A pressure washer is an essential tool for cleaning and maintaining your home’s exterior. The Clean Force 1400 electric pressure washer is a popular mid-range model with decent power and affordable price point. But is it the right pressure washer for your needs? This article provides an in-depth look at the key features, pros, cons and alternatives to consider when deciding should you buy the Clean Force 1400 pressure washer.
Overview of the Clean Force 1400 Electric Pressure Washer
The Clean Force 1400 is an electric pressure washer marketed as the “most powerful Clean Force” by manufacturer AR Blue Clean. Key specs include:
- Power Type: Electric
- Pressure: 1400 PSI
- Water Flow Rate: 1.6 GPM
- Power Source: Standard 120V outlet
- Hose Length: 20 feet
- Power Cord Length: 35 feet
- Weight: 32 lbs
This pressure washer is designed for residential use and rated to handle tougher cleaning tasks like stripping paint, cleaning concrete and siding. The 1400 PSI offers 40% more cleaning power than standard electric models.
It features an axial cam pump, which is maintenance free and provides a longer lifespan than belt drive pumps. The turntable design with two rubber wheels improves maneuverability.
Included accessories are a 20 foot high pressure hose, 25 and 40 degree quick connect spray tips and a built-in soap tank for applying detergent.
Key Benefits of the Clean Force 1400
Decent Power: The 1400 PSI power rating provides significantly more cleaning power than a standard electric pressure washer in the 1200-1300 PSI range. This allows the Clean Force 1400 to tackle dirt, grime and stains that lower powered models struggle with.
Good Value: Priced under $150, the Clean Force 1400 offers more power for your money compared to basic electric pressure washers. It’s a nice step up for homeowners who need more intense cleaning capability.
Ease of Use: The plug-in electric design eliminates dealing with gasoline and oil. It’s very easy to connect to a standard outlet, hook up the hose and start washing. The two wheel trolley system makes it easy to move around your property.
Long Power Cord: The 35 foot GFCI power cord gives you good reach for accessing exterior outlets. You can maneuver further without unplugging or using extension cords.
Onboard Detergent Tank: The built-in soap applicator allows you to pre-treat surfaces and optimize cleaning results. No need to mix detergent manually.
Quieter Operation: Due to the electric motor and lack of engine, the Clean Force 1400 operates quieter than gas pressure washers. It’s less disruptive to your neighbors.
Lightweight: Weighing just 32 pounds, this is an easy pressure washer to move in and out of storage and transport as needed.
Decent Warranty: It comes with a 1 year limited warranty to protect against defects.
Limitations of the Clean Force 1400
While the Clean Force 1400 offers solid power at an affordable price point, there are some downsides to consider:
Not as Powerful as Gas Models: Despite the “powerful” marketing, 1400 PSI is still considered medium duty. Gas pressure washers in the 3000 PSI range offer more intensive cleaning for tougher jobs.
Smaller Water Volume: With a flow rate of only 1.6 GPM, the Clean Force 1400 can’t apply as much water volume as gas pressure washers. This reduces your cleaning efficiency requiring more passes.
Continuous Use Limited: The electric motor works best for intermittent use of 30 minutes on/30 minutes off. It can overheat if continuously run at max pressure.
Short Hose: A 20 foot hose limits your cleaning radius somewhat. Longer hoses are needed for cleaning larger structures.
Plastic Components: Certain parts like the hose reel, soap tank and wheels are plastic. This affects overall durability compared to metal components.
No Surface Cleaner: A patio cleaner attachment can greatly increase efficiency when cleaning flat surfaces like driveways. The Clean Force 1400 doesn’t include one.
Alternatives to Consider
Here are some other models in the same price range that are worth considering if the limitations concern you:
Sun Joe SPX3000 – Very similar specs to the Clean Force 1400 but includes a 34 inch patio cleaning attachment. It’s one of the best electric pressure washer values under $200.
Greenworks 1500 – Slightly less pressure (1350 PSI) but higher flow rate of 1.8 GPM. Also includes a surface cleaner attachment. Better for larger cleaning tasks.
Simpson MegaShot – Gas powered model with 2800 PSI and 2.5 GPM. Much higher cleaning power in the same price range if you want a gas pressure washer.
Karcher K1700 – A step up electric model with 1700 PSI, 1.7 GPM and 30 foot hose. Higher performance for around $200.
Westinghouse ePX3050 – 3000 PSI gas pressure washer with 2.5 GPM flow rate. Excellent value priced under $300 for extreme cleaning jobs.
Should You Buy the Clean Force 1400 Pressure Washer?
The Clean Force 1400 electric pressure washer is a solid mid-range performer priced very competitively. The extra PSI power delivers noticeable improvement for tough residential cleaning tasks compared to basic models. It’s lightweight, quiet and easy to use.
The key drawbacks are lack of a surface cleaner, limited water volume, shorter hose and mostly plastic components. These may be issues if you have larger cleaning needs.
Overall the Clean Force 1400 is best suited for homeowners who need an occasional intensity boost for small-medium size jobs like patio, siding, deck and driveway cleaning. It delivers good value for lighter duty cleanup projects.
If you have bigger cleaning needs and want maximum power, a gas pressure washer is a better choice despite the higher price. Models like the Simpson MegaShot provide professional grade 3000 PSI cleaning for not much more cost.
Taking your specific needs into account, the Clean Force 1400 can be a great affordable option over lower powered electric pressure washers. But also consider more heavy duty alternatives if you need to routinely tackle bigger cleaning projects.
Clean Force 1400 Key Specs Overview
- Power Type: Electric
- Max Pressure: 1400 PSI
- Water Volume: 1.6 GPM
- Power Source: Standard household 120V outlet
- Hose Length: 20′
- Power Cord: 35′ GFCI
- Weight: 32 lbs
- Warranty: 1 Year Limited
Clean Force 1400 Features and Benefits
The Clean Force 1400 comes with several features aimed at providing an optimal cleaning experience:
Decent Cleaning Power
- Generates 1400 PSI max pressure at 1.6 GPM water flow rate
- 40% more power than standard 1200-1300 PSI electric models
- Enough intensity for stripping paint, cleaning siding, concrete, etc.
Convenient Electric Operation
- Plugs into standard 120V house outlet
- No gasoline, fumes or engine maintenance
- Quieter and more environmentally friendly
Onboard Detergent Tank
- 32 oz tank applies soap, degreasers, etc.
- Optimizes cleaning ability and pre-treats surfaces
- Eliminates manually mixing chemicals
Long Power Cord
- 35′ GFCI power cord
- Provides extended reach from outlets
- Less unplugging or need for extension cord
Easy Maneuverability
- Two rubber wheel trolley design
- Swivels for easy aiming and control
- Lightweight 32 lb construction
various Nozzles Included
- Quick-connect nozzles (0o, 25o, 40o)
- Adjust spray pattern and intensity as needed
Decent Warranty
- 1 year limited warranty by AR Blue Clean
- Covers defects in materials or workmanship
Typical Cleaning Tasks for the Clean Force 1400
The 1400 PSI water pressure provides medium duty cleaning capability suitable for tasks like:
- Stripping paint and stain from wood fences, decks, etc.
- Removing mildew stains from siding, patios, driveways
- Deep cleaning molded concrete, brick or stone surfaces
- Cleaning gutters clogged with dirt and debris
- Washing away cobwebs, dust and grime from house exteriors
- Removing concentrated dirt from car rims, engines, garage floors
- Eliminating oil/grease stains from driveways and sidewalks
- Cleaning outdoor furniture, grills and play equipment
Heavier duty jobs like stripping multiple layers of paint, cleaning high up commercial buildings or large equipment may require a more powerful gas pressure washer.
How to Use the Clean Force 1400 Safely and Effectively
Follow these tips to get the most out of your Clean Force 1400 pressure washer:
- Always check manufacturer instructions for proper setup and operation.
- Wear protective eyewear and footwear when using to avoid injury.
- Connect garden hose to inlet with gasket in place and tighten by hand only.
- Make sure the outlet nozzle is twisted tightly before triggering spray handle.
- Plug into a GFCI protected outlet and use an extension cord if needed.
- Apply detergent to surfaces before pressure washing for best results.
- Keep the pressure washer moving during operation and don’t let it sit in one spot while spraying.
- Maintain a 6-10 inch distance and 45 degree angle from cleaning surface. Adjust as needed.
- Use side-to-side motions rather than up and down to avoid lifting dirt/debris up and redistributing it.
- Take breaks every 30 minutes to prevent overheating the electric motor. Let it cool down.
- Disconnect from power source before changing nozzles or making any adjustments.
- After use, drain remaining water from hoses, wrap cord safely and store unit protected from weather.
Following the manufacturer guidelines and these tips will give you the most effective cleaning results from the Clean Force 1400 electric pressure washer. Always take appropriate safety precautions when operating.
Pros of the Clean Force 1400 Electric Pressure Washer
Enhanced Cleaning Power
- 1400 PSI max pressure
- 40% more power than standard electric models
- Can handle medium duty cleaning tasks
Convenient Electric Design
- Plugs into standard 120V outlet
- No gasoline or fumes to deal with
- Much quieter operation
Built-in Detergent Applicator
- Allows pretreatment and deeper cleaning
- Optimizes cleaning performance
Good Value for the Price
- Typically costs less than $150
- More affordable than equivalent gas models
Lightweight and Portable
- Weighs just 32 lbs
- Easy to maneuver and transport
Easy to Use and Maintain
- Very simple operation
- No engine maintenance required
Decent Accessory Package
- Includes hose, wand and 3 nozzles
- Provides pressure adjustment options
Cons of the Clean Force 1400 Pressure Washer
Not as Powerful as Gas Models
- 1400 PSI is medium duty cleaning
- Gas models provide 3000+ PSI
Small Water Volume
- 1.6 GPM flow is quite low
- Reduces overall cleaning efficiency
Short Hose Length
- 20′ hose limits cleaning radius
- Not ideal for larger jobs
Mostly Plastic Components
- Reduces durability vs. metal parts
No Surface Cleaner Included
- Missing key accessory for driveway/patio washing
- Must purchase separately
Electric Motor Limits Runtime
- Prone to overheating with sustained max PSI use
- Requires 30 minute cooling periods
1 Year Limited Warranty
- Relatively short coverage period
- Doesn’t cover damage from improper use
Clean Force 1400 Electric Pressure Washer FAQ
Q: How much assembly is required out of the box?
A: The Clean Force 1400 comes mostly assembled apart from attaching the handle pieces and connecting the hose and cord. Full assembly should take about 10-15 minutes.
Q: What is the recommended PSI for washing a car?
A: You’ll want to use lower pressure around 800-1000 PSI when washing vehicles to avoid paint damage. Adjust the nozzle or keep the spray 6-8 inches away.
Q: Can I use hot water with the pressure washer?
A: No, the Clean Force 1400 is not designed to heat water. It draws ambient temperature water from your garden hose like most electric pressure washers.
Q: Does the detergent tank apply soap through the pressure washer?
A: Yes, the built in tank injects and siphons detergent through the pump assembly so it comes out as a pressurized soap spray.
Q: How often should the nozzle be replaced?
A: The quick connect spray nozzles are wear items that should be replaced about once a year or earlier if you notice spray pattern degrading.
Q: What PSI should be used to clean patio furniture?
A: Cleaning delicate items like patio furniture is best done around 600-800 PSI. Use a fan spray nozzle and keep the wand about a foot away.
Q: Can I use an extension cord if outlets are too far away?
A: Yes, make sure to use at least a 12 gauge cord if between 50-100 feet to maintain adequate power. Keep it dry and grounded.
Q: How long is the Clean Force 1400 warranty period?
A: It comes with a 1 year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship, with proof of purchase required.
Q: Does the pressure washer come with everything I need?
A: It includes the hose, wand, nozzles and onboard soap tank. But you may want to pick up a surface cleaner and longer hose for bigger jobs.
Q: What is the benefit of a gas pressure washer over electric?
A: Gas models provide over double the PSI, higher water flow, unlimited runtime and longer hoses. But they do require maintenance and emit fumes.
Conclusion
The Clean Force 1400 electric pressure washer is a solid medium-duty model priced affordably under $150. The extra power beyond basic 1200-1300 PSI electric washers delivers noticeably improved cleaning performance for home exterior tasks. It’s convenient and easy to use with the electric setup.
Downsides to weigh include the limited water volume, short hose, need to take motor breaks and mostly plastic construction. Also lacks accessories like a surface cleaner.
Overall the Clean Force 1400 provides a nice intensity boost for small-medium home cleaning jobs when a basic electric isn’t enough. But for larger tasks, higher end models may be worth the investment.
Carefully assess your pressure washing needs. The Clean Force 1400 hits a sweet spot of power and price for light-duty cleaning. But stepping up to a gas model is recommended if you’re a frequent heavy-duty user.