Step 4
Home Snowmaking Pressure Washers
Minimum Requirements
For a pressure washer, this snowmaker is designed to work best with pressure washers that have a GPM (Gallons per Minute) flow rating of 1.5 - 3.5 GPM. The washer needs to be at rated for at least 1000 PSI (Pounds per Square Inch) but the exact number doesn't matter too much. If you have a washer with less than 2.1 GPM, replace one of the 4002 nozzles with a plug when you build your snowmaker.
Good
Westinghouse 1.76 GPM Electric Pressure Washer
Quality: 5/10 Price: $179
This is a pretty standard electic pressure washer that can crank out a good amount of snow. It lists for $179 but is often on sale. Some smaller pressure washers come with a one-piece hose/wand combo. If yours does, you'll need to buy a separate
pressure washer extension hose as well (about $25 at any hardware store or
Amazon).
Full details:
Westinghouse 1.76 GPM Electric Pressure Washer
Better
Simpson 2.5 GPM Gas Powered Pressure Washer
Quality: 7/10 Price: $299
Not the most reliable engine, but a good flow rate and a good setup. Don't expect to engine to last forever, but you'll enjoy plenty of snowmaking with this machie.
Full details:
Simpson 2.5 GPM Gas Powered Pressure Washer
Best
Simpson 3200 PSI 2.5 GPM Honda Engine Gas Pressure Washer
Quality: 9/10 Price: $649
This is an awesome pressure washer for snowmaking. Reliable Honda engine, good flow rate (2.5gpm), solid frame.
Full details:
Simpson 3200 PSI 2.5 GPM Honda Engine Gas Pressure Washer
Borrow vs Renting vs Buying
Just like air compressors, pressure washers can be expensive but are also common items found in workshops and garages all over the place. We always recommend that you borrow a pressure washer to get started. If you're serious about making snow, here are a few options you can buy at a reasonable price. Renting from places like Home Depot is also an affordable option if you only are going to make snow a time or two each year.