Generac 3100 PSI 2.5 GPM Electric Start Pressure

Generac 3100

3.0

The Generac 3100 PSI is a portable electric start gas pressure washer that delivers professional-grade cleaning power for home use. Its powerful 173cc OHV engine generates up to 3100 PSI at 2.5 GPM to blast away tough stains. Convenient features include push button start, integrated hose reel, and useful attachments like a rotary brush and foam cannon. The lightweight 59 lb design is easy to maneuver.

Pros:

Easy electric start, no pulling!
Diverse attachments: power broom, foam cannon, nozzles
Powerful 3100 PSI for tough grime

Cons:

Durability concerns: plastic battery box, low hose inlet
Minor oil leak on startup

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generac pressure washer - electric start

The Generac 3100 PSI pressure washer packs plenty of cleaning power into a convenient, portable size. As an experienced DIYer and home improvement enthusiast, I put this electric start washer through a tough testing regimen to see how it stacks up for tackling home exterior cleaning projects.

Check out our detailed video going through the unboxing, testing, and review process for the Generac 3100 PSI:

‍After multiple uses over several weeks, here is my detailed take on the Generac’s performance, usability, and value.

What I Like

Easy electric start, no pulling!
Powerful 3100 PSI for tough grime.
Diverse attachments: power broom, foam cannon, nozzles.
Lightweight & portable.
Quick assembly & convenient hose storage.

Room for Improvement

Durability concerns: plastic battery box, low hose inlet.
Power broom is not as effective as the competitor model.
Minor oil leak on startup.
Engine longevity unknown compared to premium brands.

Best For

Homeowners
Light commercial use

Our Take

For homeowners seeking an electric start washer that packs serious cleaning punch into a maneuverable package, the Generac 3100 PSI Pressure Washer is a great fit. Convenient features like onboard storage, a long hose, and battery-powered ignition make it user-friendly for tackling home exterior cleaning tasks. Just be aware that long term durability may not match premium Honda-engine models. But if engine life expectancy exceeds 5 years, it will still represent solid value.

The Review

Performance & Durability

With a powerful 173cc OHV engine generating up to 3100 PSI at 2.5 gallons per minute, the Generac delivers professional-grade washing power. This force is sufficient to blast away most stubborn dirt, mold, and grime from surfaces like wood, brick, concrete, vinyl, and metal.

I tested it on fungus-laden fence panels and a driveway stained with oil spots. With the 25-degree nozzle, it made quick work of removing the unsightly buildup. The intense pressure easily rivals top competitors like the Simpson MegaShot.

However, it lacks the Honda GX200 engine found on pricier Simpson models which are renowned for their reliability and long lifespan. Only time will tell whether the Generac powerplant has comparable durability. After several hours of total runtime, it still runs smooth with no issues.

The main body seems sturdy, the frame is made of welded steel. But I do have some reservations about weaker points like the plastic battery box that houses the onboard 12V starter battery. It feels flimsy compared to the metal frames of similar washers. The low-hanging hose inlet also seems vulnerable.

Another area of concern is oil leaks. When it was first started, it leaked oil all around the pump right out of the box.After a few runs the seepage stopped, but it makes me question long term reliability.
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Ease of Use & Storage

Thanks to clever, user-focused design, the Generac scores top marks for usability. First, the electric push-button start eliminates resistance and kickback you get from pull-cord models. With a three-second press to wake it and a one-second push, the battery fires the engine to life.

All the controls sit within easy reach on the front panel. It’s simple to switch between soap and pressure modes or fine-tune the pressure. The 25-ft hose provides ample reach for maneuverability around a property.

One handy feature is the onboard hose reel and integrated storage for the gun and lance. This keeps all components neatly stowed and prevents frustrating tangles. The rear wheels and extended handle also mean one person can easily roll it around like wheeled luggage.

At just 59 pounds, the Generac is considerably around 10% lighter than competing electric start washers. I had no issues lifting it solo into my truck bed for transport. Assembly out of the box takes less than 30 minutes using the included tools and straightforward manual.

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Value for Money

The Generac 3100 PSI retails around $349, putting it at the higher end for electric starter home models, but still hundreds less than commercial-grade units. For the peak cleaning effectiveness and hassle-free usage it delivers, I still consider it decent value.

The added convenience of push-button start compared to pull-cord models merits the extra investment for some buyers. You also get versatility from the useful accessories like the rotary surface cleaner, soap applicator, and variable pressure nozzles. This allows tackling more cleaning tasks versus basic models.

On the other hand, if engine durability is your top priority for intensive use, you may want to consider upgrading to a more rugged Honda-powered washer. But for typical homeowners who need occasional heavy-duty cleaning capability, the Generac gives you plenty of bang for your buck.

Over All Score: 3/5

I give the Generac 3 out of 5 stars due to minor concerns about leak potential and plastic components. But it’s portable power and thoughtful design overcome shortcomings for homeowners needing occasional intense cleaning capability. For light to moderate use, it should provide years of reliable service.