Power Washing 101

There is nothing more oddly satisfying than power washing. It's like giving your house a little fresh shower! However, it does come with its own unique set of pros and cons.

We weren't *just* indulging in one of Alex's childhood dreams (although he was very giddy). The main reason why we invested in a power washer was to strip the paint from the exterior of the house. We’ve since started using this concrete and driveway washing solution for more general purpose cleaning. But, before we could start power washing every surface in sight, we had to decide if we wanted an electric or gas power washer.

✅ Pros of Electric Power Washers

  • Lightweight & Easy to Handle

    • Typically smaller and lighter than gas models, making them easier to maneuver and store.

    • Great for homeowners who don’t want bulky equipment.

  • Quieter Operation

    • Much quieter than gas-powered units, so they can be used in residential areas without disturbing neighbors.

  • Low Maintenance

    • No oil changes, spark plugs, or fuel storage needed.

    • Just plug in and go, which makes them user-friendly.

  • Environmentally Friendly

    • Produce no direct emissions.

    • Energy-efficient compared to gas models.

  • Cost-Effective

    • Usually less expensive up front.

    • Lower ongoing operating costs (no fuel or major maintenance).

  • Convenient for Small to Medium Jobs

    • Perfect for cleaning cars, patios, outdoor furniture, decks, and siding. 

❌ Cons of Electric Power Washers

  • Lower Power

    • Generally less powerful than gas washers (usually 1,300–2,000 PSI vs. 2,500–4,000+ PSI).

    • May struggle with heavy-duty jobs like stripping paint or cleaning large driveways.

  • Cord & Outlet Limitations

    • Requires an outlet and extension cord, which limits mobility.

    • Not ideal for remote locations without power access.

  • Shorter Lifespan

    • Electric motors may wear out faster under heavy use compared to gas engines.

  • Not Ideal for Commercial/Heavy Use

    • Better suited for household cleaning tasks rather than professional or industrial jobs.

  • Durability of Budget Models

    • Cheaper models often use plastic components that can break or wear out faster.

⚖️ Best Use Cases

  • Great for: Homeowners with light-to-medium cleaning needs (cars, patios, siding, furniture, small decks).

  • Not great for: Professionals or people who need high-pressure cleaning on large surfaces regularly.

✅ Pros of Gas Power Washers

  • High Power & Performance

    • Deliver much higher PSI (2,500–4,000+) and GPM than electric models.

    • Ideal for tough jobs like cleaning concrete driveways, stripping paint, or washing large surfaces quickly.

  • Portability & Independence

    • No reliance on electrical outlets or cords.

    • Can be used anywhere—remote locations, large properties, or job sites without electricity.

  • Durability & Longevity

    • Built with heavy-duty components designed for extended use.

    • More rugged and reliable for professionals or frequent users.

  • Faster Cleaning

    • High pressure and water flow mean faster work, especially on large or heavily soiled areas.

  • Versatile Applications

    • Can handle both residential and commercial jobs.

    • Great for contractors, painters, landscapers, and cleaning services.

❌ Cons of Gas Power Washers

  • Heavy & Bulky

    • Larger, heavier machines that are harder to store and move around compared to electric models.

  • Louder Operation

    • Significantly noisier than electric washers, which can be disruptive in residential areas.

  • Higher Maintenance

    • Requires fuel, oil changes, air filters, and spark plug upkeep.

    • More prone to wear if not maintained properly.

  • More Expensive

    • Higher upfront cost and ongoing expenses (gas, oil, maintenance).

  • Environmental Impact

    • Produce exhaust emissions and require fuel storage.

    • Less eco-friendly than electric models.

  • Harder to Start

    • Many still use pull-start engines (though some premium models have electric start).

    • Can be harder to use for those not familiar with small gas engines.

⚖️ Best Use Cases

  • Great for: Heavy-duty cleaning (driveways, large decks, farm equipment, construction sites, commercial jobs).

  • Not great for: Small household cleaning, noise-sensitive neighborhoods, or users who want something lightweight and low-maintenance.

Ultimately, we got the RYOBI Electric Power Washer and bought into their collection of products and accessories, including a pressure washer gun, leaf blower, bug zapper, and cordless drill.

Daphne ChanComment