DeWalt Electric Jobsite Cold Water Pressure Washer

As someone who spends a lot of time working on various outdoor cleaning tasks, I was quite eager to get my hands on the DeWalt Electric Jobsite Cold Water Pressure Washer, model DWPW2100. With DeWalt being a reputable brand and this unit boasting an impressive 2,100 psi and 1.2 gpm, my expectations were high. After using the pressure washer extensively, here’s a detailed account of my experience.

First impressions were very positive. The unit has a compact, ergonomic design that includes multiple grab points and a retractable handle, which makes it easy to move around. At just 24 lbs, it’s relatively lightweight and the suitcase-style wheels add to its portability. The frame is durable and allows for both vertical and horizontal storage, which is convenient for saving space in a crowded garage or shed.

Assembly was straightforward. Most components, including the spray wand and hose, fit neatly within the unit itself, making set-up and tear-down a breeze. However, I did notice that the hose feels somewhat cheap and has a tendency to kink easily, which can be frustrating during use. I would suggest replacing the hose with a more robust, kink-resistant option for a better experience.

In terms of performance, the DWPW2100 delivers as advertised for light to medium-duty tasks. Its 2,100 psi is suitable for washing cars, cleaning patios, and removing dirt from siding. I was especially impressed with how well it cleaned my car and outdoor furniture. The different nozzle options provide versatility; I used the 40-degree nozzle for general cleaning and the turbo nozzle for tougher spots. The soap dispenser works seamlessly with pressure washer-specific soaps, though I found the on-board soap bottle a bit small for larger tasks.

The motor runs quietly, which is a significant advantage if you’re accustomed to the loud operation of gas-powered models. However, it’s important to be mindful of the unit’s limitations. For heavier tasks like cleaning driveways or removing stubborn stains from concrete, the pressure falls short. You would need a more powerful unit, preferably with at least 3,000 psi, for such jobs.

The unit’s durability, however, leaves much to be desired. The pressure washer worked flawlessly for the first few uses, but I encountered issues after a few weeks. It stopped working abruptly during a job, which was quite inconvenient. After some troubleshooting, I discovered that the pressure switch seemed stuck due to a spring that was too strong for the pump to overcome. Adjusting the spring fixed the issue temporarily, but it pointed to a larger concern about the internal components' longevity.

Another point of frustration is the GFCI plug. After storing the unit over winter, I found that the GFCI would not reset, rendering the pressure washer unusable. This seems to be a common issue and suggests a need for better quality control. Additionally, the turbo nozzle broke after minimal use. While DeWalt offers a three-year limited warranty, the hassle of dealing with customer service and the potential need to visit a service center, sometimes miles away, can be off-putting.

On the positive side, the unit’s portability and ease of storage make it a practical choice for homeowners with limited space. The retractable handle and wheels allow for easy maneuvering, and the on-board storage keeps everything organized. For those who need a pressure washer for occasional, light-duty tasks, this unit can be quite handy.

In conclusion, the DeWalt Electric Jobsite Cold Water Pressure Washer, model DWPW2100, is a mixed bag. It excels in design, ease of use, and portability, making it suitable for light to medium-duty tasks around the home. However, it falls short in terms of durability and reliability. The motor and internal components appear to be prone to failure, which is disappointing for a product with such a reputable brand name.

Would I recommend this pressure washer? If your needs are limited to light cleaning tasks and you value portability and ease of storage, then yes, this unit could be a good fit for you. However, if you need something more robust and durable, especially for frequent or heavy-duty use, I would suggest looking at other options. The recurring issues with the GFCI plug, internal components, and overall longevity are significant drawbacks that DeWalt needs to address. Until these concerns are resolved, it might be wise to consider alternatives that offer better reliability at a similar price point.