Whether you choose a gas or electric pressure washer, you also need to decide on the size of the engine.

As with any other engine-powered machine, the size of the engine determines the total power of the unit. A small engine will not be able to produce the water pressure or GPM output of a larger engine.

Generally speaking, there are four types of high-pressure washer engines.

Light duty pressure washer

Light duty pressure washers produce water pressure levels below 2,000 PSI. If you only plan to clean outdoor household items, small decks, or patios occasionally, a light-duty electric pressure washer will suffice.

Medium Pressure Washer

Planning to clean your home's 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 bet. 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 preparing the exterior of your home for repainting? 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.