Surface Cleaner Buying Guide

Many homeowners grow tired of seeing the uneven stripes left by a standard pressure washer wand on a driveway or patio. Surface cleaners are transformative attachments that can change the way cleaning is approached for years to come. 

The right surface cleaner saves time, water, and effort. These tools produce a clean, uniform finish without soaking the operator's clothes. When used with lower pressure settings, they can even be utilized on decks and maneuvered easily around the workspace. 

How Do Surface Cleaners Work? 

Surface cleaners are pressure washer attachments that connect directly to the wand. They spray water through the bottom evenly to avoid leaving streaks. Small nozzles on the head of a spinning arm produce a smooth, even cleaning path as the arm rapidly rotates within an enclosed disk. This design keeps the operator's feet dry and allows for much faster cleaning than using a pressure washer wand alone. 

Consumer Surface Cleaners 

Consumer electric pressure washers typically use bayonet connectors that twist and click to lock together. Most consumer gas units utilize the standard M22 connector. If a spray gun uses quick connectors, adding a high-pressure quick-connect adapter kit will allow for a proper connection. Consumer surface cleaners are ideal for homeowners tackling spring cleaning or other smaller residential tasks. 

Semi-Pro Surface Cleaners 

Semi-pro models bridge the gap between residential investment and an entry-level professional choice. These models are constructed with heavy-duty components and are designed to perform better for longer periods than standard consumer models. For seriously stubborn stains on a driveway or garage floor, the extra power of a semi-pro surface cleaner is often required. 

Professional Surface Cleaners 

Professional surface cleaners are engineered for heavy-duty, daily use with either gas or electric commercial pressure washers. Most are rated for up to 4,000 PSI and are compatible with hot water. These units are designed to be lightweight and easily portable. For those who use a surface cleaner professionally or on a regular basis, a commercial unit ensures long-term durability. 

More Options to Clean Faster 

When large areas need to be cleaned at once, users do not have to settle for just a pressure washer wand and a turbo nozzle. If a surface cleaner is not the preferred choice, water brooms are another effective alternative. These attachments look and operate similarly to a manual push broom, but they spray water at high pressure in wide, horizontal lines across the ground. They represent a "happy medium" for large, open areas that require efficient cleaning.