If you're looking for a pressure washer to use on your car, small deck, and patio furniture, consumer medium electric pressure washers are the way to go.
They're not the super duty pressure monsters that the commercial users opt for, but they'll get the job done for basic homeowner needs.
If you plan on using your pressure washer twice a year for relatively short periods of time (maybe a few hours), then medium electric consumer-grade pressure washers are up to the task.
Universal (or brush) motors are typically found in small, hand-carry pressure washers and perform the job at a very inexpensive price. If you rarely use your pressure washer, you can save some money by purchasing an electric power washer with a universal motor. It just won’t last as long.
Induction (or brushless) motors, however, are typically used in larger, more powerful electric power washers. They typically last longer than universal motors. They also cost more. If you want an electric pressure washer that lasts, spend the extra few dollars and buy one with an induction motor.
Due to the larger size than their handheld counterparts, medium electric pressure washers have room for on board detergent tanks. Some of these medium consumer power washers even have dual tanks to save you time.
When you're cleaning really tough stains, the power of water alone is sometimes not enough. But with the addition of concentrated detergents, cleaning mildew and mold from patios and brick is much easier.