Generac is a brand most renowned for the production of electric generators and became popular among pressure washer producers due to their high-quality products. Generac was founded in 1959 and has perfected in the production of gas-powered engines.
The best Generac pressure washers are powerful and convenient at the same time. The advantages and disadvantages of these products are presented in the Generac pressure washer reviews.
Factors such as warranty policies, customer services, and the brand’s history, need to be analyzed before deciding which pressure washer to purchase. These factors are presented in this Generac pressure washer buying guide.
The best Generac pressure washers are listed below:
- Generac 6602 OneWash
- Generac 6922
- Generac SpeedWash 7122
Best Generac Pressure Washers Comparison Chart
PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
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Generac 6602 OneWash |
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Generac 6922 |
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Generac SpeedWash 7122 |
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Best Generac Power Washer Reviews (Updated List)
1. Generac 6602 OneWash
The Generac 6602 OneWash is a reliable residential gas pressure washer designed to be used on a variety of surfaces, such as marble, bricks, glass, metal, stone, concrete, wood, and more.
The Generac 6602 OneWash’s key strength is that it is really easy to use. This power washer has all commands placed together in one control panel that is accessible to the user. The adjustable pressure control feature makes this unit versatile. The cushioned handle and the easy-to-pull inverted trigger of this unit transform the cleaning experience into a pleasant and comfortable one for the user.
The Generac 6602 OneWash pressure washer costs around $650-$700.
The Generac 6602 OneWash is equipped with a powerful 212cc engine which has more power than what most gas pressure washers in this range come with. This motor generates up to 3100 PSI at a maximum water flow rate of 2.8 GPM and can hold this performance for a long period. This power washer is supplied with an automatic cool-down system that prolongs the lifespan of the engine and the pump.
The Generac 6602 OneWash weighs 68.5 pounds and is accompanied by a 30-feet high-pressure hose, 3 quick-nozzle tips, and an ergonomic spray gun.
The Generac 6602 OneWash needs proper maintenance in order to benefit from its warranty policy. This pressure washer comes with a 2-year warranty for the motor and 1-year for the other components of the unit. Among the instructions included in the user manual, the manufacturer recommends oil change after the first 5 hours of use.
The advantages of the Generac 6602 OneWash pressure washer are as follows:
- The Generac 6602 OneWash’s engine comes with a low-oil shutdown feature that makes it long-lasting.
- The Generac 6602 OneWash has a foldable handle that makes the unit easier to store.
- The Generac 6602 OneWash comes with 8680 CU, which is high for a cleaning unit in this price range.
- The Generac 6602 OneWash has a 0.5-gallon onboard detergent tank.
- The Generac 6602 OneWash comes with an accessible hose connector.
- The Generac 6602 OneWash has a long hose compared to its competitors.
The disadvantages of the Generac 6602 OneWash pressure washer are as follows:
- The Generac 6602 OneWash is not suitable for really frail surfaces, as its lowest operational pressure is 2000 PSI.
- The Generac 6602 OneWash does not have an onboard hose reel.
Read More: Generac 6602 OneWash
2. Generac 6922
The Generac 6922 is a powerful gas pressure washer ideal for residential medium-duty DIY cleaning tasks. This machine provides high-performance while cleaning decks, driveways, outdoor furniture, tires, rims, walls, and more.
The Generac 6922 stands out because of its ergonomic features and ease of use. This power washer is supplied with a cushioned built-in handle that makes prolonged use more comfortable. The access to the hose connection is facilitated by the positioning of the pump, which is above the ground.
The Generac 6922 pressure washer costs around $820.
The Generac 6922 pressure washer is powered by an OHV horizontal shaft motor that generates 2800 PSI at a maximum water flow rate of 2.4 GPM. The total power of the unit is 6720 CU. The intensity of the sprayed water can be easily changed using different nozzles, which makes this unit versatile and perfect for any type of household task.
The Generac 6922 power washer weighs 57 pounds and is equipped with two 10-inch never-flat tires that make the unit easy to move around. The accessories included in the package are 4 quick-connect nozzle tips, a 25-feet high-pressure hose, and a spray gun.
The Generac 6922 power washer is backed by a 2-year limited warranty which is not covered if contaminated or improper fuel or oils are used.
The advantages of the Generac 6922 pressure washer are as follows:
- The Generac 6922 comes with an integrated 0.5-gallon detergent tank, reducing the user’s need to carry a soap bottle during cleaning.
- The Generac 6922 does not require a large storage space due to its compact design.
- The Generac 6922 has an ergonomic easy-to-pull trigger that reduces fatigue when used for a long period.
- The Generac 6922’s pump is well protected by a sturdy casing.
- The Generac 6922 has onboard storage for the hose and the trigger gun.
The disadvantages of the Generac 6922 pressure washer are as follows:
- The Generac 6922 is backed by a short warranty period for its price.
- The Generac 6922 lacks pressure adjustment settings.
3. Generac SpeedWash 7122
The Generac SpeedWash 7122 is a powerful pressure washer designed for medium to heavy-duty cleaning tasks. This versatile cleaning unit can provide high-performance in cleaning various types of surfaces, from RVs to decks.
The Generac SpeedWash 7122 power washer’s core strength is the efficiency it provides in less time than its direct competitors. This unit is powered by a gas 196cc OHV engine that generates up to 3200 PSI at a maximum water flow rate of 2.7 GPM, totaling 8640 CU.
The accessories of the Generac SpeedWash 7122 pressure washer contribute to diminishing the time needed for a cleaning task. The 12-inch brush included in the package, suited for decks, patios, and driveways, is supplied with 4 different nozzles and provides optimal cleaning results 4 times faster than other cleaning accessories. The turbo nozzle included in the package offers high-performance in 30% less time than other types of nozzles.
The Generac SpeedWash 7122 power washer costs around $930.
The Generac SpeedWash 7122 pressure washer is accompanied by a high-pressure kink-resistant and non-marring flex hose that measures 25-feet in length and can be stored onboard using the hook provided by the manufacturers.
The Generac SpeedWash 7122 weighs 62 pounds and is easy to maneuver due to the 2 never-flat tires. The shape of the unit’s frame allows moving it up and down the stairs easily.
The Generac SpeedWash 7122 power washer is backed by a 3-year warranty policy.
The advantages of the Generac SpeedWash pressure washer 7122 are as follows:
- The Generac SpeedWash 7122 is equipped with convenient control features that include ON/OFF, fuel shutoff, and choke, all in one place.
- The Generac SpeedWash 7122 comes with an onboard detergent tank.
- The Generac SpeedWash 7122 has a durable axial cam pump made of aluminum.
- The Generac SpeedWash 7122 comes with pressure control settings.
- The Generac SpeedWash 7122 is supplied with an ergonomic spray gun.
The disadvantages of the Generac SpeedWash 7122 pressure washer are as follows:
- The Generac SpeedWash 7122 ‘s hose is hard to detach.
- The Generac SpeedWash 7122 is a bit expensive for a home-use pressure washer.
About Generac
Generac is one of the most famous brands in the pressure washer industry, founded in 1959 by Robert Kern. Generac Holding Inc’s main activity was the production of Generac generators designed for home use. Now the brand is renowned for manufacturing an extensive selection of products, from accessories to gas pressure washers.
Generac is famous for innovating the pressure washer industry by using various technologies that have never been used before. The Generac Magnum line is a good example when it comes to innovation. Generac is famous for its portable generators and its mobile solutions for various industries.
The goal of Generac has always been to make power tools available for everyone. This is the reason why the Generac pressure washers are affordable and powerful at the same time. Providing high power and heavy-duty machines is Generac’s core strength. The company’s motto, “Our business is power”, illustrates this very well.
A Company That Puts Power Into Power Washers
Generac manufactures powerful pressure washers for residential and commercial use. The maximum pressure rate of the brand’s power washers varies from 2000 PSI to 4200 PSI. These pressure washers are used by consumers and professionals, as they are highly reliable and able to provide constant pressure and water flow for prolonged periods. Keeping the performance of the unit constant is a plus, especially for professionals.
The Generac pressure washers are more powerful than other models, which makes them a bit heavier and more robust than competitor machines. Generac has solved this problem by equipping its models with OHV horizontal shaft engines that offer more stability in terms of construction.
In terms of storage, most units have foldable handles that reduce the space needed to put the machine aside when it is not used. The mobility of the Generac pressure washers is also not an issue because all models are supplied with heavy-duty wheels that facilitate transportation.
Each Generac pressure washer is equipped with the largest engine available for its maximum pressure rate. As a general rule, all Generac engines have low-oil features. A low-oil shutdown feature turns off the engine when the oil levels are below its safety standards. By doing this, Generac has managed to prolong the lives of its cleaning machines and deliver high-quality products.
Generac Residential Grade Pressure Washers
The Generac residential pressure washers cost between $320 and $1150. The most expensive model in the line generates a maximum pressure rate of 4200 PSI at 4 GPM, which is impressive for a pressure washer designed for household use. The cheapest model also raises to high standards as it generates 2300 PSI at 1.2 GPM.
Generac Professional Grade Pressure Washers
The Generac professional-grade models feature maximum pressure rates between 3300 PSI and 4200 PSI. The maximum water flow rate for these models varies from 2.6 GPM and 4 GPM. The most powerful model in the line delivers a total power of 16800 CU. The price of the Generac commercial pressure washers is between $700 and $1700, depending on the model’s power rate.
The difference between Generac’s most powerful units from the residential line compared to the commercial line is that the former ones are sturdier and designed to be used for prolonged periods every day.
Generac Pressure Washer Features
Generac became a renowned company in the pressure washer industry because it focused on fulfilling various customers’ needs. This is why this brand developed systems that are meant to make the cleaning process easier and more efficient while reducing the time needed for a cleaning task. These features include:
Variable pressure
The most powerful Generac pressure washers are equipped with a PowerDial system that allows the operator to control the pressure output of the unit simply by using a dial. The PowerDial system has a few modes that automatically command the pressure washer to adjust its setting for specific cleaning tasks, such as cleaning concrete, wood, cars, heavy-duty tasks, or using soap.
Ergonomic pressure washer guns
The Generac pressure washer trigger guns feature cushioned grips designed to reduce fatigue and reduce vibrations to a minimum. Most of these guns have an easy-to-pull trigger that has an ergonomic design, allowing the operator to comfortably hold it while working.
There is a wide variety of Generac pressure washer models that feature a start button. This button incorporates an auto-choke feature with an electric turn-on and features a Li-Ion battery that can handle 50 starts before it needs to be recharged.
Generac Customer Relations and Approach
The Generac website is a practical source of information. All the technical specifications of each pressure washer model are presented in detail on the website and a list of Generac pressure washer accessories and their description is also included. Generac is faithful to its purpose of educating its customers to use their machines correctly and efficiently, and this is what differentiates Generac from other brands in the industry.
The Generac website features instructional videos about how to perform different tasks using a pressure washer. How to assemble and use these power washers is demonstrated and explained in a straightforward manner that is easy to understand by everyone. Useful videos in which the Generac pressure washers are experimented with and tested are also presented on the website.
The Generac customer support service is professional because the staff is trained and most of it is made of operators specialized in the field. This service is prompt in solving any type of problem and the general return policies have the reputation of being reliable and customer-oriented.
Generac Warranty
The Generac warranty policies for pressure washers cover 3 years for defects in workmanship and materials. The Generac procedure is to inspect the unit and decide if the damaged part will be repaired, replaced, or if the operator will receive a new one.
The Generac 3-year warranty is applicable only if the power washer is used for personal residential household applications. If a unit is used for commercial or rental application the period covered by the warranty is 90 days. For the first two years, all the parts of a Generac pressure washer are covered by this warranty. The only component covered by the policy during the third year is the power washer’s engine.
To benefit from a Generac warranty policy, the customer needs to have proof of purchase and maintenance. The pressure washer needs to be purchased from Generac directly, or from an authorized retailer, such as Amazon.
For the reconditioned Generac pressure washers there is a warranty of 90 days from purchase as long as the unit is used for personal residential household applications. This warranty includes the engine and its parts, as well as the pump and its components.
Generac Pressure Washers And The Competition
Generac vs Simpson Pressure Washers
Generac and Simpson are both companies with a long history, as both have been present on the market since the 1950s. They are both renowned for their quality and variety of features and both focus on innovation and reliability and are among the best gas pressure washer manufacturers. An operator that uses a Generac pressure washer can be sure that it is as reliable as a Simpson unit.
Generac pressure washers offer a wide variety of units that provide relatively high power levels for residential use. When it comes to commercial use, however, the Simpson machines provide a higher CU. The most powerful unit of the Simpson commercial series generates a maximum pressure rate of 7000 PSI, compared to Generac, which goes up to only 4200 PSI.
Generac and Simpson pressure washers also differ in terms of warranties. Some commercial Simpson models have warranties of up to 10 years for the frame, while Generac limits their warranty policies to 3 years. In terms of performance, however, Generac and Simpson are battling for the leading place in the gas pressure washer industry.
Generac vs Karcher Pressure Washers
Comparing Generac units to Karcher pressure washers makes sense in terms of being world leaders in the power washer industry. Karcher is considered one of the most reliable companies in the electric pressure washer industry, while Generac is considered the same in the gas-powered pressure washer line.
Karcher also has a line of gas pressure washers that go up to 4000 PSI, which are as reliable as Generac models. Generac uses engine models that are engineered by Generac, while Karcher uses Honda, Kohler, and Karcher engines. Honda and Kohler are recognized worldwide as being the most reliable engines in the pressure washer industry but Generac keeps up with their high standards, making deciding between the two a bit hard.
Karcher and Generac are both brands with a history of more than 50 years in the industry and put a lot of focus on their customers’ needs while providing reliable units that have sturdy constructions.
Generac Pressure Washer FAQs
1. How to start a Generac pressure washer?
Generac power washers models are not the same when it comes to design but there are some general steps needed when starting a unit. Before doing so, it is recommended to make sure that the water supply is turned on to avoid running the pump without water. If the power washer runs like this it might lead to damage that is not covered by the warranty.
The Generac power washer fuel lever needs to be moved to the ‘ON’ position and the choke lever should be placed on ‘CLOSE’. If the engine is warm, the choke lever should be turned to ‘OPEN’.
The Generac pressure washer engine has to be put in the ‘ON’ position. The unit needs to be secured before pulling the recoil. If the pressure washer has a footpad, placing the foot on it is required. The grip handle needs to be pulled gently until there is resistance. When this happens, the operator has to pull rapidly in order for the engine to start. While slowly returning the starter grip, make sure to avoid letting the rope snap back quickly against the starter.
While turning on a Generac pressure washer, pay attention to the engine choke lever. After following the steps previously discussed, slowly move the choke lever to ‘OPEN’ while the engine warms up. Move the choke lever back to the ‘CLOSE’ position if the engine happens to flatter, and then turn it back to ‘OPEN’ again.
Pro tips:
- In case of a failed attempt to start the engine, the trigger gun needs to be directed to a safe area to release the pressure from the power washer. While doing this, the gun should be held with both hands to prevent injury.
- If the engine does not start after six pulls, the choke lever should be moved to the ‘CLOSE’ position and the starter grip handle should be returned slowly. Repeat the steps taken above after the return of the starter grip handle.
- Make sure to wear protective goggles, not glasses, before turning on a pressure washer.
2. How to winterize a Generac pressure washer?
Winterizing a Generac pressure washer requires the user to follow some basic steps thoroughly in order to avoid possible pressure washer damage. There are some general guidelines but storing the engine and the pump need to be addressed separately.
The general guidelines are to let a hot water pressure washer cool off before storing it, to treat fuel before storing it, and to change the fuel tank if it is rusted because rust can cause irreparable damage to the fuel system. The high-pressure hose needs to be stored by trying to avoid kinks that can damage it when temperatures are really low.
Generac pressure washers need to be stored away from heat sources, as heat can dry the pump seals which leads to pump damage. Covering the pressure washer with a moisture-resistant cover is also recommended.
The Generac special instructions for storage are as follows:
Get the Generac fuel system ready for storage
The fuel system needs to be prepared to be deposited during winter because when fuel is stored for more than a month it can deteriorate and provoke damage to the components of the fuel system. This damage can be avoided by combining fuel with a fuel stabilizer. After that, the engine needs to be run for 2 minutes so that the stabilizer circulates through the system. This procedure allows the fuel to be stored for up to 2 years.
Get the Generac engine ready for storage
Generac engines need an oil change before they are stored. After changing the oil, the spark plug needs to be removed and about a tablespoon of engine oil has to be poured or sprayed onto the cylinder. This amount is the equivalent of 5-10cc. To evenly distribute the oil throughout the cylinder, the starter recoil should be pulled several times.
After installing the spark plug, the recoil needs to be pulled relatively slowly until reaching a resistance point, then the recoil can be gently released. This procedure is needed to close the valves so that the cylinder is protected from moisture damage.
Get the Generac pump ready for storage
A Generac pressure washer pump should be stored above freezing temperature, as temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit can cause irreparable damage. The engine, the fuel valve, and the water supply should be turned off to protect the pump from freezing
All the pressure needs to be taken out by pointing the trigger gun to a safe area and pressing on the trigger. After the engine is cooled, the high-pressure hose and the garden hose need to be disconnected from the unit. All the water left inside the hoses and the pressure washer gun should be drained.
After draining the pump from residual liquids, the recoil should be pulled six times to make sure that the pump is completely dry. The use of the Generac Pump Shield is recommended to winterize the pump. This shield lubricates the seals and pistons and eliminates freeze damage.
3. How to clean a Generac pressure washer carburetor?
Cleaning a Generac pressure washer carburetor should start with turning the fuel valve off in order to eliminate the risk that the fuel passes through the carburetor. After accessing the carburetor by removing the throttle cover, the air filter box, the intake setup, the gas tank should be emptied.
This procedure requires the operator to take the tube connecting the fuel tank to the carburetor out of the carburetor’s nipple. If there is new gas in the tank, the only step that needs to be followed is to clap the tube. If the gas is old, it should be emptied. Make sure to protect the surface on which the operation is performed with a towel.
After emptying the gas tank, the carburetor should be removed. The screws that keep the carburetor attached to the pressure washer’s engine need to be unscrewed and the throttle cable has to be disconnected to remove the carburetor safely.
The Generac pressure washer carburetor could have residual gas that needs to be removed by draining it into a container or onto a towel. To make sure that the carburetor is in good shape the operator needs to inspect it. If there are any marks of corrosion or rust, the item should be replaced.
If the Generac carburetor is looking good, it has to be taken apart. After removing the bowl by unscrewing the unit’s bottom part, every component of the carburetor needs to be detached. Make sure to take a picture before following this step to remember how to put the pieces back on.
Cleaning the carburetor of a Generac pressure washer requires spraying the metal parts with a cleaner specially formulated for this purpose. The parts made of rubber should be washed with soap and water because the cleaner might damage them. When everything is clean, the carburetor can be put back together and reconnected to the pressure washer.
4. How to replace a Generac pressure washer pump?
Replacing the pump of a Generac pressure washer can be done in a few easy steps, as follows:
- Take off the Generac pressure washer pump by removing the bolts that attach it to the unit. Some vertical pumps use 3 bolts but in some rare cases, they use 4. To remove a horizontal pump, there are 4 bolts that need to be detached.
- If the Generac pressure washer pump does not come off easily, the use of penetrating oil is required in order to pull it off the shaft. After applying this oil, it should be left there for a few minutes to penetrate thoroughly.
- Remove the Generac pressure washer pump gently from the shaft and cover the shaft with a light oil or antifreeze layer.
- If the Generac pressure washer pump is equipped with a thermal relief valve the replacement pump should also have one. In case the new pump doesn’t have a valve, there is the possibility of transferring the old one to the new pump. Before doing this, inspecting the old thermal release valve is recommended. If the valve is damaged, it should be replaced with a new one.
- The new Generac pressure washer pump can be now attached to the unit’s frame by placing it into position and screwing in the bolts with the other hand. Using a ratchet and wrench to secure the pump is highly recommended.
- Connect the Generac pressure washer’s tubes to the new pump. Make sure to tighten them up and use some thread for the pipes to prevent leaks.
- After reconnecting the spark plug wire, turn on the Generac pressure washer to test that it is working properly.
5. Why does my Generac pressure washer not start?
A Generac pressure washer will not start due to the following reasons:
- The Generac pressure washer has a dirty filter.
- The Generac pressure washer doesn’t have enough fuel.
- The Generac pressure washer’s spark plug is damaged.
- The Generac pressure washer’s spark plug wire is not attached to the plug.
- The fuel used for the Generac pressure washer is slate or has suffered water contamination.
- The fuel mixture used for the Generac pressure washer is excessively rich.
- The Generac pressure washer’s choke is set to the ‘ON’ position.
6. What kind of oil does a Generac pressure washer take?
A Generac pressure washer should be maintained according to the instructions in the user manual and the engine oil should be chosen accordingly. In terms of oil viscosity, using an SAE 30 oil is generally recommended for temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature is above 80 degrees Fahrenheit an increased oil consumption is possible while using a 10W30 oil, so checking the oil levels frequently is highly recommended.
7. Why isn’t my Generac pressure washer getting fuel?
A Generac pressure washer will not get fuel for various reasons, as follows:
- A Generac power washer will not get fuel if the oil levels are too low:
- A Generac power washer will not get fuel if the air filter has a lot of impurities.
- A Generac power washer will not get fuel if the fuel in the tank is old.
- A Generac power washer will not get fuel if the fuel mixture is highly rich.
- A Generac power washer will not get fuel if the fuel is contaminated with water.
- A Generac power washer will not get fuel if the choke is turned on.