Pressure washers are undoubtedly a marvelous invention. There are two basic types of pressure washers based upon their power sources, the gas-powered ones, and the electric ones.
But, how would you know which washer will be the best? Or, which one is more effective? The article below aims to clarify everything concerning the two pressure washers.
There is an in-depth comparison of both types to help you make a worthy purchase. Without any further ado, let’s dive in.
An In-Depth Comparison between Gas and Electric Pressure Washers
The Electric Pressure Washers
As the name explains, electric pressure washers use electricity to function. The source may be a direct plugin or a rechargeable battery.
On the other hand, gas pressure washers use fuel. Mostly, gasoline with 10% ethanol. Electric pressure washers are eco-friendly compared to gas ones, as they don’t emit the leftovers in the air.
The Water Storage Capacity
The next different aspect is the water tank capacity. A standard electric pressure washer has a Max. Water capacity of 5 gallons. While gas pressure washers have a water storage capacity of up to 100 gallons or more. Therefore, they work excellently on a commercial level.
Usage and Portability
Electric pressure washers are very easy to use. Simple plugging in sets the unit ready for work. However, the gas pressure washers are not that simple. Some have an electric start while others have a rope-pulled start. That may be an effort on the user’s part.
Electric pressure washers lose to gas washers when it comes to portability. The requirement of a continuous electric supply demands long extensions. Hence, limiting their portability. Contrastingly, the gas pressure washers have wheels to increase reachability and portability.
The Power
Gas pressure washers give more power than electric washers do. The power of an ordinary gas pressure washer ranges from 2800 PSI to 4000 PSI. While the electric washers have the maximum capacity of 1500 to 2000 PSI.
High-powered gas washers handle big projects more effectively than electric ones. Electric-powered pressure washers are suitable for smaller projects like home and small surface cleaning. However, commercial applications need a gas pressure washer.
Maintenance
Electric washers require little maintenance rather than gas washers. Firstly, gas washers need fuel to operate and then there are the frequent oil changes. Moreover, it needs winterizing for long storage periods.
As, missing out the periodic maintenances will result in the degrading of the unit. They are an effort on the user’s part.
Price
After all the factors discussed above, price is also something to factor in before the purchase. Electric pressure washers are much cheaper than gas-powered ones. Gas washers are expensive due to their heavy-duty parts.
Longevity
Gas pressure washers last longer than electric ones. They have replaceable parts that make maintenance easy and make the unit last for years. On the contrary, the electric pressure washers lack that luxury.
Electric Pressure Washers and Gas Pressure Washers: The Pros and Cons
Electricity Powered Pressure Washer
Pros
- Lightweight
- Pocket-friendly
- Perfect for domestic use
- User friendly
- Requires no maintenance and hidden expenses
Cons
- Not suitable for complex projects
- Risks of electric shocks
- Non-portable
Gas Pressure Washers
Pros
- Perfect for commercial use
- Lasts for years
- Easy maintenance
- More power
- Cleans tough dirt buildup with ease
Cons
- Expensive
- Running and maintenance costs
- High pressured water causes injuries
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the decision of a pressure washer depends upon the use case. For domestic applications, electric pressure washers make an apt pick. However, for commercial projects, you need the reliability of a gas pressure washer.
