Best Electric Pressure Washer For Car Detailing 2022

We need a pressure washer to easily clean and remove dirt, road grime, mud, bird droppings, and tree saps on cars.

However, some people had car paint damage which may lead to rust when using pressure washers.

That’s the reason why we need to choose a best electric pressure washer for car detailing.

Not always the expensive one is good; the RIGHT one is the best.

There are two types of pressure washers: Gas and Electric.

But in this post, I’ll recommend the three best electric pressure washers I have used and help you figure out which one is best for your needs.

So whether you’re just starting or are looking to upgrade your current setup, read on for all the info you need!

What Is An Electric Pressure Washer?

An electric pressure washer plugs into an outdoor power source. They start quickly with the flip of a switch since no priming is required. 

Most electric pressure washers are medium-duty models designed for routine car washes, small driveways, and garages. These models are relatively quiet and lightweight. They require little maintenance because they don’t create exhaust fumes. And in winter, no winterization is required. 

However, these models’ range is limited to the length of the hose. But you can always extend the working area by adding an extension lead for outdoor use. 

Pros and Cons of an Electric Pressure Washer for Car Detailing

Pros:

• A convenient, portable design that makes it easy to use.
• Lower cost compared to gas pressure washers, which can be expensive to maintain and operate.
• No harmful emissions or fumes, making it a safer choice for environmentally conscious car owners.

Cons:

• Electric pressure washers may not be as powerful or durable as gas models.
• They can also be slower to use.
• Additionally, they require access to electricity to function correctly, which may not be available in all locations.

Quick Buying Chart

I have summarized the three best electric pressure washers in the table in case you do not have much time to read my detailed review—a quick look to save your time and have the right purchase.

3 Best Electric Pressure Washers For Car Detailing

Below are three suggestions from my experience on what electric pressure washer is the best for car detailing. They are Sun Joe SPX3000- my favorite for deep cleaning, Karcher K2000- for professional detailing, and RYOBI 1.2 GPM – best for quick cleaning.

1. Sun Joe SPX3000: Best For Car Deep Cleaning

Sun Joe has the most extensive catalog of pressure washers, so this is the first place I went searching for an electric pressure washer for cars. I was looking for a mid-range pressure washer that cleans my car and performs other jobs around the house. So, choosing the Sun Joe SPX3000 was a no-brainer. I have used it for two years.

Pros

1. Easy To Use

The SunJoe SPX3000 only takes me about 30 minutes to assemble. All that’s needed is attaching the hose holder, wand holders, and soap bottles. There are small crews for connecting these parts. I noticed that all the plastic pieces had a heavy-duty construction.

To install, I connect the metallic spray wand to the trigger gun. The spray wand and trigger gun require twisting together for a tight fit. I also need a hose that delivers high-pressure water to the trigger to use this unit.

2. Excellent Power and Plenty of Water

The SunJoe SPX3000 delivers 2030 PSI of pressure and 1.76 GPM (gallons per minute) water flow. It comes in the midrange power for cleaning my car, a small driveway, patio, deck, bike, or outdoor furniture.

3. Value for Money

Sunjoe SPX3000 comes with five nozzles, including 15-degree, 25-degree, 40-degree, and a 0-degree option. The 40-degree nozzle is very gentle for windows and delicate surfaces, while the 0-degree is the most powerful. I like that I don’t need a foam cannon with this model. The soap nozzle covers up the vehicle, making cleaning my vehicle fun.

This pressure washer also comes with a replaceable garden hose adapter. So, when it starts to leak, I can easily replace it with a new one. Moving its 27.6 pounds of weight is effortless thanks to the large wheels.

When storing this pressure washer, I use pump protector liquid to prevent minerals in leftover water from seizing the pump’s internal gaskets.

Cons

Although the wheels on this unit are large, they are not as big as those on the others. Thus, moving it on less than smooth surfaces can be troublesome. I also noticed that it has a shorter hose than most pressure washers since it’s only 20ft. long, while the Karcher K2000 has a 25ft hose.

Is It Worth?

Sun Joe SPX3000 will give you the best value for money. It is well-rounded with all the necessary features you require at its price range. In addition, it has a vast collection of nozzles and durable components so that you won’t be going back to the store any time soon.

Overall, I rate it 4.8/5

Highly recommend Sun Joe SPX3000 for car detailing. You can buy one below:

A foam cannon is needed to use with a pressure washer. Buy one below:

You can watch the below video to learn more details about Sun Joe SPX3000.

See also: Foam Gun vs. Foam Cannon

2. Karcher K2000- Best Washer For Professional Detailing

When searching for a little more oomph from a pressure washer for cars, I decided to try the Karcher K2000. It is a pricier option than the other two models on this list. I bought it mainly for the few extra features that make up for the higher price.

Nonetheless, this is the smallest and most compact unit among Karcher’s line of pressure washers. So, it’s on the budget side compared to the K3, K4, K5, K6, and K7. Thus, it has a modest flow rate, and it’s not as popular as the K4.

Pros

1. Save Time and Energy

The Karcher K2000 is simple to assemble. The instructions are not very clear because it’s a bunch of pictures without words. Nevertheless, I get it up and running in about 20 minutes. It has washers on both wheels, so I don’t input the washers if they are wobbly.

This pressure comes with a folding handle and two oversized wheels that make portability super easy. The hose winds around the pressurized hose reel for easy storage.

Besides, the 25ft. hose is sufficient for tackling all-around my vehicle from the roof to the tires without tagging on the machine.

2. Safe For Car Paint

This pressure washer can reach 2000 PSI and 1.3 gallons per minute (GPM) flow rate. This pressure and flow rate are enough to wash my car safely and effectively.

3. Professional Design

Aside from the decent pressure, the Karcher K2000 comes with four nozzles. There’s the 40-degree nozzle, a 0-degree nozzle, a 15-degree nozzle, and a soap nozzle. I can choose a 65-degree nozzle with my order for detergents.

Moreover, it has two 0.5-gallon detergent tanks. It also has dials that make it easy to switch from washing my car to the driveway without inputting more detergent. And a storage bin for my cleaning and detailing accessories.

Apart from washing my car, the Karcher K2000 is an excellent option for cleaning the driveway, clearing gutters, and removing mold on house siding, patio, and deck.

The footswitch is what I like most about the Karcher K2000. I no longer have to bend significantly with a bad back when turning this pressure washer on and off. Furthermore, it leaves my hands free to control the hose for more flexibility.

Cons

I bought this model to wash my car but expect it to perform more tasks. So, I noticed that it struggles with algae on marble tiles and concrete. Additionally, it lacks extra holes, so that I couldn’t input any additional tips. The reel is a nice touch, but I can’t use it with a longer hose.

Is It Worth?

The Karcher K2000 is a highly durable and very convenient unit. It has thoughtful features such as the pressurized hose reel and on/off foot switch that places it closer to the best pressure washer for cars in 2022.

Overall, I rate it 4.9/5.

Buy your Karcher K2000 below:

You may also need Karcher Pressure Washer Car Wash Soap. Buy below:

See also: Best Car Soap For Pressure Washer

3. RYOBI Electric Pressure Washer: Best For Quick Cleaning

Although the other pressure washers in this list are excellent at what they do, there are times I need something as powerful as a gas model. The RYOBI 1.2 GPM is the cheapest alternative to gas pressure washers that I could find for washing my vehicle.

Pros

• The RYOBI 1.2 GPM Electric Pressure Washer is straightforward to assemble. I first screw in the available hose reel and the cord holder on the unit’s backside. Then there’s the pressure washer wand that has a quick connect system to the pressure washer lance. I also have the option of attaching a brush handle.

• Another thing that I like is the design is pretty lightweight and stable. I can move it around easily. Moreover, I can easily connect it with my garden and pressure washer hose.

• RYOBI 1.2 GPM includes a bonus Turbo Nozzle that works great. It’s also easy to turn on and turn off. This pressure washer will flow maximum at 2300 PSI.

• The RYOBI outputs water at a flow rate of 1.2 GPM. It’s decent enough to clean cars, ATVs, house siding, sidewalks, stained cement pavements, and outdoor furniture within a decent amount of time. I also like how easy it is to scrub my rig in late summer and fall with the brush handle.

Cons

• The first thing that I don’t like about the RYOBI 1.2 GPM is the accessories, they are not high end and it they don’t hold the hose, wand, or cord.

• Another thing I don’t like about it is it doesn’t work continuously. So it takes me more time.

Is It Worth?

The RYOBI 1.2 GPM is the most versatile electric pressure washer that I’ve used. ON and OFF button are on the top of machine. The brush and hose reel are also thoughtful additions. It is on the budget side, but it’s one of the most powerful options for the money.

Overall, I rate it 4.8/5

You can buy RYOBI 1.2 GPM below:

You may want to buy a pressure washer soap:

Safe PSI For Car Washing

Generally speaking, most experts recommend using PSIs between 1200 and 1900 to ensure adequate cleaning while minimizing potential damage to your car.

Higher PSI can damage your car’s paint, while lower PSI can leave behind dirt and debris.

If you’re unsure what PSI to use, start on the lower end and gradually increase the pressure until you find a sweet spot that works for you. Don’t go any higher than 1900 PSI when using a pressure washer on your car as a general rule of thumb.

Why Electric Pressure Washer; Not Gas Pressure Washer?

There are pros and cons to both gas and electric pressure washers. For me, an electric pressure washer is better for car detailing.

Gasoline-powered pressure washers are typically too powerful for detailing work and can easily damage the paint and sensitive surfaces. They’re also louder, require more maintenance, and produce emissions.

On the other hand, electric pressure washers have much more control and can be adjusted to provide the right power. They’re also quieter, easier to maintain and don’t produce emissions, essential when working in enclosed spaces.

Pick one to help your detailing job easier!

Tips For Using an Electric Pressure Washer

• Always start with the lowest setting and work your way up.

• Hold the nozzle about two feet from the surface of the car.

• Be careful around sensitive areas like mirrors and windows.

• Rinse the car from top to bottom.

• Dry the car with a clean microfiber towel.