CRAFTSMAN 1700 PSI Electric Pressure Washer Review for Cars Driveways Patios and Garages
Why This Product Is Worth a Look
Keeping a car, patio, driveway section, or garage area clean does not always require a large gas powered pressure washer. The CRAFTSMAN CMEPW1700 offers a more approachable option for occasional household cleaning, combining moderate pressure with a compact, lightweight design. It is worth considering if portability, simple operation, and manageable power matter more to you than commercial level performance.
Product Overview
The CRAFTSMAN Electric Pressure Washer CMEPW1700 is a corded cold water pressure washer designed for light duty residential cleaning. Its 13 amp electric motor runs from a standard 120 volt household outlet and produces a rated maximum pressure of 1,700 PSI with a maximum flow rate of 1.2 gallons per minute.
That output is suitable for washing cars, outdoor furniture, siding, garage areas, small patios, steps, and limited sections of driveway. It can remove common dirt, road film, bird droppings, and light surface buildup, but it is not intended for commercial degreasing, large concrete projects, or heavy paint removal.
The package includes the pressure washer, a trigger gun, a wand assembly, a 20 foot high pressure hose, a 40 degree nozzle, a turbo nozzle, and a soap applicator. The machine also comes with a 35 foot power cord with built in GFCI protection.
At approximately 17.5 pounds, it is considerably easier to carry than many larger pressure washers. CRAFTSMAN lists a three year limited warranty, and the model is CSA compliant and CETA certified.
Design, Build, and Everyday Feel
The CMEPW1700 has a low, horizontal body rather than the familiar upright design with wheels. It measures approximately 18.33 inches long, 10.43 inches wide, and 11.25 inches tall. Its compact shape is practical for garage shelving, small storage rooms, and households where floor space is limited.
The black and CRAFTSMAN red housing uses a protective polymer exterior around the motor and pump. A rigid handle is integrated into the top of the frame, allowing the complete unit to be carried with one hand. Since the handle is part of the main structure, there are fewer moving joints or pieces that can loosen during transportation.
One of the strongest aspects of the horizontal design is stability. Its center of gravity remains close to the ground, so pulling the hose is less likely to tip the washer over. This can be especially useful on grass, gravel, decking, or uneven pavement. The tradeoff is that there are no wheels, so the machine must be carried or allowed to slide when it needs to be repositioned.
CRAFTSMAN provides onboard areas for the wand, nozzles, hose, and power cord. These storage points are useful, although there are no proper reels or strong retaining straps. The 35 foot cord and 20 foot hose may therefore feel bulky when wrapped around such a small frame.
The trigger gun has a contoured grip and a safety lock intended to reduce the chance of accidental spraying. The fittings also follow common standards, including M22 14 millimeter hose connections and a quarter inch quick connect nozzle interface. This makes compatible aftermarket accessories easier to find.
Key Features
First, the washer provides 1,700 PSI and 1.2 GPM of cold water cleaning power. This level of output offers a useful balance for vehicles and everyday exterior surfaces. It is more manageable than a high pressure gas model, reducing the risk of surface damage when used correctly. However, the relatively low water flow means large concrete areas will take longer to clean and rinse.
Second, the Total Stop System turns the motor off when the spray trigger is released. The motor operates again when spraying resumes. This reduces unnecessary noise and electrical consumption between cleaning passes while helping limit heat buildup in the pump. Rapid cycling can still occur if the incoming water supply is inconsistent or if debris partially blocks the nozzle.
Third, the included nozzle set covers gentle and aggressive cleaning. The white 40 degree nozzle creates a broad fan for cars, siding, outdoor furniture, and treated wood. The black turbo nozzle produces a concentrated rotating spray for unpainted concrete, stone, and similar hard surfaces. The main limitation is the lack of a 15 degree or 25 degree nozzle, leaving a noticeable gap between the wide fan and the much more aggressive turbo spray.
Fourth, the washer offers useful reach and accessory compatibility. The 35 foot power cord and 20 foot high pressure hose provide up to 55 feet of combined working range, depending on the location of the outlet and water supply. Standard connections support compatible hoses, spray guns, nozzles, and foam cannons. The original hose is marketed as kink resistant, but available field observations suggest it may retain curls and kink when bent sharply.
Watch the Video Review
What It May Be Like to Use
Based on the available product information, setup should be manageable for someone new to pressure washers. The garden hose connects to the water inlet, the high pressure hose attaches to the machine and trigger gun, and the wand accepts one of the supplied quick connect nozzles.
Before switching on the motor, the water system should be purged. Turn on the water supply and hold the trigger for approximately 30 to 60 seconds, or until a steady stream flows from the wand. This removes trapped air and helps prevent the pump from briefly operating without enough water.
In typical daily use, the 40 degree nozzle should be the most practical choice for vehicle washing and other sensitive surfaces. Starting 12 to 18 inches away provides a cautious working distance, though it is always wise to test a small area first. Even a light duty pressure washer can damage loose paint, aging decals, window seals, or soft wood if the nozzle is held too close.
The turbo nozzle can speed up localized cleaning on durable masonry, concrete steps, or stone. It should not be used on automotive paint, windows, painted siding, soft wood, or delicate seals. Reports also indicate that the rotating mechanism may occasionally become clogged or stop spinning. If that happens, the washer should be turned off and depressurized before the nozzle is inspected or cleaned.
The included soap applicator is appropriate for applying a basic detergent solution. It is not designed to produce the dense, clinging foam associated with a dedicated foam cannon. For a quick patio furniture wash or simple vehicle cleaning, it may be adequate. Users who want thick foam coverage will probably prefer a compatible aftermarket foam cannon.
What Works Well
The compact size is convenient. The machine can fit on a garage shelf or in a relatively small storage area without occupying the space required by a wheeled gas pressure washer.
Its low weight supports easy transportation. At around 17.5 pounds, the CMEPW1700 is manageable for moving between a garage, driveway, patio, and backyard.
The horizontal chassis offers good stability. Pulling on the hose is less likely to overturn the machine than it would be with a tall, narrow pressure washer.
The pressure is appropriate for many lighter jobs. With the right nozzle and working distance, it can clean vehicles and common household surfaces without the excessive force of a heavy duty model.
The Total Stop System limits continuous motor noise. When the trigger is released, the motor stops instead of running throughout the entire cleaning session.
Standard fittings improve flexibility. Owners can add compatible nozzles, a longer hose, another spray gun, or a foam cannon without being limited entirely to proprietary accessories.
The 35 foot GFCI equipped power cord provides useful reach. For many small projects, it may reduce or eliminate the need for an extension cord.
Things to Consider
The 1.2 GPM flow rate is modest. Although 1,700 PSI can loosen dirt, the limited flow affects how quickly debris can be rinsed away. Cleaning a full size driveway could be slow and require frequent repositioning.
The supplied high pressure hose is only 20 feet long. That may be enough for a small car or patio, but it can feel restrictive when moving around a truck, SUV, or larger work area. The hose may also hold memory curls despite being described as kink resistant.
The soap applicator is basic. It applies detergent, but the solution may be watery rather than thick and foamy. Its capacity may also be limiting during longer washing sessions.
The nozzle selection is incomplete. A medium angle nozzle would offer more control for jobs that need greater cleaning force than the 40 degree tip without the intensity of the turbo nozzle.
Cord and hose storage could be better. The onboard hooks and docking points are helpful, but the absence of reels or firm straps can leave the machine looking cluttered after everything is wrapped up.
This is not a continuous heavy duty machine. A universal electric motor can experience thermal stress during long cleaning sessions, especially in hot weather. Regular breaks and adequate airflow around the housing are sensible precautions.
The water connection points should be handled carefully. Avoid overtightening fittings or allowing the hose to pull hard against the inlet and outlet, particularly because some surrounding parts are plastic.
Who Is This Product For?
The CRAFTSMAN CMEPW1700 is best suited to homeowners, renters, and car owners who need a portable machine for occasional cleaning. It should work well for compact cars, crossovers, outdoor furniture, bicycles, trash cans, garage floors, small patios, steps, and localized sections of siding or concrete.
It may also be a comfortable first pressure washer because its output is easier to control than that of a larger gas powered model. The compact body and integrated handle are useful for anyone who cannot comfortably move a heavy machine.
This model may not be the right choice for people who regularly clean large driveways, commercial properties, farm equipment, or heavily stained concrete. A higher flow washer would complete those tasks more efficiently. It is also not ideal for paint stripping, industrial degreasing, or extended uninterrupted operation.
Helpful Tips Before You Buy
Confirm that you have access to a standard 120 volt outlet, a reliable outdoor water supply, and enough space to keep electrical connections away from standing water.
Always turn on the water and purge trapped air before starting the motor. Running a pressure washer pump without adequate water can cause premature wear.
Use the 40 degree nozzle for vehicles and delicate surfaces. Begin at a safe distance and move closer gradually only when necessary. Reserve the turbo nozzle for durable, unpainted masonry.
If an extension cord is necessary, use an outdoor rated heavy duty cord. A 14 gauge cord is appropriate for a run of up to about 25 feet, while a 12 gauge cord is preferable for runs approaching 50 feet. Thin household extension cords can cause voltage drop, overheating, or breaker trips.
Do not overtighten the M22 hose connections. A small amount of compatible silicone grease or appropriate anti-seize compound may help reduce thread binding, but any lubricant should be suitable for pressure washer fittings and applied sparingly.
Consider the cost of possible upgrades. A longer flexible hose, intermediate angle nozzle, or foam cannon can improve versatility, but those additions increase the total investment.
Before winter storage, drain the hose and remove as much residual water from the pump as possible. In freezing climates, a pressure washer pump protector can reduce the risk of corrosion, seal damage, and cracking.
Common Questions
Is the CRAFTSMAN CMEPW1700 safe for washing cars?
Yes, when used carefully with the 40 degree nozzle and a reasonable working distance. Avoid the turbo nozzle on paint, decals, trim, glass seals, and other delicate vehicle components.
Can it clean a driveway?
It can clean small sections and localized stains, but its 1.2 GPM flow rate makes it relatively slow for a full size driveway.
Does it include a detergent tank?
It includes an attachable soap applicator bottle rather than a large integrated detergent tank. It applies cleaning solution but is not intended to create thick foam.
Can the original hose be replaced with a longer one?
The washer uses standard M22 14 millimeter hose connections, so compatible aftermarket hoses are available. Verify fitting size and pressure compatibility before purchasing.
Does the motor run continuously?
No. The Total Stop System turns the motor off when the trigger is released and starts it again when spraying resumes.
What warranty is included?
CRAFTSMAN lists a three year limited warranty for this model. Coverage, exclusions, and claim requirements depend on the manufacturer’s warranty terms.
Final Thoughts
The CRAFTSMAN CMEPW1700 is a practical light duty pressure washer for vehicle care and smaller household cleaning projects. Its strongest qualities are its low weight, compact storage footprint, stable horizontal body, useful 35 foot power cord, and compatibility with common pressure washer accessories.
Its limitations are equally important. The 20 foot hose is relatively short, the soap applicator is basic, and the included nozzle selection lacks a medium pressure option. The 1.2 GPM flow rate is adequate for smaller jobs but not especially efficient for large concrete areas. Long, demanding sessions may also place too much stress on the motor.
For occasional car washing, patio furniture, steps, garage areas, and small outdoor projects, the CMEPW1700 offers a friendly balance of portability and controlled cleaning power. Buyers who understand its light duty purpose and follow proper setup, cooling, and storage practices should find it a reasonable and versatile residential option.
Post a Comment
0 Comments