Water Broom Buying Guide

Pressure washer water brooms make it simple to turn an afternoon cleaning job into an efficient task that can be accomplished in a fraction of the time. This tool provides the power of three or more spray nozzles used in a perfect line, at equal pressure, for simultaneous cleaning. 

What's a Water Broom? 

Water brooms are effective tools designed for the quick and easy cleaning of large surfaces. They are simple to operate and function similarly to a standard push broom. They attach to any standard pressure washer wand and often feature customizable options such as height-adjustable wheels, interchangeable nozzles, and quick-connect compatibility. These features make them an ideal accessory for cleaning large, flat surfaces. 

Pressure Washer Water Broom Benefits 

Water brooms are virtually effortless to use because the power washer wand does not need to be carried; it rests on the ground on sturdy wheels, reducing operator strain and fatigue. The unit is simply rolled along a driveway, sidewalk, or deck to remove debris and deep-clean grease, grime, and stains. 

Because large surfaces are cleaned much faster, less time is spent cleaning overall while achieving an even result. Some models offer two, three, or five nozzles for maximum coverage, reaching widths of 24" or more. Most water brooms feature adjustable wheels to control the distance from the surface, which helps manage pressure and spray spread. Many also include a rear flap to keep water moving forward, controlling overspray and keeping the operator's feet dry. 

How to Use a Water Broom 

A water broom moves just like a broom on wheels. A reliable rule of thumb is to clean in straight lines along the length of the surface, overlapping each pass by approximately 25% to eliminate lines or "striping." 

Cleaning Garages and Driveways  

Water brooms usually have a rubber flap that prevents water from spraying backward, making it easy to clean enclosed spaces like garage floors. Driveway cleaning is equally simple: the process should begin at the top of the driveway, directing water down toward the nearest drain. The broad coverage ensures an average driveway is finished much faster than when using a standard surface cleaner or a single turbo nozzle. 

Cleaning Sidewalks and Patios  

Sidewalk cleaning is a common application, especially since the larger wheels can traverse grass on either side without stopping. Patios are also ideal for water brooms; the even cleaning action allows for efficient maintenance of stones or bricks without digging into the creases or blowing out the filler material between blocks. 

Cleaning Decks and Docks  

Using a standard pressure washer spray pattern on wooden or composite surfaces can cause chipping. Water brooms solve this by cleaning in a wide, straight path at equal pressure and distance. If the pressure is set correctly, two boards can be cleared per pass without leaving uneven marks. Docks, whether wood or stainless steel, can be quickly restored to a like-new state. 

Cleaning Under Vehicles and Cars  

Undercarriage cleaners are a variation of the water broom with spray jets pointed upward. This is helpful during wet seasons when grime builds up where normal power washers cannot reach. These tools allow for a professional underbody clean for cars, ATVs, boats, and tractors. 

Water Broom FAQs 

How Much Water Does a Water Broom Need?  

For a water broom to work correctly, the pressure washer must provide adequate water flow. Most water brooms have specific PSI and GPM recommendations. GPM requirements are critical because the flow is split between each nozzle; if the GPM is too low, the attachment may sputter or fail to operate correctly. 

How is a Water Broom Attached?  

Most water brooms attach to a pressure washer wand using a 1/4" male snap coupler or quick-connect adapter. Compatibility should be verified for specific brands before use. 

What's the Difference Between a Water Broom and a Surface Cleaner?  

Both attachments aim to clean large areas quickly, but they function differently. A surface cleaner operates like a floor buffer, using spinning tips under a guard to clean in a circular pattern with minimal overspray. Water brooms clean in a straight line, making them better for edging. Additionally, water brooms can be used on slightly non-level surfaces because they move on wheels, whereas surface cleaners require a flat area for the internal bar to rotate safely. 

Can You Use a Water Broom to Clean a Roof or Windows?  

Using water brooms on rooftops or windows is not recommended. The high pressure can destroy shingles and break glass. These tools are often confused with low-pressure wash brushes, but the intensity of a water broom makes it unsuitable for fragile surfaces or heights.