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Using a gas-powered pressure washer is possibly the best way to blast away dirt and grime from most if not all exterior surfaces. Let’s face it muck, grime, dirty driveways and patios, patio furniture, nasty oil spills in the garage, that’s part of everyday life.
Using a gas-powered pressure washer is perhaps one of the best ways to deal with these everyday issues, so it’s not a surprise that you are looking to buy the best gas pressure washer on the market.
When it comes to pressure washers, how they are powered falls into two categories, powered via an electric motor, or via a gasoline engine. There are some very clear differences between these types of pressure washers, which I’ll go into detail about, though in this article I’ll be focusing on gasoline-powered washers and well their superiority and what makes the best power washer.
I’ll go over the pros and cons in the gas pressure washer reviews below, along with a buying guide and answers to various frequently asked questions, if you have a question that’s not answered, please get in contact via the comments section below.
In a hurry? Then my personal top two are the Simpson Cleaning MSH3125-S 3200 PSI pressure washer or the PowerBoss Gas Pressure Washer.
Now, these gas-powered cleaners aren’t to be taken lightly, they can produce PSI ranges much higher than electric units, so damage to paint, windows and even yourself is much more likely if the appropriate care isn’t taken
By the end of this article, I hope that I’ll have provided you with all the information you need to choose the right pressure cleaner that will take care of all your heavy-duty pressure cleaning.
Be prepared, gasoline power washers are more expensive than their electric cousins, though they do offer these 3 main advantages:
- They are much more powerful
- They tend to be more durable
- If you are on a job site or in a remote area where there no electrical outlets are available gas will be your only option
It’s for these reasons that gas-powered power equipment is and always has been the must-have for contractors and professionals.
That said, over the years electrical and battery enhancements have taken place and the gap between gas and electric pressure washers has closed significantly, you can now get a very solid residential-use gas washer for a price that is very close to the price of a top range medium-duty electric washer.
Gas vs. Electric Pressure Washer Reviews
Or rather… Is gas pressure washer better than electric?
When you put your cards on the table, Gas models have a huge advantage in pressure washer reviews. That is that they clean faster.
This is because they have high pressures and flow rates. They are able to handle any job that a homeowner can throw at them. including heavy concrete cleaning.
That’s not to say that electric models have all the other advantages mind you. They are much smaller and usually weigh half as much as a gas machine, but checkout electric pressure washer reviews to find the electric power washer.
They start with as soon as you squeeze the trigger, and in most cases shut down as soon as you let go. So you won’t have any gas hassles (i.e. the lack of) or starting issues, plus you won’t have to worry about pressure washer pump damage from accidental excessive idling, plus not having an exhaust means you can use them indoors.
Look if you need maximum power and want to get the job done fast, go with gas, if you are remote with water but no power, go with gas, specifically get the best power washer you can. otherwise, you might enjoy the convenience of an electric pressure washer.
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Best Gas Pressure Washer Reviews
Here’s the Simpson MS60763 Megashot . This Simpson is really powerful one, and it’s on my list of top gas pressure washers for a reason. The best features I find are it’s incredible ease of use and simple initial assembly process. The Simpson MS60763 is perfect for those heavy cleaning tasks like getting rid of grime, muck, moss, mildew, oil spills and grease stains. You can also strip paint and prepare surfaces for a new painting job.
The MS60763 is a powerful gasoline pressure washer and when you pair it with a pressure washing sandblasting kit there isn’t anything that will stand in your way.
I mentioned the ease of use, most gas pressure washers require an amount of maintenance, this unit is almost maintenance-free, add to that there is a beautiful safety feature on the spray gun, where you have to disengage the safety lock before you can trigger the spray.
This is huge, you don’t want this pressure washer accidentally going off, with the high water pressure output that this power washer produces, if sprayed directly onto the skin, it can cause severe damage.
This is a pressure washer built to withstand the abuse of day to day use, it’s got a frame constructed of welded steel and large wheels for portability.
Pros
- This is an incredibly durable machine with its sturdy build, reinforced with a steel framework, a powerful engine, and a non-marring hose, which is resistant to abrasions, so it’ll last.
- It has 5 different quick connect spray nozzle tips, 0°, 15°, 25°, 40°, and soap, these change the spray pattern and the amount of pressure that comes out of the lance.
- Simpson has applied a user-centric approach when it comes to assembly of the pressure washer, it’s ease of use and the effortless trigger pull (too often my hand gets tired from difficult pressure washer triggers)
Cons
- While there’s a durable frame, the rest of the unit is made of plastic which can be prone to damage
- This is a gas pressure washer aimed at the residential market, it’s not suited to commercial use.
- The engine can be challenging to start and has been known to shut off, requiring you to restart it.
PowerBoss 3100 MAX PSI at 2.4 GPM Gas Pressure Washer with Detergent Tank, 25-Foot High-Pressure Hose, and 4 Quick-Connect Nozzles, Powered by Honda
- 3100 Max PSI at 2.4 GPM / 2.7 Max GPM at 2500 PSI
- Durable HONDA GC190, 187cc Engine makes this an ideal Power washer for Medium duty use at Home
- A maintenance Free axial cam pump with Easy Start technology provides Easy, low effort starting
Powerboss in name and power boss in nature! When I first l glanced at this machine, I knew it was built to last. The body of this unit is made from a heavy-duty frame with a 2-wheeled system. The frame includes dedicated notes for your to store your high-pressure hose.
The awesome thing about this gasoline pressure washer is it’s Honda GC190 engine. The power that this honda engine produces allows the Powerboss to generate 3100 PSI at 2.7GPM. That’s a cleaning power of 8370.
While this pressure washer would be considered medium-duty, I believe it can handle the most serious of stains and dirt.
Onboard this unit is an axial pump which doesn’t require any maintenance, so no cleaning or lubricating for you. There’s also a 1-gallon built-in soap/detergent tank.
Pros
- Due to its high cleaning power, this tackles grime and dirt with ease.
- It’s such a powerful pressure washer that old paint and rust can be removed!
- Its spray wand feels good in the hand and it comes with 4 quick-connect spray nozzles
- The Honda GC190 engine is a fantastic engine
Cons
- The wheels are huge which can mean portability is affected somewhat when it comes to tight spaces
Simpson Cleaning has created a safety-focused, powerful, and user-friendly pressure washer for all outdoor cleaning needs. It’s a sturdy unit with 10-inch never-flat wheels that conquer all terrains.
It has a powerful Honda engine producing 3200 PSI at 2.5GPM, which generates a cleaning power of 8000!
This engine has been designed to be easy to start, no worries about starting it or time lost, you’ll get this washer going quickly, meaning more time to crack on with the task at hand.
The MorFlex hose is designed to be resistant to kinks and abrasions (no annoying twists and bends to ruin the flow), which the second you pick that hose up, you instantly notice the quality, this should mean a long-lasting hose.
You get 5 different quick connect spray nozzle tips, 0°, 15°, 25°, 40°, and soap. This is a machine that will tackle all of your cleaning tasks from patios, decks to siding, and cars.
I used it to prepare a fence for painting.
This pressure washer is simple to use as it comes already assembled. One thing I really love is there are no low-quality plastic parts, it has a brass pump head and a metal frame.
Pros
- Sturdy, kink-resistant MorFlex hose for reliable and long-lasting use
- Adjustable water pressure with 5 different nozzles to choose from
- The spray gun features a safety lock-out
- Includes a powerful engine for fast and effective cleaning (Honda GC190 engine)
- 10”, premium pneumatic tires for easy maneuvering and transport
- Hose, spray gun and wand can be stored onboard for clutter-free convenience
- Suitable for a large range of outdoor cleaning jobs (including vehicles, pools, exterior walls, and patios)
- The HONDA engine conforms to EPA and CARB emission standards
- The HONDA engine comes with a 2-year warranty
- Ideal for all outdoor cleaning and blasting jobs
Cons
- Some users have commented that the oil tank leaks slightly, which apparently is an issue during transport, customer service will help you out in that situation
This isn’t the highest cleaning power pressure washer on our list, but don’t be fooled; this is a fantastic unit for residential use.
Due to its lower PSI output of only 2800, this actually is quite a light machine, coming in at only 57 pounds. This pressure washer comes with a 25 foot-long hose, and 4 quick connect nozzle tips.
This gasoline-powered washer doesn’t support hot water, though all in all, it’s a fantastic unit which will clean patios, driveways, your car, deck – all the regular pressure washer uses If you are looking to also strip paint… this isn’t the pressure washer for you.
The handle has a comfortable grip, and the large wheels make it incredibly portable.
Pros
- Well built with a durable frame
- Lots of thought about protecting the pump
- Connecting the hose is a breeze
- A special system to shut off the choke and fuel delivery to prolong this units life
- A fantastic size soap tank
Cons
- No output pressure regulator (it’s 2800 PSI or 2800 PSI)
This Generac speedwash gas pressure washer is a heavy-duty unit, It’s engine produces 3200 PSI at 2.7GPM that gives this pressure washer a cleaning power of 8640, that’s an insane number! Also why it’s a heavy-duty unit.
This a machine that’s been designed specifically for power and super-fast cleaning. Generac claims that by using this pressure washer you can clean 50% faster than other units in the same range. A bold claim.
Generac has included a whole bunch of handy attachments, plus you get a turbo nozzle which is aimed at tackling tough dirt and grime, you also get a far-reaching soap blaster and a power broom.
There’s a power dial built into the spray gun, which allows you to change between cleaning mode’s quickly. It’s clear that Generac wanted this Generac speedwash pressure washer to be easy to use, and it’s achieved that, with features such as the quick-change nozzles and power dial.
The Generac speedwash pressure washer is highly durable, and like a lot of pressure washers in this list, it comes with a non-marring, kink-resistance high-pressure hose.
Pros
- This Generac speedwash pressure washer is equipped with a durable axial pump which will outlast the aluminium pumps on the market
- You have a separate detergent tank
- Lots of included accessories/equipment
- Highly flexible hose
- 4 Quick connect spray tips(0 Degree, 25 Degree, 40 Degree, and soap)
- And a LONG 3-year warranty
Cons
- Your warranty is void if you don’t follow the maintenance rules (i.e., changing the oil ever season/20 hours use)
There’s no doubt you’ve heard of Karcher, this is a famous brand that sells high-quality products.
This Karcher gas-powered pressure washer products 2700 PSI at 2.5GPM, producing 6750 cleaning power, so this sits firmly in the medium-duty cleaning units, making it an ideal residential machine.
This isn’t the most fully-featured pressure washer, which you can see in its price, while it does have an axial cam pump, the pump head is aluminium so longevity is in question, though it does come with a 2-year warranty.
This pressure washer comes with a child safety lock, and there are 5 quick connect spray tips.
It weighs only 38.5 pounds! That’s incredibly light, so portability will not be a problem.
Here’s a video demonstrating how to set up this pressure washer
Pros
- A top quality product from a high-quality brand
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Customer service isn’t as friendly as it should be
This Simpson pressure washer is designed with convenience in mind, it’s an incredibly lightweight model at only 38 pounds, and is designed in an upright manner which should help with maneuverability and storage.
Performance-wise, this isn’t the most powerful pressure washer, but it’s a residential model, so it’ll achieve all the jobs you would typically throw at it as a home user.
The 149cc Simpson OHV engine produces 2400 PSI at 2GPM meaning a cleaning power of 4800, it’s engine has a large recoil that aids in starting, in fact, you shouldn’t fail to start this machine.
It comes with a 25 foot-long high-pressure hose, an ergonomic spray gun and 3 quick connect nozzles, 0-degree, 25-degree, and a soap nozzle.
Pros
- The handle can be folded down for storing
- Easy to move around
- Engine made by the manufacturer of the unit
Cons
- The upright design is different, so it may take some getting used to, and there is a potential to topple.
Generac 6602 OneWash 3,100 PSI, 2.8 GPM, 4-in-1 PowerDial, Gas Powered Pressure Washer (Discontinued by Manufacturer)
- Generac 212cc OHV engine rated largest, most powerful engine in its class
- PowerDial Variable-Pressure Control -Easily adjust the intensity of the spray to clean a wide range of surfaces with a single, easy-to-use control
- Consolidated Control Panel – All controls are efficiently located in a single location
This is a punchy gas pressure washer, produces 3100 PSI at 2.8GPM, producing 8680 cleaning power.
On top of the unit is a dial which allows you to switch between uses, there are 4 offered, wood, car, concrete and soap. Changing the dial adjusts the amount of pressure this gas pressure washer produces, making it ideal for any surface.
The power that this pressure washer produces is easily enough to help you strip loose paint, clean your patio, outdoor furniture etc.
Pros
- Ability to change the output pressure at a twist of a dial
- Ergonomic spray handle
- Highly maneuverable
Cons
- A fair amount of plastic which could get damaged
- Not the easiest to start
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Generac 10000006882 GPW 2900PSI Power Washer SPEEDW, 2900 PSI, Black & Orange
- Clean smarter; Clean up to 50% faster
- Attachments included: Turbo nozzle removes dirt and grime 30% faster and soap blaster sprays soap 3x farther
- Generac 196cc OHV engine delivers maximum cleaning performance
Generac is a well-known brand producing some of the most outstanding pressure washers on the market, alongside their portable and standby generators.
This brand designs and manufactures their own engines and pumps, meaning they control every aspect of their gas pressure washers.
This Generac gas powered cleaner comes with large diameter tires, and it’s designed to sit in an upright, easy to move manner. It comes with quick connect nozzles allowing you to adjust your water pressures depending on the job. It also features a kink resistant hose.
Pros
- extremely affordable for a gas power washer
- Large diameter tires
- upright, easy to maneuver design
- 30 feet Kink resistant hose
- 4 quick connect nozzle tips
- Power dial for quick adjustment to pressure
- 3 years of warranty
Cons
- Low power for a gas pressure washer
- Can vibrate under load
- Location of wand holder is close to engine exhaust
This is a fantastic entry level gas powered pressure washer and would be at home in anyone’s home. If you want an affordable medium-duty gas power cleaner, then this is the pressure washer for you.
WEN PW3100 3100 PSI 2.5 GPM Gas Pressure Washer with 208cc Engine (CARB Compliant)
- Powerful 208 cc 4-stroke OHV engine pumps 2.5 gallons per minute; For general use (above 40° F), 30W, 4-stroke engine oil is recommended
- Includes five quick connect nozzles: 0°, 15°, 25°, 40°, and soap
- Axial cam pump provides a reliable spray while maximizing the lifespan of the unit. Gun to Lance Connection: M22 Threaded
This is a sleek and sophisticated gas pressure washer with an onboard soap tank you can load with detergent for powerful cleaning.
You’ll find strong wheels, a long hose and many other impressive features to get you excited about your pressure cleaning sessions.
If you have to wheel your power washer across rough or uneven terrain to get to all of the dirty spots you want to clean, good tires are essential.
This washer from WEN features 12-inch tires. These tires can handle any surface and give you the pleasure of a smooth and easy-to-steer cleaning experience.
The onboard soap tank features a handy nozzle through which you can easily pour your pressure washer detergent.
Pros
- Comes with a generous 30-foot hose
- Includes an onboard soap tank for cleaning with detergent
- Comes with five nozzles which can be interchanged quickly and easily
- Sturdy 12-inch wheels
- Features a 42-inch spray lance with a lockable trigger
- Powerful 208cc OHV engine
- Comes with a 2-year warranty
- Nozzles have their own onboard storage space so you never lose them
Cons
- Non-collapsible so might be difficult to store if you’ve only got small or tight storage spaces
If you’re after a gas pressure washer with sturdy, wide tires, a long hose for high-up washing, and a powerful engine, then definitely check this one out.
It is deal for anyone wanting to use detergents and soaps to ramp up the cleaning power of their pressure washer.
I have to be honest, this is a bit of a ringer when it comes to comparing performance in the heavy-duty category. When you put this pressure washer up against the others on this page, well it’s in another league.
This Pressure Pro has a belt driven pump. Which is driven by a Honda GX390 engine, which is almost double the size of the best value Simpson above…
The pumps that Pressure pro uses are either the Annovi Reverberi or CAT brand.
Both of these pumps are premium pumps and are of a triplex plunger style, but number matter which you choose there’s a pretty hefty price tag, but this is a commercial all day use machine.
Pros
- Lifetime frame warranty
- High 4000 PSI 4.0 GPM pressure output
- Powerful 13hp Honda GX390
- 5 quick connect nozzles
- 50 feet of non-marking steel reinforced hose
- Pneumatic Tires
- CARB compliant
Cons
- Could do with a longer hose
If you want a great option then this is the pressure washer to get, I would say for your typical residential property this is way too much machine, but that said, there’s no job that this machine couldn’t do.
The Gas Power Washer Buying Guide
You may be surprised to know that a pressure washer can produce 75 times more water pressure than that of a regular garden hose.
Another fun fact from Crafted Garage is and this will probably shock you… Pressure washers can save you money, how? They use up to 80% less water for cleaning the same surfaced compared to a garden hose.
That’s fantastic news for the environment and your wallet/purse.
When you are on the hunt for a gas pressure washer, it can seem like a hassle, so many numbers, engine, pump types, etc., which is why I’ve put together this detailed buying guide, I’ve done the research so you don’t have to.
There are a few things you should consider before buying a pressure washer. This will help make sure you don’t make the mistake of buying the wrong one and wasting your hard-earned money in the process.
Power Source
Do you fancy dealing with power cords just for the sake of owning one of the most powerful electric pressure washers? Or do you want the same or even more power, with easier mobility?
That’s where gas-powered pressure washers come in. Gasoline-powered pressure washers do require more maintenance like changing the oil, checking the levels and loading fuel.
But then electric pressure washers consume a lot of power, and if you use a high powered one, well, they draw a lot of energy which can be a risk to your electricity and water output.
Terrain
Where will you use your pressure washer? How accessible is the terrain? Some pressure washers are built low to the ground with very little clearance. As such, they can’t handle rough/bumpy terrains.
Some, however, have welded frames that protect the engine and pump, married to large wheels, and these will handle all terrains.
Water pressure strength
How powerful should a pressure unit be? What are you aiming to clean with it?
If you are going to clean regular surfaces like driveways, decks, siding, and patio, then you should invest in a residential pressure cleaner.
If, however, you are looking to remove built-in grease stains, strip paint, deal with heavily-embedded moss, built-up muck, and mildew, you should look for units with a high PSI and GPM ratio.
Price
Price varies a lot between machines and brands. Gas-powered residential pressure washers range from a few hundred dollars to a thousand dollars or more.
If you are after something sturdier, with a larger pressure output and high cleaning power, you will need to invest, an investment that’s well worth it, in my opinion.
PSI and GPM output
PSI is a measurement that tells you how intense the water pressure is. The higher the number the more powerful the machine. If you weren’t aware PSI stands for Pounds per square inch.
GPM tells you how much water will flow through your pressure washer per minute, which is why GPM stands for Gallons Per Minute. The larger the GPM the more water output.
High PSI and low GPM means you’ll have a medium-duty pressure washer. A high PSI and high GPM means you’ll end up with a heavy-duty pressure washer, you need to take both numbers into account when buying a gas pressure washer.
Though you could always convert those numbers to cleaning power by PSI x GPM = CP, that number can then help you choose a pressure washer based on your cleaning power requirements.
Important note
I’ve mentioned this a few times, and I’ll mention it again, do not take pressure washers lightly.
Especially gas pressure washers that have a higher PSI output than electric pressure washers.
If you direct the stream onto yourself or someone else in the immediate vicinity, you can cause severe damage to the skin tissue.
You should always handle these with care, it’s advised to avoid the common mistakes like not wearing coveralls and rubber insoles (for when you use an electric pressure washer)
I suggest you select a gas unit which has a child safety lock, the last thing you want is you child grabbing the spray gun and hurting themselves or others and you know kids, one second they are happily playing across the yard, the next right where you don’t want them.
How To Set Up A Gas Powered Pressure Washer
Setting up a gas pressure washer is incredibly simple. If you’ve never done it before, the first step will be to assemble the unit as per the user manual, which came with the unit.
Check the oil
Before you start up your new gas pressure washer, you should make sure there’s enough oil in the tank.
To check this, remove the oil gap and read the oil level. Make sure you don’t add too much oil as the tank can overflow and you can cause damage to your pistons etc. as well.
Fill the gas tank
This is a straightforward step. All gas pressure washers require gasoline to run. The type of fuel will depend on the model so be sure to check the manual… twice… before filling the gas tank, we don’t want to misfuel.
Generally speaking, though your residential units will use regular gasoline and the heavier, commercial-grade pressure washers will usually use diesel fuel.
Fill up as much as you need.
Spray Gun
The spray gun is your main tool on a pressure washer. Some models will have a pressure power regulator on the spray gun, others will use quick-connect nozzles to control the power.
These are attached to the extension wand.
Some spray guns come with a comfort grip handle, and others have an easy to press the trigger, make sure you pick one that suits your needs, I can say that after spending hours cleaning my yard with a trigger with a high resistance… it’s worth getting an easy to press the trigger, my hand ached at the end of it.
High-Pressure Hose
The high-pressure hose is what takes the water from the pressure washer to your spray gun, it has to handle high amounts of pressure. You attached one end to the pump outlet and the other to the spray gun.
Make sure that all connections are secured tightly.
Plug into a water source
Before you start your pressure washer, you need to ensure that there is water flowing into the pump, if you don’t, you can cause permanent damage to the pump.
First, test your water flow, ensure that cold clear water is flowing from the hose.
This way, no stale water goes into your pump and you know the hose is clear of debris. Plug the hose into the pump inline coupler and then securely fasten to the pressure washer. You want to ensure no leaks.
Start your engine
With water flowing, oil, and gas in the pressure washer, it’s time to start your gas pressure washer.
First, you need to prime the carburetor, you can either use the choke or a primer bulb for that. Then yank in the start cord, some pressures washes will only require 1-2 pulls, others won’t start without 15-20.
Let the cleaning commence
With your pressure washer setup and started it’s just a case of directing the spray gun and pulling the trigger, as soon as you release the trigger, the water will stop running. Make sure you’ve attached the adequate nozzle or spray gun attachments for the surface you wish to clean.
Start style – Electric or recoil starter
There are two types of starter for your small internal combustion engine, these are electric and recoil, your gas-powered clean will come with one or the other, though sometimes it’ll come with both.
Engines that come with an electric starter are usually more expensive than the recoil starter variety.
Water temperature
Most pressure washers are cold water, but you may be surprised by the fact that you can indeed get hot water pressure washers, these hot water cleaners come with a heating element/boiler which is used to heat the water up to 104 F (50 C) above its current temperature.
Hot water easily cuts through grime and tough stains, it breaks down those solid bonds, making cleaning much easier.
This is exactly why your dishwasher uses hot water to clean your dishes.
If you visit your local car dealership, you’ll find that they use hot water pressure washers to remove the transport wax which is applied to vehicles to protect them during transportation.
Carriage Frame Construction
Depending on the size of your gas powered washer the washer may come in the hand truck or wheelbarrow stance, the large the and more powerful units tend to use the wheelbarrow stance as they allow for the bigger engine and pump.
The frame is usually constructed from welded steel and will incorporate vibration isolation engine mounts.
Tire Toughness
You want to be looking for washers that have heavy-duty pneumatic tires, these are incredible and will last the longest.
Gasoline storage
During winter it’s normal for your to store your pressure washer before you do so you need to empty your gas tank if that’s not an option you’ll want to add a stabilizer to it.
If you don’t the seasonal weather changes can cause stored gasoline to deteriorate which will cause ignition issues and make cause damage to your combustion chamber as these controlled explosions won’t happen predictably.
You should use fresh gasoline if you haven’t used your pressure washer since last season.
It’s advised that gasoline should only be stored in a Jerry can for 3-4 months.
How your pump is driven
When it comes to how the pump is driven by the engine, there are two styles. These are direct-drive and belt-driven. They both have their pros and cons, and these are:
Direct-drive
These are usually quite compact and affordable, though extended use (usually over 4 hours a day). This extended use can cause the engine to overheat, direct drive also tends to vibrate and generate more noise.
Belt drive
Are bulkier than direct driven as more space is needed to accommodate the belt, the addition of the belt will increase the amount of maintenance your pressure cleaner will need, it also reduces the engine/pumps efficiency.
That said, the belt will reduce the RPM and while also absorbing vibrations which will improve the life of the pump and engine.
The lower RPM will allow the engine/pump to run at a lower temperature which should mean that the unit shouldn’t over with extended (over 8 hours a day) use.
What is cleaning power
Typically a gas-powered power washer will have an engine that weighs at least 25 pounds, these engines are internal combustion engines, with this in mind you shouldn’t be surprised by the fact that these are obviously larger than their electric cousins.
Most gas pressure washers have built-in storage to hold the pressure gun and spare nozzles.
They will usually come in one of two styles either they will be of a wheelbarrow-esk shape, or they’ll resemble a hand truck, and will also differ in tire size and style.
Cleaning power calculation and Engine size
The calculation for cleaning power is as follows:
- Cleaning Power (CP) = Water pressure (PSI) x Water Flow Rate (GPM)
When talking about gas power washer engines, we define the engine size in cubic centimeters (CC).
What this measurement and that being CC describes in is the volume of the combustion chamber, so the bigger the combustion chamber, the larger the CC and the more powerful the engine, with more power, the engine will be able to produce a higher PSI.
So no you understand the engine and its measurements, the next one is the pump.
The pump is usually described using “flow rate” this is represented in gallons per minute.
you need both to be large in number to get a higher cleaning rate, for example here are two units, which produce the same cleaning power but have differing PSI and GPM.
Unit 1:
- 4000 PSI (engine) x 2.325 GPM (pump) = 9300 Cleaning power units
Unit 2:
- 3100 PSI (engine) x 3 GPM (pump) = 9300 Cleaning power units
The best brands gas power cleaner/washer brands
We find there are 6 top brands when it comes to gas-powered pressure washers, our favorite 3 are.
Simpson
When it comes to the residential market, the Simpson brands dominate all.
Simply put: Simpson makes powerful and reliable unit’s that are also incredibly affordable.
What you may not know is that back in 2009 Simpson reached a deal with the Black & Decker Corporation, which happen to be the owners of the DeWalt trademark, to manufacture and sell their washers under the DeWalt name.
So what does that mean? It means that DeWalt and Simpson’s washers are exactly the same, they are in fact made on the exact same assembly line in Arkansas.
Generac
Perhaps one of the brands with the longest history in the residential power tool market.
They were the first to bring the small size generators to the home use market. They’ve since added pressure washers to their residential offerings.
One unique feature of Generac is that they design and manufacture their own engines when it comes to Simpson et al. they tend to use engines from Honda, Kohler or Subaru engines.
The benefit of this is that Generac has complete control over the design and construction of these engines. Something that Generac likes to brag about, as their engines are purpose-built for their customer needs.
Pressure Pro
If you happen to be a contractor in the pressure washing space, then there is no doubt that you’ve used a Pressure Pro constructed unit, the major of the skid mounted and commercial-duty pressure units are built by Pressure Pro.
They are on the more expensive end of the market.
Price, price, and quality
When it comes to price, you get what you pay for when purchasing pressure cleaners.
What you get for $300 and below
There are very few brand new gas pressure washers that sit in this price range, you can get them from Generac, these are of the medium-duty style.
Increase your price to $300 – $500
This is the typical price range for a decent heavy duty gas washer. Heavy-duty units will have 2-3x the cleaning power of your common electric washer.
$500 and above
For the residential market most won’t need a pressure washer this powerful, but if you do, this is where the premium unit’s live, these have huge potential.
An example of a washer in this range is the 4,000 PSI and 4 GPM Pressure pro with a 13 hp GX390 Honda Engine and Cat triplex plunger pump.
Warranty
Warranties usually differ based on the manufacturer, but you might be surprised to know that actually, warranties tend to be rather standard across the board.
The engines will usually come with a 2-year limited warranty. While the rest of the unit will have around 1 year.
Those for the more perishable elements like the hose, the pressure gun, and the nozzles will sometimes only be covered for a limited time, normally up to 90 days.
Now a limited warranty means that they’ll only guarantee that the unit is “free from manufacturer’s defects in material and workmanship”.
If your machine starts revealing faults, you’ll need to take it to an authorized dealer, and it will be down to that dealer to decide if the fault has been caused by you and your use or if the defect originated from poor quality control during its manufacture, workmanship or the materials used.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gas Pressure Washers
What Are The Benefits Of A Gas-Powered Pressure Washer?
Gas pressure washers are very popular in rural areas where there is a lot of terrain and not a lot of electrical outlets. They’re also excellent on construction sites where you don’t want people tripping on wires. Plus, if you are looking for high cleaning power/pressure output, then it’s a gas pressure washer you want. They produce much more power than their electric cousins.
Also, the strong the electric motor, the larger the electricity bill which means the heavy-duty washers require a lot of energy, another reason why people use gas pressure washers.
What Can You Clean With A Gas Pressure Washer?
A gas pressure washer Is useful for all types of cleaning jobs. They can be used for residential or commercial purposes, although for commercial use, it’s advised you select one of the more powerful units on this list. So what can you clean with a gas pressure unit?
Driveways
Dirt, fallen leaves, moss, pine cones, grass leftovers from mowing, or track marks, will all be effortlessly cleaned with a standard pressure washer. A few sprays of your pressure washer will save you hours of sweeping with a broom
Patios
I use my pressure washer frequently to remove built-up moss from patio, using a heavy-duty pressure washer with a tighter degree nozzle. I also remove grass that’s growing up in the edging, though take care here as debris can fly.
If your pet isn’t a fan of taking care of their business on the grass, a pressure washer is a given to remove the “stains”.
Furniture
Garden furniture get’s built up with muck over winter, and a quick blast from your pressure washers using the right nozzle will bring them back to like new.
Siding
Like your garden furniture, houses and siding gets dirty thanks to birds and the elements. Grab your gas unit, and within a few minutes, your home will look shiny new. Which is great for your curb appeal.
Though once again, use the right pressure/nozzle as you can strip paint with a gas pressure washer.
Cars
This is something I do often, spray the car down with the pressure washer, attach the snow foam attachment… make a car snowman… wait… rinse.
The car looks as good as it did the day I bought it. You can also clean the car mats with ease.
Windows
When cleaning windows, you really need to make sure you have the pressure and nozzle right while cleaning windows works well. If you hit them with the wrong pressure, you can break your windows.
Make sure to check your instruction manual before use, but asides these cautionary words, pressure washers are fantastic for window washing.
Decks
Like garden furniture, decks get messy, and they can be hard to clean due to the creases and crevasses between the boards. The dirt gets into every nook and cranny. Trying to get it out via regular cleaning methods is a hard task usually not a successful one. But with a pressure washer… not a problem all the dirt is lifted and you end up with a clean deck in no time.
Paint removal
With a heavy-duty power washer, you can strip away layers of paint. Make sure you are using a pressure washer with a high PSI and GPM and you’ll be able to prepare your fence for a fresh coat of paint in no time.
Can I mix bleaching powder in the water in the pressure washer?
NO! Absolutely not! you should never, never use any type of bleach, domestic or otherwise in a pressure washer, it will damage the internal parts of the machine, including the engine, the pump, and pressure washer hose.
Electric vs. Gas Pressure Washer?
There are a few significant differences between gas and electric pressure washers.
If you want to be environmentally friendly, you’ll have to wager between saving water and saving fuel, also check with your electricity provider to ensure that they provide you clean energy.
Electricity is a cleaner power source, but it won’t get the job done if you need heavy-duty cleaning, Or if you need to use a pressure washer commercially.
Gas washers are fantastic to move around, they aren’t hindered by a power cord, and if you’ve ever used an electric pressure washer, the power cord will also get wrapped up with the high-pressure hose, I don’t know why it does, but it does! That’s not something you need to worry about with gas pressure washers.
Gas units are usually between 50 to 100 pounds, so they aren’t light, but they do typically come with never-flat tires that make moving the washer around the property a breeze.
You also aren’t limited to where the power outlet is or how long your extension cord is, gas pressure washers can reach as far as you need as long as you have access to a water source.
Though if you want quiet… then gasoline-powered units aren’t for you, they are loud and produce vibration… well, they shake. As the pistons rotate in the engine.
An electric pressure washer is much lighter, so picking it up is easy and they fit easily into a garage as their footprint is smaller than that of a gas pressure washer. They are excellent for regular household cleaning chores. But they will lack the necessary power and PSI output.
For me, it’s the lack of cleaning power and the electrical cord, endless cords just getting in the way or never having enough to get where I need to with the washer that really steers me to using a gas power one.
Top-Rated Best Gas Power Washers Comparison Chart
| PRODUCT | WEIGHT (POUNDS) | DIMENSIONS (INCHES) | PSI | GPM | CLEANING POWER |
| Simpson MS60763-S | 63 | 33 x 18 x 23 | 3100 | 2.4 | 7440 |
| PowerBoss Gas Pressure Washer | 62 | 24 x 22.5 x 20.5 | 3100 | 2.7 | 8370 |
| Simpson MSH3125-S | 65 | 34.7 x 21 x 23.2 | 3200 | 2.5 | 8000 |
| Generac 6922 | 57 | 24.4 x 18.8 x 35.4 | 2800 | 2.4 | 6720 |
| Generac SpeedWash 7122 | 62 | 24.2 x 18.9 x 35.5 | 3200 | 2.7 | 8640 |
| Karcher G2700 | 48.5 | 23.6 x 39.4 x 21.6 | 2700 | 2.5 | 6750 |
| SIMPSON Cleaning CM60912 | 38 | 19.5 x 14.25 x 23.5 | 2400 | 2.0 | 4800 |
| Generac 6602 OneWash | 68.5 | 20.6 x 21 x 39.5 | 3100 | 2.8 | 8680 |
| Generac 6882 GPW 2900PSI Power Washer Speedwash | 57 | 24.2 x 18.9 x 35.5 | 2900 | 2.4 | 6960 |
| WEN PW3100 3100 PSI 2.5 GPM | 67 | 21 x 21 x 40 | 3100 | 2.5 | 7750 |
| Pressure Pro E4040HG Heavy Duty | 150 | 42 x 22 x 26 | 4000 | 4.0 | 16000 |
Wrap up
Gas-powered pressure washers offer strong and powerful washing for the toughest, most stubborn messes. They will save you hours on cleaning tasks and make your life easier. I’ve put together the top choices for the best gas pressure washers on the market which hopefully is perfect for your needs.
You won’t need to call in the pressure washing services or take your car to the car wash whenever it gets dirty. It’s for these reasons alone that over the long term your investment into a gas pressure washer will save you money. Plus I’ve found my house, yard and car are cleaner than they have ever been.
Gas pressure washers are much more powerful, more convenient than their electric cousins, you won’t be making a mistake if you choose a gas-powered washer instead of electric.
I highly recommend the top power washer, the Simpson Cleaning MSH3125-S 3200 PSI or the PowerBoss Gas Pressure Washer.
If you have any additional questions, I’m always ready to assist, think I’ve missed a great gas pressure washer review on this list? Please feel free to share in the comments below.
Thanks for the indepth post and the comprehensive rating chart.
I’m looking at the Simpson Power Shot 4200-PSI/4 GPM washer, and am wondering if it is better suited to my needs? I want to wash asphalt floors and pathways in my goat house and yard.
They get covered with muck, poop, etc., and it is tedious work to clean them and you didn’t really mention anything in the higher PSI ranges above say 3200 PSI, so i’m wondering if 4200PSI is too much pressure? It also costs twice as much as the lower psi models, but I really don’t want to spend as much time as I do now with a light duty washer. I also couldn’t tell on the lowes website if this has plastic anywhere. Do you have any better info? The model number (at Lowes) is PS4240. The cost is $879. Thanks for your input!
Hey April,
I’ve not had the pleasure of testing the PS4240 yet, but 4200 PSI isn’t too much for a goat house, I would say that the Simpson MSH3125 will be able to handle the tasks you mentioned and shouldn’t take any more time.
What do you mean by “cleaning power”?
Hey John!
Cleaning power is a number used to show the general power output of a pressure washer, as mentioned in the article, it’s simple PSI(pounds per square inch) x GPM (gallons per minute) = CP (Cleaning Power).
It makes working out the general power output of each machine very simple when comparing machines