Pressure washer PSI recommendation

[BMK]

I'm in the market for a pressure washer. Can anyone recommend the best PSI for all around general residence stuff? (Walls, siding, brick, concrete, lawn furniture, etc.)
I dont need to strip paint with it, but definatly need something with more oomf than a regular hose.

I borrowed my neighbor's but I think it was too powerful. I think it was in the 3000 psi range. It actually (slightly) smoothed some of the texture off a stamped concrete walk I was using it on. Ugh.

 

[setsailsoon]

BMK,

I got the 3400 psi unit. You can use different tips to reduce the power so it won't strip paint. Sometimes it's good to have the extra power but it can also easily etch concrete or cut toes off so you have to be careful.. In my opinion you're better off with a true plunger pump rather than the axial cam or swash plate design. Top quality is a CAT Triplex pump. AAA also makes a good triplex plunger pump.

I hope this helps.

Chris

 

[JoyfulNoise]

I think for general cleanup purposes, a decent electric pressure washer around 2000psi is best. I simply don’t have enough things that require gas powered equipment so I try to go cordless as much as possible and, for some stuff, just suck it up and reel out the extension cords. I just hate storing gas & oil in my garage and don’t want all the hassle with maintaining a fussy gas engine. If I can get 3-5 years out of an electric model, that’s fine by me.

If you have lots of concrete to clean, I’ve heard those rotary head deck cleaners that look like big floor polishers do a great job at making the concrete sparkle. Saves you having to wand an entire patio with a tiny fan spray head.

 

[johntafshar]

I use this one for blasting pigeon droppings off my desk and washing my car (with a foam cannon). It was relatively inexpensive, and I haven't had any issues with it so far.

 

[bmoreswim]

I'd agree that 1600-2000 electric is what you are looking for. Ours is 1600 and does patio furniture, concrete and Trex decking nicely. Though a small amount more wouldn't hurt. I can't take off my toes with 1600 PSI. At least not if it's in a fan spray. A point may hurt them.

 

[BMK]

Thanks everyone. I just ordered a Karcher electric, 2000 psi. It had very good reviews and based on the recommendations here, should do everything I need it to do. Thanks again.