Whether you choose a gas or electric pressure washer, you also need to determine the size of the engine.
As with any other engine powered machine, the size of the engine determines the total power of the unit. Small engines will not be able to produce the water pressure or gpm output of larger engines.
Generally speaking, there are four types of high pressure cleaning engines.
Light duty pressure washer
Light duty pressure washers produce water pressure levels below 2,000 PSI. If you only plan to occasionally clean outdoor household items, small decks or patios, a light-duty electric pressure washer will suffice.
Medium Pressure Washer
Planning to clean your siding, driveway or fence? You'll want a medium-sized pressure washer. A pressure washer of this size produces water pressure levels between 2,000 and 2,800 PSI.
Heavy Duty Pressure Washers
If you know you'll be cleaning large areas of concrete or need to reach the second floor, a heavy-duty pressure washer may be your best option. Heavy-duty pressure washers have pressure levels between 2,900 and 3,300 PSI.
Professional Pressure Washer
Planning to do a lot of pressure washing? Are you getting ready to repaint the exterior of your home? If so, consider investing in a professional-grade pressure washer. Super heavy duty engines are designed to handle large jobs that take hours to complete. These electric washers produce water pressure levels of 3,300 PSI or higher.
No matter which pressure washer you choose, remember to consider GPM measurements as well.