Ryobi 40V HP Brushless Power Cleaner Kit

The Ryobi 40V HP Brushless Power Cleaner Kit, model RY124052KVNM, is a fascinating addition to the world of portable pressure washers. As someone who frequently tackles a variety of cleaning tasks around the house and yard, I was eager to see how this tool would perform. With a promise of delivering up to 600 PSI, the Ryobi power cleaner seemed like a versatile solution for everything from washing vehicles to cleaning outdoor furniture.

First Impressions and Assembly

Right out of the box, the Ryobi power cleaner impressed me with its compact design and sturdy build. Weighing in at 8 pounds, it’s not the lightest tool, but it’s manageable and feels solid in the hand. Assembly was straightforward, taking only a few minutes to attach the handle and wheels. The tool comes with a 20-foot siphon hose, a bottle adaptor, and a standard garden hose connector, which adds to its versatility.

One of the standout features is the adjustable power settings, ranging from 100 PSI to 600 PSI. This allows for tailored cleaning power depending on the task at hand. The included 2Ah battery offers up to 16 minutes of runtime on high, which is decent but might require additional batteries for extended use.

Performance and Usability

Using the Ryobi power cleaner was a mixed experience. On the positive side, the tool is incredibly convenient for light to moderate cleaning tasks. Washing my car was a breeze, especially with the 15-degree nozzle setting, which provided a gentle yet effective spray. The turbo nozzle was useful for more stubborn dirt, although it didn’t quite match the power of a traditional gas or corded electric pressure washer.

The ability to draw water from various sources, including a garden hose, a 5-gallon bucket, or even a 2-liter bottle, is a game-changer. This feature makes the tool highly portable and ideal for remote cleaning jobs where a water source might not be readily available. I tested it using a bucket of rainwater, and the siphon hose worked flawlessly, maintaining a consistent flow.

However, the tool’s performance does have its limitations. While it’s great for washing cars, windows, and outdoor furniture, it struggles with more demanding tasks like cleaning a heavily soiled driveway or removing deep-seated grime. The pressure fluctuated occasionally, and the flow rate, which maxes out at 0.7 GPM, felt insufficient for more intensive cleaning jobs.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is a crucial factor for any cordless tool, and the Ryobi power cleaner is no exception. The included 2Ah battery provides enough power for light tasks but drains quickly under continuous use. I found that the battery lasted around 10-12 minutes on the highest setting, shorter than the advertised 16 minutes. For larger projects, having multiple batteries on hand is essential.

Charging the battery was straightforward, but I was disappointed to find that the kit did not include a fast charger, despite some promotional images suggesting otherwise. The standard 40V charger takes about 2-3 hours to fully charge the 2Ah battery, which can be a significant downtime if you only have one battery.

Durability and Build Quality

The build quality of the Ryobi power cleaner is generally good, but there are some areas where it falls short. The proprietary connectors, while convenient, are prone to leaking, and the plastic components feel a bit flimsy. I had to tighten the male connector to stop it from leaking, a common issue reported by other users.

One notable improvement is the switch to a metal connector for the hose attachment, which enhances durability. However, the rest of the connectors remain plastic, which raises concerns about long-term reliability.

Portability and Convenience

Portability is where the Ryobi power cleaner truly shines. The ability to use different water sources and the cordless design make it incredibly versatile. I appreciated the included mesh bag for storing the siphon hose and bottle adaptor, although a dedicated storage case for all the parts would have been a nice addition.

The tool’s design, resembling a large cordless drill, is ergonomic and easy to handle. The auxiliary handle provides extra control, especially when using the wand extension. The trigger has a safety lock to prevent accidental activation, which is a thoughtful feature.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

The Ryobi 40V HP Brushless Power Cleaner Kit is a solid choice for those looking for a portable and versatile cleaning tool. It excels in light to moderate cleaning tasks and offers the convenience of cordless operation and multiple water source options. However, it does have its limitations in terms of power and battery life.

I would recommend this tool for homeowners who need a convenient solution for washing cars, windows, outdoor furniture, and other light cleaning tasks. It’s particularly useful for those who might need to clean in remote locations without easy access to a water source. However, if you require a more powerful pressure washer for heavy-duty cleaning, you might want to consider a traditional gas or corded electric model.

Overall, the Ryobi power cleaner is a practical and innovative tool that offers good value for its intended use. Just be prepared to invest in additional batteries and possibly some brass fittings to address the plastic connector issues.