J.A.'s Toyota 4Runner Sport Edition
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Pressure Washing Accessories:
Get current product pricing here...
Spray Gun and Accessories
  • Essential Washer
    Short Gun with Swivel
  • Essential Washer
    20" Extension Wand
  • Essential Washer
    18" Extension Wand
  • Essential Washer
    12" Extension Wand
  • Essential Washer
    Blue Rinse Nozzle and Guard
  • Snow Foam Cannons
  • Essential Washer
    Premium Foam Cannon
  • Essential Washer
    Heavy Duty Foam Cannon
  • Chemical Guys
    Mr. Pink
    Super Suds Snow Foam
  • Kochchemie
    Gentle Snow Foam
    GSF GFX
  • Pressure Washer Fittings
  • Essential Washer
    M22-14mm Quick Connect Kit
  • Essential Washer
    Garden Hose Quick Connect Set
  • Essential Washer
    QC Socket & Plug Set 3/8" F-NPT
  • Essential Washer
    QC Socket & Plug Set 3/8" M-NPT
  • Essential Washer
    Garden Hose Quick Connect w Check Valve
  • Coxreels
    #617 Steel 90° Elbow
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    Essential Washer Pressure Washing Accessories

    Concept:
    When upgrading my pressure washing accessories for my automotive detailing setup, I discovered a company that isn't widely discussed in the online automotive enthusiast communities I frequent. Despite their low profile, their products stood out for their high quality, durability, and performance. What intrigued me even more was their budget-friendly pricing, offering excellent value without compromising on quality.
     
    As long-time readers of my website know, I am always on the lookout for high-quality products that offer great value—much like all of our appreciation for Toyota's blend of quality and reliability at an excellent price point. This unexpected combination of superior quality and affordability made this company’s products a compelling choice for enhancing my detailing equipment.
     
    If you explore the links on this page, you'll find that this product line is priced significantly lower than comparable, more well-known brands, and even below some of the commonly known "value" brands I've used in the past—all while offering higher quality materials. I am also exploring more of their product line as they expand, so check back for future updates.
     
    Spray Gun:

    Essential Washer Short Gun with Swivel:
     
    Specifications:
  • Stainless Steel Swivel
  • Stainless Steel 3/8" Male Plug
  • Stainless Steel 1/4” QD Coupler
  • Nickel-Plated Interior Parts
  • Blue Exterior
  • 4000psi
  • 300°F
  • 7gpm
     
    I first came across the Essential Washer company when searching for an upgrade replacement for my McKillans Short Gun, a product I have highly regarded and used for some time. Although I was very satisfied with the McKillans and had no pressing need to change, I am always on the lookout for new offerings to ensure I am getting the most for my money.
     
    The Essential Washer Short Gun with Swivel immediately caught my attention. It appeared similar to the McKillans but featured enhanced components. See the comparison pictures below. This gun boasts higher-quality construction, with nickel-plated interior parts that ensure enhanced durability and performance. I also appreciate its use of both a stainless steel QD coupler and plug.
     
    Additionally, the gun’s blue color is not only aesthetically pleasing but also complements some of my other accessories, creating a cohesive look in my automotive detailing pressure washer setup.
     
    Despite its superior build, this short gun remains an affordable option, providing excellent value for its price.
     
    Using it feels just like the McKillans I am accustomed to, with a smooth swivel operation and trigger function. While Essential Washer offers a less costly version without the swivel, I find the swivel feature indispensable. It allows for greater maneuverability, making it easier to move around the vehicle without tangling the hose.
     

    Essential Washer Short Gun with Swivel







    Comparison to McKillans Short Gun







    Nickel-Plated Interior Parts

    Comparison to McKillans Short Gun

    McKillans Short Gun

    Extension Wands:

    Essential Washer 20" 20° Bent Extension Wand:
    Essential Washer 18" Straight Extension Wand:
    Essential Washer 12" Straight Extension Wand:
     
    Specifications:
  • Stainless Steel Swivel
  • Stainless Steel 1/4" Male Plug
  • Stainless Steel 1/4” QD Coupler
  • All Stainless Steel Body
  • Blue No-Slip Ribbed Grip Handle
  • 4000psi
  • 300°F
  • 6gpm
     
    The Essential Washer pressure washer extension wands are designed to enhance your cleaning reach and efficiency. You can get all three of their wands for the price of a single high-end offering from more well-known brands. Even individually, they are more affordable than the budget-minded products I have been using.
     
    In comparison to the McKillans 21" Rinsing Extension Wand that I used previously, the Essential Washer wands stand out. While both use real stainless steel fittings, the Essential Washer wands feature a true high-pressure stainless steel body, unlike the McKillans, which appears to be chromed steel.
     
    Performance-wise, they are similar, but the Essential Washer version offers an all-stainless steel body and an aesthetically pleasing blue color that complements my existing setup. This full stainless steel construction not only adds to their durability but also provides a uniform, professional appearance.
     
    I appreciate that there are three available lengths: 12" straight, 18" straight, and 20" bent. The flat, no-slip ribbed grip handle is comfortable during extended use.
     
    The 20" bent wand is perfect for easily rinsing the hood and roof of my lifted 4Runner, and it's also useful for rinsing the underside to remove road salt in winter.
     
    The 18" straight wand makes cleaning the rear hatch and sides easy without awkwardly angling your wrist.
     
    The 12" straight wand is ideal for wheels, which I always spend time on first before washing the main vehicle body.
     

    Essential Washer 20" 20° Bent Extension Wand





    Comparison to McKillans

    Essential Washer 18" Straight Extension Wand





    Essential Washer 12" Straight Extension Wand





    Nozzle and Guard:

    Essential Washer Blue Rinse Nozzle and Guard:
     
    Specifications:
  • Stainless Steel 1/4" Male Plug
  • Blue Exterior
  • 5000psi max
  • Length: 2-7/16"
  • Width: 1-3/4"
  • Weight: 3.2oz
  • 40° spray angle
  • 4.0 orifice size
     
    My Application:
  • This item is currently ONLY available in the 40° spray angle.
  • This item is currently ONLY available with either a 3.0 or a 4.0 orifice size.
  • I am using the 4.0 orifice size with my Active 2.0 pressure washer setup which will produce an ideal 1,000psi at 2.0gpm.
  • You can use the 3.0 orifice size with a Karcher or Ryobi type setup, though in that case it will only produce 700psi at 1.35gpm. With those machines I prefer to use 2.5 orifice size which will produce 900psi at 1.3gpm.
     
    Using a pressure washer nozzle with a rubberized protector ensures safer rinsing and protects your vehicle's paint from accidental scratches or dings. This is an essential accessory for DIY enthusiasts and professional detailers alike. The quick connect design, featuring a rubber protective cover, shields the nozzle from impacts, damage, and abrasion, extending its lifespan and providing a safer cleaning experience.
     
    Additionally, this nozzle guard effectively reduces water backsplash, minimizing mess and splatter during the cleaning process. Constructed with full stainless steel internals, it offers durability and corrosion resistance. Unbelievably, it is priced at just a third of many leading competitors similar offerings.
     

    Essential Washer Blue Rinse Nozzle and Guard











    Snow Foam Cannons:

    Essential Washer Premium Foam Cannon:
     
    Specifications:
  • 1/4" Male Plug: Stainless Steel
  • Body: Nickel-Plated
  • Bottle: 1000ml wide mouth, wide base, HDPE translucent
  • Assembled nozzle: 1.25mm orifice
  • Spare nozzle: 1.1mm orifice
  • Adjustable Foam Thickness: Yes
  • Adjustable Spray Pattern: Yes
  • Suction Tube: with inlet filter
  • Included items: Teflon tape, Spare Mesh Filter
     
    The Essential Washer Premium Foam Cannon and Heavy Duty Foam Cannon are both excellent choices for automotive detailing, each catering to slightly different needs. The Premium Foam Cannon is designed for optimal foam density control and ease of use, featuring an air intake knob and adjustable pattern fan blades. Its high-quality nickel-plated body and stainless steel fittings ensure durability and performance. On the other hand, the Heavy Duty Foam Cannon, with its standard brass body, is built to a lower price point while still including key features such as a robust stainless steel quick-connect plug and an adjustable foam thickness knob.
     
    Both models provide exceptional value for their price, but the Premium Foam Cannon is marketed to more demanding users, while the Heavy Duty model is ideal for those seeking a reliable, basic option for their detailing routine.
     
    I thought I would prefer the Premium version more so, as I particularly appreciated the dark color of its nickel-plated body and the shaded bottle and cohesive blue theme. While it produced decent foam, albeit very wet which some seem to prefer for its ability to pull down dirt from the vehicle, I was surprised to see that the Heavy Duty version of the Essential Washer foam cannon actually produced thicker more richer foam during my inital testing than the Premium cannon.
     
    There was some type of "sputtering" issue during operation. I ensured that there was no air in my pressure washer hose, but I repeatedly encounterd this issue and I believe it to be the cause for the lower than anticipated quality of foam production.
     

    Essential Washer Premium Foam Cannon















    Essential Washer Heavy Duty Foam Cannon:
     
    Specifications:
  • 1/4" Male Plug: Stainless Steel
  • Body: Brass
  • Bottle: 900ml standard mouth, standard base, HDPE translucent
  • Assembled nozzle: 1.25mm orifice
  • Spare nozzle: 1.1mm orifice
  • Adjustable Foam Thickness: Yes
  • Adjustable Spray Pattern: No
  • Suction Tube: with inlet filter
  • Included items: Teflon tape
     
    Ok, so this is definetly a budget or "cheap" choice for sure. At times this will even be on a discounted sale so I do understand the reason someone would consider this over other options. It has all the standard stuff foam cannons have had for years now, so nothing really inovative here. Due to the bottle shape it is not only harder to fill with soap, but more prone to tipping over.
     
    I initially thought that this would simply just be a cheaper option for someone wanting to simply get snow foam soap on their vehicle in the most cost effective way. But I was quite surprised with the foam output on this one.
     
    While neither produce foam as thick as some higher end offerings from companies like MJJC or Griots, those more expensive alternatives are more than double the price.
     
    That said, I think for the price that you can get the Heavy Duty foam cannon, which sometimes actually goes on sale for lower than list, this is a really great entry level product and one that I am keeping in my detailing arsenal for sure.
     
    I did note two items of minor concern with this one as can be seen in the last two pics below.
     
    1) They inadvertently included two 1.25mm orifice nozzles rather than one 1.25mm orifice and one 1.1mm orifice nozzle. The 1.1mm nozzle is used to obtain higher foam production when using a pressure washer on the low end of the GPW scale, 1.0gpm to 1.7gpm for example, such as my current Karcher setup. For those pressure washers having higher flow output, such as the Active 2.0, you will want to stick with the 1.25mm orifice nozzle so as to NOT push the amperage higher on the pressure washer pump and stress the machine out as it is unnecessary to do so to obtain higher foam production.
     
    2) The spray fan was not set at the factory to exactly vertical and there is no way to turn it as it is not adjustable. This did not seem to affect operation.
     

    Essential Washer Heavy Duty Foam Cannon
















     
    Pressure Washer Fittings:

    Quick disconnect fittings offer several benefits when used in a pressure washer setup:
    1. Ease of Use: Quick disconnect fittings allow for fast and effortless connection and disconnection of hoses, spray guns, and nozzles. This convenience saves time and reduces the effort needed to set up or change attachments.
    2. Time Efficiency: These fittings eliminate the need for wrenches or other tools to attach or detach components, significantly speeding up the process. This is particularly useful in professional settings where time is crucial.
    3. Versatility: Quick disconnect fittings enable easy switching between different nozzles and accessories. This versatility allows users to quickly adapt the pressure washer for various tasks, such as switching from a high-pressure nozzle for tough stains to a low-pressure nozzle for applying soap.
    4. Improved Safety: Quick disconnects can enhance safety by ensuring secure connections that are less likely to leak or come apart during use. This reduces the risk of water pressure accidents or damage to the equipment.
    5. Reduced Wear and Tear: Constantly screwing and unscrewing traditional fittings can lead to wear and tear on threads and seals. Quick disconnect fittings minimize this, helping to extend the lifespan of the components.
    6. Compact Storage: These fittings make it easier to disassemble and store the pressure washer and its accessories, which can help in keeping the equipment organized and reducing storage space requirements.
     
    Overall, quick disconnect fittings enhance the efficiency, safety, and versatility of pressure washer setups, making them a popular choice among both professionals and homeowners.
     
    Using stainless steel fittings over brass in a pressure washer setup offers several additional advantages:
    1. Aesthetic Appeal: Stainless steel fittings maintain their appearance better over time, as they are less likely to tarnish or develop a patina like brass. This can be important for applications where aesthetics matter.
    2. Corrosion Resistance: Stainless steel has superior corrosion resistance compared to brass, especially in environments exposed to water, chemicals, and high pressure. This makes stainless steel fittings more durable and longer-lasting.
    3. Strength and Durability: Stainless steel is stronger and more durable than brass. It can withstand higher pressures and more extreme conditions without deforming or breaking, which is particularly important for high-pressure applications.
    4. Longevity: Due to its resistance to wear and tear, stainless steel fittings typically have a longer lifespan than brass fittings. This can reduce the need for frequent replacements and maintenance.
    5. Chemical Resistance: Stainless steel is more resistant to a wider range of chemicals and cleaning agents. This makes it suitable for use in harsher cleaning environments where various chemicals might be used.
    6. Temperature Tolerance: Stainless steel can handle a wider range of temperatures, both high and low, without compromising its structural integrity. This is beneficial in applications where the pressure washer might be used in extreme temperatures.
     
    While stainless steel fittings are generally more expensive than brass, the benefits of increased durability, longevity, and performance combined with better looks, often justify the higher cost, especially in demanding applications. I have found that the stainless steel fittings in Essential Washers lineup are actually priced better than some of the well known brands brass offerings.
     
    Essential Washer M22-14mm Quick Connect Kit:
     
    Specifications:
  • 8pc Pressure Washer Hose Quick Connect Set #‎EWQCK_14MM #X00406VQYF.
  • (2) M22-14mm Female to 3/8" QD Plugs
  • (2) M22-14mm Male to 3/8" QD Couplers
  • (2) 3/4” GHT Male to 1/2" QD Plugs
  • (2) 3/4” GHT Female to 1/2" QD Couplers
  • Spare O-Rings
     
    My Applications:
  • (2) M22-14mm Female to 3/8" QD Plugs for pressure washer pump outlet and OEM Karcher long gun inlet
  • (2) M22-14mm Male to 3/8" QD Couplers for Uberflex pressure washer hose ends
  • (2) 3/4” GHT Female to 1/2" QD Couplers for garden hose outlets
  • (2) 3/4” GHT Male to 1/2" QD Plugs for garden hose spray guns
     

    Essential Washer M22-14mm Quick Connect Kit

















    Essential Washer Garden Hose Quick Connect Set:
     
    Specifications:
  • Stainless Steel Garden Hose Quick Connect Set #B08DP48ZC8
  • (4) 3/4” GHT Female to 1/2" QD Couplers
  • (4) 3/4” GHT Male to 1/2" QD Plugs
  • Spare Washers
     
    My Applications:
  • (4) 3/4” GHT Female to 1/2" QD Couplers for 2 garden hose house spigots, 1 for 3' leader to connect to pressure washer pump inlet, 1 to connect to y-splitter
  • (4) 3/4” GHT Male to 1/2" QD Plugs for 2 garden hose inlets, 1 for pressure washer pump inlet, 1 for garden hose 3' leader to connect to y-splitter
     
    Ensures a secure, leak-free and versatile connection between various hose attachments as well as between the jumper hose to get low pressure water into the pressure washer.
     

    Essential Washer Garden Hose Quick Connect Set













    Essential Washer QC Socket & Plug Set 3/8" F-NPT:
     
    Specifications:
  • Stainless Steel QC Socket/Plug Set #B08HHFVNN7 #X00440QRGZ.
  • (2) 3/8" F-NPT QD Couplers
  • (2) 3/8" F-NPT QD Plugs
     
    My Applications:
  • A 3/8" F-NPT QD Coupler is needed to connect the Pressure Washer Jumper Hose to the 90° Elbow I have installed at the pressure washer pump outlet
     
    Essential Washer QC Socket & Plug Set 3/8" M-NPT:
     
    Specifications:
  • Essential Washer Stainless Steel QC Socket/Plug Set #B08HJRQGS1 #X00440QRGZ.
  • (2) 3/8" M-NPT QD Couplers
  • (2) 3/8" M-NPT QD Plugs
     
    My Applications:
  • At the pressure washer pump outlet at the last of two 90° Elbows, a 3/8" M-NPT QD Plug is needed
     
    These are a must have item when using a high end steel braided hose that typically have standard 3/8" attachments at the ends.
     

    Essential Washer QC Socket & Plug Set 3/8" NPT











    Essential Washer Garden Hose Quick Connect Set with Check Valve:
     
    Specifications:
  • Stainless Steel 3/4" Garden Hose Check Valve Set #B0CMRVKL8N #X004140D63
  • (2) 3/4” GHT Female to 1/2" QD Check Valve Couplers
  • (2) 3/4” GHT Male to 1/2" QD Plugs
  • Spare Washers
     
    My Applications:
  • (1) GHT Female to 1/2" QD Check Valve Coupler and (1) 3/4” GHT Male to 1/2" QD Plug used at Bucket Filler Nozzle
     
    These are a "nice to have" item and I am initially using these at my garden hose nozzles so I can "hot-swap" them as needed.
     
    A big benefit I am finding with these is that when using the quick disconnects to change from my bucket filler nozzle to my foam cannon filler nozzle, the hose does not drain out onto my garage floor when performing the swap.
     

    Essential Washer Garden Hose Quick Connect Set with Check Valve















    Final Thoughts:

    In conclusion, the Essential Washer pressure washing accessories offer a compelling combination of quality, durability, and affordability. The Essential Washer Short Gun with Swivel stands out with its superior construction and smooth operation, making it a favorite for its value and performance. The extension wands, available in various lengths, provide enhanced reach and efficiency, complemented by their robust stainless steel construction and ergonomic design.
     
    Additionally, Essential Washer’s extensive line of Stainless Steel Fittings ensures a leak-free and durable connection for all your pressure washing needs. These high-quality fittings are designed to withstand high pressures and provide reliable performance, making them a valuable addition to any setup. They give the setup a premium look and feel in contrast to traditional brass components.
     
    Overall, Essential Washer products offer excellent value, matching the quality of many more well-known brands while surpassing them on price. I recommend highly you look into these accessories if you are looking to start or upgrade your pressure washing setup, whether for automotive detailing or even general cleaning purposes. Stay tuned for future updates as we continue to explore more of Essential Washer’s innovative product line.
     
    For the latest prices and availability, please follow the provided links.
     
    Video Review:


    0:00 Intro
    0:38 General Overview
    1:03 Spray Gun
    2:34 Extension Wands
    4:05 Nozzle Guard
    7:19 Pressure Washer Fittings Overview
    17:04 Snow Foam Cannons Overview
    19:10 Spray Gun and Accessories Testing & Review
    24:44 Snow Foam Cannons Testing & Review #1 w Karcher
    35:09 Snow Foam Cannons Testing & Review #2 w Active 2.0
    38:06 Outro


     


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    Toyota 4Runner Topsites

     
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