Electric Pressure Washers vs. Gas Pressure Washers
Pressure washers are typically categorized by power source, two of the most popular types are electric and gas pressure washers. Here are the benefits of each model to help streamline your shopping experience.
The Pros of an Electric Pressure Washer
With an electric pressure washer, you have two power source options there are corded electric pressure washers and battery powered pressure washers. Both use electricity instead of gas to fuel the pressure washer.
- Tends to be less expensive.
- Electric pressure washers are quieter than gas models.
- More environmentally friendly.
- Electric pressure washers don’t require you to keep gas on hand to fuel it.
- Lightweight models are available.
- Electric pressure washers tend to be easier to start and use.
- Easier to maintain than a gas pressure washer.
Considerations to keep in mind:
- Electric pressure washers do require an outlet or charged battery to operate.
- They typically don’t offer as much power as a gas pressure washer.
The Pros of a Gas Pressure Washer
A gas pressure washer is the classic model that many people are used to using. A machine that offers superior power and longevity, it’s built to handle tough and frequent pressure washing jobs.
- Gas pressure washers offer a lot of cleaning power for tough jobs.
- They’re very durable.
- Units are easy to move around, no cords or outlets needed.
- With the right maintenance gas pressure washers last for many years.
- You don’t need to remember to charge the battery.
Considerations to keep in mind:
- Gas pressure washers emit fumes and are louder than electric pressure washers.
- They’re more expensive than electric pressure washers.
- Gas pressure washers require regular maintenance like oil changes.
- They can also be heavier machines that are harder to start.
Electric vs. Gas Pressure Washers: Power & Performance
To figure out what kind of power you’re getting in a pressure washer you need to look at two things: PSI and GPM. The higher the numbers, the more power the machine offers. PSI stands for water pressure in pounds per square inch and GPM stands for gallons per square inch of the water flow rate. If you multiply GPM by PSI, you get the cleaning units for the machine.
Gas pressure washers typically start at 2,000 PSI and go up to 5,000 PSI, while an electric pressure washer starts at 1,200 and goes up to 4,000 PSI. To ensure you get the power you need, think about the cleaning jobs that you need done and choose a good pressure washer based on that.
Electric vs. Gas Pressure Washers: Cost & Maintenance
Gas pressure washers typically cost more than top-rated electric pressure washers. But they last longer and offer more power. You’ll also need to pay for the cost of fuel for gas pressure washers, and the cost of the electricity to run an electric pressure washer.
For maintenance, electric pressure washers still require cleaning after use and regular lubrication while a gas pressure washer needs their oil and gas filters changed, regular lubrication, oil changes, and new spark plugs as needed.
Electric vs. Gas Pressure Washers: Environmental Impact and Safety
Determining the environmental impact and safety of a pressure washer is complicated. There are many variables that need to be taken into consideration, including lifespan, emissions, decibel level and waste.
That said, an electric pressure washer is quieter, doesn’t run on fossil fuels and doesn’t produce emissions. It’s a smart option if you’re striving to be environmentally conscious. From a safety standpoint, always use the recommended safety equipment, including hearing protection (especially for gas models) when operating a pressure washer.
Electric vs. Gas Pressure Washers FAQs
Is a gas pressure washer better than an electric pressure washer?
There is no such thing as better than, it’s all about the model pressure washer that’s right for you. Consider fuel type, power, lifespan and ease of handling to choose the best pressure washer for your outdoor cleaning needs.
Are gas pressure washers hard to maintain?
Gas pressure washers do require more maintenance than electric pressure washers. During their lifespan, they’ll need their oil and gas filters changed, regular lubrication, oil changes, and new spark plugs.
What’s the lifespan of a pressure washer?
It depends on how much you use the pressure washer, how well you maintain it and where you store it. Careful use and meticulous care will only extend the run time of your pressure washer, whether you buy a gas or electric model. Depending on these factors you can expect a pressure washer to last from a couple of years to a decade. Typically gas pressure washers have a longer lifespan than an electric pressure washer.
What’s the best pressure washer for a deck?
When choosing a cleaner for a deck, it’s best to look for a top-rated electric pressure washer with a PSI that’s high enough to cut through the grim but low enough to prevent damage to the deck surface.