Take on medium-to-heavy residential cleaning with the Sun Joe SPX3501 Electric Pressure Washer, featuring a brushless induction motor, integrated hose reel, and five quick-connect spray tips.
2000 rated PSI
1.1 rated GPM
13-amp motor
20-foot hose reel
Meet the SPX3501
Why It Stands Out
Brushless induction power
The 13-amp motor delivers 2000 rated PSI and 1.1 rated GPM for residential cleaning.
Integrated hose reel
The onboard reel organizes the 20-foot high-pressure hose for storage and maneuverability.
Five spray options
Choose 0°, 15°, 25°, 40°, or Soap to match the spray pattern to the cleaning task.
Detergent control
The 40.6-fluid-ounce tank and detergent dial support adjustable low-pressure soap application.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | SPX3501 |
| Product Type | Corded electric pressure washer |
| Rated Voltage | 120V AC, 60 Hz |
| Motor | 13-amp brushless induction |
| Rated Pressure | 2000 PSI under typical load |
| Maximum Pressure | 2300 PSI at initial discharge per CSA internal pressure testing |
| Rated Flow | 1.1 GPM under typical load |
| Maximum Flow | 1.48 GPM with nozzle open at minimum pressure |
| Quick-Connect Nozzles | 0°, 15°, 25°, 40°, and Soap |
| High-Pressure Hose | 20 ft |
| Power Cord | 35 ft with built-in GFCI |
| Detergent Tank | 40.6 fl oz (1.2 L) |
| Maximum Water Inlet Temperature | 104°F (40°C) |
| Net Weight | 28.3 lb |
| Product Manual | Download the SPX3501 operator’s manual (PDF) |
| Warranty | 2-year manufacturer’s warranty |
What’s in the Box
- SPX3501 electric pressure washer
- Handle and hose reel assembly
- Nozzle storage board
- Spray wand protector
- Trigger gun holder
- Two 4.8 × 20 screws and five 4.8 × 16 screws
- Spray wand and trigger gun
- Needle clean-out tool
- Five quick-connect nozzles: 0°, 15°, 25°, 40°, and Soap
- 20-foot high-pressure hose on the hose reel
- Garden hose adapter
- Manual with registration card
Assembly
Before assembly: Keep the pressure washer unplugged until assembly is complete. A Phillips-head screwdriver is required.
- Install the handle and hose reel. Slide the assembly onto the top of the washer and secure it with two 4.8 × 20 screws and two 4.8 × 16 screws.
- Seat the high-pressure hose. Insert the hose into the opening until it clicks securely into place.
- Attach the nozzle storage board. Position the board and secure it with two 4.8 × 16 screws.
- Install the holders. Slide the trigger gun holder into place, then snap the spray wand protector tab into its slot and secure it with one 4.8 × 16 screw.
- Connect the spray wand. Fit the wand into the trigger gun and rotate it until both parts are completely locked.
- Connect the pressure hose. Attach the high-pressure hose to the trigger gun and inspect the hose for damage before use.
- Connect the water supply. Attach the garden hose adapter to the water inlet, connect a reinforced garden hose with at least a 1/2-inch internal diameter, and connect the hose to the water source.
Getting Started
- Position the washer. Place it upright on a secure, stable surface as close as practical to the water supply.
- Confirm the controls. Make sure the power switch is OFF and the trigger safety lock is engaged.
- Connect electrical power. Plug the washer into a properly grounded outlet and press RESET on the GFCI until its power indicator illuminates.
- Prime the water system. Turn the water supply fully on, release the safety lock, and squeeze the trigger until the water flows steadily and trapped air is removed.
- Select a nozzle. With the washer off, water off, pressure released, and safety lock engaged, push the suitable nozzle into the quick-connect collar until it clicks.
- Begin cleaning. Turn the switch ON and squeeze the trigger. Keep the wand directed away from people, pets, electrical equipment, and the pressure washer.
- Shut down safely. Turn the switch OFF, unplug the cord, turn off the water, squeeze the trigger to release pressure, disconnect the hoses, and engage the safety lock.
Nozzle Selection
- 0° red: Concentrated jet for heavy deposits on durable surfaces and hard-to-reach areas.
- 15° yellow: Intense cleaning on hard surfaces that can withstand high pressure.
- 25° green: General cleaning for siding, patios, decks, driveways, and sidewalks; test a small area first.
- 40° gray: Gentle, wide spray for vehicles, boats, patio furniture, and lawn equipment.
- Soap black: Low-pressure detergent application; the other nozzles do not draw detergent.
Using Detergent
- Use pressure-washer detergent only. Follow the detergent label for mixing and never use household detergent, acids, bleach, solvents, flammable material, or industrial-grade solutions.
- Fill the detergent tank. Remove the cap and suction tube, lift out the tank, fill or mix as directed, reinstall the tank, and secure the cap and tube.
- Install the Soap nozzle. Use only the black Soap nozzle for detergent application.
- Apply and adjust detergent. Start the washer, adjust the detergent dial, and work from the bottom upward on a dry surface.
- Rinse before it dries. Let detergent work briefly without drying, then switch off, depressurize, install the appropriate rinse nozzle, and rinse from the top downward.
- Flush the detergent system. Drain and rinse the tank, then run the washer until all soap has cleared from the system.
Maintenance, Care & Storage
- Switch off, unplug, shut off the water supply, squeeze the trigger to release pressure, and let the unit cool before cleaning or maintenance.
- Inspect the power cord, trigger gun, connections, and high-pressure hose regularly. Do not use or attempt to mend a damaged high-pressure hose.
- Remove and rinse the garden-hose adapter filter with warm water to prevent debris from clogging the pump.
- Clean a blocked nozzle with the supplied needle tool, then back-flush clean water through the nozzle and spray wand.
- Unlock the hose reel handle, turn it counterclockwise to wind the hose, and avoid kinks.
- Store the washer and accessories indoors in a dry, covered, frost-free area. Empty water from the hoses, pump, and detergent tank before storage.
- For winter or long-term storage, disconnect all water connections, briefly run the washer until remaining pump water exits, switch it off immediately, and use a non-corrosive, non-toxic pump protector as directed. Flush thoroughly with clean water before reuse.
Freeze warning: Never store the washer where temperatures may fall below 32°F (0°C). Frozen water can permanently damage the pump.
Troubleshooting
The pressure washer will not start
Step-by-Step Check
- Check the GFCI light indicator. This confirms whether the pressure washer is receiving power. There should be a red or green light on the GFCI plug.
- If the GFCI light is off: Press the RESET button on the GFCI plug. Make sure the plug is fully seated, then try a known working outlet. There should be a red or green light.
- If using an extension cord: Remove the extension cord and plug the pressure washer directly into a wall outlet.
- Check the nozzle: Remove the nozzle and clean it with the needle clean-out tool. If the nozzle cannot be removed, make sure the nozzle opening is not clogged.
- Run the full restart sequence: Connect the garden hose and turn the water supply fully on. Make sure the trigger safety lock is in its normal operating position. Press and hold the trigger until water flow is steady to purge air and release trapped pressure. Reset the GFCI if needed, turn the machine ON, and try again.
Pressure fluctuates or the washer pulsates
Possible Causes
- Air is entering the pump or inlet hose.
- The water supply is inadequate, the hose is kinked, or the inlet filter or nozzle is blocked.
- Internal valves or pump seals require service.
Solutions
- Check that hoses and connections are airtight, straighten kinks, and hold the trigger until regular pressure returns.
- Confirm the water supply meets the manual requirements, clean the inlet filter, and clean the nozzle.
- If pressure still fluctuates, stop using the unit and contact Shop Joe Customer Support; do not open the pump housing.
GFCI Tripping on Pressure Washers
GFCI plug functions as the circuit breaker
- Turn the pressure washer off and unplug it.
- Remove any extension cord and disconnect other devices from the outlet.
- Plug the pressure washer directly into a different wall outlet.
- Reset the GFCI plug and test the unit again.
- If the GFCI continues to trip when the pressure washer is plugged directly into a different outlet, the unit may have an internal electrical malfunction, such as water intrusion or an electrical short.
Stiff Quick-Release Nozzle Connector
Possible Causes
- Corrosion, dirt, or debris buildup inside the quick-release connector.
Solutions
- Soak the quick-disconnect end in warm, soapy water.
- While submerged, move the quick-release collar back and forth repeatedly until it begins to move more smoothly.
- Remove the connector from the water and rinse it by spraying a strong, steady stream of clean water directly into the quick disconnect to flush out any remaining debris.
- Repeat the soaking, movement, and rinsing process as needed until the collar moves freely.
The washer starts, but no water comes out
Possible Causes
- The pump, hoses, or accessories are frozen.
- The water supply is disconnected.
- The inlet filter or nozzle is blocked.
Solutions
- Allow frozen components to thaw completely.
- Connect and fully open the inlet water supply.
- Clean the inlet filter and nozzle.
Stop using the washer immediately if the power cord, trigger gun, high-pressure hose, safety devices, or other important parts are damaged, or if leaking or abnormal operation continues.
Video Guide
Watch this official guide for an overview of the Sun Joe SPX3501 Electric Pressure Washer.
If the video does not load, watch the SPX3501 video guide on YouTube.
Safety reminder: Follow the operator’s manual, keep all electrical connections dry and off the ground, and release stored pressure before changing nozzles or performing maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between rated and maximum pressure?
The washer is rated at 2000 PSI under typical load. The 2300 PSI maximum is measured only at initial discharge under CSA internal pressure testing.
Which nozzle applies detergent?
Only the black Soap nozzle applies detergent. The 0°, 15°, 25°, and 40° nozzles do not draw detergent.
Can I use hot water with the SPX3501?
No. Use clean cold or lukewarm water only, and never exceed an inlet-water temperature of 104°F (40°C).
Can I use an extension cord?
An extension cord is not recommended because the washer includes a 35-foot GFCI power cord. If one is necessary, use a watertight, outdoor-rated, grounded 14-AWG cord no longer than 25 feet, so the combined cord length does not exceed 60 feet.
Why does the motor stop when I release the trigger?
The Total Stop System automatically stops the motor when the trigger is released, helping protect the pump from overheating and conserve energy.
Where can I find the model and serial numbers?
Both numbers are printed on the decal located on the pressure washer housing.