The best high-pressure cleaners in the UK 2023

Among the garage equipment, the high pressure washer is a must. A versatile tool par excellence, it can be used to clean vehicles, gardening tools or various surfaces in the home and garden. You can get into every nook and cranny thanks to the machine's long extension cord. Read this guide to find the best pressure washers on the market.

Kärcher K7 Full Control Plus 1
9/10

Best value for money

Kärcher K7 Full Control Plus

The best pressure washer in 2021

Of all the models currently available, the Kärcher K7 Full Control Plus is the best.

See price

Which brand other than Kärcher could have placed one of its models at the top of our ranking for this year? None at all! Since the excellent K7 Premium Full Control Plus Home is no longer available, here is its little brother, the K7 Full Control Plus. The difference between this model and the former choice of our editors is the absence of a hose reel on this one. However, it is available from the manufacturer.

Despite its age, this pressure washer remains a very good compromise of weight and power. Its flow rate of 600 L of water per hour and its maximum pressure of 180 bar are convincing. For swimming pool paving, borders and really dirty floors, this will be perfectly sufficient. For the car, the shampoo and the subsequent cleaning with water is great. The large wheels make it easy to move around.

Bosch EasyAquatak 120 2
7/10

Best value for money

Bosch EasyAquatak 120

The best entry-level pressure washer

For less than 100 euros, you can afford the Bosch EasyAquatak 120. Note that it is not suitable for heavy cleaning jobs.

See price

To conclude our ranking, we will retain the Bosch EasyAquatak 120. As its name indicates, its maximum supported pressure reaches 120 bars. Very light, this device weighs less than 5 kg, which makes it very handy. Those who complain about heavy and impractical high-pressure cleaners should find their happiness with this one.

The 3-year warranty proves the robustness of the device, if need be. For cleaning small areas of less than 50 m², this model is an excellent alternative to the K3 which costs almost 100 euros more! The noise level remains acceptable for a pressure washer. As accessories, Bosch supplies a high-pressure gun, a 5 m hose, a rotating nozzle, a high-pressure detergent nozzle, a flat jet nozzle and a transparent water filter.

Kärcher K3 Full Control 3
9/10

A great choice

Kärcher K3 Full Control

A great value

For the price, this is a very decent pressure washer.

See price

The Kärcher K3 Full Control more than deserves its place in this ranking. It is a very decent pressure washer for the price. Supplied with an additional nozzle, it is also suitable for cleaning the front of a house or a terrace. Note that the relatively low noise level for this type of device allows you to work without disturbing your ears.

In addition to cars, facades and motorcycles, this device can also be used to clean outdoor concrete slabs. You can even unclog some pipes with it! For the price, the 120 bars of maximum pressure and the 380 L/h of water flow are very correct. On the other hand, there are some irregularities in the jet. But as we all know, perfection does not exist.

Bosch Advanced Aquatak 140 4
7/10

Very good

Bosch Advanced Aquatak 140

The most convenient

A little heavy, but sturdy and practical, the Bosch Advanced Aquatak 140 is a no-risk purchase.

See price

This Bosch brand pressure washer exudes quality. For starters, it comes with a 3-year warranty. Delivered fully assembled, the Advanced Aquatak 140 is very practical to use. In addition, it is compact and takes up little space in the garage or closet. With a flow rate of 450 l/h and a maximum pressure rating of 140 bar, the device is no match for the more powerful Kärcher K7.

The large number of nozzles supplied ensures that it is very versatile, even for the most stubborn dirt. The numerous storage systems, the detergent nozzle with 550 mL tank and the rotating nozzle are particularly appreciated. And unlike the K7, the hose reel is available. On the other hand, the weight is 18 kg.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best pressure washer

Any specific needs?

The best pressure washer in 2021

The best entry-level pressure washer

A great value

The most convenient

Your guide : Samuel

Rate this buying guide :
4.9/55 votes

By rating this buying guide, you are helping us to reward our best writers. Thank you!

Comparison table of the best high-pressure cleaners

TOP OF THE TOP CHEAP EXCELLENT VERY GOOD
Kärcher K7 Full Control Plus 5
9/10
Bosch EasyAquatak 120 6
7/10
Kärcher K3 Full Control 7
9/10
Bosch Advanced Aquatak 140 8
7/10
OUR SELECTION
Kärcher K7 Full Control Plus
Bosch EasyAquatak 120
Kärcher K3 Full Control
Bosch Advanced Aquatak 140
Of all the models currently available, the Kärcher K7 Full Control Plus is the best.
For less than 100 euros, you can afford the Bosch EasyAquatak 120. Note that it is not suitable for heavy cleaning jobs.
For the price, this is a very decent pressure washer.
A little heavy, but sturdy and practical, the Bosch Advanced Aquatak 140 is a no-risk purchase.
Leading brand in the field
Perfect for small areas
Kärcher model
Sturdy and practical device
Hose reel to be purchased separately
Not suitable for heavy cleaning
The jet is not always regular
The hose release is not very clear

Help us improve this table:
Report an error, request the addition of a feature to the table, or suggest another product. Thank you for your kindness!

Buying guide - pressure washer

Primary Item (H2)Sub Item 1 (H3)

Why can you trust us?

Why you can trust us
Our mission
How to support us
We do NOT accept any sponsored posts or advertising.

We spend thousands of hours each year studying the major specialized websites, analyzing products of hundreds of brands and reading user feedback to advise you on the best products.

Our mission is to simplify your purchasing decisions.

We are a product review company with a single mission: to simplify your buying decisions. Our research and testing helps millions of people every year find the best products for their personal needs and budget.

We are a small team of geeks and enthusiasts.

To support us you can: use our links to make your purchases (which often earns us a small commission), share our articles on social networks, or recommend our site on your blog. Thanks in advance for your support!

How to choose your pressure washer

#1 - Types of work

The characteristics of a Kärcher or pressure washer refer primarily to its main uses. For occasional use, composite or aluminum pumps will suffice. Brass pumps are more robust for more frequent use. Simple cleaning can be done with a low-powered Kärcher. More difficult and technical cleaning requires a high-pressure unit. Large areas to be covered will require a higher flow rate.

#2 - The type of high pressure cleaner

The choice of the type of pressure washer is mostly a function of the desired use. If you're looking for a model more suited to home use, an electric pressure washer is recommended. On the other hand, if you need it for professional and mobile use, a thermal model is more suitable. Before purchasing, it is important to make sure that the device is easy to handle and use. Make sure it offers an easy grip and is easy to carry.

#3 - The pressure

Expressed in bars, the pressure is sort of the force with which the water will be propelled, allowing it to loosen the dirt. Here again, you have to take into account the usage. For occasional use, a pressure between 110 and 190 bars is more than sufficient; whereas for intensive use, a pressure of more than 250 bars is recommended. The higher the pressure, the more efficient the machine is at cleaning all types of dirt.

#4 - Water flow

Like

pressure, the water flow rate is an important element for the speed of cleaning. The higher the flow rate, the faster the cleaning. A water flow rate of 500 to 600 L/h is recommended for occasional use. However, for intensive use, a flow rate between 900 and 1,100 L/h is appropriate. If you are looking for a pressure washer that is suitable for regular use, a flow rate between 600 and 900 L/h is more appropriate. Water is also important to the efficiency of the machine when cleaning. Cold water is suitable for domestic use, but for the most stubborn dirt that sticks to hard surfaces, hot water is strongly recommended. Higher-end models can usually accommodate 60°C hot water.

#5 - The pump

The heart of the appliance, the pump deserves special attention, especially in the material used. Plastic is to be banished. It is better to opt for metal or brass, guaranteeing reliability and longevity. Pump heads made exclusively of forged brass guarantee a long service life for the component. You can also make your choice according to the intended use of the pressure washer. For occasional use, a composite pump will do. For regular use of the device, however, aluminum is more suitable. The brass pump is a must for intensive use.

#6 - The power

An essential criterion, the power is related to the motor and allows to drive the pump. The more powerful the motor, the faster and more efficient the work is guaranteed. A pressure washer with a power of 1,400 to 1,800 W is generally suitable for occasional use, while a model with a power of 1,600 to 2,000 W is intended for regular use. Above 2,000 W, the device can withstand intensive use. It is important to choose the right type of motor. An appliance equipped with an induction motor is able to meet the needs of professionals since it is suitable for intensive use. In addition, a model equipped with a universal electric motor is suitable for occasional or regular use.

#7 - The materials

This is the choice of suitable materials for the pump body and the piston, which are among the constituent parts of the pressure washer. As mentioned above, a composite pump body is sufficient for occasional use; while for frequent use, aluminum is preferred. Lightweight and resistant to oxidation, this material is more convenient to use. And of course, for intensive use, brass is an excellent alternative because of its strong resistance to oxidation and detergents. As for the piston, steel is suitable for occasional use and stainless steel for more frequent use. A ceramic piston is also suitable for intensive use, as this material is more resistant.

#8 - The lance and the hose

You can choose between 3 types of lances, namely the flat jet, rotating jet and variable jet lance. With a "pencil jet" option, the first one allows you to remove dirt more easily thanks to the power of the jet. The second is effective for cleaning hard and very dirty surfaces. The lance with a rotating nozzle, also known as a rotabuse, is more elaborate and ensures a powerful jet. The third one offers the possibility to adjust the power of the jet according to the surface to be treated.

As for the hose, a length of at least 4 m is required to benefit from excellent maneuverability and reduce the number of movements of the device. Reinforced hoses are recommended, as they are more resistant. You can choose between 3 types of lances, namely the flat jet, rotating jet and variable jet. With a "pencil jet" possibility, the first one allows you to remove dirt more easily thanks to the power of the jet.

The second is effective for cleaning hard and very dirty surfaces. The lance with a rotating nozzle, also known as a rotabuse, is more elaborate and ensures a powerful jet. The third one offers the possibility to adjust the power of the jet according to the surface to be treated. As for the hose, a length of at least 4 m is required to benefit from excellent maneuverability and reduce the number of movements of the device. Reinforced hoses are recommended, as they are more resistant.

How to properly use your pressure washer?


A very practical tool, the pressure washer is indispensable for the maintenance of outdoor surfaces such as the garden, the terrace, etc. You can also use it for your car and your roof. You can also use it for your car and your roof. It is important to know how to handle this tool properly as it could cause damage if not used properly. The use of this tool depends on the surface you want to clean.

First of all, you need to make sure that the surface you are cleaning is healthy. If you are using it for your roof, be careful because the wrong angle could lift several tiles and damage it. If you use it for your car, be careful because your cleaner could crack your windshield especially if it has an impact.

For simple dirt, you can clean it with cold water. For grease or oil, hot water is ideal. If the dirt is stubborn, what you need to do is increase the pressure of your pressure washer.

To operate your pressure washer, the first thing to do is connect the hose with the gun to the pressure washer. Next, unwind the hose completely to connect it to your faucet. After that, you need to open the faucet. Once this is done, plug your tool into an electrical outlet and turn it on. Don't forget to adjust the pressure of the water jet. All you have to do is activate the gun.

It is recommended to use a detergent recommended by the brand of your tool. When you are finished using your pressure washer, first release the gun, turn off the unit, unplug it and turn off the water. To make sure there's no more water in there, turn on the gun and let the water run. You can then unplug your device.

The different types of high-pressure cleaners

Thermal high pressure cleaners

This type of pressure washer is equipped with a diesel or gasoline engine. It is much more practical and economical than electric models, as it is not intended to be plugged into an electrical outlet. It is suitable for prolonged use and offers greater safety since there is no risk of electrocution.

One of the special features of this device is that it can work with both cold and hot water. It propels approximately 480 L/h, perfect for cleaning various types of surfaces and removing the most stubborn dirt. The thermal pressure washer is primarily intended for intensive use.

Like most appliances, it has its drawbacks. Among other things, it requires regular maintenance, as it is equipped with an engine that consumes oil and fuel. As mentioned above, it is more economical than an electric model, but it is much more polluting. This machine is indispensable for outdoor cleaning operations. It is a bit heavy, but it is easy to move around thanks to its ergonomic wheels and chassis.

Advantages :

  • Have a great autonomy
  • No need to be powered by an electric cable
  • Practical, economical and easy to use
  • Powerful and efficient
  • Suitable for intensive use
  • Easy to move thanks to ergonomic wheels and chassis

Disadvantages :

  • A bit heavy and noisy
  • Requires regular maintenance
  • Polluting due to gas emissions
  • Consume a lot of fuel

When to choose a thermal pressure washer?

The thermal pressure washer is mainly suitable for professional use, especially in agriculture and industry, but also in the construction sector. The fact that it is not plugged into an electrical outlet allows it to be used just about anywhere, even in the most hostile and remote environments.

It is an effective device for cleaning all types of dirt such as paint residues, greasy stains, moss and lichen, etc. This sophisticated and versatile equipment is perfectly suited to all outdoor work sites. It may be large and cumbersome, but it is very practical, especially for cleaning large, dirty surfaces. It's the right tool for big cleaning jobs.

Electric high pressure cleaners

Electric pressure washers require electricity to operate, so they don't have a motor, as do thermal models. They draw water from a regular faucet and are therefore more suitable for home use. This type of pressure washer is easy to use, but it must be handled with care to avoid the risk of electrocution. Of course, it can also work with hot and cold water.

The biggest drawback of this model is its energy consumption. However, despite the increase in the energy bill, its efficiency is undeniable compared to traditional cleaning methods. Lightweight and easy to handle, this device does not require much effort. Moreover, it requires little maintenance.

In terms of power, electric pressure washers are less powerful than thermal models. Their power is generally between 1,100 W and 4,000 W. However, this is sufficient for cleaning walls, roofs, terraces, tiles, cars, garden furniture, etc.

Advantages :

  • Easy to use
  • Do not require special maintenance
  • Lightweight and easy to handle
  • Comfortable to use

Disadvantages :

  • Limited mobility and autonomy
  • Consume a lot of electricity

When to choose an electric pressure washer?

Electric pressure washers are mainly intended for private use. They are simple to use, light and easy to handle. The most powerful models offer a great comfort of use. They are efficient for all indoor and outdoor cleaning jobs, such as terrace, garden, facade, walls, etc. For more convenience, it is recommended to use a system equipped with a cable of at least 4 m so that the water does not reach the power supply. Beware of electrocution.

High pressure cleaner or steam cleaner?

High pressure cleaner

The pressure washer removes tough, stubborn stains and dirt without the need for harsh cleaning products. Lightweight and easy to handle, a pressure washer can transform your garage and furniture upholstery into a much cleaner version in minutes. Its main advantage is that it can reach all the hard-to-clean corners.

However, it can cause serious property damage or personal injury if the person handling it is inexperienced. For example, if the person tries to connect the pressure washer to an ordinary garden hose. The strength of the hose is not comparable to that of a pressure washer. Also, the pressure washer may be too powerful for some surfaces such as vinyl siding or loose wood. These cannot withstand all the pressure and will begin to deteriorate.

Steam cleaner

The steam cleaner has a more powerful cleaning capacity than the pressure washer. It is more suitable for all types of fabrics and carpets in the home. It works by melting or dissolving all the stains and dirt present on a surface thanks to the built-in vacuum cleaner that makes it up. The steam cleaner is not only convenient for its cleaning efficiency, this machine can also have disinfecting capabilities.

Some modern steam cleaners are antimicrobial. This tool also guarantees quick drying since it uses a smaller amount of water. On the other hand, the main drawback is that it can cause an adverse effect once in direct contact with the skin, it can cause risk of burns. On the other hand, its water tank has a limited autonomy and requires regular descaling.

Verdict

When it comes to efficiency, a steam cleaner is much more interesting since it uses less water. On the other hand, a pressure washer is much more practical, as it can even remove black spots and fungus from a floor.

Why buy a high pressure cleaner?

The high pressure cleaner is an extremely effective tool for cleaning and decontaminating all surfaces. Compared to traditional cleaning methods, it offers significant advantages. It must be said that this equipment has many advantages:

1. for a quick cleaning of your home

The use of a pressure washer is much more advantageous than traditional cleaning methods. It is an excellent tool to quickly clean your home, especially when using hot water. It can thoroughly clean all types of surfaces, be it concrete, tiles, glass or stone. Wood is the only material that should not be cleaned with this equipment.

You can quickly clean bay windows, the terrace and the roof. To make your windows shine, don't hesitate to use a flat jet nozzle and a squeegee. A pressure washer can remove even the most stubborn stains.

2. to clean cars, motorcycles and bicycles effectively

Vehicles can also be cleaned with this equipment. For an impeccable result, it is enough to make a first rinse, to make a second passage with a detergent, then to rinse a last time. This is especially recommended for cleaning a car.

For motorcycles and bicycles, you must be meticulous and take the necessary steps to avoid wetting the chain, wheel bearings and lock holes. This can rust and degrade these components. For best results, choose pressure washers with special accessories to ensure thorough vehicle maintenance.

3. to unclog a drain

There is nothing more annoying than facing the inconvenience of a clogged pipe. Fortunately, there are solutions to this problem, such as the high pressure cleaner.

The pressure washer consists of a hose and a nozzle and can clear the clogged pipe with a jet of water. It is important to regularly maintain the gutters and drains of your home to avoid any clogging problems.

4. to remove moss from the roof

Subjected to humidity and bad weather, the roof is a favorite surface for lichens, algae and mosses, which can quickly proliferate, degrading the roof and causing infiltrations. If you are facing this type of problem, a pressure washer can be of great help.

However, there are a few precautions that must be taken to avoid damaging your roof. Direct the spray downwards and then spray with a defoamer to prevent future invasion of these plant organisms.

5) To clean garden equipment and furniture

Like the roof, the garden is also exposed to weather and pollution. You can imagine all the dirt that gets on the furniture, accessories and tools that are installed there: flower pots, sofas and chairs, wheelbarrows, etc. To remove stains and dirt from your outdoor furniture, a pressure washer is an excellent option. Even the most stubborn dirt cannot resist this equipment.

The best brands of high-pressure cleaners

In our opinion, the best brands of high-pressure cleaners in 2022 are :

Kärcher
Bosch
Black&Decker
Worx
Cecotec

Alfred Kärcher SE & Co KG is a German family-owned company that operates worldwide and is known for its high-pressure cleaners, floor care equipment, parts cleaning systems, wash water treatment, military decontamination equipment and window vacuums. The products of this brand are all of very high quality, the Karcher 2,700 PSI 2.5 GPM residential gasoline pressure washer is a testament to that.

Bosch, the German multinational engineering and technology company founded in 1886, is no longer limited to its automotive accessories. Today, thanks to its years of experience and innovation, the brand is also known for its high-pressure cleaners. Thanks to its many years of experience and German know-how, Bosch products are robust, reliable and efficient.

From its beginnings as a small Baltimore machine shop, BLACK & DECKER has remained steadfastly focused on customer needs. It has earned its reputation for quality, ingenuity and value through years of experience and expertise.

WORX is a line of lawn and garden equipment and power tools owned and distributed by Positec Tool Corporation, a Suzhou, China-based manufacturing company with North American headquarters in Charlotte, North Carolina. Its products are rugged and of the highest quality. They are reliable.

Cecotec is a Spanish brand that is very popular throughout Europe. It is a solid company, specialized in small appliances and other articles for the home. It has a wide range of products such as vacuum cleaners, food processors, deep fryers, kitchen utensils, relax cookers and high pressure cleaners. The brand is reliable.

What is the price for a pressure washer

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
100 £ to 200 £
Mid-range
200 £ to 400 £
High-end
more than 400 £
Price range diagram

Tips

Be careful.

When performing a high-pressure cleaning job, eye and ear protection is a must. Pressure washers are noisy, and the high water pressure can cause debris to be thrown at you, posing a real danger. Never use a pressure washer while on a ladder. The recoil could cause you to lose your balance and fall.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. , quechoisir.org
  2. , 60millions-mag.com
  3. , consumerreports.org
  4. , consumersearch.com
  5. , bestreviews.com
  6. , thewirecutter.com
  7. , bestpickreports.com
  8. , thespruce.com
  9. , toptenreviews.com
  10. , guide-haute-pression.fr
  11. , leroymerlin.fr
  12. , amazon.co.uk
  13. , castorama.fr
  14. , futura-sciences.com
  15. , lesnumeriques.com
  16. , boulanger.com
  17. , embavenez-paris.fr
  18. , amazon.co.uk
  19. , haute-pression.com
  20. , bfmtv.com
  21. , auchan.fr
  22. , quechoisir.org
  23. , agrieuro.fr
  24. , kaercher.com
  25. , stihl.fr
  26. , nettoyeurahautepression.com
  27. , leroymerlin.fr
  28. , manomano.fr
  29. , darty.com
  30. , rueducommerce.fr
  31. , haute-pression-concept.com
See more

Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

See more
Our selection
Kärcher K7 Full Control Plus 9
Kärcher K7 Full Control Plus
Bosch EasyAquatak 120 10
Bosch EasyAquatak 120
Kärcher K3 Full Control 11
Kärcher K3 Full Control
Bosch Advanced Aquatak 140 12
Bosch Advanced Aquatak 140

Lecteurs

Every month we help more than 1 000 000 people buy better and smarter.

Copyright © 2022 - Made with by buyingbetter.co.uk

Your reviews and buying guides 0% advertising, 100% independent!