Step 1: Parts Step 2: Assembly Step 3: Compressor Step 4: Washer Step 5: Snowmaking

Step 4

Home Snowmaking Pressure Washers - What You'll Need

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 2.1 - 3.4 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.

1500 PSI Pressure Washer

Good
1,350 PSI, 1.3 GPM Electric Pressure Washer

Quality: 5/10     Price: $99

This is a pretty standard electic pressure washer that can crank out a good amount of snow. It lists for $99 but is often on sale. You may need to buy a pressure washer extension hose as well (about $15 at any hardware store or Amazon) if your model comes with a one-piece hose/wand combo as they sometimes do.

Full details:
1,350 PSI, 1.3 GPM Electric Pressure Washer

Better
Generac 6596 2,800 PSI 2.5 GPM Gas Powered Residential 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 beauty.

Full details:
Generac 6596 2,800 PSI 2.5 GPM Gas Powered Residential Pressure Washer

Best
PowerShot 3200 PSI 2.8 GPM Honda Engine Gas Pressure Washer

Quality: 9/10     Price: $529

This is an awesome pressure washer for snowmaking. Reliable Honda engine, high flow rate (2.8gpm), solid frame.

Full details:
Power PowerShot 3200 PSI 2.8 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.

All ready to go? Step 5: Learn how to make snow for the first time »