Looking for a new pressure washer. I've had an electric 1700psi before and it was basically I somewhat high power water hose. Wanting something 3000psi or higher. Anyone have any recommendations? Would like to keep it lower than $500 if possible, but if I need to bump it a little higher, I will.

Lots of decent to good deals can be found on Craigslist and Facebook market place. I bought a used 3000psi for $100 off of Craigslist and it has been perfect for several years now.

How do you want to use it? Sometimes the GPM rating is more important than PSI.

Misc stuff around the house. Driveway, siding, pool decking, etc.

Honda power and cat pumps are at pretty much the top of the residential use pyramid. But they'll probably cost more than your budget.

This one meets budget while it's on sale. A little low on gpm but should get the job done. Simpson makes washers for lots of companies that get rebadged (Dewalt for example).

https://www.lowes.com/pd/SIMPSON-PowerShot-3400-PSI-2-5-GPM-Cold-Water-Gas-Pressure-Washer-CARB/1000731644

The spinning driveway brush is a must have accessory in my book. Really knocks down time / effort for driveways and sidewalks.

In my experience GPM is the most important spec when looking for a pressure washer.

I've got a Simpson with a Honda mower that is a really nice machine (looks like the same one linked above). I got rid of a Briggs and Stratton that was terrible.

I also agree with the surface cleaner. It's a game changer.

This is currently the leader in the clubhouse...anyone see anything with it that should deter me?

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Simpson-SIMPSON-MSH3125-3200-PSI-at-2-5-GPM-gas-pressure-washer-powered-by-HONDA-GC190-60551/203177499

That one has an axial cam pump. A lot more wear parts on that than a triplex plunger pump which will have a longer lifespan.

If you'll only use it once or twice a year, save the money. If you'll use it more often, you may want the pump with better longevity.

A friend who has a truck washing business and owns 30+ power washer told me to buy to best I could afford and try to get a Honda engine. I hope that helps.

Salt of the water said:

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That one has an axial cam pump. A lot more wear parts on that than a triplex plunger pump which will have a longer lifespan.

If you'll only use it once or twice a year, save the money. If you'll use it more often, you may want the pump with better longevity.

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This is why I texags. Thanks!

My father just bought a Craftsman from Lowes with a Honda engine. On sale for $369 out the door I believe. 3400 PSI. Might be worth a look. I've been running a Craftsman with a Honda engine for almost 10 years now with no problems ... same type of workload you're looking at. Mine's 3100 PSI if I'm not mistaken.

I rented a driveway rotary sprayer and I wasn't impressed. It wouldn't generate the pressure I needed to break the dirt out of my aggregate surface. Maybe the unit I rented wasn't a good one.

OP, I have a Briggs & Stratton professional model, generates 8.5 ft-lb of torque. I think it's just about right for what you're describing and won't break the bank. Do not leave ethanol gas in it over the winter.

Generac has their line that have served me well

https://www.generac.com/all-products/pressure-washers#?cat=82

https://www.homedepot.com/p/RYOBI-3000-PSI-2-3-GPM-Honda-Gas-Pressure-Washer-RY803001/303316335

Pretty good luck with this one. About 2 years old. My son uses it to wash cars every weekend using a foam cannon. Mix in a driveway and patio every now and then.

I got the Ryobi 3,000 PSI 2.3 GPM Honda Electric Start Gas Pressure Washer from HomeDepot and highly recommend it.

1) Honda powered
2) Electric start
3) Plenty of PSI for driveways, sidewalks, house, deck, pool, car, truck, etc.
4) Light enough to take up and down stairs (for decks, balconies)
5) Reasonable price

Very easy to start and very reliable.

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Ryobi-3-000-PSI-2-3-GPM-Honda-Electric-Start-Gas-Pressure-Washer-RY803000E/301004439

Btw, good idea to use TruFuel in your small engines. Saves on trips to the repair shop for carb cleans after sitting up for any length of time, especially over the winter.

https://www.homedepot.com/p/TruSouth-TruFuel-4-Cycle-Ethanol-Free-Fuel-6527206/205913140

dr_boogs said:

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I rented a driveway rotary sprayer and I wasn't impressed. It wouldn't generate the pressure I needed to break the dirt out of my aggregate surface. Maybe the unit I rented wasn't a good one.

OP, I have a Briggs & Stratton professional model, generates 8.5 ft-lb of torque. I think it's just about right for what you're describing and won't break the bank. Do not leave ethanol gas in it over the winter.

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Did you rent a large diameter one? The larger the surface cleaner the more gpm you need to be able to run it. Looks like most of the Briggs washers are in the 3000 psi 2.5 gpm range, which would be ideal for a 12" surface cleaner and probably be a little underpowered on a 16".

I have a Mi-T-M pressure washer, 3200 psi, 2.4 gpm, stainless steel frame, never-flat tires, Honda-clone engine. Nice pressure washer that usually retails for $499.

Salt of the water said:

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Honda power and cat pumps are at pretty much the top of the residential use pyramid. But they'll probably cost more than your budget.

This one meets budget while it's on sale. A little low on gpm but should get the job done. Simpson makes washers for lots of companies that get rebadged (Dewalt for example).

https://www.lowes.com/pd/SIMPSON-PowerShot-3400-PSI-2-5-GPM-Cold-Water-Gas-Pressure-Washer-CARB/1000731644

The spinning driveway brush is a must have accessory in my book. Really knocks down time / effort for driveways and sidewalks.

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What do you think about Kohler vs Honda engines?

My ranking with no data to back it up.

1 - Honda
2A - Briggs
2B - Kohler

I feel like Kohler and Briggs are equal quality but I'd give Briggs a slight edge due to broader parts and service availability.

Honda has the higher reputation and a price premium to match.

Small engine mechanics are everywhere and DIY help is easy to find. Not so much on small pumps. I'd skimp on a motor before skimping in a pump.

Quote:

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What do you think about Kohler vs Honda engines?

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Honda, hands down. They make the best small engines.

"Btw, good idea to use TruFuel in your small engines."
This^ And when you put it up for the winter...if you do not use it...Run some pressure washer treatment in for rust prevention. I try and run my engine till it stops when I can. I don't like leaving fuel in. There are two thought on this. No air, so keep it full. And empty and no gumming up. I have tried both and have had better luck with all my small engines running them dry.

Kohler motor will outlast any other. Honda's are great,, but if I can get the Kohler instead it is a done deal.