The DeWalt Gas Pressure Washer You May Want To Reconsider Buying, According To Reviews

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

When it comes to serious outdoor cleaning jobs, it's hard to beat the performance of a gas-powered pressure washer. The machines are a top choice for professionals who want to blast away years of grime, grease, and mildew in a matter of minutes. Unlike electric models, which are better for lighter jobs like cleaning pollen off your patio furniture or giving your car a quick rinse in the driveway, gas pressure washers deliver a much stronger stream of water, capable of making even the oldest concrete or darkly stained siding look new. Built for both power and mobility, they're also more convenient than being tethered to an outlet. If you're a homeowner who takes pride in keeping your property extremely well-polished, there's a DeWalt gas pressure washer with plenty of positive reviews that may catch your eye. But according to some reviewers who experienced faulty construction, pump issues, and persistent backfiring, you should probably reconsider buying it if you're looking to invest in heavy-duty cleaning equipment.

The DeWalt 3200 PSI 2.8 GPM Cold Water Gas Pressure Washer is powered by a Honda GX200 engine, a commercial series overhead valve engine built to withstand longer runtimes during mid to heavy power washing sessions. The engine and an industrial triplex CAT pump sit on a compact but heavy-gauge welded steel frame lifted off the ground by 10-inch pneumatic tires. The $830 tool also comes with a spray gun and five different nozzles, including a soap tip, along with a downstream detergent injector that connects to the device via a 25-foot dual-braided hose. DeWalt's limited warranty covers the commercial engine for three years, the pump for five years, and the frame for 10 years.

Reviewers reported a variety of problems that required expensive repairs or returns

From garage floors to garbage cans, there are many things you can clean with a pressure washer. But when you can buy a small electric one for under $100, does it really make sense to splurge on more serious outdoor power equipment? Although hundreds of Home Depot customers have given the DeWalt 3200 PSI Gas Pressure Washer a five-star rating, many others weren't convinced. Dozens of users reported experiencing problems with their machines. Several people were extremely frustrated with shipping issues. Along with missed delivery windows thanks to poor communication with the freight company, others received bent units and boxes covered in leaked oil (which had to be replaced at additional expense). Others were disappointed with the overall construction quality, reporting bolt issues ranging from poorly lined up to completely falling off. There were also several complaints about shoddy wheels that, despite their size, are held on with a short pin that makes the entire machine feel unstable. 

Spark plug and pump issues requiring repair or replacement were also frequently reported. Although the product got high marks for offering several hours of runtime from many reviewers, others said theirs would never start! That's certainly something to keep in mind if you're a weekend warrior who wants to clean a huge driveway or several walkways, and simply don't have the time or inclination to bring your brand new machine to a repair shop. Although power washing has an incredible impact on your home's resale value, and a gas-powered pressure washer could help you get the job done faster, the potential issues with this one from Dewalt may not be worth the hassle. 

Recommended