Best Petrol Pressure Washers
A petrol pressure washer has enough power to take care of the toughest stains. Find out what you should look for before buying and which models I recommend.
I remember a few summers ago staring out of my back window at my old, dirty deck. There were stains all over it giving it a grey, aged look. I knew it was time to power clean it and get it looking like new again. I also had some old paint stains on my sidewalk that needed to be cleaned up. With the paint stains and a large deck I knew I needed a powerful petrol pressure washer. So I started researching and here’s what I found out.
How do Petrol Pressure Washers Work?
If you are looking into pressure washers, you already know that using a pressure washer is the best way to get something clean fast, but that does not mean you have ever used a petrol pressure washer yourself. Before you take on the project with this powerful machine, make sure you understand how it works. Keep in mind that different pressure washers work in different ways so you will want to adjust these instructions according to the model you have chosen. I always recommend reading the instructions manual before you start.
Most pressure washers have a stream that is 50 times more powerful than the average garden hose. But because the water is pressurized and comes out through a small hole, you are actually using less water than you would with your regular garden hose.
When you start your petrol pressure washer, the water pump inside will start the pistons. The fresh water that comes in through the garden hose you have hooked up to the machine will enter the water tank just off to the side of the engine. The water pump will then pressurize the water and drive it up the hose that is attached to your spray gun. Then you pull the trigger and fire away at that dirty surface.
Our Top Picks
Hyundai 4000 PSI Commercial Washer
I consider this unit a top choice for professional use because of its high flow and pressure specifications. It’s engineered for demanding jobs but comes with the usual higher operating costs and noise levels of large petrol machines.
Overview
I rate the Hyundai 4000 PSI model as a genuine commercial-grade machine. With a 420cc 4-stroke engine and an Annovi Reverberi-style heavy-duty pump, it’s designed to move lots of water quickly and remove stubborn grime with minimal passes.
Key features
Benefits, limitations and practical insight
In my experience, the high flow plus high pressure translates to real productivity gains on large jobs: surface cleaners, vans and agricultural equipment can be cleaned much quicker than with smaller machines. That said, the machine is noticeably loud and consumes more fuel under load (users reported about 3 L/hour under heavy work). There are also occasional reports of weaker components (for example, pull-start parts) so I advise checking local service support and keeping spare parts handy.
Who it's for
If you’re a contractor, agricultural user or someone who regularly tackles heavy cleaning tasks, I recommend this model for its performance and durability. For occasional domestic use it’s overkill and will be heavier and more expensive to run.
RocwooD 5000 PSI Commercial Washer
I see this as a high-output machine for heavy-duty cleaning: the 420cc engine and electric start option make it suitable for large drives, farm equipment and commercial sites. Expect loud operation and a need for proper handling and maintenance.
Overview
I consider the RocwooD 5000 PSI model a near-commercial-level pressure washer that packs very high cleaning force into a portable chassis. The electric start and large displacement engine make it appealing for serious users who need maximum cleaning capability.
Key features
Benefits, limitations and practical insight
This model’s major advantage is sheer cleaning power — it will remove stubborn, baked-on grime faster than most smaller machines. Owners commonly report a reliable first-start after proper initial setup (including adding engine oil before first run). The main downsides are noise, weight and running complexity: you'll need ear protection, a solid transport plan and routine maintenance to keep it reliable.
Who should buy it
If you run a commercial cleaning business or frequently tackle very large or heavily soiled surfaces, I recommend this unit. It’s overkill for casual homeowners but an excellent workhorse for demanding jobs when managed correctly.
Sealey Diesel 290 Bar Commercial Washer
I see this diesel model as a purpose-built commercial cleaner that prioritises long-run efficiency and reliability. It suits site work and continuous use, although it’s large, heavy and requires diesel maintenance knowledge.
Overview
I regard the Sealey PWDM3600 as a true commercial solution: diesel-powered with robust safety systems and features designed to handle demanding day-long cleaning tasks. It’s intended for contractors, rental fleets and sites where long run-times and fuel economy matter.
Key features
Benefits, limitations and practical insight
For me, the big advantage is diesel economy for long shifts — you’ll spend less per hour on fuel in continuous use. Safety features such as automatic low-oil shutdown reduce risk of engine damage. The trade-offs are clear: this is a heavy, expensive machine that needs lifting equipment for transport and a service plan for diesel engines. It’s less convenient for casual or occasional home use.
Who should buy it
If you run a commercial cleaning business, agricultural operation, or a rental fleet, I recommend this model for its economy and durability. For residential users, a petrol or smaller electric unit will be far more practical.
Bimson Power 2900 PSI Jet Washer
I found this model excels where mobility and reach matter most thanks to its long hose and large wheels. It balances strong cleaning power with an accessible price, making it a practical choice for homeowners and tradespeople.
Overview
I consider this Bimson Power model a pragmatic combination of power and practicality. It delivers around 2900 PSI, which is strong enough for driveways, vans, and construction tools, and the 30 metre hose reduces the need to reposition the unit repeatedly.
Key features
Benefits, limitations and practical insight
I appreciate how the long hose and large wheels make cleaning large areas much quicker — one reviewer noted they rarely need to move the machine while working. The power is sufficient for baked-on dirt, concrete dust and grease, but the unit is not light; lifting it alone can be difficult. Expect typical petrol noise and the usual maintenance (fuel, oil, spark plugs).
Who should consider it
If you want strong cleaning performance without stepping up to heavy commercial kit, I recommend this for tradespeople and homeowners with large exterior areas. Bring hearing protection when you use it for prolonged periods and plan where you'll store a 37 kg unit.
Hyundai 3400 PSI Petrol Washer 210cc
I find this Hyundai to be a dependable mid-range option: plenty of power for most homeowner and light-contracting tasks and sensible features like a detergent tank. It’s well-rounded and comes with a reassuring warranty.
Overview
I see the Hyundai 3400 PSI model as a balanced choice for users who want serious cleaning power without investing in commercial-grade equipment. The 210cc engine and included accessories make it ready for a broad range of tasks from cars to patios.
Key features
Benefits, limitations and practical insight
I appreciate the combination of power and convenience: the detergent tank and 10 m hose are useful for routine jobs, and the 3-year warranty is a strong selling point. Noise and vibration are part of the package — owners commonly report this — and there isn’t a frame-mounted hose holder which can be a minor inconvenience during transport and storage.
Who should consider it
I recommend this to homeowners, gardeners and small contractors who need a robust, versatile petrol washer. If you prioritise low noise or require an ultra-compact unit, look elsewhere.
Bimson Compact 2900 PSI Washer
I see this as a good-value alternative for users who want the same reported psi in a slightly smaller package. It offers strong cleaning performance for domestic tasks with an attractive price point.
Overview
I view this Bimson Power variant as the compact sibling of the larger 30 m model. It provides the same rated cleaning power (around 2900 PSI) but in a more compact chassis and at a lower price, which suits homeowners and occasional users.
Key features
Benefits, limitations and practical insight
Users report strong out-of-the-box performance and quick starts; I like that it delivers professional-level pressure without the premium cost. The main trade-off is reach — the 8 m hose means you may need to move the unit more often on large jobs. For those who prioritise budget and power over long hose length, this is a sensible compromise.
Who should buy
I recommend this for homeowners and small contractors who want high psi performance in a compact package. If you frequently clean large drives or need longer reach, consider a model with a longer hose.
Pro Splash 2900 PSI Petrol Washer
I find this Pro Splash model to be a solid mid-range petrol washer with easy assembly and user-friendly handling. It’s a practical option for users who want good cleaning power without a large budget outlay.
Overview
I regard the Pro Splash PS-205-PL as a pragmatic petrol pressure washer that aims to deliver solid cleaning performance at a competitive price. It’s targeted at homeowners who need more power than electric washers but don’t want to invest in larger commercial kit.
Key features
Benefits, limitations and practical insight
In my view, the unit is easy to assemble and delivers good cleaning results for patios, cars and decking. Several users noted straightforward assembly and easy starting. The common caveats are minor cosmetic issues (broken plastic nozzle holder in some deliveries) and the unit’s weight, which can make manhandling awkward for older or single users.
Who should buy it
I recommend this model for value-minded buyers who need true petrol-level cleaning power for regular domestic tasks. Inspect the unit on delivery, keep a basic toolkit for small fixes and consider two-person handling for lifting and loading.
RocwooD 3370 PSI Portable Washer
I find this RocwooD model to offer excellent value with a reliable start and straightforward assembly. It’s loud, as most petrol units are, but users report consistent starting and solid cleaning power.
Overview
I regard the RocwooD 3370 PSI washer as a practical, no-nonsense petrol unit that focuses on delivering usable pressure and durability at a reasonable price. It’s marketed as a 7 HP machine with easy-start four-stroke OHV technology.
Key features
Benefits, limitations and practical insight
From my perspective, the immediate positives are the robust chassis and the straightforward assembly process — several owners noted they had it ready to run in under an hour. The engine starts reliably on the second pull for many users, which is reassuring. Expect it to be loud during operation and be mindful of local noise regulations if using early or late in residential areas.
Who should buy it
I recommend this to homeowners and hobbyists who need more power than electric washers deliver and who appreciate simple, reliable machines. If you need near-silent operation or ultra-smooth long-run commercial duty, consider a different class of machine.
Draper Expert 2700 PSI Jet Washer
I find this unit a strong performer for domestic cleaning jobs: it’s powerful enough to tackle long-neglected driveways and patios. It’s a pragmatic choice, though some users note variability in pressure and adjustment sensitivity.
Overview
I view the Draper Expert 2700 PSI as a solid middle-ground machine that brings professional pump pressure to the home user. The unit is backed by Draper's reputation and is positioned for tough domestic tasks such as deeply soiled driveways and terraces.
Key features
Benefits, limitations and practical insight
In use, this washer feels powerful enough to make short work of heavily soiled surfaces — one owner described cleaning a driveway that hadn’t been touched in 15 years. That said, I’ve seen feedback about slightly lower-than-expected pressure on some examples and a pressure adjustment that isn’t as intuitive as other models. For straightforward heavy domestic cleaning it’s a good tool, but if you need absolute consistency for commercial jobs, you might prefer a higher-spec machine.
Who should buy it
If you’re a homeowner wanting a robust petrol washer without stepping into commercial pricing, I recommend this unit. Expect some noise and vibration typical of petrol machines, and follow the setup and maintenance recommendations closely for best long-term results.
DeWalt PressuReady 3400 PSI Washer
I value the quick-start technology and solid component spec, which make it appealing for pros who want a ready-to-run machine. However, reported early reliability issues in some units mean I recommend checking warranty fulfilment and pre-delivery inspection.
Overview
I consider the DeWalt DXPW3400PRNB-S a capable mid-to-heavy duty pressure washer that targets professionals and serious DIYers. It ships with useful accessories and quick-start features that reduce setup friction and make it attractive for frequent use.
Key features
Benefits, limitations and practical insight
I like the usability features: the included nozzles and quick-connect system let you switch tasks quickly. The quick-start tech is handy when you want to avoid fiddly pulls. My caution relates to some customer reports of early failures and transport damage; while DeWalt generally has strong support, I advise inspecting the unit on delivery and registering the warranty promptly. Also note the electric start option requires a battery that isn't supplied in-box.
Who should consider it
I’d recommend this for professionals who want a versatile, quick-starting unit and who have access to a DeWalt service network. If you need a turn-key machine with guaranteed out-of-box reliability, confirm dealer support and warranty handling before purchase.
Types of Pressure Washers
If you have ever encountered a tough cleaning project, you might think about using or even purchasing a power washer. The hard part about choosing the right machine is that not all models are created equal. You cannot simply go out and buy the cheapest washer you can find. There are actually two different types of engines associated with power scrubber systems: petrol and electric.
If you are considering a petrol machine, there are advantages and disadvantages of these models:
If you decide on a petrol pressure washer, you will also want to keep in mind that there are two different types of petrol-powered engines – the Side Valve and the Overhead Valve. The side valve is also known as the L-head. This type of engine has been around for 60 years and is quite cheap for manufacturers to create. The running life of the engine, however, shows that the manufacturing is cheap because the engine is prone to have quite a few different problems. The overhead valve engine, also known as the OHV is the best type of engine. Petrol pressure washer models with this type of engine have more power and make less noise. They also use less petrol and have a longer life span that includes energy efficiency.
Safety Tips
In order to stay safe when you are using a petrol pressure washer, you will need to use some common sense.
- Be sure never to aim the sprayer at another person or an animal because the pressure is high and could cause injuries.
- Read through your manual and make sure you understand how your petrol pressure washer works.
- Since you are using water, keep your petrol pressure washer away from electricity sources.
- Make sure you understand how far away you need to be from the surface you are cleaning. Standing too close can destroy the area, especially something like soft wood siding, and possibly cause harm to you.
- Use the proper cleaning chemicals and not bleach. Using the wrong chemicals can damage the washer and the surface you are trying to clean.
- Adhere to the safety check list that comes along with the washer.
- Wear protective eye gear and check the washer’s connections before you turn it on every time.
- Clean from the ground, instead of a ladder, when possible to avoid falls and unstable footing.
The Ultimate Guide to selecting the Best Pressure Washer
Here are some important things to know before you choose a pressure washer. Learn about psi, gpm, and find out whether petrol or electric power cleaners are better.
If you’re like me, you like to try to do something yourself before you just hire somebody. This is especially true around the house. I’m not what you call an extreme do-it-yourselfer trying to tackle complex electrical wiring or putting up solar panels for example, but I do feel that I can handle some of the easier things, like power washing my deck.
Now I’ve got a pretty big deck on my house, it’s about 400 square feet, so I wanted something that was going to get the job done fast. The last thing I want to do is to have to speed 3 or 4 weekends in a row cleaning my deck and walkway every summer. We all have better things to do with our free time.
So I set out to find the best high psi cleaner engine that will work the fastest and get the job done without damaging my deck. Surprisingly I found out that PSI (pounds per square inch) is not the most important factor you should be looking at. Here is what you need to know when choosing a pressure washer.
How much power a washer can produce?
Intensity scrubbing apparatus are fantastic for speed cleaning your car, bikes, lawn furniture, deck, siding, driveway and walkways. Many are even powerful enough to peal paint. Even the cheapest electric models will deliver at least 20 times the pressure of your standard garden hose and use about 20% less water to clean the same area. And you can save a ton of time as well, especially if you’ve been cleaning with a scrub brush in the past. There are three important measures that determine how effective washers are at cleaning a particular surface.
When looking for a high pounds per square inch cleaner apparatus, it’s better to go for a bit more psi than you think you might need. This means you’ll have enough power to take care of tough stains and you won’t have to run your machine at full blast which can wear it down quicker.
Here is a general psi range usage breakdown:
- 1,000 to 1,500 psi – This range is perfect for washing your lawn furniture, cleaning cars and bikes, and garden tools.
- 1,500 to 2,000 psi – You can use washers at this power level for cleaning the muck off your patio or small deck and washing the siding on your home. This level will take off some easy stains but for tougher stains and mold and mildew on decks that have not been cleaned in a couple years, you’ll need a bit more power.
- 2,000 to 3,000 psi – This pressure level is perfect for large areas like a big deck, walkway, or driveway. You can also clean your home’s siding using the proper safety measures to protect the wood.
- 3,000 to 4,000 psi – You’ll be able to strip paint at this power level and clean stained concrete. Machines that have this psi level are very, very powerful and you should be careful using them.
Hot water or Cold?
All consumer power washers on the market for residential purposes use cold water. That is what I cover on this site. Hot water over 104 degrees Fahrenheit will damage the pump and cause leaks in most residential pressure washers. If you have a tough job like the removal of grease and oil then you’ll need to use detergent and a machine that blasts hot water. In this case I would recommend renting one or hiring a power washing company to come out and take care of the job.
Pressure Washing Terminology
So, let’s take my deck as an example, 400 square feet, and use the lower numbers of 5 and 8 square feet per minute. Using the lower 2 gpm washer, it would take me about 80 minutes (400/5) to pressure clean my deck. On a side note, it usually takes me much longer than this, because I add cleaning solution and like to go slow over trouble spots. Using the stronger 3 gpm model I would be able to get done in 50 minutes (400/8), saving myself 30 minutes each time I clean my deck. In my opinion, that’s worth upgrading especially if the price difference between the 2 and 3 gpm models is not too steep.
Now that you understand how power is measured and have a better idea of what type of washer you need to get the job done, you can start looking at engines. Pressure washers are powered by either a petrol powered engine or an electric engine.
Picking a Petrol Powered Max PSI Cleansing Mechanism
Petrol powered machines are able to generate a lot of power, up to 100 times as much power as your garden hose, which can deliver about 40 psi. You can use petrol machines to clean large decks, the outside of your house, your driveway and sidewalk, and even to strip paint if you get one with enough power (usually greater than 3,000 psi).
You have to be careful when you use petrol powered washers though because they are so powerful. You can damage the siding on your home and splinter the wood on your deck if you don’t use the right spray setting. Soft wood siding like cedar is especially vulnerable to damage as are areas where you’ve caulked. You need to make sure you have the nozzle set at a wide enough setting to get the job done quickly and not damage the surface you’re cleaning. A 20 degree setting usually does the trick.
Choosing an Electric Pressure Cleaner
Electric models are very popular with homeowners and can be used to clean a variety of different things including small decks, cars, and lawn furniture. They are cheaper and less expensive to operate that petrol powered models and they are better for the environment because they do not emit fumes. You’ll need to plug these units into an outlet so you’ll need to have an extension cord. Also some models will require a 20 amp circuit and a special extension cord.
When you shut off the spray by releasing the trigger, most electric units will stop running, so the noise goes to zero and you save on electricity. Manufacturers refer to this as “total stop system or total stop trigger gun.” Some units have a timer setting where the unit will only shut off after a certain number of minutes. So if you take a short break of two to five minutes the unit shuts off. The motor on a petrol unit will continue to run even when the spray nozzle is not being used.
Many electric models will also come with two built in cleaning tanks. This means that with a turn of a knob you can go from washing your car to power washing your deck and using two different sets of cleaning solution for each specific task.
Which is better Petrol or Electric?
This depends on how you plan on using the machine. As you can see from the grid below, if you plan on heavy uses like power cleaning your large deck and cleaning the siding on your home every year, then you definitely want to go with a petrol unit. If you think you’ll just be using your washer for some lawn furniture, your car, and a small deck, then an electric model will be just fine.
Also if you’re a contractor or plan on using your pressure washer for commercial purposes, then you also definitely want to go with a petrol powered model. Consumer Reports Magazine recently conducted comparison testing between petrol and electric powered models and they found that petrol models are ten times faster at stripping paint off vinyl siding. They used the paint test to simulate deep, hard stains like tree sap.
| Petrol | Electric | |
|---|---|---|
| PSI Range | 2,500 – 4,000 | 1,300 – 2,000 |
| Best Uses | Cleaning large decks, siding, and large areas, removing tough stains. | Cleaning patios and small decks, outdoor furniture, cars, boats, grills. |
| Sound Levels | 85 decibels (dBA) | 78 dBA |
| Price Ranges | £400-1000 | £120-250 |
| Pros | Nearly twice as powerful as electric and can clean the same area three times as fast. Many spray and nozzle options to choose from. | Light, quiet, easy to maintain, have no exhaust emissions. Easy to start and stop and can be stored indoors. Many models shut off automatically. |
| Cons | Heavy and noisy. Pull start. More maintenance overall than electric models. Need tune ups and must be winterized with anti-freeze in cold climates. Extra power means you need to be more cautious as wood and other surfaces can be damaged or you could be injured. | Not as powerful as petrol, which means slower cleaning. Need to be near an outlet or have a long extension cord to use. Wands and nozzles are not as sturdy as those that come with a petrol powered model. |
FAQ
What are petrol high-pressure cleaners?
Petrol high-pressure cleaners are powerful cleaning devices that are powered by an internal combustion engine. They are ideal for use in areas where no power supply is available or where strong cleaning power is needed.
How does a petrol pressure washer work?
A petrol pressure washer uses an internal combustion engine to power a pump that ejects water through a nozzle at high pressure. The high speed and pressure can remove dirt and debris from surfaces.
What types of applications are best suited for petrol pressure washers?
Petrol pressure washers are best suited for outdoor applications where electricity is not available. They are ideal for cleaning patios, driveways, facades, fences, vehicles and other large areas.
How much power should a petrol pressure washer have?
The power of a petrol pressure washer is expressed in horsepower or bar. For most applications, a pressure of at least 2700 PSI is sufficient. However, if you have very demanding tasks, such as removing rust or paint, you may need more power.
How noisy are petrol pressure washers?
Most petrol power washers produce a noise level of around 90 to 100 decibels. It is therefore advisable to wear hearing protection, especially if you will be working with the unit for a long time.
What safety precautions should I follow when using a petrol power washer?
It is important to always follow the manufacturer's safety instructions and wear appropriate protective equipment such as goggles, ear protection and work gloves. The petrol pressure washer should be placed on a level surface and the engine should never be operated indoors.
How do I care for my petrol pressure washer?
You should maintain your petrol power washer regularly to ensure that it is working optimally. This includes checking the oil and fuel levels, cleaning the air filters and checking the spark plug. Please refer to the manufacturer's instructions for this.
How do I choose the petrol pressure washer for my needs?
To choose the petrol pressure washer for your requirements, consider the power, size and weight of the unit and the accessories available. Also consider the type of applications you will be using the unit for and what features are important to you. Read our reviews and compare different models to make an informed decision.
Additional Features to Look for
Here are some additional features that you need to be looking out for when shopping for a pressure washer.
You’ll see cheap wobble pumps or axial cam pumps on certain inexpensive machines. The bearings on these will wear down faster because the pump is connected directly to the engine and spins at the same speed. You should just replace axial cam or wobble pumps when they wear out. They are designed for light use machines – 20 hours or less per year in a homeowner setting. Experts consider models that use these types of pumps as throwaway because it’s not worth it to repair them. They are much cheaper than higher quality models though, but of course you get what you pay for in this case.
Also look for a turbo nozzle if you are going to clean concrete or your deck because these can accomplish the task three times as fast as a standard type nozzle. I wouldn’t use one to clean my car though as it can tear the paint off.
Final Thoughts
I recommend the Hyundai 4000 PSI Commercial Washer as my top pick for professional users. It delivers the highest flow and pressure in this roundup, so it chews through heavy-duty jobs—fleet cleaning, farm equipment and long commercial runs—faster than mid-range machines. Be prepared for higher fuel use, louder operation, and routine maintenance that matches its commercial capability.
For homeowners and light contractors I recommend the Hyundai 3400 PSI Petrol Washer 210cc. It offers a balanced mix of power, everyday usability and useful features (like a detergent tank and solid warranty). Choose this one if you want reliable cleaning for driveways, patios, vehicle detailing and occasional contracting work without the extra operating cost and handling requirements of full commercial units.
Alfred Harper is a former consultant and product expert at a company producing cleaning equipment. He was working at this position for more than 10 years and has gained incredible experience and knowledge as he has tested almost all pressure washers brands and models and became an expert in this field. Now, he is writing reviews and how-to articles about pressure washers and makes a great contribution to the Pressure Washers company to help people to choose the best cleaning equipment for home use.