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Northern Tool + Equipment, commonly referred to as Northern Tool, is a manufacturer and retailer of light industrial equipment and do-it-yourself supplies. The company was founded in 1981 as Northern Hydraulics by Don Kotula. He started the business out of his garage in Eagan, Minnesota.
The company has established a brand authority in the pressure washing industry. It is hard to believe that it once started as a small family business in a garage. Today, Northern Tool operates over 120 store locations across more than 20 states in the U.S.
NorthStar pressure washers have long been a popular choice among homeowners and professionals alike for their exceptional quality and performance.
Northstar has over 35 years of experience in the industry. Its pressure washers are designed to provide powerful and efficient cleaning solutions for a wide range of applications.
Gas vs. Electric NorthStar Pressure Washers: Making the Right Choice
Northern Tool offers a vast range of pressure washer types, from electric vs gas powered to cold vs hot water. One of the primary factors to consider is whether to opt for a gas-powered or electric model.
Both types have their advantages and drawbacks. Understanding these differences can help you make a more informed decision that suits your specific needs.
Gas-Powered NorthStar Pressure Washers
Pros:
- Higher pressure and flow rates: Gas-powered pressure washers generally offer higher PSI (pounds per square inch) and GPM (gallons per minute) ratings, which translates to more cleaning power.
- Portability: Gas models are not restricted by power cords, allowing you to use them in remote locations and cover larger areas without needing access to an electrical outlet.
Cons:
- Noise and emissions: Gas-powered pressure washers tend to be louder and produce more emissions than their electric counterparts.
- Maintenance: Gas models require more maintenance, such as regular oil changes and fuel refills.
Electric NorthStar Pressure Washers
Pros:
- Quieter operation: Electric pressure washers are generally quieter than gas models, making them more suitable for residential areas and noise-sensitive environments.
- Lower emissions: Electric models produce no exhaust emissions, making them a more environmentally friendly choice.
- Easier maintenance: With fewer moving parts and no need for oil changes or fuel refills, electric pressure washers require less maintenance.
Cons:
- Lower pressure and flow rates: Electric pressure washers typically have lower PSI and GPM ratings, making them better suited for lighter cleaning tasks.
- Limited mobility: Electric models require a power source, which can limit their mobility and range compared to gas-powered models.
The Building Blocks of NorthStar Pressure Washers
Engines
NorthStar’s gas-powered pressure washers come equipped with either Honda GC or Honda GX engines.
Honda GC engines for residential use: These engines are designed for residential applications and provide reliable performance for homeowners.
With their easy-starting and fuel-efficient features, Honda GC engines are perfect for tackling everyday cleaning tasks around the house.
Honda GX engines for commercial use: For more demanding commercial applications, NorthStar offers pressure washers with Honda GX engines.
These engines are built to withstand rigorous use and provide consistent power.
Motors
NorthStar pressure washers use high-quality electric motors in their electric pressure washer models.
Specifically, they employ Leeson brand induction motors, which are known for their industrial-grade quality and reliability.
Leeson motors are designed to provide consistent power and performance for various cleaning tasks. They boast a long service life for both residential and commercial users.
Pumps
These pressure washers are known for their top-notch performance and durability, thanks in part to the fantastic pumps they use!
They’ve carefully selected three different pump brands to ensure you get the best cleaning experience possible:
- CAT Pumps: A renowned brand that needs no introduction. You can count on CAT pumps for their reliability and long-lasting performance.
- Comet Pumps: Comet pumps are another industry favorite, also boasting a great reputation. They’re well-loved for their durability and consistent performance in all sorts of pressure-washing tasks.
- NorthStar Pumps: NorthStar’s very own pumps may not be as famous as CAT or Comet, but they still pack a punch! Designed with the same high standards as all NorthStar products, these pumps deliver a reliable performance you can trust.
How to Start a NorthStar Pressure Washer?
To start your NorthStar pressure washer, follow these steps:
- Ensure that the pressure washer is placed on a flat and stable surface.
- Connect the water supply hose to the pressure washer inlet and the other end to a water source.
- Attach the high-pressure hose to the pressure washer outlet and the spray gun.
- Choose the appropriate nozzle or spray tip for your cleaning task and attach it to the spray gun.
- Turn on the water source and let it run through the pressure washer for a few seconds. This is necessary to remove any air in the system.
- Make sure the pressure washer’s fuel tank is filled with the appropriate fuel (for gas-powered models). Make sure that the unit is plugged into a power source (for electric models).
- For gas-powered models, set the engine’s choke and throttle to the recommended starting positions, usually indicated in the user manual.
- Turn the pressure washer’s power switch to the “ON” position.
- For gas-powered models, pull the starter cord until the engine starts. For electric models, simply press the “Start” button or trigger on the spray gun.
- Once the engine is running, adjust the choke and throttle (if necessary) to the recommended operating positions.
NorthStar Pressure Washer Models
NorthStar offers a wide range of pressure washer models. They are designed to cater to various cleaning needs, from light residential tasks to heavy-duty commercial applications.
You can browse their whole catalog here. Some popular NorthStar pressure washer models include:
- NorthStar Gas Cold Water Pressure Washer – 3300 PSI, 2.5 GPM
- NorthStar Gas Wet Steam & Hot Water Pressure Washer – 3000 PSI, 4.0 GPM
- NorthStar Electric Cold Water Pressure Washer – 2000 PSI, 1.5 GPM
Each of these models has its unique features and specifications, making them suitable for different tasks and users. We tested each of the top models in all categories and have compiled reviews to help you make informed decisions.
Reviews of Top NorthStar Pressure Washer Models
NorthStar Gas Pressure Washer, 3300 PSI, 2.5 GPM, Cold Water
Features:
Engine & Pump: This gas-powered cold water pressure washer is designed for heavy-duty cleaning tasks, boasting a powerful Honda GX200 OHV engine and a CAT 4DNX pump.
Cleaning Power: With a pressure rating of 3300 PSI and a flow rate of 2.5 GPM, this model is ideal for tackling stubborn dirt and grime on driveways, decks, and other large surfaces.
Design: Honda engines are famous for quick and easy startups so you can rest assured that this pressure washer will start quickly. Northstar pressure washers are shipped without oil in their engines. So be careful to put engine oil in your machine first before starting.
It is best to use genuine Honda pressure washer oil which you can buy here.
OHV design means that its engine will run quieter and more efficiently. It features a robust CAT-branded pump with a triplex design.
There are a handful of pump manufacturers that make great pumps for pressure washers and CAT is one of them. This pump also offers adjustable pressure to suit your various pressure-washing needs.
Verdict:
This machine comes with flat-free tires, so you don’t have to worry about getting a flat tire during a pressure washing job.
Its sturdy steel frame ensures durability, while the professional-grade spray gun and lance provide precise control during cleaning.
This pressure washer is designed to withstand heavy and rough use, NorthStar pressure washers are built with durability in mind, ensuring a long-lasting investment.
Offering an impressive 3300 PSI and 2.5 GPM, this machine has more than enough power to handle all kinds of household and light commercial jobs.
You can buy this pressure washer from Amazon or Northstar’s official website. Northstar also offers an easy per-month installment plan for all of its products.
This model retails at 949$ which is great value for the money considering its robust and high-quality design.
NorthStar Hot Water Pressure Washer With Wet Steam – 3000 PSI, 4.0 GPM
Northstar is famous for its industrial hot water pressure washer range. While cold water is enough for household and light commercial jobs, it is not effective for cleaning greasy industrial equipment.
What is a hot water pressure washer?
Hot water pressure washers employ a combination of high-pressure and hot water to not only break down and remove tough stains but also sanitize the surfaces, ensuring a clean and safe working environment.
This method is an indispensable tool for industrial use, as it provides an efficient and effective solution for tackling stubborn dirt, grease, and grime commonly found in industrial settings.
Hot water pressure washers are especially useful in industries such as manufacturing, construction, automotive, and food processing, where maintaining cleanliness is crucial for both safety and productivity.
What is a wet steam pressure washer?
Wet steam pressure washing is a cleaning method that uses a mixture of high-pressure water spray and steam to break down and remove grease, oil, and tough stains.
Wet steam basically means that temperature is kept slightly above the boiling point of water so the output is a mix of water and steam.
This versatile gas-powered pressure washer offers both hot water and wet steam cleaning capabilities. The wet steam penetrates deep into the surface, loosening and dissolving contaminants, while the high-pressure water rinses away the debris, leaving surfaces thoroughly clean and sanitized.
Wet steam pressure washing is ideal for a wide range of applications, from industrial and commercial cleaning to automotive detailing and graffiti removal. By harnessing the power of wet steam, users can achieve superior cleaning results while using less water and reducing the need for harsh chemicals.
Features:
The moment you take this pressure washer out of the box, it becomes clear that this machine is designed for heavy-duty cleaning. It is heavy and looks robust.
Engine & Pump: Equipped with a reliable Honda GX390 engine and a high-quality CAT 66DX triplex pump, it does not get any better in terms of quality.
Cleaning Power: This model delivers 3000 PSI of pressure and a 4.0 GPM flow rate.
Burner: It features a multi-fuel burner capable of burning diesel, fuel oil, and kerosene. It is capable of putting out water with a max temperature of 250℉.
Design: The adjustable temperature settings allow you to switch between cold water, hot water, and steam cleaning modes.
At the same time, the heavy-duty steel frame and pneumatic tires ensure durability and easy maneuverability.
Verdict:
If you’re looking for an awesome entry-level hot water pressure washer, you should definitely check out the NorthStar Gas Wet Steam & Hot Water Pressure Washer – 3000 PSI, 4.0 GPM.
It’s well-known and loved by professionals in the pressure-washing industry. This model is perfect for new businesses that want to grow and start tackling industrial jobs.
This pressure washer retails at 4,799$. It offers fantastic value for money, so you’ll get a lot of bang for your buck. Give the NorthStar pressure washer a try, and we’re sure you’ll be impressed with its performance and user-friendly design.
NorthStar Electric Pressure Washer – 2000 PSI, 1.5 GPM, Cold Water
If you’re looking for a quieter and more environment-friendly machine, then an electric pressure washer is the choice. Northstar has a wide range of electric pressure washers.
One of their more popular models is the NorthStar Electric Cold Water Pressure Washer —2000 PSI, 1.5 GPM, 120 Volts.
Features:
Cleaning Power: With a pressure rating of 2000 PSI and a flow rate of 1.5 GPM, it’s suitable for cleaning tasks such as washing cars, cleaning outdoor furniture, and removing dirt from sidewalks.
Motor & Pump: The 2 HP Leeson electric motor ensures reliable performance, while the CAT 4DX pump provides consistent pressure and flow.
It can operate on 110 volts so you don’t need any modification to your home electrical system.
Design: It features a robust frame with a low profile and 10” flat-free tires which are virtually free from all kinds of maintenance. The tires offer excellent mobility.
This model also features a professional-grade spray gun and lance, as well as a 35-foot power cord for extended reach.
It also has a bundled 25-foot Uberflex, industrial-grade hose.
Verdict:
Northstar electric pressure washers are well known for their durability and exceptional build quality. These machines don’t have any flimsy plastic parts, which is common for electric pressure washers.
Northstar 2000 PSI Electric Pressure Washer is ideal for residential and light commercial use. It is a quiet and powerful machine. However, don’t expect to undertake any heavy commercial jobs with this unit. Electric pressure washers normally don’t have the cleaning power to undertake heavy jobs.
For mid-level industrial work, Northstar offers the Electric Cold Water Commercial Pressure Washer -3000 PSI, 2.5 GPM, 230 Volts.
This machine is great for homeowners. Its cleaning power is more than enough for everyday cleaning tasks.
This pressure washer is more durable than others in its class. It features a robust build and high-quality parts which contribute to its longevity.
Retailing at 1,299$, the price is justified by its high-quality motor, pump, and build quality to last a lifetime.
Boost Your Cleaning with NorthStar Pressure Washer Accessories
NorthStar pressure washers are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate your cleaning game even further with the right accessories!
Just like their pressure washers, Northstar made accessories are also famous for their build quality and long life.
Surface Cleaners
Surface cleaner attachments make cleaning large flat areas, like driveways and sidewalks, a breeze. They offer consistent, streak-free cleaning while saving you time and effort compared to a standard spray wand.
Check out the 7 best surface cleaners.
Extension and Telescoping Wands
Need to reach high or distant surfaces? Extension and telescoping wands have you covered! These handy accessories let you clean areas like second-story siding or gutters without needing a ladder.
Check their wands on Amazon.
Nozzles and Spray Tips
Expand your cleaning options with additional nozzles and spray tips. Choices include turbo nozzles for extra power, low-pressure soap nozzles for detergent application, and adjustable spray tips for customized spray patterns.
Check on Amazon.
Hose Reels and Storage Solutions
Keep your accessories organized with hose reels and storage solutions like wall-mounted racks or storage bags. They’ll help you maintain your hoses, wands, and nozzles in top condition and ready for use.
Check on Amazon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about NorthStar Pressure Washers
Q: Can I use a surface cleaner attachment with my NorthStar pressure washer?
A: Yes, surface cleaner attachments are popular accessories compatible with most NorthStar pressure washers. They make cleaning large flat areas, such as driveways and sidewalks, quick and efficient.
Q: How do I choose the right nozzle or spray tip for my cleaning task?
A: NorthStar pressure washers come with a selection of nozzles and spray tips, but you can further expand your options by purchasing additional ones. Turbo nozzles are suitable for increased cleaning power, low-pressure soap nozzles for applying detergent, and adjustable spray tips for fine-tuning the spray pattern to your specific needs.
Q: Are foam cannons and soap dispensers compatible with NorthStar pressure washers?
A: Yes, foam cannons and soap dispensers can be attached to your NorthStar pressure washer, making it easy to apply soap to the surface you’re cleaning. These accessories create a thick, rich foam that clings to surfaces, helping to break down dirt and grime more effectively.
Q: How can I keep my NorthStar pressure washer accessories organized?
A: Hose reels and storage solutions, such as wall-mounted racks or storage bags, can help you keep your hoses, wands, and nozzles in good condition and ready for use whenever you need them.
Q: Where can I purchase NorthStar pressure washers and accessories?
A: NorthStar pressure washers and accessories can be purchased through various online retailers, home improvement stores, or their own official online store. Always make sure to buy from authorized dealers to ensure you receive genuine NorthStar products and support.
