Simpson MegaShot 3200 PSI Pressure Washer Delivers Plenty of Bang for Your DIY Buck
Let’s talk pressure washers. When we break it down, it’s just a motor and a pump attached to a frame. But what sets this Simpson 3200 PSI pressure washer apart from the competition? Set in Simpson’s “Premium Residential” line, we put it to the test to see how it compares to models you might have used in the past.
Pros
- Easy to maneuver
- Powerful Honda GC190 engine
- Maintenance-free OEM axial cam pump
- Lightweight compact design
- Quick Setup
Cons
- Hose is a little short for some jobs
Check out our best pressure washer article to see our top picks
Simpson 3200 PSI Pressure Washer Performance
Altogether, It only took me about ten minutes to unbox and set up this Simpson 3200 PSI pressure washer and that’s pretty typical for Simpson. The simplistic nature of the frame means attaching the handle is the toughest part, and that just uses a couple of pin detents.
To get some initial ideas of the cleaning power, we decided to take it out to clean off the siding on our shop. Fortunately for us, the north wall collects plenty of buildup!
Starting the washer is very simple, but need to get used to the balance when pulling the starting cord. It’s light enough that the unit wants to move when you pull up, so put a foot on the foam pad or wheel to keep it grounded.
Once we got the Honda GC190 warmed up, we set up with the 40° quick connect nozzle and started to hit the siding. With 3200 PSI and 2.5 GPM, it worked very quickly. There were some spots that we could have worked more quickly with the 25° nozzle, but we managed to do the whole job with the 40°.
Pro Tip: Hit trouble areas with Simple Green before pressure washing to loosen grime without harming grass and other plants around your work area. You can use a foam cannon or stick the detergent siphon tube directly in the bottle.
It’s tempting to go up to a 3400 or 3500 PSI unit and play the numbers game, but the pressure washer’s 2.5 GPM really helped clean quickly. Even with fences and concrete, we weren’t pushing the 3200 PSI’s limit, so the higher GPM gave us faster cleaning than a lower GPM unit.
Simpson 3200 PSI Pressure Washer Design Notes
Simpson’s welded steel frame carries a Honda GC190 fitted with an OEM Technologies axial cam pump. They often nick-name this style pump “maintenance-free” because there really isn’t any maintenance to perform. This style of pump is typical on residential level pressure washers because they are very simple. For occasional use, they offer years of trouble-free service.
Pro Tip: If your needs are more on the professional side, a triplex pump is designed for heavier use.
The spray wand is very ergonomic and comfortable. The hose threads onto the M22 fitting which is located in the middle of the wand. This is actually really nice because it keeps the balance centered which ultimately reduces fatigue.
The 25-foot Morflex M22 style hose is non-marring and abrasion-resistant which is nice if you’re working around sensitive materials. One slight drawback is the hose length. The 25-foot hose is good for most projects but may present limitations if working up high or in an isolated area. Currently, there is only one length for the M22 style hose and you’ll need an adapter if you wanted to add an extension. That’s not uncommon for residential models, though.
The more I look at this pressure washer, the more it impresses me with its compact build. This Simpson pressure washer stands 24-inches high and is a mere 21-inches wide. This lightweight machine together with the 10-inch pneumatic tires rolls over most terrains with ease.
Accessories
- Detergent siphon hose included
- Includes 5 pro-style tips with quick disconnect
- Made in the USA with foreign and domestic parts
Simpson 3200 PSI Pressure Washer Price
You can grab the Simpson Megashot MSH3125-S for $399.99 from The Home Depot. Considering you get a Honda GC engine for the power source, it’s a better value than just about any other pressure washer in the same performance class.
The Bottom Line
This pressure washer is great for cleaning decks, patios, outdoor furniture, house siding, and prepping home exteriors for painting. Paired with Simpson’s 15-inch surface cleaner, it makes quick work of cleaning your driveway, too. The build makes it most appropriate for residential use where the Honda engine offers a nice step up from most pressure washers in the same price range.
Simpson 3200 PSI Pressure Washer Specifications
- Model: Simpson MSH3125-S
- Fuel Type: Gasoline
- Drive Type: Direct
- PSI: 3200
- GPM: 2.5
- Nozzles: 0º, 15º, 25º, 40º, and soap
- Tires: 10-inch premium pneumatic
- Warranty: 2-year engine, 1-year pump, 5-year frame, 90-day accessory warranty
- Price: $399.99
For more information on Simpson pressure washers and accessories, click here
