also need to be decalcified. However, this is only the case if it is a hot water pressure washer.
This is because limescale deposits only form when there is hot water in the pipes. This means that normal pressure washers are not susceptible to limescale.
Furthermore, hot water pressure washers do not necessarily have to calcify, but only if the water used has a high mineral value.
Use a pressure washer with a detergent
If you want to clean sensitive surfaces such as car paintwork or wooden decking, you often cannot avoid using a cleaning agent.
This is because these surfaces must not be cleaned with high pressure. In order to be able to remove stubborn dirt, the dirt must first be dissolved by a cleaning agent.
In order to be able to apply the cleaning agent over the entire surface, there is a special high-pressure cleaning agent nozzle / foam nozzle. This is attached to the high-pressure lance and adds the cleaning agent to the water flowing past.
These attachments are particularly popular for car cleaning, as the right cleaning agent creates a real foam carpet. However, so that this is not blown away again immediately, you should choose a low pressure when applying the cleaning agent.
Cold and hot water pressure washers
Hot-water pressure washers are clearly superior to cold-water devices. With hot water, for example, oil and grease residues can be easily removed, whereas cold water devices have their problems with such residues.
In addition, hot water devices can often be operated at a lower pressure, because the hot water has the same cleaning power at a lower pressure as cold water at a higher pressure.
However, hot water pressure washers are much more expensive to buy than cold water pressure washer do not offer any significant advantages for private use.
Unless you want to clean a cowshed or a tractor in your home, a good quality cold water pressure washer will do the job just as well.
Hot water pressure washers require a lot of energy to bring the water to the required temperature.
That is why most hot water pressure washers have a power connection (400 volts). However, Kärcher also offers an entry-level model that you can operate with 230 volts. However, the temperatures are not as high as with the 400 volt models.
FAQ
How much bar does my pressure washer need?
This depends on what you want to clean. If you want to clean paving and stones, you need a device with 130 bar. For smaller jobs, 80 bar is sufficient. You can find more information in this article: How many Bar do I need for my Pressure Washer?.
Which pressure washers are suitable for washing cars?
Devices with 85 bar and 420 l/h are recommended for washing cars. So make sure that you can adjust the pressure of your pressure washer yourself. You should also pay attention to the accessories; foam nozzles are a decisive advantage when washing a car.
How much should I spend on a good pressure washer?
Good pressure washers often start at £250 without accessories. However, the accessories make up a large part of the costs, so a normal floor cleaner often costs as little as £50.
What is a pressure washer suitable for?
What a pressure washer is suitable for depends on its performance and the accessories used. To give you an overview, we have listed a few areas of application here: Mossy paving slabs, car washing, stone walls, patios, garden fences, garden furniture, pools, house facades, bicycle cleaning and much more.
When is it worth renting a pressure washer?
Renting a pressure washer is most worthwhile if you only need it once a year. However, if you need it 3 to 4 times, it is more worthwhile to buy a regular one.
Alfred Harper is a former consultant and product expert at a company producing cleaning equipment. He was working at this position for more than 10 years and has gained incredible experience and knowledge as he has tested almost all pressure washers brands and models and became an expert in this field. Now, he is writing reviews and how-to articles about pressure washers and makes a great contribution to the Pressure Washers company to help people to choose the best cleaning equipment for home use.