Using a pressure washer is one of the easiest ways to simplify household tasks and outdoor chores. But standard residential pressure washers don’t offer the same sheer power and force as commercial-grade machines. While regular run-of-the-mill pressure washers range between 1500 and 2000 PSI, commercial machines offer much higher pressure with 4000+ PSI.
Whether you're looking to pressure wash a commercial building or you want to add some extra oomph to your at-home cleaning routine, it's time to look into the best commercial pressure washers on the market. Read about our top picks for all of your pressure washing needs, plus everything else there is to know about commercial pressure washers.
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Common Uses For Commercial Pressure Washers
The common misconception about commercial pressure washers is that they’re strictly for use in commercial settings. This couldn’t be further from the truth; even with the word commercial tacked on, these machines can be used for a variety of residential cleaning tasks. The most common use by homeowners is for backyard cleaning.
It’s the perfect solution for removing dirt and debris, especially after a winter with heavy snowfall. Backyard cleaning certainly isn’t the only application for the best industrial pressure washer. It’s a great tool for washing cars and boats, cleaning the patio and outdoor furniture, washing decks and porches, and cleaning the greasy surfaces of BBQ grills and backyard smokers.
If you do actually intend to use your new industrial pressure washer for commercial settings, there are plenty of ways to use the machine. Industrial washers are used to clean building exteriors, sports courts, parking garage walls, commercial kitchen equipment, and city sidewalks.
Commercial Pressure Washers Compared
Image | Model | Pressure | GPM | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Generac 6565 | 4200 PSI | 4.0 | ||
KranzleUSA K1122TST | 1400 PSI | 2.0 | ||
NorthStar Trailer-Mounted | 4000 PSI | 4.0 | ||
NorthStar Electric Cold | 2000 PSI | 1.5 | ||
No products found. | NorthStar Electric Wet Steam | 2000 PSI | 1.5 | |
SIMPSON Cleaning ALH4240 | 4200 PSI | 4.0 | ||
No products found. | Pressure Pro E4040HC | 4000 PSI | 4.0 |
Benefits of Choosing an Industrial Sized Pressure Washer
The distinct advantage of choosing an industrial-sized pressure washer over a residential one is power. Commercial cleaning machines are built for heavy-duty cleaning tasks, and heavy-duty cleaning requires heavy-duty power. A commercial washer has a greater cleaning capacity thanks to its high PSI, which can range anywhere from 3500 to 8000 PSI.
Because these machines offer more power, they can clean surfaces of cars, patios, and decks more thoroughly. Not only that, but the increased power rating also makes hot water pressure washing possible. It's very rare to find a residential pressure washer that has hot water capabilities, but that’s not the case for commercial machines.
Buying A High-Quality Commercial Pressure Washer
Pressure & Cleaning Power
The first consideration when buying any type of pressure washer is cleaning power. There are two main factors for determining cleaning power (CP). The first is overall pressure, which is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI). The greater the PSI, the higher the pressure; this means that a 4000-PSI washer will offer more significant water pressure than a 3500-PSI machine.
The other factor of cleaning power is the pressure washer’s flow rate, which is measured in gallons per minute (GPM). The higher the GPM, the more water the machine consumes per minute. Choosing a machine with low GPM is the more eco-friendly choice, but this can also have a negative effect on the overall cleaning power.
Power Source
Deciding on the power source of your new commercial pressure washer system is not a decision to take lightly. You can choose between gas or electric, and both have their own set of pros and cons. Gas models tend to be more powerful, but a commercial electric pressure washer is quieter, better for the environment, and costs less on average.
Usage Requirements
Not all pressure washers come with the same performance features. One pressure washer might be better for washing cars while another one is the ideal choice for cleaning sidewalks. It’s up to you to determine exactly how you plan on using this machine, and how often. Is it for cleaning the building exterior of your small business once per year, or for washing your Honda Civic once per week?
Noise Level
One of the only downsides of choosing a commercial grade pressure washer is that it creates more noise than a less powerful machine. But that doesn’t necessarily mean your eardrums have to suffer every time you use your pressure washer. Pressure washer noise is measured in decibels, and the lower the decibel rating, the lower the noise output. Gas pressure washers tend to be louder than electrically-powered machines, measuring about 85 decibels. If quiet operation is important to you, choose a quieter 78-dB industrial electric pressure washer instead.
Storage & Portability
Industrial power washers vary in weight, ranging anywhere from 50 to 300 pounds. So if you're on the hunt for the best portable commercial pressure washer, always consider a specific model's weight and dimensions. But try not to let a heavy design deter you from buying the pressure washer of your dreams - even heavy models can be portable as long as they come with a high-quality set of transport wheels.
On-board storage is another must-have feature. Your washer will come with lots of extra attachments and accessories (like nozzles, sprayers, and hoses), so the machine needs to be capable of storing these parts and pieces. Not only do you need to think about storage within the machine, but also the storage of the machine itself. Wind, rain, and snow will take its toll on your pressure washer, so choose a model that can be easily stored in a shed or garage.
Pump Type
A pressure washer pump is responsible for pumping water through the machine. Similar to how cardio fitness machines operate, there are two different drive type options for pressure washer pumps: belt-driven or direct-driven model. A belt-driven pump is connected to the machine’s engine with a set of belts/pulleys. Direct drive pumps are connected directly to the engine drive shaft.
There are pros and cons to each, but pressure washers using direct drive pumps tend to cost less. The downside is that they aren't expected to last as long, and they are more prone to vibration and overheating. Belt-driven machines have a greater upfront cost, but they tend to last longer. For this reason, commercial pressure washer companies typically go with belt-driven washers.
Durability
These machines are designed for heavy-duty use, which makes them much more durable than strictly-residential pressure washers. The main thing to look out for in terms of durability is high-quality frame construction. Look for a machine that has a frame that is constructed from heavy-duty materials - nothing compares to steel. In addition to a sturdy frame, consider the durability of the machine’s transport wheels.
Hot vs. Cold Water
Hot water cleans faster and more efficiently than cold water, but try not to assume that hot water power washing is always the better choice. Commercial hot water pressure washers cost more, and they often require more maintenance than cold water models. Some of the models covered on the best industrial pressure washer reviews below offer hot water operation, but not all of them.
Extra Features & Accessories
The amount of additional features and accessories that come with your new cleaning machine is virtually endless. Look for extra safety features like thermal relief and auto-shutoff. Automatic shutoff is especially important; it keeps the engine from overheating or clogging by shutting it down automatically when not in use.
Some manufacturers include other handy added features/accessories, like an attached soap tank. This is a great add-on for anyone who plans on cleaning greasy or grimy surfaces. Other accessories that will help you to make the most of your cleaning tasks include replacement nozzles, interchangeable wands, and cord/accessory storage compartments.
Price & Warranty
Many things determine the cost of these machines. For example, the best industrial hot water pressure washer that uses gas costs more than cold water industrial electric pressure washer systems. Price also has to do with manufacturer, engine power, added features, and cleaning ability. Do yourself a favor by establishing your budget range before you start shopping around.
All high-end commercial pressure washers come with a warranty policy. That being said, not all warranties are equal. Try not to focus only on the coverage period (like 1 year or 5 years), but read into the specifics of exactly what parts, pieces, and defects are covered under warranty.
7 Best Commercial Pressure Washers Reviewed
1. Generac 6565
Best Commercial Pressure Washer for the Money
Power Source | Gas |
Pump Type | Direct Drive |
Pressure | 4200 PSI |
GPM | 4.0 |
Weight | 164 lbs |
Warranty | 3 years |
Generac Power Systems develops some of the best commercial pressure washers on the market. One of these is the Generac 6565 gas-powered washer. This is the best pressure washer for the money with a powerful 4,200 PSI design and a 420 cc engine. The amazing power behind the 6565 delivers maximum cleaning performance and reliability - you can trust this pressure washer to get the job done.
The Generac company says that
"whether you're washing the driveway or prepping for a painting job, you need the right tool. Enter Generac pressure washers. Our customer research led us to engineer our pressure washers from the ground up to meet your specific needs."
If your specific needs require sheer power for washing cars, sidewalks, decks, or building exterior, the Generac 6565 won’t disappoint. The main thing we love about the 6565 is the professional-grade triplex pump that effectively pushes water through the system. It comes with ceramic-coated pistons and was designed for rugged use and a long lifespan. We also love the Generac 420cc engine, which comes with low-oil shutdown for added protection. When the oil is low, the engine will automatically shut off to prevent damage.
Like most commercial pressure washers, this is a heavy machine, weighing nearly 165 pounds. But Generac has thought ahead by placing the machine on a durable steel frame with oversized pneumatic tires. This portability system allows you to use the pressure washer in a variety of locations, but it also works to absorb shock and protect the 6565 engine. If power is what you're after, you won't beat the value of this Generac pressure washer.
Pros
Cons
2. KranzleUSA K1122TST
Best Electric Commercial Pressure Washer
Power Source | Electric |
Pump Type | Direct Drive |
Pressure | 1400 PSI |
GPM | 2.0 |
Weight | 80 lbs |
Warranty | 1 year |
Gas-powered pressure washers aren’t for everyone, which is where the KranzleUSA K1122TST comes into play. According to thousands of commercial electric pressure washer reviews, this is the best electric pressure washer for commercial use for several reasons. In the pressure washing world, Kranzle sets the standard of perfection, and the K1122TST is no exception.
As the best industrial electric pressure washer, here’s what you can expect from this machine: a highly efficient flow rate of 2.0 GPM, advanced pump design for optimal performance, and better cleaning efficiency with the Dirt Killer turbo nozzle. This cold water electric washer was built with heavy-duty cleaning in mind and is often used for hotels and business buildings. Still, it's just as commonly used by residential homeowners.
The main features that Kranzle customers love about the K1122TST are
“the unique capabilities of the Kränzle pump and the uncompromising German quality.” The company says that the “pump can run dry and bypass longer than its rivals, as proven in independent laboratory tests, making it more durable and reliable than the competition.”
The 1,400-PSI operation is lower in pressure than many people are hoping for in a commercial-grade pressure washer, but it still offers impressive cleaning performance. With a 2.0 GPM rating, this model has an overall cleaning power of 2,800. It’s not the most heavy-duty machine out there, but it still gets the job done. And you can’t beat the fact that this machine requires no gasoline, making it one of the most environmentally-friendly choices.
Pros
Cons
3. NorthStar Trailer-Mounted
Best Commercial Gas Pressure Washer
Power Source | Gas |
Pump Type | Direct Drive |
Pressure | 4000 PSI |
GPM | 4.0 |
Weight | 961 lbs |
Warranty | 2 years |
Another top-rated commercial gas pressure washer to make the list is the NorthStar Trailer-Mounted machine. But unlike the first gas-powered Generac pressure washer, this one offers hot water operation for even more cleaning power. It is built with a powerful Honda engine and a self-contained 200-gallon water tank that delivers hot water washing anywhere.
Since this runs on gas, the NorthStar pressure washer is the perfect solution for remote jobs that have no electricity or running water. No engine compares to the Honda GX630 V-twin, which was not just engineered for power, but also longevity.We also love the Cat direct-driven pump that
“is fully encased in a custom-molded ceramic fiber refractory combustion chamber with low thermal conductivity and resistance to thermal shock.”
Even with gas power, you'll never have to worry about burner ignition problems with the Trailer-Mounted Hot Water Washer thanks to the Parker Hannifin Racor fuel and water separator. It cleans faster while also saving time and money in the process. It's very similar to the Generac 6565 with the added perk of hot water washing. The NorthStar has an impressive lifespan when appropriately maintained.
The high-performance pump is designed with as few moving parts as possible, which minimizes maintenance while maximizing value. It’s difficult to find anything negative to say about the NorthStar, but there is room for improvement with this pressure washer’s portability. The wheeled trailer design is handy, but this certainly isn’t the most portable commercial pressure washer available. It weighs 960 pounds, so even with the wheeled trailer, it can be a lot to handle.
Pros
Cons
4. NorthStar Electric Cold
Best Commercial Cold Water Pressure Washer
Power Source | Electric |
Pump Type | Direct Drive |
Pressure | 2000 PSI |
GPM | 1.5 |
Weight | 100 lbs |
Warranty | 2 years |
If you liked the sound of Trailer-Mounted Hot Water NorthStar, but you’re looking for something a bit more portable, the NorthStar Cold Water Washer is the next best thing. This machine runs on electrical power and doesn’t offer hot water cleaning, but it comes with all the great features that make NorthStar shine brighter than the rest.
This model has 2,000 PSI operation and uses 1.5 gallons of water per minute. It's one of the most energy-efficient commercial grade pressure washers out there since it requires electrical power instead of gasoline. The direct-drive Cat pump is equipped with brass manifold and ceramic plungers, and the high-efficiency motor features a dynamically-balanced rotor for minimizing vibrations.
NorthStar believes it’s all about the small details, which is why the cold water pressure washer comes with plenty of added accessories and compartments.
“The NorthStar pressure washer goes beyond power and performance with a long list of convenience features,” says NorthStar. “Onboard nozzle storage keeps nozzles organized and easy to access. And with 25 feet of high-pressure hose, you can cover more area without having to stop to move your pressure washer.”
Because this is electrically powered and runs on 2,000 PSI of pressure (rather than 4,000), you won't get the same power as you would with a gas model. But it's still pretty impressive what this pressure washer can do; it's rugged and built to last, portable, easy to use, offers quiet operation and is the most efficient industrial model available.
Pros
Cons
5. NorthStar Electric Wet Steam and Hot Water
No products found.
Best Commercial Hot Water Pressure Washer
Power Source | Electric |
Pump Type | Direct Drive |
Pressure | 2000 PSI |
GPM | 1.5 |
Weight | 337 lbs |
Warranty | 2 years |
Yet another NorthStar to make the cut is the company’s Electric Wet Steam and Hot model. This industrial high-pressure steam washer offers hot water operation, so you'll be able to clean much faster and more efficiently. It has 2000 PSI of pressure, a 1.5 GPM flow rate, and requires no gasoline for operation. To use the best commercial hot water pressure washer on the market, you just need a 120V power outlet.
Like all NorthStar machines, this one is equipped with premium features, like the Cat 4DX direct drive pump, the high-efficiency Leeson electric motor, and durable 12" pneumatic wheels for added mobility. The adjustable power and adjustable thermostat can be set to a maximum of 250°F, which means you can tackle virtually any cleaning job. There's an easy maintenance process with pump oil checks thanks to the handy sight glass that allows you to see the oil level before changing it. The thing we love most about the Wet Steam and Hot Water is its rugged yet portable design.
NorthStar says that
"the premium cart features large 12-inch pneumatic tires for easy mobility. The rugged 10-gauge steel cart provides maximum protection, an essential feature for withstanding the hard knocks of job sites. All of it adds up to a cart worthy of the NorthStar high-performance Pressure Washer.”
The main downside of the NorthStar Wet Steam & Hot Water is the high price tag. But this is pretty common with any pressure washers that come with hot water operation. This type of machine requires a lot more moving parts to make it possible to deliver hot-water cleaning, so the high cost makes sense. If you don't foresee yourself needing hot water for your cleaning needs, you can save a few bucks by choosing a cold water pressure washer instead.
Pros
Cons
6. SIMPSON Cleaning ALH4240
Best Portable Commercial Pressure Washer
Power Source | Gas |
Pump Type | Direct Drive |
Pressure | 4200 PSI |
GPM | 4.0 |
Weight | 128 lbs |
Warranty | 2 years (pump) |
The Simpson Cleaning ALH4240 commercial pressure washer trailer is as powerful as they come, but this doesn't mean you have to make sacrifices on portability. This 4200 PSI pressure washer is built with a Honda GX390 engine and Cat industrial plunger pump, making it both durable and reliable. But the thing we love most about the gas-powered ALH4240 is its trailer system with 13" pneumatic wheels.
The wheeled system allows you to better move around with your pressure washer. Whether that involves washing the deck, the car, or your home’s exterior, you won’t have any trouble when it comes to portability. Instead of the usual steel frame construction, the ALH4240 has a frame that is built from 100% aircraft-grade aluminum. This material is just as durable as steel, but it's much lighter in weight and much easier to handle.
The Simpson pressure washer is
“equipped with premium HONDA, KOHLER or SIMPSON OHV engines built with high-quality components, designed for optimum performance and renowned for being easy to start.”
These are all big names in the pressure washing industry, so you know that this is a machine you can trust to get the job done. There is just one complaint about the ALH4240 - it doesn't have to do with the machine itself, but rather the way it is packaged. The packaging method could use some significant improvements. Some Simpson customers have complained about damaged parts on arrival when ordering this machine online. The good news is that Simpson will honor the warranty policy if this happens.
Pros
Cons
7. Pressure Pro E4040HC
No products found.
Best Heavy Duty Pressure Washer
Power Source | Gas |
Pump Type | Direct Drive |
Pressure | 4000 PSI |
GPM | 4.0 |
Weight | 99 lbs |
Warranty | 90 days on parts |
The best heavy-duty pressure washer is the Pressure Pro E4040HC. So far, all the pressure washers reviewed have been suitable for heavy-duty cleaning tasks, but none of them compare to the E4040HC. It's built with a 13 horsepower GX390 Honda engine that is quiet, reliable, and easy to start. But more importantly, this engine offers incredible 4,000 PSI power that can get even the toughest cleaning jobs done.
The engine isn’t the only durable aspect of the Pressure Pro. It comes with a Cat-brand triplex plunger pump that requires very little maintenance and is expected to last for years. When the pressure washer is in bypass mode, the thermal sensor prevents overheating. Similar to the Simpson pressure washer, the E4040HC is built from aircraft-grade aluminum (rather than steel). This cuts down on the machine weight, making it much more portable for better maneuverability.
The Pressure Pro company has always been known for their durable products and heavy-duty materials, and the E4040HC is no exception. The overall cleaning power is 16,000 (PSI x GPM), mainly thanks to the 13 HP Honda engine. Even with the gas-powered engine, the pressure washer offers quiet operation that won’t disturb the neighbors.
There are just a few downsides, though. The first is the short 90-day warranty period on some of the parts and pieces. The second is that it comes with just 2 wheels rather than 4, making it a less portable option than some other commercial pressure washers we’ve covered. Lastly, the E4040HC comes with limited storage space for the hose, but some users are willing to overlook these minor flaws in exchange for the heavy-duty cleaning ability.
Pros
Cons
Comparing Electric vs. Gas Machines
Both electric and gas-powered pressure washers come with a unique set of pros and cons. The best commercial gas pressure washer will be more powerful than an industrial electric high-pressure washer, but this extra power doesn't come cheap. But if you're willing to pay for the extra power, you'll also love the fact that there's no power cord that can get in the way with a gas pressure washer.
The main perk of going electric is that this is the more environmentally-friendly option. Unlike gas pressure washers, electric machines emit no exhaust fumes, which is better for the Earth and better for overall health. The downside? Aside from less power, an electric pressure washer requires a power outlet for operation. If you do end up choosing electric, make sure to find a model that offers an extra-long power cord.
How to Safely Setup and Operate a Heavy-Duty Pressure Washer
The main thing to remember when setting up your new pressure washer is that each model is different from the next. The machine will come partly assembled, but you’ll still have to connect hoses and add fuel/oil. Even if you have assembled a pressure washer before, ALWAYS refer to the user manual and assembly guide provided by the manufacturer. If you fail to do this, you’re not just running the risk of improper setup, but also sacrificing your safety.
The first step in operating a heavy-duty pressure washer is to know what you're dealing with. Once again, you'll need to refer to the user manual to fully understand all the parts and functions. But to help you get started, here are a few helpful tips for the safe operation of a commercial-grade pressure washer:
Troubleshooting, Care & Maintenance
Just like all home and garden tools, pressure washers are prone to some common problems. But don’t worry, most of the common pressure washer issues are easy to fix - as long as you understand what’s going on. The most common problem is low water pressure, which is typically a result of a blocked inlet water filter. To fix, disconnect the garden hose and remove any built-up dirt and debris.
Another common issue is leaking water, especially from the pressure washer pump. There are a few potential causes of this, but the main ones are broken/cracked seals or loose bolts on the pump itself. There's no way to repair cracked seals other than to replace them, so check your machine's warranty for replacement parts. Fixing loose bolts is easy; just use a wrench to tighten the bolts, and the leaking should subside.
Gas pressure washers require more maintenance than electric ones, so keep this in mind during the buying process. When using a gas-powered machine, here are a few essential practices for proper care and maintenance:
People also Ask (FAQs)
Can I use my commercial pressure washer indoors?
Can commercial pressure washers damage paint coating?
What kind of cleaning agent or detergent should I use with my pressure washer?
Detergent contains harsher chemicals than soaps, which allows it to cut through grease, oils, and fats. Soaps are more natural and much better than the environment since they're biodegradable. Using soap is always the better choice since it can safely be washed away into the gutters, and it won't kill plants/grass. One of our favorite pressure washer soaps for multi-purpose use is the Krud Kutter cleaner.
Can I use hot or warm water on my pressure washer?
How much water is used for commercial pressure washing?
Hunker says that power washing water consumption all depends on the task at hand:
"Smaller jobs, like washing a car or boat, require a light-duty power washer that produces 1,400 to 1,750 pounds per square inch (psi) of water pressure at a flow rate of 1.4 to 1.6 gallons per minute (GPM), whereas cleaning your driveway mandates a medium-duty power washer with 2,300 to 2,500 PSI and 2.2 to 2.3 GPM."
Are there any risks or safety precautions when using a car pressure washer?
According to the pressure washer safety tips from Vortexx, you should “consider all possible hazards before starting your pressure washer. Including everything from children to pets, obstacles you could trip on such as hoses, and uneven or slippery surfaces.”
What are the steps for winterizing a pressure washer?
- 1After shutting the machine down, disconnect the water supply hose
- 2Disconnect the pressure hose from the spray gun and drain any water that’s left in the hose
- 3Pull the recoil several times to remove all liquid from the pump
- 4Place all hoses and accessories in their proper built-in storage compartments
- 5In gas-powered machines, drain the gasoline from the fuel tank by running the engine to burn off the remaining fuel
- 6Store the pressure washer in a dry, protected area (garage, shed, etc.)
How long do pressure washer pumps last?
"You get what you pay for when it comes to pressure washer pumps," says PWT. "Most low-cost pressure washers are made with lower quality pumps. The life expectancy of those pumps is around 60 to 100 hours of use. With higher quality pressure washers, the life expectancy of their pumps is closer to 500 hours."
Conclusion
After covering the top 7 best industrial pressure washer reviews, hopefully, you're feeling less overwhelmed with the buying process. If you're still feeling confused about which pressure washer is best, you can't go wrong with the Generac 6565.
This gas-powered machine is as powerful as they come, but if you’re looking for an electric cleaning solution, go with the KranzleUSA instead.