What Hollis Pressure Washers Offer and How They Compare

Hollis makes compact, portable pressure washers built for residential cleaning

Hollis pressure washers are designed for homeowners who need to clean driveways, decks, siding, and outdoor furniture without hauling heavy equipment. The brand focuses on lightweight models that are easier to move around your yard than full-size commercial units. Most Hollis models run on electric power rather than gas, which means no mixing fuel, less noise, and lower maintenance.

If you're looking at pressure washers for occasional home use—a few times a year rather than weekly—Hollis sits in the middle ground between the cheapest big-box options and professional-grade equipment. The machines typically deliver between 1,300 and 2,000 PSI (pounds per square inch), which is enough to strip dirt and mildew from most residential surfaces without damaging wood or vinyl siding when used correctly.

Key Takeaways

• Hollis pressure washers are electric-powered, lightweight models intended for homeowners doing occasional yard cleaning rather than professional contractors.
• Most Hollis units produce 1,300 to 2,000 PSI, suitable for driveways, decks, and house siding but not heavy industrial work.
• Electric models eliminate the need to buy and mix fuel, and they produce less noise and exhaust than gas-powered alternatives.
• Hollis machines are typically more affordable than premium brands but may require more frequent replacement than commercial-grade equipment.

Electric power versus gas: what matters for your project

Hollis pressure washers run on electricity plugged into a standard household outlet, which shapes what they can and cannot do. You need access to an outdoor outlet or a heavy-duty extension cord rated for the machine's amperage—usually 13 to 15 amps. The cord length limits how far from your house you can work, though 50-foot extension cords are common and affordable.

Electric models are quieter than gas machines, produce no fumes, and start instantly without priming or pull-cord yanking. You won't need to buy gasoline, mix oil, or clean a carburetor. The trade-off is that electric pressure washers generally produce less force than gas models of the same price point, and they're not practical for jobs far from a power source—like cleaning a detached garage with no nearby outlet.

PSI and GPM: understanding what the numbers mean

PSI measures the force of the water stream, and GPM (gallons per minute) measures how much water flows. Hollis models typically advertise 1,300 to 2,000 PSI. That range handles most residential cleaning: removing dirt and algae from concrete, stripping old paint or stains from wood, and washing house siding. Going above 2,000 PSI risks damaging softer materials like wood shingles or vinyl.

GPM matters as much as PSI for how fast you finish. A machine with high PSI but low GPM will take longer to cover the same area because less water is flowing. Hollis models usually deliver 1.3 to 1.6 GPM, which is moderate—fast enough for typical driveways but not for large commercial jobs. If you're comparing two Hollis models, the one with higher GPM will finish the same job in less time.

Tank size and water source options

Most Hollis pressure washers connect directly to a garden hose and draw water from your outdoor spigot. This means you need reliable water pressure and flow from your home's supply—typically 20 to 80 PSI at the source. If your water pressure is very low, the machine won't work well, and you may need to check with a plumber before buying.

Some Hollis models include a built-in detergent tank that holds cleaning solution separately from the water. You fill it once, and the machine mixes detergent into the spray as it runs. This is convenient for jobs like washing siding or cleaning a deck, where you want soap to sit on the surface for a few minutes before rinsing. Without a detergent tank, you'd need to buy a separate attachment or spray cleaner by hand first.

Durability and maintenance compared to other brands

Hollis machines are consumer-grade equipment, meaning they're built to last a few years of regular use rather than decades of daily professional work. The pump, motor, and hose connections are typically plastic or aluminum rather than cast iron, which keeps the weight down but also means they're more prone to wear. If you use your pressure washer a few times a year, you can expect several years of service. If you're using it weekly, you may need to replace it sooner than a commercial-grade brand.

Maintenance is straightforward: drain the tank and hose after each use to prevent mold and mineral buildup, store it indoors during winter, and replace the inlet filter if water flow drops. Parts like hoses and nozzles are replaceable and relatively inexpensive, so a worn hose doesn't mean buying a new machine. Hollis parts are usually available through online retailers and some hardware stores, though not always in stock locally.

Price and where to find Hollis pressure washers

Hollis pressure washers typically cost between $150 and $400 depending on PSI, GPM, and whether they include a detergent tank. That's less than premium brands like Karcher or Ryobi but more than the absolute cheapest models at big-box stores. The price difference usually reflects build quality and how long the machine will last before parts fail.

You'll find Hollis models at online retailers, some Walmart locations, and occasionally at hardware stores. Availability varies by location and season—pressure washers sell faster in spring and early summer. If you're buying online, check the return policy in case the machine doesn't fit your water pressure or outlet setup. Local retailers may offer in-person advice about whether a Hollis model matches your specific cleaning project.

When a Hollis pressure washer makes sense for your needs

A Hollis pressure washer is a good fit if you own a home with a driveway or deck you want to clean once or twice a year, have outdoor electrical access, and don't need professional-grade power. They're also practical if you're renting and want to clean up before moving out, since they're affordable enough to leave behind if you don't want to transport them.

A Hollis machine is probably not the right choice if you're planning to pressure-wash for income, need to work far from electrical outlets, have very low water pressure at your home, or want equipment that will last 10+ years with heavy use. In those cases, a gas-powered model or a commercial-grade electric machine would be more practical, even though they cost more upfront.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a Hollis pressure washer on my wooden deck?

Yes, but carefully. Use the lowest PSI setting (usually 1,300 PSI) and keep the nozzle at least 12 inches away from the wood surface. Test on a hidden corner first. Higher PSI or closer distance can gouge or splinter wood. If your deck is painted or stained, start even gentler—you may need to strip it by hand or with a chemical stripper instead.

What if my home's water pressure is too low?

Hollis machines need at least 20 PSI from your home's water supply to function. If your pressure is lower, the machine won't draw water properly. You can check your water pressure with an inexpensive gauge at a hardware store. If it's too low, a plumber can install a booster pump, but that cost may exceed the price of the pressure washer itself.

Do I need a special extension cord?

Yes. Hollis pressure washers draw significant current, so you need a heavy-duty outdoor extension cord rated for at least 13 to 15 amps—check your machine's manual for the exact requirement. A standard indoor extension cord can overheat and create a fire hazard. Buy a cord rated for outdoor use and the correct amperage at any hardware store.

How long does a Hollis pressure washer typically last?

With normal residential use—a few times per year—most Hollis models last three to five years before a major component fails. If you use it weekly or in harsh conditions, expect two to three years. Proper maintenance like draining the hose after each use and storing indoors during winter can extend the lifespan.

Can I rent a Hollis pressure washer instead of buying?

Many hardware stores and equipment rental shops carry pressure washers, though they may not be Hollis brand. Rental costs typically run $40 to $80 per day. If you only need a pressure washer once every few years, renting makes financial sense. If you plan to use one annually or more, buying a Hollis model becomes cheaper over time.