Best Petrol Pressure Washer for Two Storey House
Cleaning the upper floors of a two-storey house demands a pressure washer with enough power to overcome gravity and hose length. We have analysed the top petrol models to find the ones that deliver the reach and pressure you need.
Quick answer
The Karcher G 7.1 is the best petrol pressure washer for a two-storey house, offering 180 bar of pressure and a 25-metre hose reach. For a lighter budget option, the Nilfisk C 135.7 X-TRA delivers reliable performance with a 20-metre hose.
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Research updated June 2026.
Karcher G 7.1
Best combination of pressure, hose length, and build quality for two-storey work.
| Product | Best For | Pressure (bar) | Hose Length | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Karcher G 7.1 | Overall | 180 | 25 m | 4.7/5 |
| Nilfisk C 135.7 X-TRA | Budget | 135 | 20 m | 4.5/5 |
| Stihl RE 142 PLUS | Build Quality | 140 | 20 m | 4.6/5 |
| Bosch AdvancedAquatak 160 | Portability | 160 | 15 m | 4.4/5 |
| Makita HW131 | Value | 130 | 15 m | 4.3/5 |
Karcher G 7.1
Best OverallPros
- Excellent 25-metre hose reach
- High 180 bar pressure
- Reliable Honda GX390 engine
Cons
- Heavy at 45 kg
- Premium price point
The Karcher G 7.1 is purpose-built for large domestic tasks like cleaning a two-storey house. Its 25-metre hose means you can keep the machine on the ground and still reach the highest windows and gutters without moving it. The 180 bar pressure is more than enough to shift moss, dirt, and algae from brickwork and render.
Owner reviews consistently praise the build quality and the ease of starting the Honda engine. The main drawback is the weight, which makes it less portable than smaller units, but for a dedicated home use machine, the performance is hard to beat.
Nilfisk C 135.7 X-TRA
Best BudgetPros
- Good 20-metre hose length
- Lightweight for a petrol unit
- Lower price than rivals
Cons
- Pressure is lower for tough grime
- Plastic pump housing
The Nilfisk C 135.7 X-TRA is a solid budget option for homeowners who need to reach the second storey without spending a fortune. Its 20-metre hose is long enough to work around most two-storey houses, and the 135 bar pressure handles general dirt and light moss well.
Reviews note that the machine is quieter than many petrol washers and starts reliably. The lower pressure means it is not ideal for heavy commercial use or stubborn paint removal, but for regular home cleaning it is a dependable choice.
Stihl RE 142 PLUS
Best Build QualityPros
- Robust metal pump
- Excellent warranty support
- Easy to service
Cons
- Hose is not as long as top pick
- Premium price
Stihl is known for high-quality outdoor power equipment, and the RE 142 PLUS continues that reputation. The metal pump and solid frame mean this machine is built to last for years. The 20-metre hose is sufficient for most two-storey houses, and the 140 bar pressure is effective for cleaning brick, concrete, and wood.
Owner feedback highlights the reliability and the ease of getting parts and service from Stihl dealers. The main trade-off is the shorter hose compared to the Karcher, which may require moving the unit for larger homes.
Bosch AdvancedAquatak 160
Best PortabilityPros
- High 160 bar pressure
- Compact and easy to move
- Good for storage
Cons
- Short 15-metre hose
- May need extension for large houses
The Bosch AdvancedAquatak 160 delivers impressive pressure in a relatively compact package. The 160 bar is enough for most cleaning tasks on a two-storey house, but the 15-metre hose is shorter than ideal. You may need to reposition the machine to reach all upper areas.
User reviews appreciate the portability and the easy-start engine. The shorter hose is the main limitation for two-storey work, but if you are willing to move the unit, the cleaning power is excellent.
Makita HW131
Best ValuePros
- Affordable price
- Reliable Makita engine
- Good for light to medium use
Cons
- Lower pressure and flow
- Short hose length
The Makita HW131 is a budget-friendly petrol washer that offers good value for money. It is best suited for lighter cleaning tasks on a two-storey house, such as washing windows or light siding. The 130 bar pressure is adequate but may struggle with heavy moss or stubborn dirt.
Owner reviews highlight the reliable engine and the low running costs. The short hose and lower pressure mean it is not the best choice for large or heavily soiled houses, but for regular maintenance it is a capable and affordable tool.
What to check before buying a petrol pressure washer for a two-storey house
Hose length is the most critical factor. A 20-metre or longer hose lets you keep the machine on the ground and reach the roof line. Pressure of at least 130 bar is recommended to shift dirt at height. Flow rate matters too; a higher flow rate means faster cleaning. Consider the weight and portability if you need to move the washer around the house.
Mistakes to avoid
Do not buy a machine with a short hose thinking you can just move it. Moving a heavy petrol washer up and down ladders is dangerous. Avoid models with plastic pumps if you plan to use the washer frequently. Also, do not underestimate the importance of a reliable engine. Cheap engines can be hard to start and may not last.
FAQs
What hose length do I need for a two-storey house?
You need at least 20 metres to comfortably reach the roof line without moving the machine. A 25-metre hose is ideal.
Is 130 bar enough for a two-storey house?
130 bar is adequate for light cleaning like washing windows, but 150 bar or more is better for removing moss and heavy dirt.
Can I use an electric pressure washer for a two-storey house?
Electric washers often have shorter hoses and lower pressure, making them less suitable. Petrol models offer more power and longer hoses.
How do I start a petrol pressure washer?
Most petrol washers have a choke and a recoil starter. Follow the manual for specific steps. Always check the oil and fuel levels first.
Are petrol pressure washers loud?
Yes, petrol engines are louder than electric motors. Expect noise levels similar to a lawn mower.
What maintenance does a petrol pressure washer need?
Regular oil changes, air filter cleaning, and spark plug checks are needed. Also, drain the fuel if storing for long periods.
Can I use a pressure washer on a ladder?
It is not recommended. Use a long hose to keep the machine on the ground and avoid ladder work.
What is the best brand for petrol pressure washers?
Karcher, Stihl, and Nilfisk are among the most reliable brands for petrol pressure washers.
How much pressure do I need to clean brick?
Brick cleaning typically requires 140 to 180 bar to remove moss and efflorescence effectively.
Is a higher flow rate better?
Yes, a higher flow rate (litres per hour) means faster cleaning because more water is moving over the surface.
Our verdict
For most two-storey houses, the Karcher G 7.1 is the best choice because of its long hose and high pressure. If you are on a budget, the Nilfisk C 135.7 X-TRA offers good value with a 20-metre hose. Both models will help you clean your home safely from the ground.