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How many watts does a pressure washer use? (1,500 W)
A pressure washer uses about 1,500 W
Typical range 1,200–2,100 watts.
Typical range 1,200–2,100 watts.
Running cost calculator
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A pressure washer's pump motor draws steady power and surges at startup, so it needs a solid outdoor circuit.
Pressure washer power specs
| Typical running power | 1,500 W |
| Typical range | 1,200–2,100 W |
| Startup surge | 2,400 W |
| Energy use | 0.75 kWh/day · 22.5 kWh/mo |
What affects the wattage
- Model size, age and energy rating.
- Settings and how hard it works (heat, speed, load).
- How many hours a day you run it.
Running cost at $0.17/kWh
| Electricity rate | Per day | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| $0.10/kWh | $0.08 | $2.25 | $27.38 |
| $0.15/kWh | $0.11 | $3.37 | $41.06 |
| $0.20/kWh | $0.15 | $4.50 | $54.75 |
| $0.25/kWh | $0.19 | $5.63 | $68.44 |
| $0.30/kWh | $0.22 | $6.75 | $82.12 |
| $0.40/kWh | $0.30 | $9.00 | $109.50 |
See the full breakdown of what it costs to run a pressure washer, or what size power station runs a pressure washer.
FAQ
How many watts does a pressure washer use?
Electric models use about 1200-2100 running watts plus a startup surge.
What generator runs a pressure washer?
Allow for the surge - a 2500+ watt generator suits most electric washers.
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