If you’re in the market for a gas-powered pressure washer, Consumer Reports has you covered. In our latest round of testing, we evaluated 11 models from brands including Craftsman, Generac, Honda, Ryobi, Simpson, and Troy-Bilt. Prices ranged from 0 to 0.
What to look for in a gas pressure washer
When shopping for a gas pressure washer, the first thing you’ll want to consider is what you’ll be using it for. If you’re planning on using it for light-duty tasks like washing your car or power washing your deck, you’ll need a model with less than 2,000 psi. For medium-duty tasks like stripping paint or cleaning siding, you’ll need a model with 2,000 to 2,800 psi. And for heavy-duty tasks like cleaning concrete or removing rust, you’ll need a model with more than 2,800 psi.
In addition to psi, you’ll also want to consider the flow rate, which is measured in gallons per minute (gpm). The higher the flow rate, the faster the pressure washer will work. But keep in mind that a higher flow rate will also use more water.
Finally, you’ll want to consider the features offered by each model. Some pressure washers come with features like a soap dispenser, a detergent tank, or a built-in hose reel. Others have wheels for easy maneuverability or a fold-down handle for easy storage.
What we found
In our tests, we found that the best gas pressure washers can cost anywhere from 0 to 0. But you don’t necessarily have to spend a lot of money to get a good model. We found several models that cost less than 0 that performed just as well as some of the more expensive models.
When it comes to psi, we found that more is not always better. In fact, we found that some of the models with the highest psi actually did a worse job of cleaning than some of the models with lower psi.
As for flow rate, we found that the sweet spot is around 2.5 gpm. Models with a flow rate of 2.5 gpm tended to be the most efficient, using less water while still getting the job done quickly.
Finally, we found that the features offered by each model can vary widely
Gas Powered Pressure Washers Comparison Table
Top Gas Powered Pressure Washers Reviews By Consumer Reports March 2023
Below is the list of top Gas Powered Pressure Washers with a detailed guide that you can consider in your purchase:
Westinghouse WPX3200 Gas Pressure Washer, 3200 PSI and 2.5 Max GPM, Onboard Soap Tank, Spray Gun and Wand, 5 Nozzle Set, CARB Compliant, for Cars/Fences/Driveways/Homes/Patios/Furniture
$293.75 in stock
1 used from $219.42
Features
- 3200 PSI and 2. 5 GPM of Powerful, Deep-Cleaning Water Pressure Perfect for Decks, Sidewalks, Siding, Fences, Railings, Garage Floors, Exterior Walls, Cars and Patio Furniture – Easy to Fill 0.9 Gallon Gas Tank
- Half Gallon Onboard Soap Tank With 25′ Foot Abrasion Resistant Super-Flex Hose With Lightweight Spray Gun and 5 Quick Connect Nozzles (0°, 15°, 25°, 40° & Soap). Choke Type: Manual
- Heavy Duty Gas Powered 212cc 4-Stroke Westinghouse OHV Horizontal Shaft Engine with Recoil Start - Long Lasting, Maintenance-Free Axial Cam Pump Provides 2. 5 Gallons of Water (and Soap! ) a Minute
- Tough Steel Frame Construction With 12″ High Profile, Never-Flat Wheels Provide Easy Transportation and Maneuverability – Includes Engine Oil, Tools, and Quick Start Guide to Get Started in Minutes
- All Westinghouse Pressure Washers are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; CARB Compliant; Backed by 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage with Nationwide Customer Service and Support Network
Simpson Cleaning ALH4240 Aluminum Series 4200 PSI Gas Pressure Washer, 4.0 GPM, HONDA GX390 Engine, Includes Spray Gun and Extension Wand, 5 QC Nozzle Tips, 3/8-inch x 50-foot Monster Hose, (49 State)
Features
- Professional Performance: Easy-to-assemble and easy-to-start with its HONDA GX390 engine commercial series engine, the Aluminum Series power washer is great for contractors who specialize in deck cleaning, wood restoration, and all other professional services
- Power and Durability: A powerful, reliable, maintenance-free CAT Industrial triplex plunger pump delivers 4200 PSI at 4.0 GPM and includes thermal relief to prevent overheating
- Sturdy and Portable: The aircraft grade aluminum platform with brushed extruded aluminum tubing offers durability and corrosion resistance; 10-inch premium pneumatic tires deliver ease of maneuverability across various terrain and uneven ground
- Includes Quality Simpson Accessories: Monster 3/8-inch x 50-foot high-pressure hose is kink- and abrasion-resistant; 5 Quick connect nozzle tips: 0°, 15°, 25°, 40° and Soap; 16-inch steel wand/lance; Professional spray gun with safety lock-out
- Important Notes: 49-State Compliant; Does Not Ship to California; Keep max fuel level 1/2 Inch below bottom of filler neck to avoid spillage; All pressure washers are 100% functionally tested in factory and may contain minimum residual fuel/oil or fuel odor; Pump/Hose Connection: Threaded M22 connection
SIMPSON Cleaning PS4240 PowerShot 4200 PSI Gas Pressure Washer, 4.0 GPM, Honda GX390 Engine, Includes Spray Gun, 5 QC Nozzle Tips, 3/8-inch x 50-foot Monster Hose, (49-State)
Features
- Professional Performance: Easy-to-assemble and easy-to-start with its Honda GX390 premium engine, the PowerShot power washer is great for contractors who specialize in deck cleaning, wood restoration, paint preparation, and all other professional services
- Power and Durability: A powerful, reliable, maintenance-free AAA industrial triplex plunger pump delivers 4200 PSI at 4.0 GPM and includes thermal relief to prevent overheating
- Sturdy and Portable: The welded steel frame construction with powder coated finish offers durability and corrosion resistance; 13-inch premium pneumatic tires deliver ease of maneuverability across various terrain and uneven ground
- Includes Quality Simpson Accessories: Monster 3/8-inch x 50-foot high-pressure hose is kink and abrasion resistant hose with quick connect fittings and polyurethane outer jacket; 5 Quick connect nozzle tips: 0°, 15°, 25°, 40° and Soap; Ergonomic spray gun 16-inch steel wand/lance
- Important Notes: 49-state compliant; Does not ship to California; Keep max fuel level 1/2 Inch below bottom of filler neck to avoid spillage; All pressure washers are 100% functionally tested in factory and may contain minimum residual fuel/oil or fuel odor
A-iPower APW2700C Gas Powered Pressure Washer 2700 PSI and 2.3 GPM 7HP with 3 Nozzle Attachments, CARB Compliant, Red
$247.00 in stock
Features
- Delivers 2700 PSI and 2.3 GPM of maximum surface cleaning power
- Perfect for removing dirt and grime while restoring decks, sidewalks, siding, patios, porches, driveways, and vehicles
- Quick connect wand with 0°, 25°, & Soap nozzles tips for a wide degree of cleaning applications
- 25’ Foot high pressure hose for expanded reach and maneuverability
- Two 8’’ wheels for convenient portability
Pressure Pro E4040HA Heavy Duty Professional 4,000 PSI 4.0 GPM Honda Gas Powered Pressure Washer With AR Pump
Features
- Aircraft grade aluminum frame with lifetime warranty
- Large flat free tires
- Dual padded shock absorbing feet- no walking
- Gun/wand holder
- Easy access to inlet/outlet fittings
PressurePro E4042HV Eagle Series Cold Water Direct Drive Pressure Washer, 4200 PSI, 4.0 GPM, GX390 Honda Engine, Viper Pump
Features
- Aircraft grade aluminum frame with lifetime warranty
- Large flat free tires
- Dual padded shock absorbing feet- no walking
- Gun/wand holder
- Easy access to inlet/outlet fittings
SIMPSON Cleaning CM61083 Clean Machine 3400 PSI Gas Pressure Washer, 2.5 GPM, CRX Engine, Includes Spray Gun and Wand, 4 QC Nozzle Tips, 5/16-in. x 25-ft. MorFlex Hose
$369.99 in stock
Features
- Powerful Residential Performance: Fully assembled and easy-to-start with its 208 cc CRX residential engine, the Clean Machine power washer is great for cleaning decks, patios, outdoor furniture, house siding, and prepping home exteriors for painting.Unit Dimensions: L: 37” x W: 30” x H: 21”
- Power and Durability: A powerful, reliable, maintenance-free OEM Technologies axial cam pump delivers 3400 PSI at 2.5 GPM and includes thermal relief to prevent overheating
- Includes Quality Simpson Accessories: 5/16-inch x 25-feet MorFlex high-pressure hose is non-marring, flexible, abrasion-resistant; 4 Quick connect nozzle tips: 0°, 15°, 40°, Soap to use for a variety of cleaning applications; 16-inch steel wand/lance; Ergonomic spray gun
- Quality Construction: Steel frame construction with a powder-coated finish for durability and corrosion resistance; 10-inch Premium pneumatic wheels for ease of maneuverability across various terrain
- Important Notes: Engines are tested in factory and may contain minimum residual fuel/oil or fuel odor. The actual product may vary slightly from product images
SIMPSON Cleaning ALWB60828 Water Blaster Series 4200 PSI Gas Pressure Washer, 4.0 GPM, Honda Engine, Includes Spray Gun and Wand, 5 QC Nozzle Tips, Monster Series 3/8-in. x 50-ft. Hose, (49-State)
Features
- Professional Performance: Easy-to-assemble and easy-to-start with its Honda GX390 commercial series engine, the Water Blaster Series power washer is great for contractors who specialize in deck cleaning, wood restoration, and all professional services
- Power and Durability: A powerful, reliable, maintenance-free CAT industrial triplex plunger pump delivers 4200 PSI at 4.0 GPM and includes thermal relief to prevent overheating
- Includes Quality Simpson Accessories: Monster 3/8-inch x 50-foot high-pressure hose is kink- and abrasion-resistant; 5 Quick connect nozzle tips: 0°, 15°, 25°, 40° and Soap; 48-inch insulated grip steel wand/lance; Professional spray gun with safety lock-out
- Sturdy and Portable: The aircraft grade aluminum platform with brushed extruded aluminum tubing offers durability and corrosion resistance; 13-inch premium pneumatic tires deliver ease of maneuverability across various terrain and uneven ground
- Important Notes: 49-State Compliant; Does Not Ship to California; Engines are tested in factory and may contain minimum residual fuel/oil or fuel odor; Fuel tank capacity: 6.4 quarts (1.6 gallons)
SIMPSON Cleaning ALWB60827 Water Blaster Series 4200 PSI Gas Pressure Washer, 4.0 GPM, Honda Engine, Includes Spray Gun and Wand, 5 QC Nozzle Tips, Monster Series 3/8-in. x 50-ft. Hose, (49-State)
Features
- Professional Performance: Easy-to-assemble and easy-to-start with its Honda GX390 commercial series engine, the Water Blaster Series power washer is great for contractors who specialize in deck cleaning, wood restoration, and all professional services
- Power and Durability: A powerful, reliable, maintenance-free AAA industrial triplex plunger pump delivers 4200 PSI at 4.0 GPM and includes thermal relief to prevent overheating; PowerBoost Technology delivers higher pressure at the nozzle
- Includes Quality Simpson Accessories: Monster 3/8-inch x 50-foot high-pressure hose is kink- and abrasion-resistant; 5 Quick connect nozzle tips: 0°, 15°, 25°, 40° and Soap; 48-inch insulated grip steel wand/lance; Professional spray gun with safety lock-out
- Sturdy and Portable: The aircraft grade aluminum platform with brushed extruded aluminum tubing offers durability and corrosion resistance; 13-inch premium pneumatic tires deliver ease of maneuverability across various terrain and uneven ground
- Important Notes: 49-State Compliant; Does Not Ship to California; Engines are tested in factory and may contain minimum residual fuel/oil or fuel odor; Fuel tank capacity: 6.4 quarts (1.6 gallons)
SIMPSON Cleaning MSH3125 MegaShot 3200 PSI Gas Pressure Washer, 2.5 GPM, Honda GC190 Engine, Includes Spray Gun and Extension Wand, 5 QC Nozzle Tips, 1/4-in. x 25-ft. MorFlex Hose, (49-State), Black
Features
- Premium Residential Performance: Easy-to-assemble and easy-to-start with its Honda GC190 Premium residential engine, the MegaShot power washer is great for cleaning decks, patios, outdoor furniture, house siding, and prepping home exteriors for painting.Unit Dimensions: L: 21” x W:24” x H: 34”
- Power and Durability: A powerful, reliable, maintenance-free OEM Technologies axial cam pump delivers 3200 PSI at 2.5 GPM and includes thermal relief to prevent overheating; Welded steel frame construction with a powder-coated finish adds durability
- Lightweight and Portable: The compact design is lightweight and small enough to be easily transported by one person; 10-inch premium pneumatic tires offer ease of maneuverability across various terrain and uneven ground
- Includes Quality Simpson Accessories: MorFlex ¼-inch x 25-feet high-pressure hose is non-marring, flexible and abrasion-resistant; 5 Quick connect nozzle tips: 0°, 15°, 25°, 40° and Soap for any cleaning tasks; Ergonomic spray gun and 16-inch steel wand/lance
- Important Notes: 49-state compliant; Does not ship to California; Keep max fuel level 1/2 Inch below bottom of filler neck to avoid spillage; All pressure washers are 100% functionally tested in factory and may contain minimum residual fuel/oil or fuel odor