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Generac Pressure Washer Review 2024: Pros, Cons, FAQ, and Verdict

Generac 8874 2900 PSI 2.4 GPM Residential Pressure Washer

Review Summary

Our Final Verdict

We give Generac Pressure Washer a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Quality: 4.6/5
Power: 4.2/5
Features: 4/5
Price: 5/5

When it comes to Generac pressure washers, the Generac 8874 2900 PSI 2.4 GPM Residential Pressure Washer is the flagship. This pressure washer is powerful, easy to use, and is perfect for the typical homeowner.

It has a super responsive gas engine that starts up in seconds. It has an ample flow rate and great pressure that delivers excellent cleaning power. It also comes with a comfort grip wand, multiple attachments for different levels of power, and a built-in cart that makes moving the machine extremely easy. This pressure washer comes almost fully assembled, meaning you do not have to struggle to try and piece it together before you use it. All of this comes in at a very fair and affordable price.

There are three issues with the Generac 8874 2900 PSI 2.4 GPM Residential Pressure Washer that give people headaches. The first problem is that the hose is not made with the same quality as the rest of the unit. The hose occasionally bursts under pressure, which sprays water everywhere and requires a replacement. The second issue is that the unit tends to vibrate and rotate under load, and the pressure washer can dance around during use. Lastly, this pressure washer does not have a strong warranty. Customer service is touchy, and replacement parts often cost as much as the whole unit.

Overall, this unit is very good for typical homeowners. The price is fair, and the engine works well. This unit delivers a lot of power for a fair price and is great for standard jobs around the house.

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Generac 8874 2900 PSI 2.4 GPM Residential Pressure Washer – A Quick Look

Specifications

Brand: Generac
Model Number: 8874
Pressure (PSI): 2900
Weight: 50 lbs.
Flow Rate: 2.4 gallons per minute
Power Source: Gas engine
Dimensions: 24.4 x 18.9 x 35.5 inches
Pros
  • Solid engine
  • Lots of power
  • Attachments included
  • Perfect for homeowners
Cons
  • Weak hose
  • Unit moves during use
  • Limited warranty and so-so customer service

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Generac 8874 2900 PSI 2.4 GPM Residential Pressure Washer – The Details

Powerful Gas Engine

Generac is a company known for making solid gas engines, and the engine on the Generac 8874 2900 PSI 2.4 GPM Residential Pressure Washer is no different. The engine is a powerful overhead valve engine that produces a lot of pressure with the press of a button. The engine includes an electric starter that is supposed to make starting the unit a breeze. It works most of the time, and when it does, the engine starts in one go. However, when the electric starter is not working properly, it can take a few pulls to get it going.

The engine works in tandem with the generous flow rate to produce 2900 PSI of pressure which is plenty for most average users. The engine is easy to upkeep, easy to start, and provides enough power for nearly any at-home job.

Common Sense Design

One of the best features of the Generac 8874 2900 PSI 2.4 GPM Residential Pressure Washer is the design. The whole unit is balanced, looks good, comes assembled, and has common-sense storage options. It is easy to move, and it doesn’t take up too much room because of its vertical design. The attachments are easily stored right on the unit for convenience. Nothing protrudes in awkward ways. The only issue is that the unit could be a little heavier to offset the movement that takes place when the unit is running.

Easy to Assemble, Move, and Store

Assembly and maneuverability are two of the most important factors for any power washer. If power washers are hard to move and store, it can vastly decrease their efficiency and ease of use. This unit is both super easy to assemble and easy to move. The unit comes mostly assembled with just a few clear steps to complete to finish it off. Some pressure washers require a whole lot of assembly, including the cart, hose, and attachments. The handcart is super easy to use, and the unit weighs just 50 lbs. The pressure washer is easy to store in a garage or shed; it is not too large or bulky. These things make the Generac 8874 2900 PSI 2.4 GPM Residential Pressure Washer a joy to assemble and use right out of the box, which is a big plus for homeowners.

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FAQ

Is Generac a Good Company?

Yes, Generac is a good and reputable company. Generac is mostly known for its generators and power systems, but it also has a selection of tools like pressure washers. The base of all Generac products are compact and powerful gas engines. Generac is a name brand and not a generic company.

Are Gas Pressure Washers Better Than Electric?

The choice between gas and electric pressure washers is largely based on your personal preference. Electric pressure washers are not as powerful as gas engine pressure washers meaning they don’t make great choices for professionals. However, the difference between gas and electric washers is smaller for homeowners. Electric pressure washers either need a battery system or a power cord. Gas engines need a lot of maintenance and upkeep to keep them running smoothly. The choice between the two will come down to what you feel comfortable maintaining.

What Kinds of Jobs Is This Machine Good For?

This pressure washer is excellent for basic jobs around the house. You can clean siding, decks, sidewalks, trailers, and windows. It is great for small areas like pool decks. It does not have the power or reach of a professional-grade power washer, meaning it won’t be great for large jobs. It has low enough settings to do things like cars and windows and high enough power to blast sidewalks and grime.

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What Users Say

The three things that users consistently mention in relation to the Generac 8874 2900 PSI 2.4 GPM Residential Pressure Washer are that it is easy to assemble, provides a lot of power, and is easy to start. Most users report that when the engine is in good working order and well-maintained, it is one of the easiest gas engines to start. The power level and the flow rate are both above average and meet most users’ needs right out of the box.

The main downside that is mentioned frequently by users is the amount of movement the unit does during use. It spins in circles, vibrates, bounces, and moves. The power from the engine is too much for the cart, and it does not have enough weight to counteract the vibration. This issue is mentioned frequently but not by everyone. It is something to keep in mind before buying.

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Conclusion

The Generac 8874 2900 PSI 2.4 GPM Residential Pressure Washer is a great at-home pressure washer for average people. It has enough power to tackle jobs around the house without breaking the bank. There are very few downsides, especially for the price. This is not the best, most powerful, or highest-quality pressure washer on the market, but it provides a ton of benefits aimed at regular people for a fair price.

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