Electric Or Gas Pressure Washer??

**Beemerboy** · 05-24-2006, 11:28 AM

I`m looking at getting a new pressure washer...so far I`m leaning on a gas model from Costco....Its not really about the price for me but more about quality, lasts the longest and will do a better job overall.

What are your thoughts?

**joyriide1113** · 05-24-2006, 11:33 AM

I`d get a gas model, but the majority is not all, come with higher PSI ratings. All I need is 1500psi for cars. I`m sure the more might be nice for wheels and such, but I`m not sure if you`re able to dial down the pressure.

All in all, I bought an electric PW and it broke down. First the gun went, then the machine blew...

Theres a lot more involved with Gas PW`s in terms of maintenance, usage, ect, but quality is worth the extra effort.

**Beemerboy** · 05-24-2006, 12:03 PM

Originally Posted by joyriide1113

I`d get a gas model, but the majority is not all, come with higher PSI ratings. All I need is 1500psi for cars. I`m sure the more might be nice for wheels and such, but I`m not sure if you`re able to dial down the pressure.

All in all, I bought an electric PW and it broke down. First the gun went, then the machine blew...

Theres a lot more involved with Gas PW`s in terms of maintenance, usage, ect, but quality is worth the extra effort.

Thanks I have used the gas and liked it...I had a electric one and like yours in broke after the first year...I`m a weekender for details so its not heavy use....all in all I think that the gas is going to be the trick

**jimmybuffit** · 05-24-2006, 12:20 PM

We need an electric model for indoor use...
After blowing thru THREE Karchers, we found the HOTSY Commercial line
http://hotsy.com/showProductModels.asp?areaID=8&typeID=15&seriesID= 110

Very dependable after two years of daily use. Ours is only 1000 psi, 3gal per min. It is perfect for Mats, tires, wheels, and wells.

W highly recommend it.

Jim

**jaybs02** · 05-24-2006, 07:27 PM

I`ve used both gas and electric, and both have their advantages.

I personally like a gas model over an electric one for its durability.

JMHO
"J"

**GregCavi** · 05-24-2006, 07:33 PM

I have an electric cheapy black and decker. I think its the same model Sean picked up last year. It hasnt let me down yet, and I use it alot. SO if your going for somethign budget then this $90 unit might be for you. If your looking for more power, then probably gas.

Greg

**JohnZ3MC** · 05-25-2006, 02:38 AM

Originally Posted by Beemerboy

I`m looking at getting a new pressure washer...so far I`m leaning on a gas model from Costco....Its not really about the price for me but more about quality, lasts the longest and will do a better job overall.

What are your thoughts?

A couple of things to keep in mind if you`re thinking about going with gas:
Honda makes two grades of engines, the consumer and the commercial engine.
Pumps come in 3 general flavours, the Comet is a low end pump, the General is a good midgrade pump, and the Cat is a high end pump.
The longest lasting gas pressure washer would be the commercial honda engine combined with the Cat pump. A stainless steel carriage would be an added bonus.
If prices were comparable, I`d seriously consider the cold water Hotsy electric JimmyBuffit recommended, assuming electricity would always be close by. What`s not to like with a 7 year warranty?
-John C.

**Brenton** · 05-25-2006, 05:07 AM

I have a cheapie electric and have been frustrated because it takes 3-4 minutes to get up to full pressure.
Then, I split the tap, and have a dedicated full pressure directly to the washer, and I get immediate pressure every time. That was my only complaint.

I`m different because I`m stationary, but for me, electric has enough psi (1700, but less at 30degree spray or so), low gpm for engines and water on the floor, is silent in off time, quietish in use, and ready to go when I press the trigger--no build up.

For me, it`s electric. Mind you, if I find a commercial gas model at a ridiculous deal ....

**hemin8r** · 06-02-2006, 01:04 PM

I`ve had experience with an electric PW & it wasn`t too bad. I`m in the market for a gas model now in which I may be picking up the Craftsman Clean & Carry for about 270.00 at Sears. Does anyone have any experience with this model?

**Beemerboy** · 06-02-2006, 01:14 PM

Thanks all I got a gas model from Costco and love it!

**Larry A** · 06-02-2006, 04:47 PM

Ive got a 1500psi electric washer for free .All it needs is a pressure hose. Im sure I can get a hose at Home Depot or Menards.

**pt91** · 06-02-2006, 06:34 PM

Anybody tried this one?

http://www.topoftheline.com/pressure...-portable.html

**justin30513** · 06-02-2006, 08:57 PM

I run the Karcher 3.86 Model from Lowe`s. I`ve ran it everyday for 3 months now and love it. Just the right amount of pressure. The main wand is adjustable and it has a built in tank that I fill with NXT car wash. It also will draw water from a standing source....like my tank. I just bought an extra 25 ft of hose....45 total now. I also like the fact that you can leave it on and it cuts off when you let off. Big bonus since I do work at offices and homes. So quiet. Plus, I don`t have to buy liquid gold to run it with.

Very happy. Just get a Karcher if you go electric.

Justin

**joe.p** · 06-02-2006, 09:11 PM

justin,
Lowes is showing 2 types of Karcher power washers,they don`t give a good
description. (1) is a 1700 PSI,the other a 1500 PSI..

**Brenton** · 06-03-2006, 06:11 AM

I am no happy with my electric pressure washer.
What I did was supply a dedicated water line to it. Before, I would unhook to fill buckets and wash hands. Now, water goes to it all the time. I get steady pressure when I want it. It is still crappy, but what can you do.