Craftsman Cordless Power Cleaner

Exploring the Craftsman CMCPW350B Cordless Power Cleaner

The Craftsman CMCPW350B Cordless Power Cleaner is an intriguing piece of equipment for those looking to tackle various outdoor cleaning tasks without the hassle of cords or gas. As someone who enjoys the convenience of cordless tools and often finds myself needing to clean everything from patio furniture to my car, I was eager to give this tool a try.

Design and Features

The first thing that struck me about this power cleaner is its thoughtful design. Craftsman has packed a lot of features into this compact unit. The 5-in-1 nozzle with a quick connect system offers a range of spray options, from a narrow jet to a wider fan spray. This versatility is handy for different cleaning tasks, whether you need a focused stream to tackle stubborn grime or a gentler spray for rinsing off soap.

The unit also comes with a soap bottle attachment, which is useful for applying detergents directly through the nozzle. This is a nice touch that saves time and effort compared to manually scrubbing surfaces with soap. Additionally, the inclusion of a short watering wand makes this tool even more versatile, allowing you to water plants without switching to a different tool.

One of the standout features is the ability to draw water from any fresh water source using the included suction hose. This is particularly useful if you don't have a garden hose connection nearby, making the tool more portable and adaptable to various situations.

Performance

It's important to set realistic expectations for this tool. It's powered by a 20V MAX Lithium-Ion battery, which means it won't match the power of a gas-powered pressure washer. The maximum pressure of 350 PSI is adequate for light to moderate cleaning tasks but won't be sufficient for heavy-duty jobs.

In my experience, the power cleaner performed well for its intended use. Cleaning patio furniture, windows, and even my car was relatively straightforward. The adjustable nozzle made it easy to switch between different spray patterns, and the soap bottle attachment worked effectively for applying detergent. However, when using the suction hose to draw water from a bucket, I noticed a drop in pressure compared to using a direct garden hose connection. This is something to keep in mind if you're relying on a bucket as your water source.

Battery Life

Battery life is a critical factor for any cordless tool, and this is where the Craftsman CMCPW350B has room for improvement. The included 2AH battery lasts around 30 minutes, which can be limiting for larger tasks. If you're planning to use the tool for extended periods, I recommend investing in a higher capacity battery, such as a 5AH or 6AH. This will provide more runtime and reduce the need for frequent recharges.

Usability

One of the advantages of this power cleaner is its lightweight and compact design. Weighing in at 8.5 pounds, it is easy to maneuver and carry around. The tool is also relatively quiet, which is a pleasant change from the loud noise of gas-powered units.

However, there are some usability concerns. The quick connect fittings can be challenging to attach and detach when wet, and I encountered occasional leaks from the hose connections. These issues can be frustrating, especially when you're in the middle of a cleaning task.

Another consideration is the weight distribution. While the tool is generally easy to handle, it can become awkward to use for extended periods, particularly when holding it at higher angles. This is something to be aware of if you have tasks that require overhead cleaning.

Assembly and Durability

Assembling the power cleaner was straightforward, although the instructions could be more detailed. The included accessories, such as the suction hose, soap bottle, and nozzles, are easy to attach and remove. The storage bag is a nice addition, keeping everything organized and easy to transport.

Durability is a mixed bag. The tool feels well-made, but the plastic components, particularly the quick connect/filter assembly, seem prone to wear and tear. I recommend handling these parts with care to avoid damage.

Overall Impression

The Craftsman CMCPW350B Cordless Power Cleaner is a versatile and convenient tool for light to moderate outdoor cleaning tasks. Its cordless design, adjustable nozzle, and ability to draw water from various sources make it a flexible option for homeowners. However, it's essential to understand its limitations in terms of pressure and battery life.

Recommendation

Would I recommend the Craftsman CMCPW350B Cordless Power Cleaner? It depends on your needs. If you're looking for a convenient, portable solution for light cleaning tasks and are willing to invest in additional batteries for longer runtime, this tool is a solid choice. It excels in situations where a traditional garden hose or gas-powered pressure washer would be overkill or impractical.

However, if you need a tool for heavy-duty cleaning or have large areas to cover, you might find this power cleaner lacking in power and battery life. In such cases, a more powerful electric or gas-powered pressure washer would be a better investment.

In conclusion, the Craftsman CMCPW350B Cordless Power Cleaner is a handy addition to your tool collection, provided you use it within its capabilities and manage your expectations. For those who value portability and ease of use, this tool offers a practical solution for maintaining a clean and tidy outdoor space.