Do you dream of starting your own exterior cleaning business, but don't know which pressure washer to choose? Finding the right model is crucial to offering efficient, profitable and long-lasting services. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of choosing the right petrol pressure washer for your professional needs.
Table of contents
A high-pressure cleaner is a piece of equipment consisting of a motor that drives a pump, which propels high-pressure water through a closed circuit. High pressure is generally defined as between 500psi and 5000psi. Above this range, equipment is considered verry-high pressure or ultra-high pressure.
PSI (pounds per square inch) represents the pressure at which water is ejected, while GPM (gallons per minute) corresponds to flow rate, i.e. the quantity of water used. Although this varies according to the application, generally speaking, the dirtier the surface, the higher the GPM. For example, a 2000psi, 4gpm high-pressure washer will be far more efficient than a 4000psi, 2gpm model.
The use of hot water offers superior cleaning power, especially for greasy or encrusted dirt such as on trucks, heavy machinery or heavily soiled exterior surfaces. That said, for cleaning paving stones, fences, masonry surfaces or landscaping work, a cold-water pressure washer is often more than sufficient.
A direct-drive high-pressure washer connects the motor directly to the pump. This type of equipment is suitable for short-term daily use (approx. 1 hour per day).
A belt-driven pressure washer uses a belt to turn the pump. As there is no direct friction between the motor and the pump, this system is ideal for intensive use, several hours a day and several days in a row. It's also more durable.
👉 For more details, see our article : Pulley/belt and direct drive.
Your choice of commercial or industrial pressure washer depends directly on your market. Are your customers residential, commercial, industrial or a combination of all three? This will influence not only the cleaning equipment you need, but also the way it's transported, the power required and the type of services you offer.
If you're targeting a residential clientele, it's easy to connect to the municipal water supply. However, in industrial or rural environments, access to water may be limited, and it may be wise to invest in a stand-alone system with a reservoir. This will save you time during successive installations at several customer sites.
Parking space is rarely an issue in the regions or suburbs, making it possible to use a truck with an open or enclosed trailer. In the city, especially in Montreal, traffic and parking are a challenge. It may therefore be preferable to opt for a compact wash platform installed in a Transit or Econoline van.
The type of service you offer will determine how often and for how long you use your pressure washer. If you do short but frequent washes (e.g. kitchen hoods, drain pans, cars), a direct-drive model may be sufficient. For industrial, machinery or truck washing over several consecutive hours, you'll need a more robust pulley-and-belt-drive model.
What's more, if your work involves removing greasy substances (cleaning restaurant hoods, for example), hot water becomes indispensable. Conversely, for landscaping or paving restoration work, a good cold-water system with a rotating nozzle will suffice.
Your initial budget will greatly influence your choices. Here are some things to consider:
👉 The good news is that it's possible to start your business with just a few thousand dollars, and invest gradually as your needs and clientele evolve.
General description
The MPJ4035BG pressure washer is perfect for starting a business if your needs don't require hot water. It offers 3500psi power and 4gpm flow, making it ideal for residential and commercial cleaning. Thanks to its compatibility with a rotating nozzle, it's ideal for washing paving stones or hard surfaces. It is also possible to reduce pressure (down to 1000psi) for gentler applications such as house or car washing.
Benefits
Disadvantages
Budget
Allow $3,500 to $5,000, including basic accessories.
General description
The H4035DGF pressure washer is perfect if you need a hot water pressure washer for a few hours a day. With its 3500psi at 4gpm, it's versatile for washing trucks, heavy machinery, buildings or garbage cans. It is equipped with a diesel burner capable of reaching 180°F.
Benefits
Disadvantages
Budget
Allow $8,000 to $10,000 including essential accessories.
General description
The ultimate solution for full-time washing is the installation of a self-contained platform (skid) or a converted wash trailer. These systems integrate an industrial hot-water high-pressure cleaner, water tank and hose reels, and are designed to meet intensive, professional needs.
Benefits
Disadvantages
Budget
Allow $15,000 to $30,000 depending on equipment, configuration and level of customization.
Starting a carwash business requires reliable equipment, tailored to your specific needs and target market. Whether you opt for a cold or hot water model, or a complete trailer-mounted system, the important thing is to think long-term. Rely on robustness, repairability and versatility to ensure your success.
An industrial pressure-washer is designed to be repaired, last longer and withstand intensive use. A residential model is generally disposable after breakage.
Not necessarily. If your needs involve greasy or industrial dirt, yes. Otherwise, for conventional residential work, cold water is often sufficient.
Yes, especially if you're using a compact platform. It's an excellent solution for urban environments.
If you plan to use them intensively for several hours a day, yes. For short, infrequent use, a direct drive may suffice.
Author: Multi PSI has been an expert in high pressure cleaning equipment for over 25 years. As an equipment distributor, we also offer mobile and workshop repair services. We are recognized for our expertise in custom projects, including wash platforms and trailers, as well as the installation of hose reel, boom or rail wash systems.
Updated on April 30, 2025