I remember the annual ritual with a sense of dread. The long weekend would arrive, the weather would be perfect for being outdoors, and my to-do list would be dominated by one soul-crushing task: pressure washing the driveway. For years, this meant hours spent hunched over, meticulously tracing lines back and forth with a standard pressure washer wand. It was a slow, grueling process that left me with a sore back and a driveway covered in unsightly “zebra stripes.” The sheer inefficiency was maddening. One wrong move, one moment of lapsed concentration, and I’d have an uneven patch that would mock me for months. It felt less like cleaning and more like a test of endurance I was destined to fail. The choice was either to lose an entire weekend to this painstaking labor or to hire a professional, which, as one user noted after getting quotes from $175 to $600, is a costly alternative.
- Achieve Professional-Level Cleaning Results with This 16.5” Surface Cleaner, with Up To 4400 PSI of Pressure for Easy Cleaning of Flat Surfaces Like Decks, Patios, Driveways, Walls and More
- Seamlessly Switch Between Attachments with 1/4" Quick-Connect Fitting, Compatible with Most Gas and Electric Pressure Washers
What to Consider Before Buying a Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner
A pressure washer surface cleaner is more than just an accessory; it’s a key solution for transforming one of the most tedious outdoor chores into a quick and satisfying task. These attachments distribute the high-pressure water stream through a set of rotating jets under a contained housing, allowing you to clean large, flat surfaces like driveways, patios, decks, and even vertical walls with remarkable speed and consistency. The primary benefit is a massive reduction in cleaning time—often cutting it by 50% or more—while completely eliminating the uneven lines and streaks that plague wand-only methods. The contained design also significantly reduces overspray, keeping you, your flowerbeds, and your house siding drier and cleaner.
The ideal customer for this type of product is any homeowner or professional with a pressure washer who regularly cleans large flat surfaces. If you look at your mossy patio or grimy driveway and feel a wave of exhaustion just thinking about the work, a surface cleaner is for you. It’s for the person who values both their time and the final result, embodying the “work smarter, not harder” philosophy. However, it might not be suitable for those who only have very small, irregular surfaces to clean, like narrow garden paths with lots of obstacles or intricate stonework. In those niche cases, the precision of a wand and specialized nozzle might still be superior. For most, though, it’s a game-changing upgrade.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Compatibility & Power Requirements: Not all surface cleaners work with all pressure washers. Check the required PSI (Pounds per Square Inch) and GPM (Gallons Per Minute). The Westinghouse 16.5” Surface Cleaner Attachment boasts a 4400 Max PSI rating, making it compatible with a wide range of powerful gas and electric models. Mismatching the attachment to your washer can result in poor performance or even damage.
- Size & Cleaning Path: The diameter of the surface cleaner determines how quickly you can cover an area. A 16.5-inch path is substantial and excellent for large driveways and patios. Smaller 12- or 14-inch models are more nimble but will require more passes. Consider the scale of your typical projects when choosing a size.
- Materials & Durability: Surface cleaners come in plastic or metal housings. While plastic is lighter, stainless steel, like that used in this Westinghouse model, offers superior durability, longevity, and resistance to corrosion. As one user noted, the steel construction feels like a “solid unit” and less like a “battle trying to keep the unit on the ground like the plastic one.”
- Ease of Use & Features: Look for features that enhance usability. Caster wheels are a non-negotiable for us; they allow the unit to glide effortlessly across surfaces. A splash-guard skirt is also essential for minimizing mess. The standard 1/4” quick-connect fitting on the Westinghouse ensures it will hook up to most pressure washer wands without any hassle.
While the Westinghouse 16.5” Surface Cleaner Attachment is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- 2500 max PSI (at initial discharge) and 2000 rated PSI of deep-cleaning water pressure; Up to 1.76 GPM (without nozzle at minimum pressure) and 1.2 rated GPM of water flow; Pro-style steel extendable...
- 2300 max PSI (at initial discharge) and 1900 rated PSI of deep-cleaning water pressure; Up to 1.76 GPM (without nozzle at minimum pressure) and 1.2 rated GPM of water flow; Pro-style steel extendable...
- Unmatched 550 PSI Cordless Power Experience superior pressure cleaning with the Rookoor Ultra Cordless Pressure Washer. Its advanced brushless motor delivers up to 550 PSI, ensuring maximum power and...
First Impressions: This Isn’t Your Average Plastic Disc
Pulling the Westinghouse 16.5” Surface Cleaner Attachment from its box, the first thing we noticed was its reassuring heft and build quality. The polished stainless steel housing immediately sets it apart from the flimsy, plastic-domed cleaners that dominate the lower end of the market. This isn’t a toy; it feels like a serious piece of equipment. One user aptly described it as being “built like a tank,” and we wholeheartedly agree. The blue Westinghouse branding provides a nice contrast to the steel, and the integrated splash guard feels thick and durable.
Assembly is practically nonexistent. The unit comes fully assembled, and connecting it is as simple as using the 1/4″ quick-connect fitting on your existing pressure washer wand. Westinghouse also includes two extension wands, which we found to be a thoughtful touch. This allows you to work from a comfortable, upright position, saving your back during long cleaning sessions. The four caster wheels spin freely and feel robust. It was clear from the first five minutes that this attachment was designed for performance and longevity, a welcome departure from accessories that feel like an afterthought.
Key Benefits
- Massive 16.5-inch cleaning path drastically reduces work time
- Durable stainless steel construction promises years of service
- Four caster wheels provide exceptionally smooth and effortless gliding
- Universal 1/4” quick-connect fitting for wide compatibility
- Significantly reduces overspray and eliminates streaking
Drawbacks
- Wheels can struggle on very uneven or curved surfaces
- May require a follow-up with a wand for extremely tough, set-in stains
Deep Dive: Putting the Westinghouse Surface Cleaner to the Test
An impressive first impression is one thing, but performance on the grimy battleground of a neglected driveway is another entirely. We paired the Westinghouse 16.5” Surface Cleaner Attachment with a 3400 PSI gas pressure washer, a common setup for homeowners with serious cleaning needs. Over several days, we unleashed it on a variety of surfaces—a concrete driveway stained with years of dirt, a wooden deck green with algae, and a paver patio with moss-filled joints. Here’s our detailed breakdown of how it performed.
Build Quality & Durability: A Stainless Steel Statement
The choice of stainless steel for the housing is the single most important design decision Westinghouse made with this product. It’s the foundation of its performance and value. Unlike plastic models that can vibrate, lift off the ground, and feel flimsy, this steel unit stays firmly planted. The added weight, while still being perfectly manageable, translates directly into more effective cleaning. It prevents the high-pressure jets from lifting the unit, ensuring that all the cleaning power is directed downwards onto the surface where it belongs. We found this completely eliminated the “hovercraft” effect we’ve experienced with lesser models.
This sentiment was echoed repeatedly by users. One reviewer, who upgraded from a Generac model, noted, “I feel like it’s not a battle trying to keep the unit on the ground like the plastic one.” This stability is key. It allows the internal spray bar to spin at a consistent, optimal distance from the surface, which is the secret to a streak-free finish. The robust construction also inspires confidence for the long term. We dragged it, bumped it against curbs, and ran it for hours, and it showed no signs of wear. This is an attachment that feels like it will outlast the pressure washer it’s connected to, and for a tool that will see rough use, that’s exactly what you want to hear.
Performance & Speed: The Time-Saving Champion
This is where the Westinghouse 16.5” Surface Cleaner Attachment truly shines and justifies its existence. The difference in speed compared to a standard nozzle is staggering. On our test driveway, a section that previously took nearly an hour to clean with a wand was completed in just 15 minutes. That’s a 75% reduction in time and effort. As one user perfectly put it, using this attachment “felt like I was using a vacuum on concrete.” You simply walk behind it at a slow, steady pace, and a 16.5-inch wide path of clean concrete appears behind you. There’s no need to worry about overlap or distance; the machine does the work and provides the consistency.
The dual high-pressure jets spin at a high RPM, blasting away dirt, grime, mold, and algae with ease. We watched as it effortlessly lifted years of accumulated grime from concrete, revealing its original light gray color. The results on our wood deck were just as impressive, stripping away the slippery green algae without gouging the wood, a common risk when using a concentrated jet nozzle. It is important, as one user wisely pointed out, to “work slow and steady.” Rushing the job can lead to a less uniform finish. But even at a deliberate pace, the speed is revolutionary. For anyone who values their weekend, this tool doesn’t just save time; it buys it back.
Maneuverability & Ease of Use: The Magic of Wheels
If the stainless steel body is the foundation, the four caster wheels are the game-changing feature that elevates the entire user experience. Many surface cleaners, even some good ones, are “floating” models that rely on the water pressure to create a cushion to slide on. This works, but it requires more effort to control and can feel jerky. The wheels on the Westinghouse model are transformative. They make guiding the unit feel completely effortless. As one user who had borrowed a neighbor’s wheelless model stated, “The Westinghouse surface cleaner has wheels and it added a whole new ease to cleaning.”
We could guide the 20-pound unit across a massive driveway with just one hand, with minimal effort required. This dramatically reduces operator fatigue. The wheels allow for “even glides,” as another user described, ensuring the cleaning deck remains at a constant height for that perfect, streak-free finish. It moves so smoothly that it makes the whole process feel less like a chore and more like a satisfying, almost therapeutic, activity. We did note, as one astute reviewer did, that the wheels can get a bit “quirky” on significant curves or highly uneven pavement. For the vast majority of flat surfaces, however, they are a massive ergonomic win and a feature we now consider essential. You can see this unique feature in detail on the product page.
What Other Users Are Saying
The sentiment surrounding the Westinghouse 16.5” Surface Cleaner Attachment is overwhelmingly positive. The most common praise, repeated in nearly every review, is the incredible time savings. One user summed it up perfectly: “Westinghouse surface cleaner cut my driveway and sidewalk total power washing time down by at least 1/2. It’s well built and worth every penny spent.” Another was amazed at the efficiency, stating a one-hour job with a wand turned into a 15-minute task with the surface cleaner.
The build quality and the wheels are the other two pillars of praise. Reviewers frequently compare it favorably to cheaper, plastic models from other brands, calling it “awesome very well constructed” and an “absolute solid unit.” A user who was initially skeptical found it to be a “great tool,” saying, “If you are even considering getting one, this is the one, just get it.” Criticism is minimal and constructive. A couple of users noted that on very tough, oil-based stains, a final pass with a high-power wand might still be necessary, which is a fair expectation for any surface cleaner. Another mentioned that the wheels perform best on level pavement, a small limitation we also observed in our testing.
How the Westinghouse 16.5” Surface Cleaner Attachment Compares to the Alternatives
The Westinghouse model is a strong contender, but it’s important to see how it fits within the broader market. We looked at three other popular options to see who they might be better suited for.
1. Hourleey 14″ Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner 4 Wheels
- ACCESSORY: 1 x 14" Surface Cleaner, 2 x Extension Wands, 1 x Nozzle Cleaner,1 x thread seal tape, 4 x O-rings, 2 x replacement nozzles.
- PROFESSIONAL CLEANING: HOURLEEY The pressure surface cleaner delivers a commercial-grade cleaning width of 14 inches, making it good for removing tough stains from extensive flat areas, including...
The Hourleey model is a very close competitor to the Westinghouse. It also features a durable stainless steel housing and the all-important four-wheel design, confirming this is a winning combination. The primary difference is size; at 14 inches, its cleaning path is about 15% smaller than the Westinghouse’s 16.5 inches. This makes it slightly more maneuverable in tighter spaces but means it will take more passes to clean a large driveway. With a slightly lower 4000 PSI rating, it’s a great choice for homeowners with slightly less powerful pressure washers or those with smaller properties where the larger size of the Westinghouse isn’t a necessary advantage.
2. PowRyte Pressure Washer Foam Cannon
- 💦[Snow Foam Lance] Directly sprays foam. Cleansers don't pass the pump for longer pump's life so you can use chemicals like bleach, vingar and etc. Thicker and dense foam stays on the surface...
- 💦[4 Universal Tips] The 0° tip delivers super high pressure for dissolving stubborn substances on hard surface. The 15° tip delivers high pressure for concrete and bric with hard surface. The...
This product serves a completely different, though complementary, purpose. The PowRyte Foam Cannon is not a surface cleaner for concrete but an accessory designed for washing vehicles, siding, or windows. It excels at applying a thick layer of cleaning soap or foam to a surface, helping to break down dirt and grime before you rinse it away. It’s an excellent tool for car enthusiasts or for the pre-soak stage of washing a house. It is not, however, an alternative for cleaning a driveway. A user might own both this and a surface cleaner to have a complete pressure washing toolkit.
3. Kärcher 15″ Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner
- Universal Compatibility: The Surface Cleaner for Pressure Washers, easily connects to wands with a standard ¼” quick-connect fitting. Compatible with most pressure washers rated 2600-3200 PSI up to...
- Cleaner; Quicker: Delivers professional level cleaning over an area 15” wide with two spinning nozzles instead of one, significantly reducing your cleaning time and water usage
Kärcher is a well-respected name in the pressure washing world, and their 15-inch surface cleaner is a popular choice. This model is made of a durable polymer composite rather than stainless steel, making it lighter. However, it lacks wheels, operating as a “floating” cleaner that hovers over the surface. While effective, this design requires more user effort to guide and keep flat compared to the wheeled Westinghouse. Its PSI range is also more limited (2600-3200 PSI), making it best suited for specific Kärcher electric models and other mid-range pressure washers. This would be a solid choice for someone already in the Kärcher ecosystem with a compatible machine, but the Westinghouse offers more power handling, better materials, and superior ergonomics for a wider range of users.
The Final Verdict: Is the Westinghouse Surface Cleaner Worth It?
After extensive testing and poring over real-world user feedback, our conclusion is simple: the Westinghouse 16.5” Surface Cleaner Attachment is an absolute must-have for anyone who owns a medium-to-high-power pressure washer and has large flat surfaces to maintain. It’s a transformative tool that turns a multi-hour, back-breaking chore into a quick, easy, and genuinely satisfying task. The combination of its rugged stainless steel construction, massive 16.5-inch cleaning path, and the game-changing four-wheel design creates a user experience that is second to none in its price category. It’s not just an accessory; it’s an upgrade that fundamentally improves the way you use your pressure washer.
While it may not be perfect for highly uneven terrain and the most stubborn oil stains might still require a targeted blast from a wand, these are minor footnotes in an otherwise stellar performance report. It saves time, saves your back, and delivers professional-grade, streak-free results. If you’ve ever dreaded the thought of cleaning your driveway, this is the tool that will change your mind. We can recommend it without hesitation. If you’re ready to reclaim your weekends and achieve a level of clean you thought only a pro could deliver, we highly recommend you check out the Westinghouse 16.5” Surface Cleaner Attachment today.
Last update on 2025-10-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API