Best Pressure Washer for Deck Cleaning? Need Advice!

Hey all, I'm planning to clean my 20-year-old wooden deck this weekend. It's got some mildew and peeling stain. I currently have a cheap electric one from Walmart that does the job but takes forever. Should I upgrade to a gas model? I've got about 400 bucks to spend. Any recommendations?

For deck cleaning, you don't need a crazy powerful machine. A 2000-2500 PSI electric is plenty if you get a surface cleaner attachment. I got a Sun Joe SPX3000 for like $150 and it's been a beast. Save your money for good detergent and a turbo nozzle. Also, don't forget to use a wide fan tip to avoid gouging the wood. Happy cleaning!

Totally agree with Tim. I used to think bigger PSI is better until I borrowed my neighbor's 4000 PSI gas unit and it tore up my cedar fence. The key is to use the right tip and keep moving. For decks, a 2500 PSI electric with a 15-degree tip and some bleach/water mix works wonders. But if you're dead set on gas, check out the Craftsman 3000. It's on sale at Lowe's for $399. Just be careful with the pressure!

Thanks for the input, Tim and Mike. I actually have a Sun Joe already, maybe I'll just get a surface cleaner and some mold killer. I'm a bit impatient, but I guess saving money and not wrecking the deck is smarter. Do you have a specific surface cleaner recommendation? And what about the bleach mix? Safe for plants?

I use the Ryobi 12-inch surface cleaner, works like a charm. For the mix, use a 1:1 bleach to water solution, but definitely wet down the surrounding plants first, or cover them with plastic. After cleaning, rinse thoroughly. Also, make sure to let the deck dry completely before staining. Good luck, and post some before/after pics if you can!