My Guide to Buying a Pressure Washer in Australia

Thinking About Buying Your Own Pressure Washer?

Whether you're cleaning your driveway once a year or planning to tackle larger outdoor projects, choosing the right pressure washer can be confusing. There are hundreds of models available, ranging from small electric units for home use through to powerful commercial and industrial machines capable of operating all day.

This guide explains the different types of pressure washers, what they're designed for, and how to choose the right accessories to get the best results.

Electric vs Petrol Pressure Washers

Electric Pressure Washers

Best suited for:

• Small driveways

• Cars

• Outdoor furniture

• BBQs

• Small patios

• Homeowners

Advantages

• Lightweight

• Quiet

• Low maintenance

• Simple to use

• Lower purchase price

Limitations

• Requires mains power

• Lower pressure and flow

• Not designed for heavy commercial use

Petrol Pressure Washers

Best suited for:

• Large driveways

• Commercial work

• Rural properties

• Farms

• Construction sites

• Heavy-duty cleaning

Advantages

• Higher pressure

• Greater water flow

• No power lead required

• Excellent mobility

• Continuous heavy-duty operation

Limitations

• Louder

• More maintenance

• Heavier

• Higher purchase cost

Understanding Pressure

Pressure is usually measured in PSI (Pounds per Square Inch) or Bar.

Higher pressure does not always mean better cleaning.

Water flow (litres per minute) is just as important because it carries dirt away from the surface.

Pressure Washer Guide

Machine TypePressureTypical UserCommon JobsSmall Electric1,300–1,800 PSIHomeownerCars, outdoor furniture, BBQsMedium Electric1,800–2,300 PSIHomeownerPaths, patios, small drivewaysLarge Electric2,300–2,800 PSISerious DIYLarge driveways, retaining wallsEntry Petrol2,700–3,200 PSILifestyle propertiesLarge residential workCommercial Petrol3,200–4,000 PSIContractorsCommercial cleaningIndustrial Hot Water Units3,500–5,000+ PSIIndustrial operatorsHeavy grease, machinery, factories

Water Flow Matters

Pressure removes dirt.

Water flow removes it from the surface.

Professional machines often clean much faster because they produce significantly more water flow than domestic models.

Choosing the Right Nozzle

Different spray tips produce different cleaning patterns.

Red (0°)

Maximum impact.

Used only for very stubborn deposits.

Requires extreme care.

Yellow (15°)

Heavy-duty cleaning.

Concrete and hard surfaces.

Green (25°)

General purpose cleaning.

The most commonly used nozzle.

White (40°)

Gentle washing.

Suitable for painted surfaces and timber.

Black (Soap)

Low-pressure detergent application.

Surface Cleaners

Surface cleaners use rotating spray bars beneath a protective housing.

Benefits include:

• Faster cleaning

• Less overspray

• More even finish

• Reduced striping

• Ideal for driveways and large concrete areas

Turbo Nozzles

Turbo nozzles combine the cleaning power of a narrow jet with the coverage of a wider spray pattern.

Ideal for:

• Concrete

• Brick

• Heavy dirt

• Moss removal

Extension Wands

Extension lances make it safer to clean:

• Roofs

• Gutters

• High walls

• Building facades

They reduce the need for ladders in many situations.

Hot Water vs Cold Water

Cold water removes dirt.

Hot water removes grease.

Hot water machines are commonly used in:

• Workshops

• Commercial kitchens

• Industrial facilities

• Mining

• Heavy equipment cleaning

Common Accessories

• Foam cannons

• Surface cleaners

• Extension lances

• Turbo nozzles

• Rotary brushes

• Drain cleaning hoses

• Gutter cleaning attachments

• Sandblasting kits

• Telescopic poles

• Hose reels

• Water filters

• Quick-connect fittings

Leading Pressure Washer Manufacturers

Australia has many reputable pressure washer manufacturers and suppliers, each offering machines designed for different applications.

Some of the best-known brands include:

• Kärcher

• Gerni

• Spitwater

• Honda (engines)

• Kranzle

• BAR Group

• Briggs & Stratton (engines)

• Comet

• AR Blue Clean

• Nilfisk

• Mi-T-M

• BE Pressure

Each manufacturer has strengths depending on whether you're looking for a compact domestic unit, a commercial workhorse or a specialised industrial machine.

Should You Buy or Hire a Professional?

Buying a pressure washer can be a great investment if you regularly clean your property.

However, for large projects, difficult stains, roof cleaning or commercial work, hiring a professional often provides better results while saving significant time and effort.

If you'd like advice on whether your project is suitable for DIY cleaning or professional pressure cleaning, feel free to contact us. We're always happy to provide honest advice.