What Size Generator to Run Electric Pressure Washer

When you own a car washing center and wish to buy an electric pressure washer, there are several things that you need to consider. For instance, you need to ask yourself what size generator to run electric pressure washers? Most electric pressure washers consume between 1500W and 3000W, meaning you need a generator that can handle at least this power range while accounting for extra surge wattage. A 2000-watt to 4000-watt generator is generally ideal, but it further depends on the specific model of your washer and usage duration.

As you can see from the numbers here, when it comes to powering an electric pressure washer, choosing the right solar generator size is crucial for smooth operation and longevity of both devices. This is particularly important in remote locations, construction sites, or during power outages, where access to grid electricity is limited. In such cases, you can always check out Jackery Solar Generators, as they provide a reliable, clean-energy alternative over on-grid or diesel generators.

Key Takeaways

• An electric pressure washer requires a generator with at least 1.5x the running wattage to handle startup surges. Most models need between 2,000W and 4,000W for smooth operation.
• Compact electric pressure models use 1500W-1800W, medium-duty washers need 1800W-2500W, and heavy-duty units demand 2500W-3000W.
• Diesel generators offer long runtimes but are noisy and costly. Inverter generators provide stable, fuel-efficient power. But solar generators offer silent, eco-friendly operation with zero fuel costs.
• Diesel and standby generators produce 60-90 dB, while Jackery Solar Generators operate at less than 30 dB, making them ideal for residential areas.
• Based on average electricity rates in the US, running an electric pressure washer for an hour costs $0.24, while fuel-based generators have additional costs.

How Many Watts Does an Electric Pressure Washer Use?

An electric pressure washer typically uses between 1500W and 3000W, depending on its size and power rating. When finalizing the right generator size and understanding how many amps pressure washers use, you need to account for different scenarios and machines. For instance, most consumer-grade electric pressure washers are designed for 120V outlets and operate at 1500W.

Here’s a quick breakdown of electric pressure washer wattages based on their size and use case:

• Compact Models (1500W – 1800W): These are light-duty washers, ideal for cleaning cars, bicycles, and small patios.
• Medium-Duty Models (1800W – 2500W): These are typically found in residential and commercial use, as they can be used to clean fences, decks, and moderate stains on concrete surfaces.
• Heavy-Duty Models (2500W – 3000W): The heavy-duty ones are designed for deep cleaning and industrial tasks, such as removing stubborn stains, mold, and grime from large surfaces. They require a higher-wattage generator to ensure a consistent power supply.

How Many Starting and Running Watts Electric Pressure Washers Use?

Electric pressure washers require more power during startup than they do while running continuously. This initial power surge happens because the electric pressure washer's built-in induction motor must overcome inertia and reach its optimal working speed before it becomes operational. The analysis of surge wattage is crucial because if your generator is not equipped to handle this temporary spike, it can cause a voltage drop or even damage the washer.

To determine the surge wattage of an electric pressure washer, you can always consider that the former is 1.5 to 2.5 times the running wattage. For simplicity, a 2x multiplier is commonly used when estimating the starting wattage for a generator.

Here’s a breakdown of the running and surge wattage for different electric pressure washers:

Note: The above running wattages are estimated and can vary according to the brand, model, and type.

How Much Energy is Needed to Run an Electric Pressure Washer?

An electric pressure washer consumes between 1.5 kWh and 3 kWh per hour. The energy usage depends directly on its size and power rating. However, since energy consumption is calculated based on wattage and operating duration, the total energy required depends on the pressure washer's power rating and how long it runs continuously.

There are several factors that influence the overall energy consumption, like:

• Power Rating (Wattage): The higher your electric pressure washer wattage, the more electricity it will consume per hour.
• Usage Duration: Running a pressure washer for 15 minutes vs. 2 hours would significantly affect energy consumption and your overall electricity bill.
• Water Pressure & Flow Rate: High-pressure washers have built-in motors that work harder to maintain strong water flow, leading to using more energy per minute
• Efficiency of the Motor: Some brushless induction motors are more energy-efficient than standard ones, which slightly reduces energy consumption over time.

The common formula to calculate the energy usage is:

Energy Consumption (kWh) = [Wattage x Operating Hours]/1000

For instance, if a 3000W heavy-duty electric pressure washer runs for 2 hours, it would consume up to 6kWh of electricity. The given formula easily calculates the energy requirements for the above-mentioned electric pressure washers.

Types of Generators Suitable to Run Electric Pressure Washers

Before you analyze what size generator to run electric pressure washers, you need to finalize the type of generator that is best suited for your needs. There are several options that you can choose from, each depends upon your needs, budget, and use cases. From fuel-powered generators to solar-powered options, each type has its advantages and limitations. Here’s a breakdown of types of generators suitable to run electric pressure washers:

• Diesel Generators: Diesel generators are known for their high efficiency and durability, which makes them a strong option for commercial or industrial cleaning. However, they are noisy and produce emissions. Furthermore, these are not considered an ideal backup solution for residential areas.
• Standby Generators: These are fixed generators installed within the house and designed to automatically start during power outages. However, they are pretty expensive to install, and since they are not portable, you might need another backup option if you want a power source for outdoor locations.
• Inverter Generators: These are modern generators that offer stable power with low noise levels. However, they are more expensive than standard gas generators and have limited power capacity for heavy-duty pressure washers.
• Solar-Powered Generators: If you want an eco-friendly, cost-effective alternative, you can choose solar-powered generators. They are cost-effective in the long run, and the high-capacity generators can even easily power heavy-duty pressure washers.

Fuel Type Consideration

When you are finalizing a generator for an electric pressure washer, it’s crucial to consider fuel efficiency and operating costs. According to the EIA report from February 2025, diesel fuel was priced at $3.68 per gallon. A 10kW diesel generator running at 50% load consumes approximately 0.53 gallons per hour, which means that the operating costs can add up quickly. While diesel generators offer longer runtimes and efficiency, they might not always be the most economical choice.

How to Calculate Cost Per Hour Usage to Run Electric Pressure Washer

In order to calculate the cost per hour usage to run an electric pressure washer, there are several things you need to consider. First of all, you need to check the average electricity rate in the United States. As of February 2025, the average electricity rate is ¢16.26kWh. Below is the table outlining the estimated hourly cost for different electric pressure washers:

Even though the hourly cost of using a diesel generator to run a 1500W electric pressure washer is $0.59, when you mount it for daily or even monthly usage, it will significantly add up to your monthly cost. If you want to save money and are looking for a reliable power source to run electric pressure washers and other appliances that does not require any ongoing expenses like fuel costs, you can rely on solar-powered generators from Jackery. 

Jackery Solar Generators to Run Electric Pressure Washers

Ever since its inception in 2012, Jackery has proven to be an industry expert in solar generators, portable power stations, and solar panels for home, outdoor, and off-grid applications. With over 5 million units sold, Jackery has earned numerous industry accolades for its commitment to clean, reliable energy solutions.

As more homeowners and professionals seek sustainable power alternatives for high-energy tools like electric pressure washers, Jackery stands out as a trusted brand. You can check out the following solar-powered generators to run electric pressure washers:

Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus

The Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus is designed to provide comprehensive backup power for multiple household appliances during power outages or in off-grid scenarios. For users of electric pressure washers, the Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus offers a reliable power source capable of handling the substantial energy demands of heavy-duty cleaning equipment. Its compatibility with high-wattage devices ensures that electric pressure washers operate efficiently, which delivers consistent performance without the fluctuations that can occur with less capable power stations.

Appliance Working Hours

• Electric Pressure Washer (2500W): 1.6H
• Heat Gun (2000W): 2.0H
• Electric Pressure Washer (1800W): 2.3H
• Electric Pressure Washer (1500W): 2.7H
• Vacuum Cleaner (1200W): 3.4H

Customer Review

“Exactly what I wanted for hurricane preparation.” -- Kathy Stelly.

Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus

Similar to the Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus, the Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus is a reliable power solution designed to meet diverse energy needs. The portability of this solar generator makes it suitable for various applications, including home emergencies and outdoor activities. This backup solution's high battery capacity and fast solar charging ensure that your essential devices, like air conditioners, refrigerators, ovens, etc., remain powered in emergencies.

Appliance Working Hours

• 120V Electric Pressure Washer (1500W): 1.1H
• Microwave Oven (1200W): 1.4H
• Bench Grinder (1000W): 1.6H
• Electric Kettle (900W): 1.8H
• Jigsaw (800W): 2.1H

Customer Review

“I like the fact that the panels are interchangeable with my smaller Jackerys. I also love the fact that it can be used as a battery backup.” -- Jamey Scroggins.

Generator Noise Levels for Electric Pressure Washers

One of the most important considerations when finalizing the generator to run the electric pressure washer is the noise it would produce. Most residents or communities have strict guidelines about noise levels after a certain hour each day, which might create a problem for you if you have a generator emitting harmful fumes and noises.

Here’s a rough noise level of different generators that might help you make a well-informed decision:

What Size Generator to Run Electric Pressure Washer FAQs

Can you run a pressure washer from a generator?

Yes, you can run an electric pressure washer from a generator, provided the generator's output matches or exceeds the washer's power requirements. For instance, if a pressure washer requires 1,500 watts to run and has a starting surge of 3,000 watts, the generator should handle at least 3,000 watts to ensure proper operation.

How many watts does a 2000 PSI pressure washer use?

The wattage consumption of a 2000 PSI electric pressure washer typically ranges between 1,500 to 2,000 watts during operation. This variation depends on the specific model and its efficiency.

Do electric power washers use a lot of electricity?

Electric pressure washers are generally more energy-efficient compared to their gas-powered counterparts. They typically consume between 1,500 to 3,000 watts per hour, depending on the model and usage. For example, a 2,000-watt pressure washer for one hour would consume 2 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity.

How much power does a 1500W electric pressure washer use?

A 1,500-watt electric pressure washer consumes 1.5kWh of electricity per hour of use. To calculate the energy consumption, multiply the power rating (in kilowatts) by the duration of use (in hours). For instance, operating a 1,500W pressure washer for 2 hours would consume 3 kWh.

How do I make my generator less noisy?

In order to reduce the noise, you can position the generator further from your work area or use barriers that can absorb sound waves. That said, diesel generators are bound to make noise while powering appliances. You can always choose Jackery Solar Generators that emit less than 30 dB when operating.

Conclusion

When you wish to use a pressure washer to clean your car, patio, or industrial equipment during power outages, you should always have a proper backup generator. Learning what size generator to run an electric pressure washer will not only help you during emergency situations but will also let you know the cost that you need to bear while operating it. If you want an eco-friendly generator that emits no fumes and can power an electric pressure washer, you can rely on a Jackery Solar Generator. These solar-powered generators emit less than 30 dB of noise, which makes them ideal to operate in residential areas.