Explore the RYOBI ONE+ 18V Power Cleaner Review: Is It Worth Buying?

Description

Maintenance

Using the RYOBI RY120350 ONE+ 18-Volt 320 PSI 0.8 GPM Cold Water Cordless Power Cleaner for a few months, I quickly realized that keeping it in tip-top shape isn’t as effortless as I initially hoped. The siphon hose, for instance, needs regular cleaning to prevent clogs from debris or algae buildup, especially if you’re drawing water from natural sources like lakes or buckets. I learned this the hard way after a weekend of cleaning my patio furniture, only to find the hose struggling to suck water later. A simple rinse-out with warm water did the trick, but it’s something to keep in mind.

The nozzle head, with its 3-in-1 settings, also requires occasional attention. Switching between spray modes is convenient, but if dirt accumulates, you may feel the settings not locking in as smoothly as they should. I found myself disassembling the nozzle once to clear some grit—it wasn’t difficult but felt like an unnecessary hassle. Maintenance with this cleaner is manageable, but you’ll need to stay on top of it for it to perform consistently.

Performance Metrics

Putting this cordless power cleaner through its paces, I’d say it’s like the little engine that could—but only sometimes. The 320 PSI pressure is perfect for light tasks like washing my car or cleaning off bird droppings from my balcony railing. It’s significantly more powerful than a standard garden hose but falls short when tackling stubborn stains on concrete or deeply ingrained dirt. I tried using it to clean a section of my driveway, but the results were underwhelming. It just isn’t built for that level of intensity.

The 0.8 gallons per minute flow rate is efficient for smaller jobs. When paired with its portability and battery-powered operation, it shines as a quick, hassle-free tool for everyday cleaning. However, I wouldn’t recommend it for larger, labor-intensive tasks. The performance is solid for what it’s designed to do, but don’t expect miracles.

Usability

Using this cleaner feels intuitive, which is one of its biggest strengths. The lightweight design—just over 7 pounds—is a godsend when moving it around my yard or carrying it to the lake to rinse down my kayak. The 20-foot siphon hose makes it versatile, allowing me to draw water from a bucket when a standard garden hose isn’t available. I even tried using it with a rain barrel, and it worked without a hitch.

That said, I did notice some quirks. Attaching the siphon hose can be finicky, and the connector feels a bit fragile. I worried about snapping it off if I wasn’t careful. Plus, the battery and charger are sold separately, which caught me off guard since they’re essential for operation. If you’re already in the RYOBI ecosystem, this isn’t a dealbreaker, but for others, it’s an added expense. Despite these minor inconveniences, the usability is great for quick, light-duty cleaning tasks.

Pros

Winning Points

• Portability: The cordless design and lightweight body make it easy to carry around, even for extended periods.
• Versatility: The 3-in-1 nozzle and siphon hose allow for a variety of cleaning applications.
• Ease of Use: Straightforward controls and setup.
• Battery Life: Works well for short cleaning sessions without frequent recharges.

Warranty

The warranty situation with this product has been a bit of a headache. While RYOBI advertises a three-year warranty, registering the RY120350 can be tricky depending on where you purchased it. One user review pointed out that products shipped from outside the U.S. might not be covered, which seems inconsistent and unfair. I haven’t had any issues yet, but knowing this makes me cautious. If you’re buying this cleaner, double-check the warranty terms with your retailer to avoid potential frustrations.

Features

This cordless power cleaner comes with several features designed to make cleaning easier and more efficient. The standout is the 3-in-1 nozzle, which offers three spray modes: rinse, turbo, and a 15-degree spray. Switching between them is seamless, and each mode serves a specific purpose. I used the turbo setting to blast away mud from my car tires and the rinse mode for delicate surfaces like windows. It’s a handy feature, even if the overall power is limited.

The ability to draw water from any freshwater source is another highlight. Whether it’s a garden hose, a bucket, or even a nearby stream, the siphon hose gives you options. This feature is a lifesaver for someone like me who doesn’t always have access to a traditional water hookup. However, I’d recommend keeping the water source elevated for better flow.

Design Quality

The green-and-black color scheme is a signature look for RYOBI tools, and this cleaner is no exception. The compact design stands out, and it’s clear that portability was a priority in its construction. The handle is ergonomic, making it comfortable to hold during extended use. However, the plastic connectors feel less durable than I’d like. After some light use, the water inlet connector started showing signs of wear, which doesn’t inspire long-term confidence.

Overall, the design is functional and user-friendly, but certain parts feel like they could benefit from sturdier materials. If you’re planning to use it frequently, handle it with care to extend its lifespan.

Bang for the Buck

Looking at what you get versus what you pay, I’d say this cleaner offers good value for specific use cases. It’s not meant to replace a traditional gas-powered pressure washer but serves as a convenient alternative for light cleaning jobs. Compared to similar products in its category, it’s competitively priced, especially if you already own RYOBI batteries. However, if you’re starting from scratch, the additional cost of the battery and charger might make it less appealing.

The price-to-performance ratio is fair, provided you understand its limitations. For someone who needs a portable, easy-to-use cleaner for minor tasks, it’s a cost-effective solution.

Alternative Offerings

In the realm of cordless power cleaners, several brands compete with the RYOBI RY120350. Products like the WORX Hydroshot stand out as a strong contender, offering similar portability and multi-functionality. While the WORX model boasts higher pressure options, it lacks the seamless RYOBI ONE+ battery compatibility, which is a huge plus if you’re already invested in RYOBI tools.

Meanwhile, traditional electric pressure washers like those from Sun Joe provide significantly more power at a comparable price point, but they sacrifice portability and require a constant power source. If mobility isn’t a priority for you, these might be a better choice.

For heavy-duty cleaning, gas-powered washers still reign supreme. However, they’re bulky, noisy, and overkill for small-scale jobs. The RYOBI cleaner excels in its niche but falls short against more robust alternatives for intensive tasks.

Additional information