I’m a long-time fan of Ryobi. I have a collection of the company’s power tools that have never let me down–Ryobi even makes a portable music player that lasts longer on a charge than anything else I’ve ever tried. A few weeks ago I saw a Ryobi 1,600 PSI electric pressure washer on sale and picked one up. It’s been an awesome addition to the collection, and something I keep finding new uses for. If you’re looking for a Father’s Day gift, this would make a great one…
I Always Meant to Get a Pressure Washer, But…
Pressure washers always seemed to be pretty useful to me, but I’d read they could also be pretty disappointing, especially the entry level electrical models. Last year, I finally convinced myself to buy one—the deck was in serious need of washing, and scrubbing the dirt from travel and residue from leaves from the trailer was getting old. I ordered one and it arrived… broken. The build was terrible, despite coming from a brand name and a $300 sale price. That was it for last year. This year we were going to break down and just rent one.
Then I saw this Ryobi 1,600 PSI pressure washer on sale for just a little more than the rental fee. As I said, I trust Ryobi, it looks (and feels) solidly built, including an aluminum roll-cage frame. I checked the construction and it has an aluminum pump instead of plastic, plus a 3-year warranty. And online reviews are consistently high.
Ryobi 1,600 PSI is Easy to Use, Works Well, and Seems Well Designed
It took maybe five minutes to break the pressure washer out of its box and get everything set up. At 1,600 PSI, 1.2 gallons per minute, and a 13-Amp motor, this isn’t the most powerful model out there (or even in the Ryobi line-up), but it’s plenty for cleaning decks, driveways, and siding. With the high-pressure nozzle (there are three different quick-connect nozzles included for the trigger gun), it was powerful enough to splinter pressure treated lumber. There is a 15-degree nozzle included that still does a good job, but is easier on the wood.
A built-in, one-quart detergent tank is included for pre-spraying with cleaner. The 20-foot, quickly-connect hose (plus 35-foot power cord) gives a significant range without having to move the unit. Blasting a year’s worth of grime off the deck was extremely satisfy (and low effort), and it is far better than the hose for washing the cars and house siding. It can also blast grass and weeds growing over top of patio stones.
Some people would find the lack of wheels a deal-breaker. If you want a unit with wheels, Ryobi makes one that costs a little more that also includes a pressure upgrade to 1,700 PSI. However, I’ve found the 1,600 PSI model fits my needs perfectly. It’s extremely stable and virtually impossible to tip over, there’s a built-in carrying handle (it only weighs just over 17 pounds), and it’s very compact for storage.
If you’re considering a pressure washer for occasional household use, or you’re looking for something to get a handy dad for Father’s Day, the Ryobi 1,600 PSI electric pressure washer is worth considering.
