Your pressure washer will likely outlive the hose that it comes with by many years, due to regular use and common problems like leaks and tears. Chances are that if you’re reading this pressure washer hose review, you’re in the market for this consumable component. Below we take a look at the 7 top pressure hoses to get the job done.
Pressure Washer Hose Comparison Guide
Image | Product | Length | Hose Diameter | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Schieffer Co. | Length50 Ft. | 3/8” | ||
 | SIMPSON 41028 | 50 Ft | 3/8” | |
Briggs & Stratton 196006GS | 25 Ft. | ¼” | ||
Karcher 8.756 | 25 Ft. | ¼” | ||
Apache 10085591 | 50 Ft. | 5/16” | ||
No products found. | Twinkle Star | 50 Ft. | ¼” | |
Schieffer Co. Propulse | 50 Ft. | ¼” |
Benefits of Using Quality High-Pressure Hoses
High-pressure hoses will complement your pressure washer so that you can get the desired cleaning results that you're after. While it is possible to use a standard garden hose with some pressure washers, high-pressure hoses are often constructed to handle the higher pressure and use overall less water.
Another advantage of choosing a high-pressure hose for your pressure washer is that these hoses can handle higher temperatures. If you purchase a hot water pressure washer, this will be a critical element of your purchase.
Buying The Right Pressure Washer Hose
The most important consideration when purchasing a pressure washer hose is that it will fit with your current pressure washer.
Intended Use
The intended use for a pressure washer hose will obviously be to replace or extend your current pressure washer’s hose. These hoses are not suitable to be hooked up to your home as you would a standard garden hose. You will also need to consider whether you are using a hot or cold pressure washer, what PSI you’ll be operating at, and how often you will be using your machine.
Durability/Material
The durability of your hose will depend mostly on the material that it is made from. When it comes to pressure washing hoses, the most standard materials used are rubber and thermoplastics. The most robust hoses, like our top pick from Schieffer Co., will be made of dual layers like high tensile wire for added protection from breakage. Not all companies disclose what their hoses are made from, so be sure to read reviews to see how they have worked for others.
Hose Length
These hoses come in many different lengths. The most common length is 50 feet, but you can find hoses in varieties from 25 feet to 200 feet. The length you choose will depend on your intended use, and whether or not you're purchasing a hose as a replacement or an extension.
Hose Diameter
The diameter of your pressure washer hose will go hand-in-hand with the type of pressure washer that you have. For home use, the most common diameter is ¼”. These hoses are suitable for pressure washers up to 3200 PSI. Mid-range hoses are 5/16" and work with pressure washers between 2700 and 3600 PSI. For high-pressure power washers, you will want a 3/8" diameter, which is ideal for commercial and industrial applications.
Connection Type
The most common connection types for these hoses are either "Quick Connect" fittings and M22 connectors. Before purchasing, make sure that your chosen product will fit your pressure washer. Some of the products we review come with a pressure washer hose adapter for a universal fit.
Price & Warranty
When it comes to pressure washer hoses, price and warranty are typically correlated. You will find that the cheap pressure washer hoses have a shorter warranty period (as little as 90 days). A reasonable warranty period for these hoses is about 1-year.
7 Best Pressure Washer Hose Reviewed
1. Schieffer Co.
Our Top Pick
Base Material | High Tensile Wire Braided Rubber |
Length | 50 Ft. |
Hose Diameter | 3/8” |
Connection Type | 3/8" Quick Connect Female Brass Socket & 3/8" Steel Plug |
Max PSI | 4000 Working PSI / 16000 PSI Bursts |
Warranty | Yes – 180 Days |
When it comes to the best power washing hose on the market, our top pick is this 50-foot model from Schieffer Co., which we could easily say is the best commercial pressure washer hose as well for its superior action. This hose pairs nicely with pressure washers that work at 4000 PSI, but it can also handle bursts of up to 16000 PSI. Those oil stains on your driveway don’t stand a chance with this hose.
The hose is made from high tensile braided wire and is fully coated in synthetic rubber. Some users have noted that it's a little stiff and awkward to roll up, but this is simply another testimony of its incredible durability. The hose itself (when empty) weighs only 9.3 lbs.
For hot pressure washers, this hose can handle up to an impressive 250 degrees Fahrenheit – most pressure washers only heat water to about 155F max. These Schieffer hoses are made in the USA and are put through rigorous batch tests to make sure that every single hose is of top quality. For additional peace of mind, the company offers a limited warranty of 180 days.
For pressure washers lower than 4000 PSI, we have to admit that this hose will be overkill, and you’ll be able to find something more suitable. But for such a fantastic commercial hose to be under $100, we just had to include it on our list.
Pros
Cons
2. SIMPSON 41028
SIMPSON 41028
Best 50-ft Pressure Washer Replacement Hose
Base Material | Dual Braid w/Polyester and Steel |
Length | 50 Ft. |
Hose Diameter | 3/8” |
Connection Type | 3/8” Male quick connect plug x 3/8” Female quick connect socket |
Max PSI | 4500 PSI |
Warranty | Yes – 90 Days |
The best 50-ft pressure washer replacement hose for pressure washer is the Simpson 41028, which is appropriately named the “Simpson Monster Hose.” This product was specifically designed to be a replacement for your current pressure washer hose. Still, many users have also found that it's a suitable extension for any hose because it has QC fittings with 4" bend protectors.
This cold-water pressure washing hose is double braided with a new technology that has a polyester braided core, covered by a steel braided layer than is then coated in super strong translucent polyurethane for ultimate durability. It’s great for pressure washers working at up to 4500 PSI, but keep in mind that if you are using this hose as an extension, that you will slightly lose pressure as you increase length.
On Lowe’s website, user Jerry gives this Simpson model his seal of approval.
“I bought this hose last week and it is great. I seem to have more pressure and it being 50 ft long saves a lot of wear and tear on this old man's body from having to move the pressure washer so often. It is easy to roll up and store on my pressure washer. I would highly recommend this product and give it a well deserved 5 star rating.”
While we reviewed the 50-foot version of this replacement pressure washer hose, the same style is available in several lengths, from 25 feet to 200 feet.
Pros
Cons
3. Briggs & Stratton 196006GS
Best Pressure Washer Hose for the Money
Base Material | Not specified |
Length | 25 Ft. |
Hose Diameter | ¼” |
Connection Type | Dual O-ring fitting system |
Max PSI | 3000 PSI |
Warranty | Yes – 1 Year Warranty |
Briggs and Stratton is an American Fortune 1000 company known for its superior products, including pressure washers.
However, when it comes to keeping your warranty from being voided, the company requires you to use Briggs & Stratton genuine parts when it comes to replacing your consumables. You might think that you’d have to pay a premium price for the brand name replacement, but the 196006GS is also the best pressure washer hose for the money, and can often be found for under $25.
This ¼” 25-foot pressure washing hose is fitted with dual O-rings, and has a ¾” connection, making it not only ideal for Briggs & Stratton models, but also functional for use with models from Delta, Craftsman, Ryobi, and more. It has a healthy 3000 PSI max, but it should be noted that this particular model is for use only with cold pressure washers.
One verified purchaser on eBay remarks,
“Buying online always has you wondering and hoping that what you purchase would work to replace what has always worked but has worn out over time. Well, no need to wonder about this pressure washer hose. Quality connectors and the hose line looks like it will last as long if not longer than the original.”
Pros
Cons
4. Karcher 8.756
Best 25-ft Pressure Washer Replacement Hose
Base Material | Thermoplastic |
Length | 25 Ft. |
Hose Diameter | ¼” |
Connection Type | M22 Female Threaded Connectors + Adapters |
Max PSI | 3600 PSI |
Warranty | Yes – 90 Day Limited Warranty |
When it comes to the best 25-ft pressure washer replacement hose, look no further than this model from Karcher. This ¼" inch hose comes ready with both M22 connectors, and quick-connect adapters of various sizes so that it can fit most gas and electric-powered pressure washers.
These adapters make this the ideal hose, whether you're looking for a replacement hose or a 25-foot extension hose. It functions superbly with pressure washers up to 3600 PSI and can handle water up to 140F.
“Got the replacement hose and it is better quality than the one that came with the power washer. I'm delighted,”
says one user on the Karcher webpage.
Karcher products are assembled in the USA with foreign parts. The company stands by The Karcher Promise, which is “Cleaner, Quicker.” If you love the Karcher brand but need a hose that is a bit more robust, let me recommend this 50-foot rubber replacement hose.
The only criticism that we have with this replacement hose is that Karcher only supplies a 90-day warranty. That being said, with a price this affordable and ratings so consistently high, we think it’s a purchase worth the gamble.
Pros
Cons
5. Apache 10085591
Best Lightweight Pressure Washer Hose
Base Material | Thermoplastic Rubber |
Length | 50 Ft. |
Hose Diameter | 5/16” |
Connection Type | Female Connectors |
Max PSI | 3700 PSI |
Warranty | Yes – 1 Year Limited Warranty |
If you're tired of lugging around a heavy hose while you are pressure washing, then you'll want to buy the best lightweight pressure washer hose.
We've chosen the Apache 10085591 for this category because its thermoplastic rubber body comes in at just over 5 lbs total weight (almost 60% lighter than rubber hoses). For a 50-foot hose, this light weight is almost unheard of. Not only that, but you will find that it is much more flexible, as well.
Apache has created this hose to fit most cold water pressure washers of up to 3700 PSI. If you don’t have the perfect fit, then there is an Apache adapter that will create the right fit, as seen in this infographic:
image source: amazon.com
This hose can handle water temperatures from -4F to 140, so the only thing you'll need to worry about being too cold in chillier climates is your hands! It is scratch, and mark resistant exterior makes it durable and ideal for both gas and electric applications. At 50 feet long, you can use this hose as a replacement to your current hose, or as an extension for added distance. Just keep in mind that when used as an extension, the pressure will decrease slightly due to the overall length.
Pros
Cons
6. Twinkle Star
No products found.
Best 3000-PSI Pressure Washer Hose
Base Material | Not Specified |
Length | 50 Ft. |
Hose Diameter | ¼” |
Connection Type | M22 Female Connectors |
Max PSI | 3000 PSI |
Warranty | Yes – 1 Year Warranty |
Although an unusual name for such a powerful hose, the Twinkle Star 50-foot pressure washing hose packs a powerful punch when it comes to using with mid-range pressure washers. Its affordable price and durability are what have us calling it the best 3000-PSI pressure washer hose. It’s a great choice for replacing your current hose or adding an extension. It also comes in a 25-foot length if that better suits your needs.
The Twinkle Star is marketed as fitting well with Sun Joe pressure washers, but in reality, we have found that it is a nice pairing for most brands, including Craftsman and Generac. The hose has M22 brass connectors on both ends for easy hookup to your pressure washer and gun.
A few of the reviews we read about the Twinkle Star showed some concern over "immediate leakage" or splitting during the first use. However, the company does stand by its 12-month warranty, and I suspect that the writers of those reviews were using this hose with a pressure washer more potent than 3000 PSI. In general, it's a very well-liked pressure washer extension hose, and for the price, we cannot see any reason to complain!
Pros
Cons
7. Schieffer Co. Propulse
Most Durable
Base Material | Textile Braided with Thermoplastic Covering |
Length | 50 Ft. |
Hose Diameter | ¼” |
Connection Type | M22 Female Connectors |
Max PSI | 3100 PSI |
Warranty | Yes – 180 Days |
Another great option from Schieffer Co., the Propulse is the most durable pressure washer hose. It has the same textile braided build with a thermoplastic covering as our top pick.
The main difference is that this hose is built for lighter pressure washing work, and is suitable for pressure washers up to 3100 PSI. For most home DIYers, this is going to be the hose of choice. This affordable pressure washer hose can usually be found on Amazon for under $25, which is pretty incredible, considering the popularity of Schieffer USA-made hoses.
According to the company,
“Schieffer has made more high pressure spray hoses than any other company in the world. Schieffer stands alone.”
Most reviewers are thrilled with the top quality of this hose. Of the negative reviews, most of these users complained that the hose broke during its first use. If this happens to you (and it is not by your own fault – using it with a higher PSI pressure washer than intended), Schieffer will replace it for you.
Their 180 warranty is good from the day that the product ships and customer service can be reached at (563) 583-4758 or by filling out this form.
Pros
Cons
Connecting Hose to Pressure Washer
Connecting your hose to your pressure washer is a pretty straightforward process, and it as easy as screwing the hose into place.
As we’ve discussed above, if you don’t have a perfect fit, then you may need to purchase an adapter to act as the go-between. Before powering on, make sure that the connections are tightly secured to avoid leakage.
This video from Briggs & Stratton shows how to set up a pressure washer correctly:
Safety Tips When Using Hoses
It’s critical to follow safety protocols when using a pressure washer. Follow these tips to ensure proper use and safety:
Watch this video from ABC News to familiarize yourself with the safety risks involved with using a pressure washer, so that you can better be prepared.
People also Ask (FAQs)
What type of maintenance do high pressure hoses need?
While pressure washers themselves need routine maintenance, maintaining the hoses themselves is pretty straightforward. This includes regularly checking the hoses for leaks and cuts and making sure that the couplings are tightly secured. After each use, make sure to drain the pressure washer hose and wand completely before storing it away.
Are there advantages of having a short power washer hose?
Short power washer hoses are ideal for more portable power washers (usually gas-powered models). This makes moving the whole unit more convenient and takes up some of the bulk. For less mobile models, a 25 to 50-foot hose is recommended. Keep in mind that the longer the hose, the less output pressure you will have.
What are the most common causes of hose failure?
Your pressure washer hose can fail for several reasons, with the most common reason being a random kink (easily remedied). Other reasons your hose doesn't function could include incorrect coupling (does it properly fit your power washer?) or a leak (caused by either a tear or misaligned coupling). With your power washer off and disconnected from its power source, carefully look over your hose to determine the issue.
What are the steps for repairing a pressure washer hose that isn’t functioning?
It is possible to fix a pressure washer hose that has a leak by cutting off the failed portion with a box cutter and attaching a new coupler. You can also check your local hardware store for a pressure washer hose repair kit. However, for hoses that have a large amount of damage, or if the length of working hose is less than ten feet long, I would recommend purchasing a new hose altogether.
What’s the difference between a pressure washer hose vs. a garden hose?
While you can use a garden hose with your pressure washer, the two types are not identical. Pressure washing hoses can better stand up to the beating that they take from the pressure washer itself. Garden hoses will break down more quickly over time. We recommend a pressure washer hose vs. your garden hose because these hoses will give you 10-50% more pressure (and ultimately use much less water).
Is it safe to use a pressure washer hose for hot water pressure washing?
If you plan to use a hot pressure washer, make sure to use a hose that is intended for hot water use. Failing to do so can decrease the life of your water pressure hose.
Can I increase the pressure of the hose by replacing the nozzle?
Nozzles don't increase the pressure inside of your hose. Instead, they act as a dam and allow you to choose how much water pressure is released from the nozzle. (It's the same as if you put your thumb over the end of a garden hose.) Unless you have a faulty nozzle, replacing it will not increase your overall water pressure, which is primarily determined by the power washer that you have.
Conclusion
When it comes time to either replace or extend your current pressure washer hose, you can’t go wrong with any of the products on our list.
However, our first choice would be to pick a product from Schieffer Co. For pressure washers up to 4000 PSI with a 3/8” connection, I recommend this model. For a lighter duty option, go with this one.