Petrol Pressure Washers: Self-Contained Models for Machinery

Household petrol models suit occasional washing at a country house or garage, while professional ones are built for daily multi-hour work in vehicle fleets and on construction sites. If mains power is available and jobs are short, an electric model can be a quieter and cheaper choice.

Petrol pressure washers usually work at 150–250 bar with a flow of 8–15 l/min. Pressure determines how well stubborn dirt is removed and flow determines washing speed, so compare both figures together.

Axial pumps are light and suit household use, while triplex plunger pumps with a brass or cast-iron head last much longer and are built for professional use. Read pressure washer pump and motor types.

Petrol pressure washers usually have 196–420 cm³ four-stroke engines rated at 6.5–15 hp. A more powerful engine holds pressure at high flow and is less stressed during long runs. See differences between two-stroke, four-stroke and diesel engines and engine displacement, power, torque and RPM: how to compare engine-powered equipment.

The washer can be fed from the mains or, if it has a suction function, from a barrel or tank, which matters in the field. An inlet water filter is essential to protect the pump from sand. Read how to connect a pressure washer to a water supply.

Check the length (8–15 m) and reinforcement of the high-pressure hose, the quality of the gun and the nozzles included — 0°, 15°, 25°, 40°, turbo and detergent. Quick-connect fittings make work easier. See how to choose pressure washer nozzles and accessories.

Tank capacity (3–6.5 l) determines run time between refills, and a low-oil sensor protects the engine. Heavy models benefit from an electric starter, and recoil models from an easy-start system. Read fuel, engine oil and two-stroke mix: how to choose and use them correctly.

A high-pressure jet can injure skin, so never aim it at people, animals or electrical equipment, and work only outdoors because of exhaust fumes. Wear safety glasses. See how to use and maintain a pressure washer safely, how to safely use internal-combustion-engine tools and equipment and how to choose safety glasses.

Change the engine and pump oil regularly, clean the water filter, and before winter drain the pump completely or fill it with antifreeze. Choose a model whose seals, valves and nozzles are easy to find. Read how to maintain and store motor tools and engine-powered equipment and how to choose spare parts for pumps and pressure washers.