Craftsman Electric Compact Cold Water Pressure Washer

Pressure washers have become a staple for many homeowners, providing an effective way to tackle outdoor cleaning tasks. Recently, I got my hands on the Craftsman Electric Compact Cold Water Pressure Washer (model CMEPW1700), and I was eager to see how it measures up.

The first thing that struck me about this pressure washer was its compact design. Weighing in at just 17.6 pounds and with dimensions of 11.3 x 11.3 x 10.3 inches, it is incredibly portable and easy to store. This is a significant advantage for anyone with limited storage space or who needs to move the unit around frequently. Despite its small size, it packs a punch with a power rating of 1,700 PSI and a flow rate of 1.2 gallons per minute, which is quite impressive for an electric model.

Setting up the pressure washer was straightforward. It only took me a couple of minutes to connect the hose, attach the nozzles, and plug it in. The package includes a 40° nozzle, a turbo nozzle, a 20 ft. kink-resistant hose, a trigger assembly, a wand assembly, and a soap applicator bottle. The onboard storage for the hose, power cord, nozzles, and wand is a thoughtful feature, keeping everything organized and within easy reach.

As for performance, the Craftsman pressure washer did not disappoint. I started with my patio, which had accumulated a fair amount of grime and moss. The turbo nozzle, which spins in a circular motion, was particularly effective at lifting stubborn dirt. It also handled my vinyl siding and wooden deck with ease, leaving both surfaces looking remarkably clean. For more delicate jobs, like washing my car, the 40° nozzle provided a gentler spray that was still powerful enough to remove dirt and bugs.

One feature I appreciated was the soap applicator bottle. It allowed me to mix in my preferred detergent and apply it evenly across the surface I was cleaning. This was particularly useful for washing my car and outdoor furniture. However, I did notice that the soap application nozzle is not as powerful as the other two nozzles, which required me to switch back and forth between nozzles during the cleaning process.

The pressure washer’s 35 ft. power cord and 20 ft. hose provided ample reach, reducing the need to constantly move the unit around. Additionally, the unit’s quiet operation was a pleasant surprise. Unlike gas-powered models, which can be quite loud, this electric model operates quietly, making it less likely to disturb neighbors or require hearing protection.

Durability is always a concern with power tools, and while the overall build quality of the pressure washer feels sturdy, there are a few areas where it could be improved. The hose inlet and outlet are made of aluminum, which is more prone to cross-threading compared to brass fittings. This is something to be mindful of during setup and use. Additionally, the supplied soap dispenser is made of plastic, and I can foresee needing to replace it eventually.

One of the more frustrating aspects I encountered was the occasional power cycling. There were moments when the pressure would drop for 20-30 seconds before returning to normal. While this didn’t significantly impede my tasks, it was an annoyance, especially during longer cleaning sessions.

Despite these minor issues, the Craftsman pressure washer has several standout features. Its compact size and lightweight design make it incredibly user-friendly. The long power cord and hose, combined with its quiet operation, further enhance its practicality for residential use. It’s powerful enough for most household cleaning tasks, from washing cars to cleaning decks and patios, without being so powerful that it risks damaging surfaces.

Overall, I would recommend the Craftsman Electric Compact Cold Water Pressure Washer for homeowners looking for a versatile and convenient cleaning tool. Its balance of power, portability, and user-friendly features make it a solid choice for a variety of outdoor cleaning tasks. While it may not be suitable for heavy-duty commercial use, it excels at common household jobs and offers excellent value for its price.