Updated on Oct. 14, 2024
Find the best gas pressure washer to tackle all your heavy-duty outdoor clean-up jobs, including making your dirty driveway look brand new.
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As Kris Kiser, president and CEO of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), tells us, “A pressure washer cleans concrete, walkways, patios, steps, decks and more.” He goes on to suggest that there’s really nothing that works better when it’s time to take on a tough outdoor cleaning job, especially the gas-powered variety. These washers deliver higher water pressure than electric models—some even reaching more than 3,000 pounds per square inch (PSI)!
The best part? Using a gas pressure washer is fun! Spraying off grime with a powerful force of water is so satisfying that you’ll become hooked on finding new ways to use your pressure washer. Just remember that gas washers require more water: two to three gallons per minute (GPM).
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We chose the Simpson MegaShot gas pressure washer as the best overall pressure washer because it delivers durability and power without sacrificing portability. It sprays with an impressive 3,200 PSI at 2.5 GPM—powerful enough for nearly any outdoor cleaning task.
And while it has an extremely durable welded steel frame, the compact design means it’s lightweight enough to easily transport around your property. It also features five quick-connect nozzle tips, an ergonomic spray gun and 10-inch pneumatic tires.
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If you regularly take on the toughest outdoor power washing jobs, like removing peeling paint or cleaning algae-covered walls, you need the Simpson PowerShot gas pressure washer. This beast delivers a whopping 4,000 PSI at 3.5 GPM.
The low-maintenance Honda GX270 engine means optimum performance, and the PowerBoost Technology provides higher pressure at the nozzle than other models. You’ll also reach farther with the 50-foot hose, which is twice as long as most other pressure washer hoses.
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Even though an electric pressure washer is more eco-friendly than a gas-powered version, some gas washers are better for the environment than others. Westinghouse’s gas pressure washer is CARB-compliant, meaning the pressure washer meets current emission standards and produces fewer harmful emissions, toxins and particulates.
Best of all? It’s affordable and still delivers on power, though, offering 3,200 PSI, 2.5 GPM and a 212cc four-stroke engine. It’s easy to start, has a large fuel tank and doesn’t require extensive assembly.
Verified purchaser, Steve G. Meyer, writes in his five-star review, “Today I blasted our entire driveway, front walkway, steps and back patio, along with some siding and the hot tub lid. Simply put, this is an awesome little unit. Overall a great value.”
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The lower noise level of the A-iPower gas pressure washer means you can clean all day without listening to loud, annoying engine sounds. It’s a little smaller and more lightweight than other power washers on this list, which makes it easy to move around. It also features a folding design for simple storage and four quick-connect nozzles.
This pressure washer has a 25-foot hose, reaching messes stuck in crevices and corners of patios, decks, driveways and more. If you’re cleaning spots around your home, like your backyard or vehicle, this gas pressure washer is easy to maneuver and lift from one space to the next.
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This light-duty power washer is best for jobs cleaning grills, cars, windows and patio furniture without damaging the finishes. This DuroMax gas pressure washer delivers 2,700 PSI and 2.3 GPM, enough power to blast away dirt. It sports five quick-connect nozzles for versatility and a built-in detergent reservoir that delivers a steady flow of soap into the output stream.
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If you’re looking to clean hard surfaces such as patios and driveways, the Ryobi Gas Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner is our top pick. This Ryobi surface cleaner is compatible with gas pressure washers up to 3,400 PSI and 2.5 GPM, so you can use it with an extremely powerful pressure washer to clean your patio space.
The 15-inch surface cleaner attachment has a quick-connect design, so you don’t have to fuss with attaching it. Plus, this time-saving accessory cleans up to five times faster than the standard nozzle that outfits most pressure washers. It has rotating, high-pressure jets that provide a streak-free clean and three wheels that allow you to easily move it from one area to the next.
“As with any outdoor power equipment, the best outdoor powered equipment is one that suits your specific needs,” says Kris Kiser. But there are some specifics when it comes to gas pressure washers. First and foremost, consider the washer’s PSI. Power washers run a pump that pressurizes the water from your garden hose to 1,000 pounds or more, then forces it out through a spray wand. “A higher PSI means greater force in removing grime, paint, grease, cleaning concrete, and more,” says Kiser.
Decide how much you’re willing to spend. The cost of a gas-powered pressure washer ranges from a few hundred to more than a thousand dollars, depending on the pressure they deliver, their features and the engine and pump quality. And finally, remember that this is a piece of equipment that will periodically require some care. As Kiser says, “Carefully review the manufacturer’s guidelines/owner’s manual to help you clearly understand maintenance recommendations and safe operating procedures.” That last bit is especially important, too; don’t forget to use safety equipment (it’s a common pressure washing mistake).
We researched many gas pressure washers on the market to find the ones that consistently come out on top. We start with the research and reporting basics—what these pressure washers are best used for, how the engine works, and whether they are portable—to ensure that we’re only recommending the buys worth your time and money. Then, we research the features that speak to the pressure washers’ quality, taking advice from industry insiders and subject-matter experts on what makes a product a smart value (or worthy of a splurge). Finally, we comb through user reviews to see how real people interact with the power washers and if they stand up to the hype.
Mary Henn, a shopping writer and reviewer for Family Handyman, has personally hand-tested over a hundred products, including everything from outdoor gear and DIY gadgets to mattresses and vacuums (and she specializes in both outdoor and cleaning gear). All this experience and more makes her the ideal candidate to speak on gas pressure washers, among many other subjects.
For this article, we consulted with Kris Kiser, President and CEO of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI). Before joining OPEI, Kris served for 15 years in two major Washington, DC, trade associations. He is an authority in the outdoor power equipment space, including on the subject of gas-powered pressure washers.
First, clean any debris from the inlet filter. Then, connect the accessories, like the garden hose and pressure wand. Run water through the washer for one minute to prime the system and remove any air. Squeeze the spray wand trigger to bleed water pressure. Finally, pull the starter cord to start the pressure washer engine and begin spraying.
Most run on regular unleaded gasoline. There’s no need to mix a gas and oil solution.
You’ll want to use a gas pressure washer with 2,000 to 3,000 PSI. It will get the job done without damaging anything, making it easy to clean your driveway or deck.
