Table of Contents
Introduction:
High pressure cleaning is an efficient way to keep your outdoor spaces clean and well-maintained, but choosing the right equipment is essential for achieving the best results. With a wide range of high pressure cleaners available in Australia, understanding the key features and options can help you make an informed decision. This blog will guide you through the process of selecting the best high pressure cleaning equipment for your needs, covering everything from brand recommendations to essential accessories.
Why Use a High Pressure Cleaner?
High pressure cleaners are designed to make cleaning faster and more effective. Here’s what makes them such a valuable addition to any home or business:
- Efficiency: Quickly removes stubborn dirt, grime, and buildup—saving you both time and elbow grease.
- Versatility: Ideal for a variety of surfaces including concrete driveways, patios, vehicles, outdoor furniture, and even windows.
- Eco-Friendly: Uses significantly less water than traditional cleaning methods, making it a smarter choice for both your water bill and the environment.
- Durability: Built to withstand tough, regular use, these machines are perfect for everything from light domestic maintenance to heavy-duty outdoor tasks.
By understanding these advantages, you’ll be better equipped to choose a high pressure cleaner that meets your specific requirements and ensures long-lasting performance.
Top Brands of High Pressure Cleaners Available in Australia
When it comes to high pressure cleaners, several brands are known for their quality and reliability in the Australian market. Karcher is a leading brand, offering a range of models suitable for everything from light domestic tasks to heavy-duty industrial cleaning. Another popular brand is Gerni, known for its durable and powerful cleaners that are well-suited to Australian conditions. For those looking for high-end performance, Stihl offers professional-grade pressure washers that deliver superior power and durability. These brands are widely available and come with a strong reputation for customer satisfaction.
How to Choose the Right Pressure Cleaner for Your Needs
Selecting the right pressure cleaner depends on several factors, including the size of the area you need to clean, the types of surfaces, and the level of dirt or grime. For small to medium-sized jobs, such as cleaning patios or vehicles, a model with a pressure rating of 1,500 to 2,000 PSI (pounds per square inch) is usually sufficient. For larger areas or more stubborn stains, a higher pressure rating of 2,500 to 3,000 PSI might be necessary. Additionally, consider the flow rate (measured in GPM, or gallons per minute), as a higher GPM will clean more quickly and efficiently.
Choosing the Right PSI for the Job
- General Household Cleaning:
For most household tasks—think driveways, decks, cars, and outdoor furniture—a PSI range of 1,800 to 2,500 will handle the job efficiently without causing surface damage. - Concrete and Hard Surfaces:
If you’re tackling tougher surfaces like concrete or brick, opt for a pressure washer with at least 3,000 PSI. This higher pressure is particularly effective in removing ingrained grime, moss, or oil stains. - Industrial and Heavy-Duty Cleaning:
For industrial sites, commercial workshops, or agricultural equipment, consider models that deliver over 3,000 PSI. These units are designed to handle continuous use and heavy build-up.
Matching the PSI to your specific cleaning needs ensures you get the best results without risking damage to your property or equipment.
[lead-form form-id=1 title=Fill to Get Free Cleaning Checklist]
Best Uses for Different Types of High Pressure Cleaners
To get the most out of your high pressure cleaner, it’s important to match the right type of machine to the task at hand. Let’s break down the main categories and their ideal applications.
Light-Duty Cleaners
Light-duty pressure cleaners, typically offering up to 2,000 PSI, are a good fit for smaller, less stubborn cleaning jobs. These are ideal for:
- Washing cars, bikes, and boats
- Cleaning outdoor furniture and garden tools
- Freshening up windows and screens
- Sprucing up small patios or pathways
These models are easy to maneuver and generally quieter, making them perfect for regular home use and delicate surfaces.
Medium-Duty Cleaners
Stepping up in power (between 2,000–2,800 PSI), medium-duty cleaners are a great middle ground. They’re well-suited to:
- Cleaning fences and decks
- Removing dirt and mildew from house siding
- Tackling driveways, garages, and medium-sized paved areas
- Prepping surfaces for painting or staining
With more muscle than light-duty models, they can handle tougher grime but are still manageable for most homeowners.
Heavy-Duty and Professional Cleaners
For the most demanding jobs, heavy-duty and professional-grade cleaners—usually rated above 2,800 PSI—are your go-to. These units excel at:
- Deep-cleaning concrete driveways and commercial car parks
- Stripping paint, graffiti, and ingrained stains
- Cleaning brick walls, industrial equipment, and large work areas
- Agricultural or construction site cleanup
These powerful machines are best reserved for robust surfaces and jobs where quick, intensive cleaning is required.
Hot Water vs. Cold Water Pressure Cleaners
Another important consideration is whether you need hot or cold water capability:
- Hot water pressure cleaners are perfect for removing greasy or oily contaminants—think driveways, machinery, or food service areas.
- Cold water models handle most household and general outdoor cleaning tasks efficiently.
Pairing the right type of cleaner with your cleaning challenge not only saves time but also protects your surfaces from accidental damage.
Understanding PSI and GPM: What You Need to Know
PSI (pounds per square inch) and GPM (gallons per minute) are the two key metrics that determine a pressure cleaner’s performance. PSI measures the pressure of the water stream, which determines how powerful the cleaner is at removing dirt and stains. GPM measures the volume of water that flows through the cleaner, which affects how quickly you can clean a given area. A cleaner with a higher PSI and GPM will be more powerful and faster, but it may also be more expensive and require more careful handling to avoid damaging surfaces. Understanding the balance between these two factors will help you choose a cleaner that meets your needs.
Hot Water vs Cold Water Pressure Washers: Key Differences
A common question when shopping for a high pressure cleaner is whether you need a hot or cold water model. The answer depends on the types of cleaning tasks you expect to tackle most often.
Hot Water Pressure Washers:
Hot water units excel at cutting through grease, oil, and stubborn grime—making them a favourite for workshops, driveways, and commercial settings where oily residues are common. The heated water quickly breaks down tough substances, so you’ll spend less time scrubbing compared to using cold water alone.
Cold Water Pressure Washers:
Cold water models, on the other hand, are more than adequate for regular household jobs such as cleaning decks, fences, outdoor furniture, cars, and garden paths. They’re typically more affordable, lighter in weight, and easy to store. While cold water pressure washers are highly effective at removing dirt and debris, they’re less suited to removing oil-based stains.
Which Should You Choose?
If your primary concern is shifting mud, dust, or general dirt from outdoor surfaces, a cold water pressure washer will likely cover your needs. However, if you’re regularly contending with greasy machinery, oil-stained driveways, or commercial messes, investing in a hot water model can save you significant time and effort.
Choosing the right temperature option ensures your cleaning equipment matches your toughest tasks—helping you achieve those spotless results with less hassle.
Can Any Pressure Washer Be Used With Hot Water?
Not all pressure washers are suitable for use with hot water. Only certain models, known as hot water pressure washers, are engineered to handle high temperatures. Attempting to run hot water through a standard cold-water unit could damage internal seals and key components, potentially voiding warranties.
If cleaning tasks demand the extra power of heated water—like removing greasy residues or tackling industrial grime—look for models specifically designed for hot water use. Karcher and Stihl, for example, both offer dedicated hot water pressure washers. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications before introducing hot water to your equipment.
Pressure Washers vs. Power Washers: What Sets Them Apart?
While the terms “pressure washer” and “power washer” are often used interchangeably, there is a key distinction between the two. Pressure washers use unheated water to blast away dirt and grime from a variety of surfaces. They’re great for tasks like cleaning decks, patios, cars, and driveways.
Power washers, on the other hand, add another layer of cleaning muscle by heating the water before it’s sprayed. The hot water makes it easier to break down stubborn grease, oil, or tough stains—much like the difference between washing dishes in cold versus hot water. If you need to tackle especially grimy surfaces (think grease-covered garage floors or industrial equipment), a power washer can make the job more efficient.
Ultimately, your choice will depend on the type of cleaning you plan to do most often. For general household tasks, a standard pressure washer from a trusted brand like Karcher, Gerni, or Stihl should suffice. If you regularly deal with oily or greasy messes, it might be worth considering the added benefits of a power washer.
Essential Accessories for High Pressure Cleaning
Accessories can enhance the versatility and effectiveness of your high pressure cleaner. A turbo nozzle, for example, can increase cleaning power by focusing the water stream into a rotating jet, ideal for tough stains. Surface cleaners are another useful accessory, designed to clean large, flat areas like driveways and patios evenly and efficiently. For cleaning gutters and hard-to-reach areas, a telescopic extension wand is invaluable. Additionally, investing in a quality hose reel and storage solutions will help keep your equipment organized and prolong its lifespan.
Using Detergents with High Pressure Cleaners
Most high pressure cleaners are designed to work seamlessly with a variety of detergents, allowing you to tackle different cleaning jobs more effectively. Whether you’re washing your car, removing oil stains from the driveway, or deep-cleaning exterior walls, adding the right detergent can break down stubborn grime that water alone can’t handle.
There are detergents formulated for specific tasks, including:
- Automotive detergents: For cars, utes, and motorcycles, these soaps are gentle enough for paintwork but tough enough for road debris and bugs.
- Degreasers and industrial cleaners: Ideal for greasy surfaces in garages or workshop floors where oil and heavy grime build up.
- Multi-purpose cleaners: Versatile detergents suited for patios, decks, garden furniture, and even house siding.
- Mould and algae removers: Specifically designed to target stubborn green and black patches that can accumulate in damp areas.
When choosing a detergent, make sure it’s compatible with your high pressure cleaner and suitable for the surface you’re cleaning. Most machines have a dedicated detergent tank or an attachment for applying cleaning solutions, making the process simple and efficient.
When to Replace Pressure Washer Nozzles and Hoses
It’s important to regularly inspect your pressure washer accessories to ensure optimal performance and safety. As a general guideline:
- Nozzles should be checked frequently for signs of clogging, inconsistent spray patterns, or visible wear. If you notice a drop in cleaning efficiency or uneven water flow, it’s time for a replacement.
- Hoses should be monitored for cracks, leaks, or noticeable stiffness. If the hose develops bulges, splits, or starts to leak under pressure, it’s best to replace it immediately to prevent accidents.
Routine maintenance like flushing out the nozzles and storing hoses properly can help extend their lifespan, but plan on replacing these accessories every couple of years with moderate to heavy use—or sooner if you spot any signs of damage. Keeping your equipment in good working order ensures each cleaning session is as effective and safe as possible.
Comparing Electric vs. Gas Pressure Cleaners
When choosing between electric and gas pressure cleaners, consider your specific needs. Electric pressure cleaners are generally more compact, quieter, and easier to maintain, making them ideal for light to medium domestic use. They are also more environmentally friendly, producing no emissions. Gas pressure cleaners, on the other hand, offer more power and mobility, making them suitable for larger or more demanding jobs. They don’t require a power outlet, which gives you more flexibility in where you can use them, but they do require more maintenance and are noisier.
To help put this into perspective, petrol-powered washers—like the Karcher HD 7/20 G Classic—are built for heavy-duty tasks, delivering the muscle needed for industrial cleaning or large, heavily soiled surfaces. Electric washers, such as the Makita HW1200, shine when it comes to everyday household jobs, offering a quieter operation that won’t disturb the neighbours.
If you’re mainly tackling patios, vehicles, or outdoor furniture, an electric model is likely to meet your needs with less hassle. For stubborn grime on driveways, farm equipment, or commercial sites, a gas-powered unit is often the tool for the job. Matching the type of pressure cleaner to your cleaning demands will ensure you get the best results without overcommitting on size, noise, or maintenance.
Where to Buy Reliable High Pressure Cleaning Equipment
High pressure cleaning equipment is widely available in Australia, both in-store and online. Retailers like Bunnings Warehouse and Total Tools offer a wide selection of pressure cleaners and accessories, along with expert advice on choosing the right model. Online platforms like Amazon Australia and eBay often provide competitive pricing and customer reviews to help you make an informed purchase. Additionally, specialty stores like Sydney Tools offer a range of professional-grade equipment for those with more demanding needs.
Maintenance Tips for Prolonging the Life of Your Equipment
Proper maintenance is key to ensuring your high pressure cleaner lasts as long as possible. After each use, make sure to release the pressure and drain any remaining water from the pump and hose to prevent damage from freezing or corrosion. Regularly check and clean the filters to ensure the cleaner operates efficiently. It’s also important to inspect the hoses and connections for any signs of wear or damage. Storing your equipment in a dry, sheltered location will protect it from the elements and extend its lifespan.
Safety Features to Look for in a High Pressure Cleaner
Safety should always be a priority when using high pressure cleaning equipment. Look for models with safety features such as an automatic shut-off that stops the motor when the trigger is released, preventing overheating and saving energy. A GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) plug is essential for electric models to prevent electrical shocks. Additionally, a safety lock on the trigger can prevent accidental operation, which is particularly important if you have children in the home. Choosing a model with these features ensures safer operation and peace of mind.
Is It Safe to Use a High Pressure Cleaner on Windows?
Using a high pressure cleaner on windows can be effective, but it requires extra care to prevent damage. Always use a low-pressure setting or attach a gentle accessory, like a foam lance or a dedicated window cleaning nozzle, to minimize the risk of cracking or chipping the glass. It’s wise to test on a small, inconspicuous section first and avoid directing the spray too close or at sharp angles. Additionally, ensure the seals around your windows are intact to prevent water ingress. By taking these precautions, you can safely achieve sparkling clean windows without worry.
Conclusion:
Choosing the best high pressure cleaning equipment for your Australian home involves understanding your cleaning needs, comparing key features, and selecting the right accessories. Whether you opt for an electric or gas model, investing in a quality pressure cleaner and maintaining it properly will help you achieve excellent results and extend the life of your equipment. With the right tools, high pressure cleaning can be a quick, effective, and satisfying way to keep your outdoor spaces looking their best.
