Whether you want to clean your deck, really scrub your car, or get stuck on mold off of your home's roof, a pressure washer can quickly help you spruce things up.
These days, there are plenty of brands to choose from that can get the job done; Karcher, Honda, Generac, and others are all quality but incredibly expensive. Using a Craftsman model as recommended on this list makes sure that you get the same specs for around half the price.
Interestingly, pressure washers were invented accidentally in 1926 by Frank W. Ofeldt II when he tried to use steam and water to clean his garage floors. Craftsman was created the following year by Sears to help bring pressure washers to the mainstream. Now, Craftsman is one of the number one American owned pressure washer brands.
While Craftsman's parts used to be made and assembled in the USA, they now use a variety of suppliers, many of whom are in China. They do make sure to tell you if a product has been assembled in the USA and if global parts were used, so read the description carefully. People love Craftsman for its value for money and its extra features that make cleaning a breeze.
1. Briggs & Stratton Engines
Briggs and Stratton are well-known for their quality pumps, with their horizontal shaft series being particularly popular. Craftsman models use either a Biggs and Stratton or Honda engine, bringing a certain oomph to your clean.
2. Ready Start Engine Function
No-one wants cleaning to be a hassle, especially when turning their machine one. Craftsman's Ready Start Engine function ensures that the model will start in two pulls, or Craftsman will fix your machine for free.
3. Idle Down Technology
Wasting power or fuel is never the best feeling, which is why Craftsman added their Total Stop System, which puts the pressure washer into stop mode automatically when the machine is idle for too long.
4. Axial Cam Pump
A maintenance-free axial cam pump is an excellent addition to Craftsman’s range. Not only does it make your machine more reliable, but it also means that you get high-pressure output and low effort power up and down.
5. Fold-Down Handle
In a world of increasingly small apartments and houses, function and storability are crucial. Many of Craftsman’s models come with small or fold-down handles, some with storage space inside, to help you keep your home clean without sacrificing closet space or portability.
Craftsman Pressure Washers Compared
Image | Product | Pressure | Cleaning Power | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
No products found. | CRAFTSMAN CMXGWAS021022 | 3000 psi | 7500 (psi x GPM) | |
No products found. | CRAFTSMAN CMXGWAS021021 | 2800 psi | 6440 (psi x GPM) | |
No products found. | CRAFTSMAN CMXGWAS021023 | 3100 psi | 6510 (psi x GPM) | |
Craftsman 2050 | 2050 psi | 2870 (psi x GPM) | ||
No products found. | Craftsman CM1800 | 1800 psi | 2160 (psi x GPM) |
Comparison to Other Pressure Washer Brands
Craftsman pressure washers are an excellent option for any buyer, but how do they compare to other brands? Honda models often have the same specs as Craftsman models but for double the price. Karcher is a popular mid-powered pressure washer brand that has a wider range for a larger price than Craftsman.
Simpson specializes in gas-powered pressure washers that are designed for heavy cleaning; they have a broader range than Craftsman. Greenworks, Sun Joe, and Ryobi all have small ranges that are around the same price and psi as Craftsman. In terms of the warranty, Craftsman often lags behind and provides shorter ones.
5 Best Craftsman Pressure Washers Reviewed
1. CRAFTSMAN CMXGWAS021022
No products found.
Our Top Pick!
Pressure | 3000 psi |
GPM | 2.5 gallons |
Cleaning Power | 7500 (psi x GPM) |
Weight | 65.7 lbs |
Engine Size | 190 cc |
Warranty | Washer = 3-year limited Engine/equipment = 2 year limited |
Made in the USA with global materials, the Craftsman CMXGWAS021022 pressure washer is a perfect and powerful all-rounder to help you with yard work, and it's our top pick. Its 190cc engine is around 40% quieter than most thanks to its Idle Down technology and is strong enough to clean your driveways and concrete. The long and flexible hose is both easy to handle and easy to move around while working and connects to four useful quick connect nozzles; 0 degrees, 15 degrees, 40 degrees, and a soap one.
A dedicated soap system works perfectly with a 32-ounce concentrate detergent to keep your property looking beautifully clean. Whether you need to wheel this Craftsman 3000 psi pressure washer across the yard or to a worksite, the 10-inch Never Go Flat wheels and solid handle make sure than transporting this model is manageable despite its heavy size; be cautious if lifting it into a vehicle or onto a shelf. The warranties of two and three years are average for Craftsman, but handy should an accident occur.
Pros
Cons
2. CRAFTSMAN CMXGWAS021021
No products found.
Runner Up
Pressure | 2800 psi |
GPM | 2.3 gallons |
Cleaning Power | 6440 (psi x GPM) |
Weight | 62.2 lbs |
Engine Size | 163 cc |
Warranty | Washer = 3-year limited Engine/Equipment = 2 year limited |
Another model that was made in America with global parts, the Craftsman CMXGWAS021021 has a lot of the classic Craftsman features. It includes a long 25-inch hose, a handle, Just Check and Add fuel technology, four quick-connect spray tips, a ready start engine system, and an axial cam pump. The 163cc motor is powerful enough to really get into the cracks in pavement, moss, or paint to help you clean and remove unwanted areas.
The high-pressure flow of this Craftsman 2800 psi pressure washer is perfect for medium-duty cleaning tasks like pavements, patios, and drains. Ideal for cleaning walls and roofs thanks to its power and long hose, the CMXGWAS021021 is a great model with the standard two and three-year warranties to protect it in case of breakage or fault.
Another weighty machine, the 10 inch Never Go Flat tires and handles make sure that you can move this model around with ease. Some Craftsman 2800 psi pressure washer reviews have noted that the wand extension is on the delicate side and can be broken if handled roughly. If parts do break, it can be challenging to get them repaired.
Pros
Cons
3. CRAFTSMAN CMXGWAS021023
No products found.
Most powerful GPM model
Pressure | 3100 psi |
GPM | 2.7 gallons |
Cleaning Power | 6510 (psi x GPM) |
Weight | 67.3 lbs |
Engine Size | 187 cc |
Warranty | Washer = 3-year limited Engine/Equipment = 2 year limited |
The most powerful GPM model on this list, the Craftsman CMXGWAS021023, is a fantastic option for doing some more difficult medium-level cleaning tasks, like removing weeds from concrete or getting really tough paint or dirt away from a wall. The powerful 187cc machine and axial cam pump are ready to take on all of your toughest home cleaning tasks.
Five different quick-connect tips have you covered no matter what mission is at hand, while the efficient detergent system can use concentrated soap formulas to keep your home spick and span. For those looking to do some work on their second story or roof, a second story nozzle set is included with this purchase to make the job even more comfortable.
Easy start technology makes sure that you do not have to spend long periods pulling on a cord or holding down a button to get your pressure washer to start. This Craftsman 3100 psi pressure washer has a handle, and 10 inch Never Go Flat wheels that can roll over any terrain with ease. The standard 2 and 3-year warranty applies, but some reviews have noted that this model has many small parts that are hard to get fixed if they break.
Pros
Cons
4. Craftsman 2050
Top electric model
Pressure | 2050 psi |
GPM | 1.4 gallons |
Cleaning Power | 2870 (psi x GPM) |
Weight | 42 lbs |
Engine Size | N/A |
Warranty | N/A |
One of the least powerful models on this list, the Craftsman 2050 is another excellent option for those looking to spruce up their garden. While the 2050 is a lighter model than others on this list, it still comes with all the favorite Craftsman pressure washer features that we know and love. This includes the Idle Down System, push-button start, axial cam pump, fiver different quick-connect spray tips, sturdy Never Go Flat Tires, and a durable handle.
A long flexible hose and power cord make sure that you can clean high up patches or further away areas of the property easily. Many customer reviews have praised the fact that this model is ready to go to work right out of the box on delivery and is easy to use. Overall, we would recommend this model for cleaning decks, patios, and car exteriors due to the lower power spray and various quick connect nozzles.
Pros
Cons
5. Craftsman CM1800
No products found.
Best small portable model
Pressure | 2050 psi |
GPM | 1.2 gallons |
Cleaning Power | 2160 (psi x GPM) |
Weight | 36.3 lbs |
Engine Size | N/A |
Warranty | 2 year limited |
A very compact model, the Craftsman pressure washer is an excellent option for lighter cleaning tasks. A 35-foot power cord combined with the long hose and 8 inches Never Go Flat wheels make it perfect for cleaning further away lighter cleaning tasks. Dual onboard soap tanks make cleaning with detergent a simple task. A Craftsman pressure washer hose reel is built in to make storage even easier; the fold-down handle only adds to the compact storage possibilities.
For those who prefer having all of their accessories in one place, there is an onboard accessory storage compartment to keep your toolkit neat and tidy when it is in use and in storage. It is worth noting that various customer user reviews have said that this model is louder than others on this list, and there is only a 2 years limited warranty. If you have light little odd jobs that need doing, like rinsing outdoor furniture or your car, then this is the model for you.
Pros
Cons
Operating a Craftsmen Pressure Washer
Once your Craftsman electric pressure washer or Craftsman gas-electric pressure washer arrives, make sure to take it outside and that you have enough space to work.
Grab your toolkit, some water, and some detergent if applicable and set the pressure washer up according to the manual instructions. You can test out its functions on your concrete patio or deck to confirm that everything is functioning correctly before the real cleaning begins.
If you would like to adjust the pressure, either consult your manual or try using the different provided nozzles or tips to see which produces the best result for the task at hand. Pressure washing is great for dirt and grime but is not the best for killing mildew patches or stripping paint from external walls.
Try standing or holding the nozzle further away and get closer until the desired cleaning effect occurs. Be sure to slowly swing level or at a 45-degree angle from side to side and remove all dirt before beginning the next strip. Consider covering your flowers or outside furniture with a tarp to avoid them getting wet or damaged if necessary. Avoid spraying windows and only work in small batches at a time.
Maintenance & Troubleshooting
Important Pressure Washer Maintenance
Safety Tips
How To Clean A Craftsman Pressure Washer
Regular cleaning of your pressure washer can extend its life and keep it in top condition. While we recommend that you follow manual instructions carefully, here are some cleaning tips to help you out.
- 1Flush your jet with clean water and unpick any clogs with a thin metal rod and be careful not to widen the hole.
- 2Remember to clean the filter with a cloth, typical of how you would clean a vacuum cleaner.
- 3Remove the inlet filter with a pair of pliers and wash the filter under fresh water. A toothbrush can help remove debris if necessary.
How and Where To Store Your Washer and Gasoline
Troubleshooting
Nozzle and spray gun issues:
The engine won’t start:
Low Pressure
Which Nozzle Should I Use?
People also Ask (FAQs)
Can I use hot or warm water on my Craftsman pressure washer?
If you would like to use hot or warm water, make sure to pick up a hot water pressure washer. Read the product description carefully to get the right model and avoid damaging the product.
Where can I use my Craftsman pressure washer?
You can use your Craftsman pressure washer anywhere as long as it is outside of a building in a ventilated area.
Are there any Craftsman pressure washer accessories I should buy?
Protective eye and ear wear are always important when operating machinery. Other accessories to consider include soap or detergent, more nozzles, drain and tub cleaners, brushes, and replacement guns.
Do Craftsman pressure washers come with a warranty? What’s the Craftsman return policy?
Craftsman washers often come with a two to three-year warranty. Craftsman customer service can be reached directly through this feedback form, or at 888-331-4569.
Where is the best place to buy Craftsman pressure washers, parts, and accessories?
Some of the best places to purchase parts include Craftsman’s website, your local hardware store, and Amazon. Buying from a reputable seller on Amazon means that you can get a high-quality pressure washer for an affordable price.
Conclusion
As you can see, Craftsman is hard to beat when it comes to good value quality pressure washers. It takes a trusted brand to rise to the top, and Craftsman has been producing pressure washers since 1927. While Craftsman pressure washer reviews are high for all of the products listed above, we would have to recommend the Craftsman CMXGWAS021022 over them all.