Garden & Outdoors · Product overview
Craftsman Electric Pressure Washer, Cold Water, Lightweight Corded Power Washer for Cars, Driveways, Patio and Garage, Powerful 1700-psi, 1.2-GPM, Compact, Easy to Use (Cmepw1700)
Is the Craftsman Electric Pressure Washer Worth It? a Detailed Review
The CRAFTSMAN CMEPW1700 delivers 1,700 PSI of cleaning power in a lightweight, corded electric package. Ideal for vehicles and outdoor surfaces, it balances portability with performance, though users note the hose may be shorter than expected.
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What stands out
- Plug-and-Go Convenience: No gas or engine maintenance required
- Effective for Light Duty: Great for cars, siding, and patios
- Highly Portable: Lightweight (17.6 lbs) with carry handle
- Quiet Operation: Much quieter than gas units
Pros
- Plug-and-Go Convenience: No gas or engine maintenance required
- Effective for Light Duty: Great for cars, siding, and patios
- Highly Portable: Lightweight (17.6 lbs) with carry handle
- Quiet Operation: Much quieter than gas units
- Organized Storage: Onboard compartments for all accessories
- Extended Reach: 35 ft power cord for flexibility
Cons
- Hose Quality Concerns: Some users report it is short or not kink-proof
- Limited for Heavy Duty: Insufficient for deep concrete cleaning
- Corded Limitation: Restricted mobility without nearby outlets
- Small Soap Capacity: Detergent bottle requires frequent refills
- Durability Variance: Some reports of early failure
Who it’s for
- Homeowners doing routine maintenance (cars, decks, patios)
- DIY enthusiasts preferring electric convenience
- Seniors or users needing a lightweight unit
- Gift buyers looking for a practical home tool
Who should skip
- Heavy-duty concrete cleaning or deep stain removal
- Large commercial properties without nearby power outlets
- Users requiring a high-GPM flow rate for fast cleaning
Full review
Introduction The CRAFTSMAN Electric Pressure Washer (CMEPW1700) is designed for homeowners who need reliable cleaning power without the complexity of gas engines. With a maximum pressure of 1,700 PSI and a flow rate of 1.2 GPM, it strikes a balance between effectiveness and water efficiency for tasks like washing cars, driveways, and patio furniture. Its compact design and lightweight build (approx. 17.6 lbs) make it highly portable, fitting easily into car trunks or small storage spaces. Whether you are looking to refresh your vehicle or clean your garage floor, this unit offers plug-and-go convenience that eliminates the need for fuel or engine maintenance.
Is this worth buying?
Yes, the CRAFTSMAN CMEPW1700 is worth buying for light-to-medium outdoor cleaning. Its 1,700 PSI power effectively handles cars, patios, and siding without the hassle of gas maintenance. While the hose quality draws some criticism, its compact size, onboard storage, and 3-year warranty make it a reliable, gift-friendly choice for homeowners.
Key Features & Specs The CMEPW1700 is a corded cold water electric pressure washer certified by the Cleaning Equipment Trade Association (CETA) for performance standards. Below are the core specifications and features: * Power Output: 1,700 max PSI and 1.2 GPM flow rate.
- Cleaning Power: Delivers 2,040 Cleaning Units, roughly 28 times more pressure than a standard garden hose.
- Hose: Includes a 20 ft. kink-resistant hose designed for durability.
- Power Cord: Equipped with a 35 ft. power cord for extended reach from outlets.
- Storage: Features onboard storage for the nozzle, hose, cord, and wand to keep accessories organized.
- Soap Applicator: Includes a bottle for applying detergent directly during cleaning.
- Nozzles: Comes with a turbo nozzle and a 40-degree nozzle for versatile cleaning tasks.
- Warranty: Backed by a 3-Year Limited Warranty.
- Dimensions: Approximately 18.33" L x 10.43" W x 11.25" H.
Pros * Plug-and-Go Convenience: No gas, oil, or engine maintenance required; simply plug in and start.
- Effective for Light Duty: Provides ample power for cars, siding, and patios without risking damage to delicate surfaces.
- Highly Portable: Lightweight design (approx. 17.6 lbs) with a built-in carry handle makes it easy to maneuver and store.
- Quiet Operation: Significantly quieter than gas units, conserving water and reducing noise disturbance.
- Organized Storage: Onboard compartments keep the hose, wand, and nozzles tidy and ready for use.
- Extended Reach: The 35 ft. power cord allows flexibility to clean further from electrical outlets.
Cons * Hose Quality Concerns: Some users report the hose is shorter than expected or not truly kink-proof, contradicting product claims.
- Limited for Heavy Duty: The 1,700 PSI is insufficient for heavy-duty concrete cleaning or removing stubborn, deep stains.
- Corded Limitation: Being corded restricts mobility in large spaces without nearby outlets.
- Small Soap Capacity: The soap applicator bottle has a small capacity, requiring frequent refills for larger jobs.
- Durability Variance: While many find it sturdy, some users report early failure or durability issues.
Who It's For This pressure washer is best suited for: * Homeowners needing a reliable tool for routine maintenance like washing cars, decks, and patio furniture.
- DIY Enthusiasts who prefer electric convenience over gas complexity.
- Seniors or Users with Limited Strength: Its lightweight design (17.5 lbs) makes it accessible for those who cannot handle heavy gas units.
- Gift Buyers: Its compact size and ease of use make it an excellent gift for new homeowners or car lovers.
/ Value The CRAFTSMAN CMEPW1700 represents a mid-to-premium value in the electric pressure washer category. It offers a strong balance of performance and portability without the high of gas units. While some users debate its value relative to durability concerns, many consider it a great value for the quality and features provided, especially given the included 3-year warranty. For those seeking a capable electric option that avoids the "overkill" of gas power, it provides sufficient cleaning units for average home use at a reasonable point.
Final Verdict The CRAFTSMAN CMEPW1700 is a capable, user-friendly electric pressure washer that excels in light-to-medium cleaning tasks. Its 1,700 PSI output is "just right" for cars and siding, offering strong performance without the risk of damaging delicate surfaces. The compact design and onboard storage are standout features that enhance its portability and convenience. However, buyers should be aware of potential hose quality issues and the limitations of corded power in large areas. If your primary needs involve washing vehicles, cleaning patios, or maintaining siding, this unit is a worthy investment. For heavy-duty concrete stripping or large commercial jobs, a higher PSI gas unit would be more appropriate. See price on Amazon to check current availability and deals. Check out the review for more user insights.
FAQ
Is the CRAFTSMAN CMEPW1700 good for washing cars?
Yes, it is highly effective for cars. The 1,700 PSI and 40-degree nozzle provide enough power to clean without damaging delicate paint, and the turbo nozzle helps with stubborn spots.
How long is the power cord?
The unit includes a 35 ft power cord, providing extended reach from your electrical outlet.
Does it come with a soap dispenser?
Yes, it includes a soap applicator bottle (foam cannon) for applying detergent during cleaning.
Is this pressure washer gas or electric?
It is a corded electric pressure washer, meaning it requires an outlet and does not use gasoline.
What is the warranty period?
The CRAFTSMAN CMEPW1700 comes with a 3-Year Limited Warranty.
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