It can be difficult to determine whether you should choose an electric or petrol pressure washer. Pressure washers combine high pressure with a heavy water flow. The washer attaches to a water source like an outdoor tap, the machine then pressurizes the water for quick and easy cleaning without having to scrub.

The question should not be ‘Should I purchase an electric or petrol pressure washer?’ but rather ‘What do I need my pressure washer to do and where will I be using it?’. It is always important to compare what the pressure washer can actually do with your needs. Why do you want a pressure washer in the first place? The aim of the game is to remove dirt from objects with less abrasion. Ask yourself are you looking for a machine which is suitable for purely domestic use, heavy duty homeowner use or professional/ farm use?

Electric VS Petrol

Generally speaking, the convenience that electric pressure washers can offer makes them more suited towards homeowner use. These machines offer additional ease of use as they can be started with just the touch of a button. An electric pressure washer will have the power to complete most cleaning without causing any damage while also being lightweight, clean, and easy to use.

With all the power you need in a lightweight machine, an electric power washer is the perfect companion for everyday jobs around the home and garden. When using an electric washer, the user must ensure the electrical connection never gets wet.

Electric washers also benefit from a variety of different attachments which are extremely useful for a variety of jobs around the home and garden. Although it is often possible to get similar attachments for petrol pressure washers, electric washers offer a much wider variety.

Uses for electric pressure washers:

• Occasional use
• Window washing
• Outdoor maintenance
• Cleaning vehicles
• Cleaning fences
• Cleaning outdoor furniture
• Cleaning lawnmowers

Here at ISE Forest and Garden we always recommend a petrol pressure washer to regular users who may need the machine for professional use or those who require the added mobility that petrol can offer. These heavy-duty washers often offer significantly more power than electric models. The petrol pressure washer is the perfect choice for any larger scale jobs with tough, stubborn dirt.

Although these petrol models are often heavier than their electric counterparts this often contributes to the additional power they produce. Petrol pressure washers are generally built on wheels which counteracts the additional weight.

If you require a lot of power, petrol are the best option for you, however these powerful machines need to be maintained regularly. Petrol power washers will also last longer which is something that you may need to consider.

The elimination of an electrical cord offers added mobility as you do not need to be close to a power supply.

Top tip from our experts: We always recommend to run your pressure washer until the fuel tank is completely empty as poorly filtered fuel residue can clog the carburetor.

Uses for petrol pressure washers:

• Regular/ daily use
• Use anywhere
• Pool cleaning
• Driveway washing
• Preparing walls for fresh paint
• Cleaning decking
• Cleaning patios

Electric Pressure Washers

Entry level: Karcher K2 Power Control 1600psi Pressure Washer

• PSI- 1600
• Weight- 4Kg (without accessories)
• Max. water supply temperature: 40 °C
• Operating pressure: 74 bar
• Power cable length: 5 meters

The Karcher K2 Power Control 74 Bar provides the perfect pressure for any surface you are cleaning. Make cleaning your outdoor spaces easy, with the K2’s detergent suction tube that efficiently applies detergent as you clean and a 5m high-pressure hose for plenty of reach.

The K2 Compact pressure washer comes with a trigger gun, a vario Power lance and a dirt blaster lance that delivers outstanding cleaning performance using concentrated rotating pressure. The unit is small enough to be stored in a shed or transported in the boot of the car, with a telescopic handle so it's easy to carry or wheel around, and on-board storage of the hose, cable and accessories.

The impressive long-life water-cooled motor gives extra durability and outstanding performance, backed by Karcher’s confident 3 year guarantee.

Homeowner: STIHL RE90 1740psi Pressure Washer

• PSI- 1740
• Weight- 9.8Kg
• Max. water supply temperature: 40 °C
• Operating pressure: 100 bar
• Power cable length: 5 meters
• High-pressure hose length: 6 meters

STIHL is an extremely reputable name so straight off the bat you know quality is assured.

The STIHL RE90 is easy to use and ideal for those who have smaller places to clean. General cleaning of small items like garden furniture, lawnmowers, trailers, motor bikes, bicycles, tractors, and other vehicles is made easy with the RE 90. This washer is also excellent for cleaning your other garden equipment and attachments. Well maintained machines run much more efficiently.

With a 1750PSI of pressure the RE 90 is powerful enough to do everything you need it to do, and did we mention it can be purchased for only €199? Our experts say the RE90 is a must have for all small homeowners.

Mid-range: STIHL RE130 Plus 1960psi Pressure Washer

• PSI- 1960
• Weight- 21.2Kg
• Max. water supply temperature: 40 °C
• Operating pressure: 135 bar
• Power cable length: 5 meters
• High-pressure hose length: 9 meters

The STIHL RE130 Plus is a powerful pressure washer with a psi of 1960. In terms of ease of use, this Stihl mid range washer provides exceptional comfort. The RE130 plus has everything you need to get those tougher jobs done with an aluminium pump head, brushless induction motor, integrated wheel kit, dosable cleaning agent spray set, rotary nozzle, 9 m steel-reinforced high-pressure hose and a transport handle.

The handy storage compartment on the side of the machine provides several options for the practical and protected storage of the nozzles and power cable. When the RE130 plus is idle, the lance can be mounted on the side of the tool. This model also features a holder for storing the high pressure trigger.

The anti-drill and quick-release coupling makes setting up the high-pressure cleaner easier and prevents the high-pressure hose from tangling while you work, allowing the full length of the hose to be used.

Petrol Pressure Washers

Domestic use: 2175psi Interpump Pressure Washer with 6.5HP Honda Engine

• PSI- 2175
• Weight- 50Kg
• Engine/ Motor- 6.5HP
• Max flow rate- 14LPM
• Operating pressure: 150 bar
• High-pressure hose length: 10 meters
• Fuel tank- 3.1L

The 2175Psi Interpump Pressure Washer with 6.5HP Honda Engine is a highly versatile pressure washer which is ideal for a range of industrial and commercial cleaning applications.

The upright designed powder coated tubular frame with 10″ pneumatic wheels for easy manoeuvring. Comes complete with 10m 2 Wire H/P Hose, 3ft Lance and 3m Suction Hose and filter. The oil engine alert acts as a warning that the oil level is too low. This pressure washer with 6.5HP Honda engine has a detachable frame handle for easier transporting. The suction intake is optional.

For prolonged uses the reduced gearbox between the engine and the pump slows the pump speed down to 1450 RPM. This is an excellent feature for high performance & reliability. The pump is set with a recycle water facility which returns the water to the tank.

Professional use: 3000psi Interpump Pressure Washer with 13HP Honda Engine & Hose Reel

• PSI- 1960
• Weight- 92Kg
• Engine/ Motor- 13HP
• Max flow rate- 15LPM
• Operating pressure: 200 bar
• High-pressure hose length: 20 meters
• Fuel tank- 6.0L

The 3000psi Interpump Pressure Washer operates using a GX390 13HP Honda engine has an electric start option. This powerful petrol powered pressure washer is fitted on a vibration absorbing base plate which is mounted to a welded constructed frame finished with a hard wearing epoxy powder coated finish.

This pressure washer has been designed for hire companies, contract cleaners, farmers, heavy plant operators and for large scale applications and cleaning purposes in a commercial environment.

The engine oil alert acts as a warning that the oil level is too low. The Detergent suction hose as standard is controlled from nozzle at end of lance.

Tips for owning a pressure washer

• Clean the air filter- the air filter can become clogged depending on how often your washer is in use.
• Check the oil levels- maintain and monitor the oil levels and top up if necessary.
• Keep the frame and wheels clean- a well maintained machine will run smoother for longer.
• Ensure all screws are tight- the vibration from the machine often cause screws to become loose.
• Store your pressure washer in a dry place
• Empty the hose and lance when in storage- It is always best practice to empty the hose and lance so stagnant water doesn’t sit in the machine while not in use.
  

A Word From The ISE Team

Here at ISE Forest and Garden we care about the safety of each and every one of our customers. We ask our customers to always be aware of the safety features of your pressure washers. As always, the team here at ISE Forest and Garden are here to keep you well informed every week.

Click here to view our range power washers.

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