Craftsman Electric Cold Water Pressure Washer

The Craftsman Electric Cold Water Pressure Washer, model CMEPW1800, is a compact and versatile tool designed for light to medium-duty cleaning tasks around the house. Having used it for various cleaning projects, I found it to be a mixed bag of strengths and weaknesses, but overall, it provides a satisfactory performance for its price point.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about this pressure washer was its compact and lightweight design. Weighing in at just 17.6 pounds, it’s incredibly easy to maneuver and store. The onboard storage for the nozzle, hose, cord, and wand is a thoughtful touch, making it convenient to keep everything organized. The 35-foot power cord and 20-foot kink-resistant hose offer a decent range, allowing me to move around freely without constantly having to reposition the unit.

However, the build quality leaves something to be desired. The connections between the high-pressure hose and the unit are made of dissimilar metals—aluminum and brass—which can lead to galvanic corrosion. After a few uses, I noticed that the connections started to fuse together, making it difficult to disassemble without damaging the threads. Applying Teflon tape or anti-seize compound can help mitigate this issue, but it’s an extra step that shouldn’t be necessary.

Performance

Powered by a 13-amp motor, the Craftsman pressure washer generates a maximum of 1800 PSI and 1.2 GPM. This is more than adequate for cleaning cars, patios, outdoor furniture, and other light-duty tasks. The pressure is strong enough to remove dirt and grime but not so powerful that it risks damaging surfaces. For instance, I found it perfect for washing my car and cleaning the outdoor seating area. The 40-degree nozzle provided a wide spray pattern, which was ideal for these tasks.

The high-pressure foam cannon is a standout feature. It allows for easy application of soap, producing a thick foam that clings to surfaces and helps lift dirt. This was particularly useful when washing my car, as it reduced the need for scrubbing and made the whole process quicker and more efficient.

Usability

One of the most significant advantages of this unit is its ease of use. Assembly was straightforward, taking me less than five minutes to get it up and running. The instructions were clear and easy to follow. The auto shutoff feature is another plus, as it only runs the motor when the trigger is pressed, reducing noise and wear on the motor.

However, the unit is not without its flaws. Several times during use, I experienced a sudden loss of pressure, accompanied by a burning smell and even smoke. This seems to be a recurring issue with this model, as it happened twice within the first month of use. Fortunately, the three-year limited warranty provides some peace of mind, but the inconvenience of having to return and replace the unit is a significant drawback.

Versatility

The Craftsman pressure washer comes with multiple quick-connect wand tips, allowing for various cleaning applications. The 0-degree and 40-degree nozzles provide different spray patterns, making it versatile enough to handle different tasks. The foam cannon adds another layer of functionality, making it easier to apply cleaning solutions.

However, the lack of adjustable nozzles is a minor inconvenience. Fixed spray patterns mean you have to switch between nozzles for different tasks, which can be a bit cumbersome. Also, the foam cannon, while effective, has a small canister that requires frequent refilling, especially for larger tasks.

Durability

Durability is where this pressure washer falls short. The motor issues I experienced are not isolated incidents, as many users have reported similar problems. The unit seems prone to overheating and losing pressure, which raises concerns about its long-term reliability. The corrosion issue with the connections also affects its durability, as it can render the unit unusable if the threads get damaged.

Value for Money

At around $99, the Craftsman Electric Cold Water Pressure Washer offers good value for money, especially considering its features and performance. It’s a budget-friendly option for those who need a pressure washer for light to medium-duty tasks. The three-year limited warranty adds to its appeal, providing some assurance against potential issues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Craftsman Electric Cold Water Pressure Washer is a capable tool for light to medium-duty cleaning tasks. Its compact design, ease of use, and effective performance make it a good choice for homeowners looking for an affordable pressure washer. However, its durability issues and the potential for connection corrosion are significant drawbacks.

Would I recommend this pressure washer? Yes, but with reservations. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option for occasional use and are willing to take extra steps to prevent corrosion, this unit will serve you well. However, if you need a more durable and reliable pressure washer for frequent use, you might want to consider other options.