Buying a powered pressure washer is an investment that most of us are reluctant to make. It’s not an everyday-use type of tool. At the same time, it would be nice to touch up the driveway or power through a mud-caked vehicle on a moment’s notice. So, is there an alternative to using a hefty, expensive power washer?
No, you cannot turn an ordinary garden hose into a pressure washer, but you can connect a high-pressure garden hose attachment that is designed to generate a more powerful stream of water. While the added water pressure is significant, the power doesn’t compare to a gas or electric pressure washer.
When comes to high-pressure hose nozzles, there are some ins and outs and a few considerations to be made to ensure you’re getting just the right thing. In this article, we’ve laid out some of the basics and listed a few products that you can rely on.
Adding a High-Pressure Hose Nozzle
A high-pressure hose nozzle is certainly a handy tool to add to your collection. They’re easy to attach, and they store away nicely, unlike a bulky pressure washer. Many models have different settings and additional attachments that serve a variety of purposes, from watering the lawn, to cleaning the driveway, to reaching high, difficult-to-reach surfaces.
Even though they’re not the real deal, they do pack a punch, so caution is advised to prevent injury or damage of property. Also, if your hose is old and worn out, a high-pressure nozzle can easily cause a blow-out.
High-Pressure Hose Nozzle VS Real Pressure Washer?
A high-pressure hose nozzle can certainly meet many everyday needs. Unfortunately, no nozzle exists that can generate the same psi (pounds per square inch) as the mechanical variety. The pump in a real pressure washer produces 500 psi. Most brands of nozzles don’t even advertise the psi. However, the strongest, firefighter-grade nozzles out there only go up to 250 psi. So, if you find yourself in need of regular, heavy-duty pressure washing, a high-pressure hose nozzle might not make the cut.
However, these nozzles are easy on the wallet, so giving one a try before springing for the big guns isn’t a bad idea. And keep in mind, the heavy-duty pressure washers take up space, require maintenance, and, with the bigger models, they’re pretty noisy.
While there might be some brands that sell ineffective high-pressure hose nozzles that give the product a bad reputation, there are nozzles out there that won’t let you down. If you’re uncertain of which brand to trust, here’s a list of nozzles that are reliable and worth the investment.
5 Best High-Pressure Hose Nozzle Attachments
1. Buyplus Magic High Pressure Wand
The Buyplus Magic High Pressure Wand nozzle is elongated for convenient cleaning of hard-to-reach places, such as the roof of your car or the backside of its tires. It comes with 2 attachments, one for a high-pressure jet stream and one for a fan spray. The three adapter sizes fit ¾”, 1” and 1/2” connectors. A spare “O” ring and a scrubbing mitt are also included. The brass and aluminum parts are resistant to rust and corrosion. Satisfaction is guaranteed with refund and replacement services.
2. K-Co Innovations Aluminum Big Shot Nozzle
If you have a variety of different tasks to perform, then this option might the best. The “Big Shot” nozzle is designed for quick and easy output adjustments without having to manage any separate parts or even turning off your hose. It ranges from full-open outflow for a heavy clean-up to a gentle spray for watering the plants. Its durable, easy to handle, and as powerful as other leading brands. And K-Co proudly employs disabled veterans for their made-in-the-USA products.
3. Dradco Heavy Duty Brass Fireman Style Hose Nozzle
Durability is what sets this Dradco nozzle apart from all the others. Inspired by nozzles that firefighters use, the high-grade brass and stainless-steel construction is as close to indestructible as you can get. The rugged design is complimented with an ergonomic, rubberized grip for maximum control. And its variety of spray patterns can handle almost any task.
4. GREEN MOUNT GSFNG98 Garden Hose Nozzle
Similar to the Dradco design, Green Mount offers a heavy duty, brass nozzle as used by firefighters. Built with a large operating switch and rubber coating, handling this model is incredibly easy. The twist-adjustable nozzle head conveniently provides a wide selection of spray patterns. All products from Green Mount come with a 12-month guarantee and are constructed with environmental-friendly practices.
5. Yiliaw High Pressure Power Washer Wand
The Yiliaw Wand has a unique, extendable feature, with 18”, 27” and 38” settings that increase maneuverability and efficiency. Brass and aluminum parts ensure durability, and the connectors fit all standard-sized hoses. As with other quality brand nozzles, the Yiliaw Wand has an adjustable tip for a variety of purposes.
What’s The Verdict?
A high-pressure garden hose nozzle comes highly recommended. Even if you’ve never felt a need for a pressure washer, you’ll be surprised by how useful one of these nozzles can be. You will speed up your car-washing routine, water the lawn faster, knock down pesky wasp nests, and wash unsightly crud from cracks and crevices. And if the nozzle doesn’t meet your cleaning needs, you can upgrade to a powered pressure washer and you’ll still have the nozzle at hand for quick-and-easy tasks.
Jamie is the founder of The Backyard Pros. When he was 15 years old he started working at a garden centre helping people buy plants, gardening products, and lawn care products. He has real estate experience and he is a home owner. Jamie loves backyard projects, refinishing furniture, and enjoys sharing his knowledge online.