Craftsman Electric Compact Cold Water Pressure Washer

When you think about tackling outdoor cleaning tasks, an electric pressure washer can be an invaluable ally. Enter the Craftsman CMEPW1700SC, a compact cold water pressure washer designed to handle a variety of chores from washing vehicles to sprucing up patios. Having put this little powerhouse to the test, I’m here to share my thoughts and experiences.

First Impressions and Setup

The first thing that strikes you about the Craftsman CMEPW1700SC is its compact size and portability. Weighing just 20.5 pounds and with a frame that’s 13.6 inches in both height and length, and 12.3 inches in width, it's remarkably easy to maneuver. I appreciated the onboard storage for nozzles and hoses, which made organizing and accessing accessories straightforward. Setup was a breeze, taking me just a couple of minutes to go from box to operation. It includes all the essentials: a 40° nozzle, turbo nozzle, hose, trigger assembly, wand assembly, soap applicator, and a 12-inch surface cleaner.

Performance and Power

One of the key selling points of this pressure washer is its 1700 MAX psi and 1.2 gallons per minute (gpm) water flow rate. Despite its small stature, the Craftsman CMEPW1700SC packs a significant punch. I started with a white plastic barrel that had been sitting outside for over eight years, covered in grime and green gunk. The pressure washer made short work of it, blasting away years of dirt in a matter of minutes. Next, I moved on to my car and patio. The 40° nozzle was perfect for my car, providing just the right balance of power and gentleness. The turbo nozzle, with its rotating jets, was exceptionally effective on the patio, removing embedded dirt with ease.

Usability and Convenience

The 35-foot power cord and 20-foot kink-resistant hose offer an extended reach, allowing me to move freely without constantly repositioning the unit. The surface cleaner attachment is a standout feature, especially for larger areas like patios and driveways. It's 12 inches in diameter and has two rotating jets that make quick work of large cleaning tasks.

One thoughtful feature is the automatic shut-off when the trigger is released, which helps conserve energy and reduces noise. Speaking of noise, this electric model is noticeably quieter than its gas-powered counterparts, which is a boon for those who live in close quarters with neighbors.

Durability and Build Quality

While the plastic casing and components are lightweight, they feel sturdy and well-made. The outer shell is crafted from hard plastic, giving it a durable feel. However, it’s worth noting that some users have reported issues with the durability of certain parts, such as the hose inlet. This is made from soft aluminum and can be prone to cross-threading if not handled with care. In my experience, as long as you treat the components gently and follow the instructions, you should have no issues.

Limitations and Drawbacks

No tool is perfect, and the Craftsman CMEPW1700SC has its limitations. For instance, while the 20-foot hose is sufficient for many tasks, an extra 10 feet would minimize the need to reposition the unit frequently, especially around larger vehicles. Another point of contention is the soap applicator nozzle, which isn’t as powerful as the other nozzles. It works well for applying soap, but you’ll need to switch back to a different nozzle for rinsing, which can be a bit cumbersome.

Some users have also reported issues with the pressure sensor malfunctioning or the unit overheating after prolonged use. While I didn’t encounter these problems during my testing, they’re worth keeping in mind if you plan to use the pressure washer for extended periods.

Value for Money

At its price point, the Craftsman CMEPW1700SC offers excellent value, particularly for light to medium-duty tasks. It’s significantly less expensive than gas-powered models, and its compact size and ease of use make it a great option for homeowners with limited storage space.

Final Thoughts

I found the Craftsman CMEPW1700SC to be a reliable and efficient tool for a variety of outdoor cleaning tasks. Its compact size, ease of use, and powerful performance make it a versatile addition to any homeowner’s toolkit. While it has a few limitations, such as the length of the hose and the durability of certain components, these are relatively minor issues in the grand scheme of things.

Would I recommend the Craftsman CMEPW1700SC? Absolutely. If you’re looking for an affordable, compact, and effective electric pressure washer for general household cleaning tasks, this model is a solid choice. Its ease of use, powerful performance, and thoughtful features make it a standout option in its category. Just be mindful of its limitations and handle it with care, and it should serve you well for years to come.