Simpson Surface Cleaners: 15, 16.5 and 20-Inch Models Compared

Best for
Gas washers from 2000 to 4000 PSI

The Simpson 16.5″ Stainless Steel Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner, model 80625, has the widest compatibility window of the four. It works with most gas pressure washers rated from a recommended minimum of 2000 PSI and 2.5 GPM up to a maximum of 4000 PSI and 4 GPM. That covers everything from an entry-level gas washer to a strong homeowner unit.

The stainless steel shroud and stainless nozzles resist corrosion, and the shroud keeps overspray off you and nearby walls. Two rotating jets clean a 16.5-inch path without streaks, and the item highlight mentions four wheels for mobility. It connects with a 1/4-inch quick connect and includes a nozzle cleaning tool. It is for cold water only, with a maximum of 140°F, and weighs 5.38 kg.

This suits anyone who wants one surface cleaner that will keep working if they upgrade their washer later. Simpson’s tip applies to all of these: move slowly and steadily with light pressure to keep an even height.

• 16.5-inch path, two rotating jets
• 2000-4000 PSI, 2.5-4 GPM
• Stainless steel shroud and nozzles
• Cold water only, nozzle tool included

Best for
Hot water and pro-grade washers

The Simpson 20″ Industrial Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner, model 80182, is the big one. Its 20-inch diameter covers the most ground per pass, and it is the only model here rated for hot water, up to 212°F. Hot water helps break down grease and oil on garage floors and shop aprons.

The rating starts high: a recommended minimum of 3450 PSI and 2.3 GPM, up to a maximum of 4500 PSI and 3.8 GPM. It uses a 3/8-inch quick connect meant for high-pressure hoses, not the 1/4-inch fitting on most homeowner spray wands. Build quality steps up with a powder-coated steel shroud, stainless nozzles, brass components and an in-line filter, plus a lightweight ergonomic handle. The warranty is 90 days.

This suits commercial users and homeowners with professional-grade machines. With a smaller washer, it will not reach its rating, so pick a 15-inch or 16.5-inch model instead.

• 20-inch path
• Hot or cold water, up to 212°F
• 3450-4500 PSI, 2.3-3.8 GPM
• 3/8-inch QC, brass parts, in-line filter

Best for
Homeowners with mid-size gas washers

The Simpson 15″ Steel Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner, model 80299, is listed as the 2026 version. It works with gas washers from a recommended minimum of 2200 PSI and 2.3 GPM up to 3700 PSI and 3.4 GPM, and Simpson says it cuts cleaning time by 50%.

It uses a powder-coated steel shroud with stainless nozzles, a 1/4-inch quick connect and two rotating jets. A nozzle cleaning tool is included. It is cold water only, up to 140°F. At 4.5 pounds and 15.5 x 15.5 x 6 inches, it is the lightest surface cleaner listed here, and it carries a 90-day limited accessory warranty.

This suits the typical homeowner with a mid-range gas washer. If your washer is below 2200 PSI, the 16.5-inch model’s 2000 PSI minimum is a better match. For electric washers, our guide to an electric pressure washer surface cleaner covers lower-pressure options.

• 15-inch path, 2026 version
• 2200-3700 PSI, 2.3-3.4 GPM
• 4.5 lbs, lightest here
• 90-day limited accessory warranty

Best for
Owners wanting the proven 80165

The Simpson Cleaning 80165 Universal 15″ Steel Surface Cleaner is the long-running 15-inch model. Its features match the 80299 closely: a 1/4-inch quick connect, powder-coated steel shroud, stainless nozzles, two rotating jets and a rating of 2200 PSI and 2.3 GPM up to 3700 PSI and 3.4 GPM. It is cold water only, up to 140°F, and the box includes the surface cleaner and an unclogging tool.

There is one inconsistency: the item type field says recommended minimum 3000 PSI, while the title, features and description all say 2200 PSI. We would go with 2200, but if your washer sits between 2200 and 3000 PSI, check the manual. It weighs 5.5 pounds, a pound more than the 80299, and has a 90-day limited accessory warranty.

This suits anyone who specifically wants the 80165 model or finds it more available. The 80299 is the newer, lighter alternative with the same rating.

• 15-inch path
• 2200-3700 PSI (one field says 3000 minimum)
• Unclogging tool included
• 5.5 lbs, cold water only

Best for
General pre-treating before surface cleaning

The Simpson Multi-Purpose Cleaner, model 88281, is a concentrated soap solution sold in a 1-gallon container. That is everything the listing states, so the dilution ratio, surfaces and how to apply it are not specified.

In general, pressure washer soap is applied at low pressure first to loosen dirt, then rinsed off with high pressure or a surface cleaner. Follow the label for mixing and application.

This suits anyone who wants a general Simpson soap to use before running a surface cleaner. If you want a formula described as non-toxic and biodegradable, choose Green Formula.

• Concentrated soap solution
• 1 gallon, model 88281
• Dilution not specified in the listing

Best for
Eco-minded cleaning around pets and plants

The Simpson Green Formula Cleaner, model 88283, is a 1-gallon concentrated soap that Simpson says offers the same cleaning power as the Multi-Purpose Cleaner. It is described as non-toxic, biodegradable and free of harsh chemicals.

Simpson names vehicles, siding, decking, lawn furniture, garage floors, sidewalks and driveways as uses. The jug measures 6.25 x 6.25 x 11.75 inches and weighs 9 pounds.

This suits homeowners cleaning near lawns, gardens or pet areas. For indoor surfaces, our look at a concentrated multi-surface cleaner fits better.

• Same power as Multi-Purpose, per Simpson
• Non-toxic and biodegradable
• For vehicles, siding, decks and driveways
• 1 gallon, 9 lbs