Pressure washers are handy equipment for everything, from heavy-duty cleaning to paint peeling. But if you buy the incorrect model, it can also slow you down. How will you know that you’re buying the best brand with all the features you need?
Don’t worry, we’ve already done the legwork. We tested some of the best brands in the market today and compiled them in the list below. You will get a detailed evaluation of each pressure washer, considering design, power, pricing, features, and warranty.
This guide can help you make an informed decision. Whatever you’re searching for, there’s the right pressure washer for you.
Commercial Pressure Washer Types
Before naming the best commercial pressure washers this year, you must understand the general types of pressure washers. The contrasting styles are:
- Direct Drive Pump vs. Belt Drive Pump
- Gas vs. Electric Powered
- Hot vs. Cold Water
Let’s discuss their differences first.
Direct Drive Pump vs. Belt Drive Pump
A direct-drive pump is one where the pump is connected to the engine through a hollow shaft. This design means that the pump and the motor operate simultaneously, and it is near the hot engine. For these reasons, the pump gets faster. Over time, this mechanism reduces the life of the bearings and other components.
But because it has a simple design, this model is less costly and smaller than a belt-drive pressure washer. Choose a direct drive pump washer if you will use it as secondary equipment since it tends to overheat quickly. On the good side, it’s cheaper, portable, and efficient.
On the other hand, a belt-drive pump is attached to the engine drive shaft through a belt and pulleys. This design enables the pump to revolve at a third of the speed of a direct drive model. Since the pump is located away from the hot engine, this mechanism allows the pump to operate cooler, extending its lifespan.
But because of the additional friction of the belt and pulleys, it is less efficient. Also, the extra pieces need more maintenance. This type is ideal if you’re going to use the washer for a long time.
Gas vs. Electric
If your pressure washing area is near an electric outlet all the time, choose electric. It takes less maintenance, produces less noise, and is great for indoor cleaning. You can save time and money since you don’t need refueling. The disadvantage is that it’s less capable than the gas-powered model.
Get gas if you are looking for maximum portability. If you’re a mobile professional cleaner, a gas type is more convenient because you can clean outdoors. Gas also provides excellent power at a lower cost.
Hot vs. Cold Water
Hot water cleans more quickly because it induces oil and grime to come off the surface. The soap “pulls” the grease and dirt away from the surface. Hot water plus the pulling power of the detergent give the most complete clean in the shortest time.
However, working with the burner and fuel might be challenging. Also, the hot water production features cost $800 more than the cold-water counterpart.
Top 5 Commercial Pressure Washers
Now that you know what type of pressure cleaner you need, it’s time to name our top picks.
Simpson Powershot 4200 PSI (Direct Drive, Gas Powered)
Simpson Powershot 4200 PSI is ideal for professionals specializing in deck cleaning, wood restoration, paint preparation, and other professional services. This model is simple to install and use, thanks to its Honda GX390 quality engine.
AAA industrial triplex plunger pumps provide 4200 PSI at 4.0 GPM and have thermal relief to prevent overheating. The welded steel frame structure provides durability and corrosion resistance with a powder-coated finish. 13-inch quality pneumatic tires provide effortless agility across varied terrain and rough terrain.
Mi-T-M CW3004-4MGH 3000 PSI (Belt Drive, Gas Commercial)
Mi-T-M is an acronym for “Mighty 1000,” referring to the first pressure washer they manufactured in 1971, with a PSI of 1000 (M = 1000 in roman numerals).
Mi-T-M is a belt-drive gas commercial pressure washer with the same GX390 engine as the Simpson Powershot (above). It has a belt drive General Pump that comes with a 7-year guarantee.
You may add a roll cage to the machine for safety (as well as a secure chain-up point) and a lifting frame to hoist it to height. If you pressure wash all day every day or own a pressure washer rental business, this is a great investment.
Sun Joe SPX9006-PRO 2.15 HP 1300 PSI (Direct Drive, Electric)
Sun Joe’s PRO Series Commercial-Grade Pressure Washer SPX9006-PRO tackles even the most difficult cleaning and home improvement chores.
It’s part of Sun Joe’s PRO Commercial Series pressure washers which has the most-requested top-of-the-line, pro-performance upgrades and features for your most demanding jobs. It has a perfect all-terrain wheel, a brushless induction motor, an onboard hose reel, a steel-frame roll-cage construction, and a durable 25-foot steel-reinforced high-pressure hose.
Pressure Pro 3000 PSI 3.5 GPM (Direct Drive, Electric)
Pressure Pro 3000 has a unique aviation-grade aluminum chassis. It features a 7.5 HP engine and a maximum flow rate of 3 gallons per minute. It runs on 230 volts and features an easy-to-adjust pressure unloader.
With twin cushioned shock-absorbing feet, the pneumatic tires are ideal for any terrain. The commercial-grade engines give a long operating time and contain a thermo sensor to prevent the machine from overheating. It is suitable for washing automobiles, wood, siding, removing stains and paint.
Pressure Pro Eagle Series (Belt Drive, Electric)
The Pressure Pro belt drives electric’s maximum pressure and flow rate are 3000 PSI and 4 GPM. This is enormous for an electric vehicle. It features a 7.5 hp Baldor motor and a General Pump, an excellent pressure washer standard. However, this model comes at a hefty $5000 price.