Hey everyone! I'm in the market for a pressure washer to tackle various tasks around my home. I mainly need it for cleaning a lot of concrete surfaces that I plan to reseal, plus I want to use it on the stone exterior of my house. I'm also looking to detail my cars with it. I'm considering two models from Sam's Club: an electric one that's quieter and needs less upkeep, but I'm worried it might lack the power I need for my driveway and patio. The second option is a more powerful gas model with a Honda engine, but it's pricier and comes with more maintenance needs and noise. Do you think the electric one will suffice, or is it better to invest in the gas model for the extra power? Thank you for your input!
3 Answers
If you want to stick with electric, consider upgrading to something more powerful than the CAT model you mentioned. A Westinghouse with at least 2700 PSI would be a solid choice for larger jobs without the hassle of gas. Plus, you’ll avoid dealing with oil and gas maintenance!
I've got an electric pressure washer, and it works fine for light jobs but struggles with bigger tasks. If you're primarily focusing on cleaning concrete and your house’s stone, I recommend upping your budget for a gas model. Even if you're in favor of electric washers, you'll want something robust for those surfaces. And don’t forget, a heavy-duty extension cord is essential since electric units tend to draw a lot of power. It'll save you from annoying breaker trips!
I've owned gas models, and they never let me down. They require maintenance—like winterizing and spark plug checks—but they have the power to get the job done quicker, especially on large patios. My Briggs and Stratton has lasted over ten years and still runs like new. If you're looking at gas, definitely consider a Honda engine for reliability.
Maintenance is key with gas units, but the power is unmatched for tough jobs! Just make sure you’re ready for those upkeep steps.

Totally agree, these electric ones can be limited. If you're set on electric, look for something that handles at least 2000 PSI for decent performance.