The right pressure washer hose length makes cleaning easier, faster, and far more convenient. Too short, and you constantly move the machine. Too long, and pressure can drop or the hose becomes hard to manage. This guide shows the ideal hose lengths for every common cleaning task.
Why Hose Length Matters
Hose length affects:
- Reach — how far you can clean without moving the washer
- Flow & pressure — longer hoses can reduce pressure slightly
- Ease of handling — very long hoses can tangle more easily
Choosing the correct length saves time and prevents premature hose wear.
Recommended Hose Lengths By Job
1. Car Washing
- 25 ft / 7.5 m ideal
- Allows full walk-around of the vehicle
- Still easy to coil and store
2. Small Patios & Balconies
- 20–30 ft / 6–9 m
- Best for compact outdoor areas
- Easy manoeuvrability
3. Medium Gardens & Larger Patios
- 30–50 ft / 9–15 m
- Allows cleaning without moving the washer too often
- Works well with most electric and petrol washers
4. Driveways & Large Outdoor Areas
- 50 ft / 15 m recommended
- 75 ft / 22 m for wide driveways or detached garages
- Best paired with mid-to-high PSI washers for minimal pressure drop
5. Commercial Or Long-Distance Cleaning
- 100 ft / 30 m
- Use with 3,000+ PSI petrol washers
- Steel-braided hoses recommended
Electric Vs Petrol Pressure Washers
Electric Washers
- Work best with hoses up to 50 ft
- Longer hoses may reduce pressure noticeably
Petrol Washers
- Can handle 75–100 ft hoses easily
- Higher PSI compensates for longer distance
Tips For Avoiding Pressure Loss
- Use a high-quality hose with smooth internal lining
- Avoid unnecessary extensions
- Clean filters and connectors regularly
- Use larger-diameter hoses with long runs
