Looking for a reliable and affordable pressure washer that won’t break the bank? Look no further! Our team has extensively researched to bring you the best pressure washers under $400.
We’ve scoured popular shopping websites to provide valuable information on each product, including positive and negative customer reviews.
We provide individualized advice in our guide to assist you in selecting a product that meets your demands and budget. While no product is perfect, we have eliminated models with significant negative feedback to help narrow down your options. Get ready to find the ideal pressure washer for your needs!
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
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Our Pick
1
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Westinghouse WPX3200 Gas Pressure Washer |
Gas, 3200 PSI, 2.5 GPM, 35-ft hose, steel frame, powerful, loud, expensive. Rating: 9/10. |
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2
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Karcher K 5 Premium 2000 PSI |
Electric, 2000 PSI, 1.4 GPM, 25-ft hose, onboard tank, durable. Rating: 8/10. |
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3
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Sun Joe SPX3000-XT1 XTREAM |
Electric, 2200 PSI, 1.65 GPM, 20-ft hose, onboard tank, Total Stop System, some leaks. Rating: 7.5/10. |
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4
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DEWALT Electric Pressure Washer, 2100 PSI |
Electric, 2100 PSI, 1.2 GPM, 25-ft hose, steel frame, some issues. Rating: 7/10. |
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5
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Generac 8874 Pressure Washer |
The Generac 8874 Pressure Washer is a powerful and durable cleaning tool, suitable for heavy-duty outdoor cleaning tasks. Rating: 8/10. |
Table of Contents
Top Reasons to Buy a Pressure Washer:
Versatility
Pressure washers are versatile tools that can handle various cleaning tasks. From removing stubborn stains on concrete surfaces to cleaning outdoor furniture, pressure washers can help make cleaning jobs more accessible and efficient. With the right attachments, you can even clean your gutters and blast away grime, mildew, mold, and brake dust from your car.
Time and Money Savings
Pressure washers can save you time and money by minimizing the time and effort required to clean surfaces. You can quickly and efficiently clean large areas using high-pressure water without expensive cleaning chemicals or a professional cleaning service.
Improved Home Value
A clean and well-maintained home can increase its value and curb appeal. Pressure washing can be used to get rid of dirt, filth, and other debris that would otherwise make the exterior of your property look drab and ugly. This can help make your home look better overall and attract more interested purchasers.
Better for the Environment
Pressure washing is a more environmentally friendly cleaning method than using harsh chemicals or cleaners. You can effectively clean surfaces using high-pressure water without polluting the environment with harmful chemicals or wasting water.
Electric vs Gas Pressure Washers: Which One to Choose?
When buying a pressure washer, one of the most significant decisions you’ll have to make is whether to opt for an electric or gas-powered model. Each type has benefits and drawbacks; your particular cleaning requirements and tastes will ultimately determine your best choice.
Electric Pressure Washers: Perfect for Light-Duty Cleaning
Electric pressure washers are ideal for short cleaning sessions, typically 15 to 30 minutes. They’re best suited for general cleaning tasks, such as washing outdoor surfaces, furniture, and single-story ranch houses. They’re also effective at cleaning the undercarriage of a pickup truck.
One of the most significant advantages of electric pressure washers is that they’re much quieter than gas-powered models.
They are very simple to maintain and may be kept indoors easily throughout the winter. But they must be more appropriate for labor-intensive cleaning jobs. They have a very hot motor, cord, and ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI).
Gas Pressure Washers: The Ultimate Cleaning Machines
On the other hand, gas-pressure washers are best suited for heavy-duty cleaning tasks. These machines can shoot water to higher areas and remove heavier mold and dirt deposits because of the force of a gas engine, which is used to power a large, strong pump. They are also efficiently clean off-road vehicles, trucks, and farm machines that have accumulated thick mud deposits.
However, gas pressure washers are much louder than their electric counterparts. They require regular maintenance, including oil changes, replacement air filters, and a yearly spark plug check or change. They’re also more susceptible to fuel degradation, damaging fuel-system parts like carburetors and gas lines. Additionally, gas engine pressure washers are best stored in the garage or an outbuilding over the winter.
In conclusion, consider your cleaning needs, budget, and maintenance preferences when deciding between an electric and gas pressure washer. With the right choice, you can ensure that your pressure washer will be valuable in keeping your property clean and well-maintained.
Best Pressure Washers Under $400
Generac 8874 Pressure Washer
The Generac 8874 Pressure Washer is a residential pressure washer that packs a powerful punch. With its large engine and horizontal shaft pump, it has the power to handle tough cleaning jobs that other residential pressure washers may need help with. When the spray wand is not used for three to five minutes, the thermal relief valve releases water from the pump, extending the pump’s lifespan.
The spray wand on this machine is designed for optimal performance and can quickly blast away dirt and debris. However, the poorly designed holder for hanging the spray wand is a drawback. Overall, the Generac 8874 Pressure Washer is a lot of machines for the money, and it’s an excellent option for those who need powerful cleaning capabilities.
Key Features:
| Engine | 196 CC |
| Weight | 60.8 lb |
| Cleaning power | 2900 psi |
| Max flow | 2.4 gpm |
Westinghouse WPX3200 Gas Pressure Washer, 3200 PSI
If you’re searching for a powerful and effective gas-pressure washer, the Westinghouse WPX3200 is the best option. This pressure washer offers unparalleled cleaning power with its 212cc 4-Stroke Westinghouse OHV Horizontal Shaft Engine. In this review, we’ll look closer at the features, pros, and cons of the Westinghouse WPX3200 and how it compares to other pressure washers on the market.
Features
The Westinghouse WPX3200 has an extended handle and large wheels, making it easy to move around. It also has a 3200 PSI maximum pressure output and 2.5 GPM flow rate, enabling it to handle any tough cleaning job. The machine also has easy-to-access connections, detachable appendages, and comfortable-to-utilize handles for user convenience.
The Westinghouse WPX3200 is a full pressure washer capable of handling even the most challenging cleaning jobs. It’s easy to maneuver thanks to its extended handle and large wheels, making it suitable for cleaning driveways, decks, patios, and outdoor furniture. The detachable appendages and comfortable-to-utilize handles make it user-friendly. In contrast, the high-pressure output and flow rate makes it perfect for deep cleaning tasks.
The Westinghouse WPX3200 is an excellent gas-powered pressure washer with high cleaning performance. It’s ideal for deep cleaning tasks and can handle even the toughest cleaning jobs. While it does have some drawbacks, such as its weight and noise, it’s an excellent choice for those who need a powerful pressure washer for their cleaning needs.
Key Features:
| Power Source | Gas Powered |
| Maximum Pressure | 3200 Pound per Square Inch |
| Item Weight | 63 Pounds |
| Hose Length | 25 Feet |
| Tank Volume | 1.6 Liters |
| Maximum Flow Rate | 2.5 Gallons Per Minute |
Sun Joe SPX3000-XT1 XTREAM
A robust and adaptable pressure washer, the Sun Joe SPX3000-XT1 XTREAM is ideal for various cleaning jobs. It cleaned multiple surfaces, including brick, concrete, and PVC, to the astonishment of our testers. Still, we especially like it for car washing because its bevy of attachments makes the task effortless. This review will examine the features, pros, and cons of the Sun Joe SPX3000-XT1 XTREAM.
Features:
- Comes with a 14.5-amp/1800-Watt motor that generates up to 2030 PSI/1.76 GPM for powerful cleaning.
- Five quick-connect spray nozzles (0º, 15º, 25º, 40º, and soap) allow easy switching between different cleaning tasks.
- Comes with a 35-foot power cord and a 20-foot high-pressure hose for extended reach.
- Features an onboard hose reel for convenient storage and easy access.
- Comes with a detergent foam cannon, a soft-bristled brush, and a rim brush for car washing.
- Equipped with a Total Stop System (TSS) that automatically shuts off the pump when the trigger is not engaged, saving energy and prolonging pump life.
Overall, the Sun Joe SPX3000-XT1 XTREAM is a versatile and powerful pressure washer that performs well across different cleaning tasks. Its bevy of attachments makes it an excellent choice for car washing. The Total Stop System and onboard storage features make it a convenient tool. While it may take up more storage space, the Sun Joe SPX3000-XT1 XTREAM is a reliable and efficient cleaning machine worth considering.
Key Features:
| Type | Electric |
| Maximum pressure | 2,200 PSI |
| Flow rate | 1.65 GPM |
| Hose length | 20 ft. |
| Weight | 28.4 lbs. |
| Detergent tank | Yes |
DEWALT Electric Pressure Washer, 2100 PSI
Pressure washers are necessary to clean the worst dirt and grime in the house or job site. A portable and lightweight electric pressure washer with plenty of cleaning power has been released by DeWalt, a reputable name in the power tool sector. This review will examine the DeWalt DWPW2100 electric pressure washer, its features, pros, cons, and overall performance.
Features:
The DeWalt DWPW2100 electric pressure washer, boasts a 13-amp universal motor and axial cam pump that delivers a maximum PSI of 2100 and a flow rate of 1.2 GPM. Despite its smaller size, this compact pressure washer can remove stubborn dirt and grime from various surfaces, including PVC privacy fencing and vinyl siding, without additional chemicals. The machine also features a telescoping handle that extends to 39 inches, making it easy to roll and maneuver.
Overall, the DeWalt DWPW2100 electric pressure washer is an excellent choice for a compact and lightweight machine that packs a punch in cleaning power. Its unique onboard accessory storage, tangle-free hose, power cord storage, and easy maneuverability make it an excellent choice for job sites and home use. The only downside is its axial pump, which should be acceptable for occasional use.
Key Features:
| Type | Electric |
| Maximum pressure | 2100 Pound per Square Inch |
| Hose length | 25 Feet |
| Weight | 25 Pounds |
https://amzn.to/48o7eUOKarcher K 5 Premium 2000 PSI
The Karcher K5 Premium is a pressure washer that should be considered if you’re seeking one that can handle all your cleaning needs. This electric power washer has a flow rate of 1.4 gallons per minute and a maximum pressure of 2,000 psi, which allows it to deliver up to 40 times the pressure of a typical garden hose. It also includes two wands for versatile cleaning: the Vario for everyday use and the DirtBlaster for more demanding jobs.
You can also chek it The Ultimate Guide To KARCHER 1700 PSI PRESSURE WASHER (in 2023)
Features and Pros of Karcher K 5 Premium
One of the standout features of the Karcher K5 is its water-cooled induction motor, which can help it last up to five times longer than other models. It also has a 25-foot high-pressure hose and a 35-foot power cord for extended reach. At 32 pounds, it’s relatively lightweight and easy to move on its two large wheels. Thanks to its flexible hose, long cord, and adjustable settings, we found it easy to use.
The Karcher K5 includes an onboard detergent tank for easy soap application and a quick-connect system for nozzle switching. During our testing, we used it to clean a riding lawnmower, iron porch railings, and rain gutters. It handled all tasks efficiently and effectively. We were impressed by how much power this machine packs, and it made cleaning tasks more enjoyable than we expected.
The Karcher K5 Premium is a powerful and efficient pressure washer that can handle various cleaning tasks. Its water-cooled induction motor, onboard detergent tank, and two included wands make it a versatile and easy-to-use option. While it is more expensive than some models, its power and durability make it worth the investment for those who plan to use it frequently.
Key Features:
| Type | Corded Electric |
| Maximum pressure | 2000 Pound per Square Inch |
| Hose length | 25 Feet |
| Weight | 32 Pounds |
How We Tested the Pressure Washers: Our Evaluation Process
We put 20 different pressure washers to the test at our testing facility. Our evaluation process began with assessing how long it took to assemble each machine and the ease of every step. We inspected the quality of the components, attachments, hoses, and wands and the difficulty of attaching and detaching them.
The next stage involved testing the pressure washers on at least three different surfaces, including fences, decks, automobiles, boats, house siding, windows, driveways, and patio furniture. We noted how long each machine took to clean the surface thoroughly and the surface’s initial level of dirtiness. We evaluated pressure washers with detergent tanks’ performance with and without detergent.
During cleaning, we evaluated the pressure washers’ noise level, maneuverability, power, and ease of changing spray settings. We also assessed how easy it was to work around the cord and if it was long enough for machines with power cords.
After cleaning, we followed the manufacturer’s instructions for storing the pressure washers, including draining the hoses and washing the soap tanks.
The effectiveness, design, noise level, usability, power, and value of each pressure washer were then graded on a scale of 1 to 5. Once we tallied the scores, we declared the top-rated pressure washers.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Pressure Washer
Water Pressure
This is significant because the force of a pressure washer is expressed in psi or pounds per square inch. Lower psi means less pressure, and higher psi means more cleaning power. Consumer-grade pressure washers usually range from 1,300 to 1,800 psi, perfect for small residential jobs.
Heavy-duty machines vary from 2,000 to 3,000 psi and are suitable for tough stains, such as house siding, driveways, and decks. Professional-grade machines with 3,000+ psi are the most powerful and are used for industrial cleaning.
Gallons per Minute
Gpm, or gallons per minute, is directly related to psi and measures the volume of water that goes through the pressure washer. A higher GPM means the machine will clean faster and more effectively. Light-duty engines use 1.1 to 1.5 GPM, while professional-grade models can use up to 4 GPM. When shopping for a pressure washer, consider both psi and GPM.
Power Source
Pressure washers come in two power sources: gas and electric. Electric models are less expensive, lighter, and easier to maintain. Still, they are less powerful and must be used near an electrical outlet. Gas models are more powerful, portable, and versatile but require regular maintenance and have a more significant environmental impact. Select the power supply that most closely matches your needs.
FAQs About the Best Pressure Washers Under $400
What features should I consider when buying a pressure washer under $400?
When purchasing a pressure washer under $400, prioritize features like pressure output, water flow rate, and durability. Look for a model that balances affordability and performance, ensuring it meets your cleaning needs effectively.
How do I maintain my pressure washer?
To maintain your pressure washer, ensure regular cleaning after each use to remove dirt and debris. Regularly inspect parts for wear and tear, and replace them as needed. Proper storage in a dry and protected area also helps prolong its lifespan.
Can I use a pressure washer on delicate surfaces?
Yes, you can use a pressure washer on delicate surfaces, but with caution. Adjust the pressure settings to lower levels, use gentle detergents, and maintain a safe distance to prevent damage.
What safety precautions should I take?
When using a pressure washer, always wear protective gear such as goggles, gloves, and closed-toe shoes. Avoid mixing water and electricity, keep electrical components dry, and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines outlined in the manual.
Can a pressure washer remove tough stains and mold?
Yes, a pressure washer can effectively remove tough stains and mold by adjusting pressure and nozzle settings, using appropriate detergents, and working in sections to ensure thorough cleaning.
