When it comes to pressure washers, there are two main types to choose from: gas and electric. Gas pressure washers have typically been the go-to choice, both for residential and commercial applications. But today, electric pressure washers are becoming more and more common for both home and business use.
If you’re thinking about getting an electric pressure washer for your business, you might find some conflicting information on the Internet about which is better. Are electric pressure washers worth it? Or are people hyping them up for all the wrong reasons?
Today, we will get to the bottom of this and help you decide if an electric pressure washer is the right fit for your business. First, let’s define what electric pressure washers are:
What Are Electric Pressure Washers?
Electric pressure washers are powered by–you guessed it–electricity! They use an electric motor or pump to blast pressurized water from the nozzle gun, with pressures going as high as 3,500 pounds per square inch (psi). This kind of pressure is more than sufficient for most general cleaning jobs, such as removing dirt, old paint, mildew, and oil. Hence, it is a common choice for both commercial and residential applications.
Not sure how much pressure you need? Check out our previous blog to better determine how much pressure washer psi you need.
Are Electric Pressure Washers Worth It?
Whether it’s going to be used for residential or commercial applications, we can say with confidence that an electric pressure washer is definitely worth it. From a business standpoint, an electric pressure washer would make an invaluable addition to your arsenal of cleaning tools, especially if you belong in a grime-prone industry like foodservice, automotive, or commercial cleaning. Here are the specific reasons why:
Advantages Of Electric Pressure Washers
Electric pressure washers are known to be affordable, low-maintenance, highly portable, environmentally friendly, and quiet. Let’s discuss each of these advantages in deeper detail:
Affordable
The average price for an electric pressure washer is around $250, whereas gas pressure washers can go for about $380, on average. So, if you’re looking for affordability, electric pressure washers take the cake.
Low Maintenance
While electric power washers are not maintenance-free, they do require far less maintenance than gas pressure washers. Aside from general cleaning and occasional pump lubrication, you rarely have to change its parts–and you definitely don’t need to refill it with fuel, unlike a gas-powered washer.
Highly Portable
Electric pressure washers typically weigh between 15 to 60 pounds, which is a far cry from the average weight of a gas pressure washer, which can easily go over 100 pounds. Even if your machine’s weight is on the higher end of the spectrum, it will still be easy to carry around and load onto vehicles for transport.
Environmentally Friendly
In comparison to gas pressure washers, electric pressure washers are far more environmentally friendly. This is because, unlike gas power washers, electric-powered units do not use fuel and subsequently emit fumes into the air.
Quiet
Even with high amounts of pressure, electric pressure washers are known to be far quieter than gas-powered washers. This combined with the fact that they don’t emit fumes, gas pressure washers are ideal for both outdoor and indoor use.
Drawbacks Of Electric Pressure Washers
From the advantages that we’ve mentioned above, it is easy to see why electric pressure washers are worth it. But, of course, you must also consider the drawbacks in order to make an informed buying decision.
So, what are the potential disadvantages of electric power washers?
Must Be Plugged In
Perhaps the biggest drawback of an electric pressure washer is that it needs to be plugged in at all times. This can make it difficult to use if you’re working in a space with electrical outlets spaced far away from each other. For example, if you’re washing a car with a pressure washer, you will likely need an extension cord or a longer power cord to do the job.
Less Durable
When it comes to durability, gas pressure washers trump electric pressure washers. Gas-powered units can last for ten years, easy. Electric pressure washers, on the other hand, tend to only last 3 to 5 years, depending on the maintenance. This is the reason why many people view electric pressure washers as “disposable.” Nevertheless, you can make your washer last much longer with proper care–and with a good warranty!
How Do Electric Pressure Washers Stack Up Against Gas Units?
So, what is better? An electric pressure washer or gas pressure washer? The answer depends on your business’ needs, preferences, and ultimately–where your priorities lie.
An electric pressure washer is a great option if you’re looking for a practical tool for general cleaning jobs. As we’ve explained earlier, electric machines are powerful enough to clean off most dirt and grime, including old paint, mold, grease, plant residue, and much more. That said, having an electric pressure washer for your business will save you a lot of headaches–and for the right price.
More than that, you don’t have to worry much about maintaining it–no fuel, no oil, and no major replacements. With just enough cleaning and lubrication, you can easily make your investment last long enough for it to be worth it.
All things considered, an electric pressure washer is a great choice if you want good functionality for a reasonable price.
Are Electric Pressure Washers Worth It? Wrapping Up
Not all electric pressure washers are made equal, so if you want to get your money’s worth, stick to one of the most reliable suppliers of commercial pressure washers in the country: Hotsy Equipment Company! From electric to gas pressure washers and cold to hot water pressure washers, we’ve got every solution for your business needs–all made with the best quality materials and top-notch innovation that you won’t find elsewhere.
Don’t waste time on short-term solutions. Browse our collection today and invest in the highest-quality pressure washer that your business deserves!
