Electric vs Gas Pressure Washers

Some advantages of electric pressure washers (compared to gas-powered) include:

• Less expensive
• No fumes and significantly less noise
• No need to worry with gas or oil
• Much easier to start - just plug in and turn on!
• Lighter and smaller, take up less storage space

On the other hand, pros for gas-powered washers include:

• Higher water pressure output
• Can be operated where there's no electrical outlet
• Durable, heavy-duty metal frames and components
• Pro-level options like triplex pumps

Both types of pressure washers are capable of cleaning your home, the decision of which to use is an individual one – some people even choose to use both.

Most customers tell us they chose an electric model because of price, ease of use, storage and pressure (there's less chance of damaging delicate surfaces like wood when you clean with 2,000 psi or less). Electric models are also much better suited for car cleaning.

What makes a good car pressure washer?

Tired of paying for a car wash service each week? Do it yourself at home with the right tools! We recommend an electric pressure washer for the following reasons:

• You want to clean your car without worrying about the pressure washer overheating while you're not using it. Gas-powered models run continuously and require you to release the pressure (by squeezing the trigger) every couple of minutes, or they may overheat. Our electric pressure washers only run when you press the trigger, so you don't have to worry about overheating.
• Electric pressure washers have lower pressure (psi) output than gas models, making them a safer choice for vehicles. Using the Vario Wand on our K2 CCK or K3 Follow Me, for example, you can start at very low pressure and easily dial up the intensity by simply twisting the wand. On a gas-powered model, if you select the wrong nozzle you could quickly damage a car's exterior.
• You probably don't want to annoy your neighbors every Saturday morning while washing your car. Our electric pressure washers are MUCH quieter than gas-powered ones. In fact, our K3 Follow Me is certified by Quiet Mark!

Examples of specific cleaning tasks for electric pressure washers

Mossy stones and brick

Since moss not only forms a thick layer on stones and brick, but also gets into the pores, a Dirtblaster is recommended to remove it. The Dirtblaster nozzle produces a concentrated spray that rotates at high speed. Hold the trigger gun vertical to the mossy surface and slowly clean from one edge to the other at a distance of around 8 to 12 inches.

Vehicles

Kärcher special accessories and cleaning agents ensure thorough and gentle vehicle care. To make your vehicle sparkle in just a few simple steps, and ensure that it stays that way, first use the Vario Power Spray Wand to rinse off loose dirt. Then apply detergent using either the low pressure setting on the Vario Power Spray wand, or for an even more luxurious car wash-style foam, an optional Foam Nozzle. Apply the foam from top to bottom, making sure not to let it dry. Increase the pressure on the Vario Power Spray Wand to rinse away the foam and all dirt/debris. For areas that require more attention, an optional brush can be attached to the spray wand to help loosen up bugs and dried on dirt/mud.

Decks and Patios

Our Deck & Driveway surface cleaners ensure optimum cleaning results with a gentle action, even over large areas. With two high-pressure nozzles that spin at high speed, it creates a hovercraft effect which makes cleaning easy, quick and consistent. The outer body prevents splashback, thereby protecting both you and the walls from spray. For larger areas such as decks and driveways, you'll appreciate how much quicker you can clean, as well as the evenness of the cleaning, imparting a more professional appearance.

Garden tools

Say goodbye to scrubbing! Dirt and soil can be removed efficiently from plant and flower pots, spades, shovels, rakes, wheelbarrows, etc. in next to no time using a Kärcher power washer. The Vario Power Spray Wand and Dirtblaster Spray Wand are particularly suited to this task. Working in the garden has never been easier or less dirty!

Patio furniture

Easily tackle unsightly areas on garden furniture – as a result of pollution, weather or the previous winter – with the Kärcher Vario Power Spray Wand. An optional Kärcher wash brush and detergent are recommended for cleaning more stubborn areas of soiling.

Shutters

Before cleaning close the shutters. Set the spray lance to low pressure and apply Kärcher Multipurpose Cleaner. Start at the lowest section of the shutters. Allow the detergent to work in for a few minutes so that the dirt is loosened completely, but don't allow it to dry. Finally, remove the dissolved dirt with the Soft Bristle Wash Brush and rinse the detergent and dirt away with the Vario Power Spray Wand.

Top accessories for our K2, K3, K4 and K5 models

Most popular accessories for our K1700 - K2000 models, as well as other brands that are powered by an electric motor