Pressure Washer or no?

**reyo** · 01-25-2011, 07:58 PM

Hi, I`m new to detailing and am deciding whether or not to get a pressure washer.

So far I`ve been just using a regular nozzle head, and using the "jet" option. However, I`d prefer a "flat spray" pattern as I feel it`s better for car washing.

So is a pressure washer really THAT much more effective when it comes to car washing? I can probably find an electric one on sale for ~$100, which is about 1400-1600 PSI. However, I am thinking that it can also wash off the wax if used too much (I wash my car bi-weekly).

Or is it just like the polishing machine (a more professional tool, but there`s nothing wrong without it)? If this is the case, then I`d prefer to find a nozzle-head with a "flat jet" spray option.

**sparklescarwash** · 01-25-2011, 08:48 PM

A pressure washer is a must for me wheels,tires engine, jams,bugs.

**AeroCleanse** · 01-25-2011, 10:27 PM

I`ve never used a pressure washer for washing cars.

**David Fermani** · 01-25-2011, 11:07 PM

It`s a must for me too. You really can`t clean a dirty car correctly unless you blast it.

**stotte20** · 01-26-2011, 12:07 AM

yea pressue washer is a must. great for cleaning wheels and wheel wells. also great for blasting dirt off really dirty cars, before you wash.

**reyo** · 01-26-2011, 12:37 AM

So, would an electric one (around $100 when on sale), producing 1200-1600 PSI enough? I don`t have that much money to buy a "good" one ;(

**sparklescarwash** · 01-26-2011, 01:10 AM

yes it will work fine what brand r u loking at

**Accumulator** · 01-26-2011, 12:17 PM

IME cheap pressure washers (and "cheap" isn`t always "inexpensive" ) are a waste of money because they die at the most inconvenient times. I`ve been without one for ages as I got sick and tired of buying supposedly decent ones that didn`t last. I`d say to buy a good one or save up until you can.

They *ARE* incredibly handy things to have around though (when they work). Not just for detailing either.

**D_Nyholm** · 01-26-2011, 12:18 PM

Just be prepared for the electric one to only last 1-2 years. At least the cheapo ones that i`ve owned have only lasted a short while. I have a gas one now, but it is more necessary for stuff around the house than needed for the cars (powerwise). I use it for cleaning engines, wheelwells, door jambs, etc... THe bonus of it is it doesn`t put out super amounts of water, but cleans up VERY well with the amount of water that is used.

**Accumulator** · 01-26-2011, 12:41 PM

While there are several threads on the topic already, I sure wouldn`t mind seeing any recommendations for pressure washers that`ve proven to be durable.

And yeah, gas models can be great for jobs where you`re not running them indoors.

**Dubbin1** · 01-26-2011, 01:00 PM

While they are nice to have its not MUST have piece of equipment.

**tom p.** · 01-26-2011, 01:07 PM

Originally Posted by Accumulator

They *ARE* incredibly handy things to have around though (when they work). Not just for detailing either.

This has been my experience, too. I bought a mid-range Karcher for $150 years ago. I can`t believe the things I`ve used it on around the house including some highly specific things around the vehicles, but certainly not for weekly "washing".

**Accumulator** · 01-26-2011, 01:25 PM

tom p. - You guys who get reliable service out of your Karchers simply kill me

**tom p.** · 01-26-2011, 01:46 PM

LOL. That thing is still going strong - - I can`t believe it myself! To say I got my $$$-worth from it would be an understatement!

My father bought a heavy-duty type of unit (gas Honda engine) from Home Depot a few years ago. That sucker has a lot of power. Maybe it`s rated around 2000psi??? Far more than I`d want around my tasks. He probably spent $500 on it.