What Size Pressure Washer Do I Need?
Bar pressure, flow rate and cleaning class explained — match the washer to your jobs.
Pressure washer power is measured in bar (pressure) and litres per hour (flow). Higher bar means more force; higher flow means more water volume to wash debris away. Both matter.
For car cleaning and light patio work, 110–130 bar is sufficient. For regular patio and decking cleaning, 130–150 bar is ideal. For heavy-duty driveway and stone cleaning, look for 150 bar or more.
If you'll clean delicate surfaces like car paint or wooden decking, look for a washer with a gentle or adjustable pressure mode. Fixed high-pressure washers can damage soft surfaces.
A detergent or foam system is useful if you'll clean cars or bikes regularly. A hose reel keeps things tidy, and compact storage matters if you'll keep the washer in a shed or garage.
