Can you guys recommend a decent pressure washer????

[cherron]

Lowes newest 2007 pressure washer line includes a Honda-powered 5 HP Troybilt with ratings of 2600 psi and 2.3 GPM for $299 + tax. The also have a 6.5 HP B&S model, rated at 2550 and 2.2 GPM for about $20 less. Earlier this year, I purchased the 2006 version of this second unit on clearance for $184 + tax. It's a real trooper.

Chuck Herron

 

[QRTRHRS]

I bought a Ryobi at Home Depot last summer. It seemed just the ticket being priced midway between the Dewaults and the Excells. I won't compare it directly to the Excell and the Cambell Hausfield models I have had due to different specs but it really works well. My washer

 

[Bird]

I came back to this thread because I want a power washer. I thought I wanted electric instead of having another gasoline engine to maintain. And I thought I wanted Karcher since I'd heard and read that they're the biggest and best, etc. Several of our TBN members have them. A personal friend, and my younger brother, both have the little cheap models and are satisfied with them. So I started shopping on the Internet today. I thought I wanted Karcher's top of the line electric; the K 5.93 M. But my first question is where do I get it fixed, or get parts, if it breaks; both while in warranty and after warranty. Has anyone looked at their website? They have something called a "Rapid Exchange Program" for the K 1, 2, & 3 models, but not the K 5 models, while the units are in warranty. Their website shows the 3 nearest service centers to me. I called and none of them repair electric Karchers. I called Karcher and the young lady there told me she could transfer me to their "warranty" people if I owned a Karcher, but could not transfer me or tell me where I could get one repaired or get parts since I do not currently own one.

OK, that settled that. I will not be likely to own anything made by Karcher.

Sears has a unit that appears very similar to Karcher's top of the line electric (made by Karcher maybe?), but it's currently "out of stock".

I also visited with the local Northern Tool repair technician, who, of course, recommends their own North Star products, but also gave me a lot of information about others.

Right now, it looks like I may be going with a Honda gasoline model, but I'd still prefer electric, if anyone can tell me where to get one for which parts and service would be available.

 

[Lynkage]

Bird

I stated earlier in the thread that I think people should buy Landa or Hotsy. The reasons you mentioned are why. They both use "standard" parts that are available at any powerwasher dealer. This is also the reason I bought my landa SGHW 3500-6. I also buy my parts at a Hotsy dealer because I like the service better than the Landa dealer. Mine is not under warranty so it makes no difference where I get parts.

They both make electric and gas models but they are more expensive then a big box store type of pw. But a much better unit IMO.
Shane

 

[Bird]

Thanks, Shane, but I've tried both of those brands' websites and it appears that, besides being high priced, neither has a dealer anywhere in this area. I'd rather buy from a dealer who has a service facility within a reasonable driving distance, but I'm not sure that's going to happen. I found one website that claims to have evaluated pressure washers and rated the Husky 1800, from Home Depot, at the top of the homeowner electrics. At least Husky has a website, parts list, manuals, etc. I really wasn't considering buying from one of the big box stores, but I may change my mind.

The local Northern Tool store has their own repair facility, and they do sell some Karcher models, but the service guy indicated that it wasn't easy to get parts for them.

 

[Lynkage]

I looked at northern tool and they used "standard" parts as well. If you have one of there stores close that would be the route I would choose.
I could also give you a name of a person at a Hotsy dealer who you could talk to. He is a very nice guy. They would also be able to send parts as well. PM me for details

 

[Lynkage]

Bird
One last thing I would recommend a hot water unit as you will use less chems with hot water. Kind of think about it like a dishwasher. if it used cold water it would take twice as long and use twice as much soap.
try to get a unit that has an adjustable thermostat.you will not be sorry.

You could also check out Pressure Washing and Contractor Cleaning Forums - The Grime Scene for a good pressure washer forum.

 

[Bird]

Ouch, Shane, you're talking about spending a lot of money. I understand about a hot water machine being better, but I can't afford the Cadillac of machines, just for my occasional home use. I'd like something relatively inexpensive (even cheap) and I also consider how much space it'll take to store it when it's not in use.

 

[dgl24087]

Thanks, Shane, but I've tried both of those brands' websites and it appears that, besides being high priced, neither has a dealer anywhere in this area. I'd rather buy from a dealer who has a service facility within a reasonable driving distance, but I'm not sure that's going to happen. I found one website that claims to have evaluated pressure washers and rated the Husky 1800, from Home Depot, at the top of the homeowner electrics. At least Husky has a website, parts list, manuals, etc. I really wasn't considering buying from one of the big box stores, but I may change my mind.

The local Northern Tool store has their own repair facility, and they do sell some Karcher models, but the service guy indicated that it wasn't easy to get parts for them.

I have an electric Husky 1750, it can be used with hot and cold water, works very well for my needs.

 

[Lynkage]

Ouch, Shane, you're talking about spending a lot of money. I understand about a hot water machine being better, but I can't afford the Cadillac of machines, just for my occasional home use. I'd like something relatively inexpensive (even cheap) and I also consider how much space it'll take to store it when it's not in use.

Well I do understand that. I have just had to many things that I have bought cheep and then ended up buying the better one. That is how I approach things.
A home depot or lowes sears should be able to get parts I would hope. Maybe that is the best way.
Shane