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A pressure washer is a powerful cleaning device that sprays water with high pressure to remove dirt and grime. Without needing to scrub, you can get tiles, cars, garden furniture and facades completely clean. The pressure washer pumps water through a hose, producing strong pressure and a jet that clears away dirt. In this article, you’ll learn everything about high-pressure cleaners.
Pressure washers come in various designs, each suited for specific cleaning tasks, whether small or large. The right model for you depends on what you clean most often and how frequently you use the device. Key specs include the water pressure (measured in bar) and the water capacity (litres per hour). More versatile models allow better control over these features, making them suitable for different cleaning jobs.
You don’t need a powerful pressure washer for light cleaning jobs. A compact model with a pressure of 100–120 bar and a water capacity of up to 360 litres per hour works well for washing cars or spraying garden furniture. These units are smaller, lighter and easier to store, and they tend to be more affordable.
Ideal for:
Tougher cleaning tasks require more power. These pressure washers deliver 130–180 bar and up to 600 litres per hour. They’re perfect for tackling stubborn dirt on:
A versatile pressure washer lets you adjust the water pressure, making it suitable for both small and large jobs. With smart features or extra accessories, you can switch from 120 to 180 bar. This means you can clean anything from a bicycle to a caravan with one device.
The higher the bar rating, the stronger the water jet. But more pressure doesn’t always mean better cleaning. Too much pressure can damage delicate surfaces like paintwork or wood. Always start with low pressure and increase only when needed. Pressure guide:
The simplest way to connect a pressure washer is via a garden tap using the supplied hose. One end connects to the cleaner, the other to the tap. Plug it in (or ensure the battery is charged). Don’t start the device yet, first open the tap and let the water fill the system. Then switch on the cleaner and you’re ready to go.
There are 2 main types: electric and battery powered. Both have their pros and cons.
Electric pressure washers are the most common. They have a cord that you plug into the socket. Devices with this drive are usually cheaper than battery-powered high-pressure cleaners. In addition, you never have to worry that an electric pressure washer is empty and therefore doesn’t work. A disadvantage is that you always have to consider the length of the power cord of the pressure washer and therefore may not get everywhere you would like.
Some high-pressure cleaners run on a rechargeable battery. The big advantage of this type of device is the freedom of movement. You don't need a power point to be able to use the pressure washer, only to charge it. A disadvantage is that the battery runs out during use and that you are therefore limited in the time in which you can use the device for cleaning.
A high-pressure cleaner cleans even better, faster and easier if you use handy accessories. Some pressure washers, such as Kärcher pressure washers, have different nozzles that allow you to regulate the power and direction of the water to some extent. Those spray nozzles, such as dirt cleaners or patio cleaners, can often be purchased separately, for different brands of high-pressure cleaners. Other useful accessories are special washing brushes, patio cleaners and sewer hoses.
Choosing the right cleaner depends on water pressure, capacity, and what you need to clean.
| Property name | Bike, tools, fence, deck | Scooter, car, garden furniture | Caravan, house walls, tough tiles | Large patios, driveways, pools |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Water pressure | 110 to 120 bar | 120 to 130 bar | 130 to 145 bar | 145 to 180 bar |
| Water capacity (litres/hour) | 360 to 380 | 380 to 420 | 420 to 500 | 500 to 600 |
| Maximum surface area | 25 m² | 30 m² | 40 m² | 60 m² |
A pressure washer is a great tool for cleaning all sorts of surfaces. The most important features are water pressure and capacity. An entry-level model with 110–130 bar and up to 420 litres per hour is ideal for bikes or decks. For tougher jobs, choose higher pressure. Also consider hose length and included accessories.
