Still not sure whether to go for a compact pressure washer or a full-size one? You might think that a compact pressure washer might not be as powerful or have the strength or flow rate that its big brothers might have, but a look at the specs of some of the compact machines around just now shows they pack a surprisingly large punch for their size.
Compact pressure washers are more portable, making them ideal for jobs that require you to move around. The smaller size means they are easier to store, and the performance of compact pressure washers is generally powerful enough for most domestic tasks.
The best compact pressure washer at a glance:
Best for everyday use (Editor's choice): Bosch Home and Garden EasyAquatak 120 - Buy now from Amazon UK
Best Compact Pressure Washer for Power: Karcher K4 Compact Pressure Washer - Buy now from Amazon UK
Best Compact Pressure Washer for Budget: Makita HW101 240V Pressure Washer - Buy now from Amazon UK
Another advantage is that they can save you water. Compact pressure washers generally consume less power and electricity than their big cousins…in fact, a power washer will often consume less water in comparison to an ordinary garden hose doing the same job.
The best compact pressure washers
Best for everyday use (Editor's choice)
The Bosch delivers a reasonably powerful 120 bar for such a compact machine. It comes with a lance which has a fixed fan-jet nozzle, a rotary nozzle and a detergent foamer nozzle. It's small and lightweight (only 5kg), which makes it really easy to move around as you work. Its short, chunky body makes it easy to stow away, and it has storage space in the bottom for the five-metre hose.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to set up
Cons
- You can't vary the intensity of the spray nozzle
Best for on-board storage
The compact design and the on-board storage space of the Ryobi makes it easy to use and a real space saver. The hose is a little shorter than we would have liked, but this is mitigated by the integral wheels and carry handle. You get a trigger gun, turbo lance, and jet foam bottle in the package. With a pressure of 110 bar, it's ideal for everyday cleaning.
Pros
- On board storage
- Good selection of accessories
Cons
- An adapter may be needed to allow the hose connection to fit properly
Best Compact Pressure Washer for Budget
The first thing you will probably notice is that the Makita is tiny, making it the perfect inclusion in a list of compact pressure washers. The adjustable nozzle and detergent bottle give you greater control of your cleaning. Although it's slightly less powerful than the others on this list, with an output of 100 bar, it's still pretty impressive for its unimposing stature.
Pros
- Really small, so easy to store
- Surprising performance
Cons
- Quite noisy when operating
Best Compact Pressure Washer for Power
The Karcher is one of the more powerful washers on our list, with a 1800w motor which generates a maximum pressure of 130 bar. It weighs 12.2kg which is a noticeable weight if you have to move it around a lot, but it does come with retractable wheels and a 6-metre hose. The variable nozzle can be adjusted to suit the surface being cleaned
Pros
- Powerful
- Long hose
Cons
- Hose and cable storage could be improved
Best for flexible working
The PW125 is the smallest, cheapest and least powerful in the Husqvarna range, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. It's well constructed and can cope with most domestic cleaning jobs. As it's slightly less powerful at 125 bar, the spray area is a bit smaller, so tasks may take a little longer, but it does possess a 7m long hose which gives more flexibility whilst working. This is the tallest washer on our list, but it's still light and easy to move around.
Pros
- Better than expected performance
- Easy and convenient storage of hose and accessories
Cons
- Less powerful so some tasks can take a bit longer
Things to consider before buying a compact pressure washer
Pressure output
Look for a washer that will meet your cleaning needs. Most domestic jobs can be tackled with a washer with a pressure of between 100 and 130 bar. In most instances, you really don't want to go above 145 bar as, without training, you can cause damage to paintwork and surfaces. It is pointless buying a machine that is overpowered for the job you intend it for.
Water flow rate
This also plays a role in the cleaning ability of the washer. There's no point in having lots of power if there's not enough water! The majority of compact washers will give a flow rate of between 350 and 430 litres per hour (l/h).
Size and weight
Consider the size and weight of the machine you intend to buy. The great advantages of compact pressure washers are that they are easy to move around and they are easily and conveniently stored.
Safety
You should never overlook the importance of safety, no matter what power tool you use. With compact pressure washers, it's a good idea to wear some eye protection in case the powerful jet launches some debris in your direction, and make sure that the power source you are using has a circuit breaker to keep you safe should there be a fault with the electrical system.