Whether in construction, property management, or the automotive industry, you probably need a commercial pressure washer to keep the job moving forward.
However, what you need is a pressure washer that is engineered to stand up to daily use for hours on end while putting out as much pressure as needed to blast away the dirt.
4 Top Commercial Pressure Washers Comparison Chart
Which commercial pressure washer is best for your business? We have brought together some of the most popular pressure washers on the market and provided some of their highlights to help you decide which is the best buy for your investment dollar.
Read on to learn everything you need before selecting the best commercial pressure washer for your requirements.
Features to Consider When Buying the Best Commercial Pressure Washer
To use your pressure washer regularly and for cleaning tough surfaces like concrete or machinery, you will want to look for the best commercial pressure washer available.
1. Pressure
Your commercial pressure washer will offer a psi-rating of up to 4,200, providing enough power to blast away paint, sand, oil, and ground in dirt.
Pressure washers with a rating of only 2,000 psi are fine for cleaning your deck once a year, but not for making short work of big jobs.
2. Engine
Look for a durable engine produced by a familiar commercial supplier such as Honda, Kohler, or Generac. If it comes with an unknown brand of the engine there is a good chance that it won’t be up to commercial standards.
There should be an easy pull start, as found on most Honda engines, or an electric key start.
3. Heavy-duty Frame
The frame or chassis of the best commercial pressure washer will be built out of heavy gauge steel or aluminum. Aluminum is lighter, making your machine more maneuverable, but it can be dented more easily.
The heavy-duty steel frame requires good spot welds to withstand years of abuse.
4. Belt-driven pump
Residential washers tend to have a direct drive pump that can overheat and seize when used continuously like in a commercial application.
The best commercial pressure washer will have a belt-driven pump that slows the speed and reduces buildup of heat in the engine and pump.
5. Onboard storage
Every pressure washer should be able to switch out nozzles and adjust pressure settings.
An onboard accessory rack guarantees that you can change out the equipment without stopping and heading back to the truck.
6. Heated water source
If your business operates in areas that freeze in the winter for long periods, you may want a unit that can heat up the water for year-round performance.
7. Included Nozzles and Hoses
Your purchase should include multiple nozzles that work with different cleaners, foams, and applications.
8. Thermal Shut-off
The most common damage to the pressure washers results from overheating in the pump or engine.
The best commercial pressure washers come with a thermal switch that shuts it off before damage can be done.
5 Best Commercial Pressure Washer Reviews
Here’s a list of the best commercial pressure washers we found on the market:
1. SIMPSON PS4240H Gas Pressure Washer Powered By HONDA
The Simpson PS4240H is your entry-level commercial pressure washer with an attractive price starting under $1,000.
It is gas powered by a durable Honda GX390 engine and is able to produce 4,200 psi which all makes it look like the right machine to choose for your needs.
It has pneumatic tires that help you to move the machine around on site, is fairly light compared to other units, and all of the hoses, nozzles, and connections can be stored onboard.
It is great for light duty applications such as the annual cleaning of a front sidewalk.
However, you do get what you pay for in this case. Many clients complain that their unit arrived in a damaged box, with bolts and screws that are loose, and in some cases missing oil as it leaked out in shipment.
The customer service center for Simpson refers problems with the pump or engine to those manufacturers and only supports problems with the actual frame.
If you expected to get a fabulous bargain, you might want to think twice.
Pros:
- Low price
- Powerful 4,200 psi
- HONDA GX390 Commercial Series Engine
- Compact design with onboard accessory storage
Cons:
- Poor factory assembly–arrives with loose connections
- Poor customer service and warranty support
2. Pressure Pro E4040HC Heavy Duty Pressure Washer With CAT Pump
The Pressure Pro E4040HC offers the next step up in the fight for the best pressure washer.
It includes the same Honda engine as the Simpson but also features a CAT pump, that offers a solid reputation for extended performance.
The big plus for the Pressure Pro is its light aluminum frame that lowers the overall weight by about 20 pounds, making it less of a chore to move about the job site.
The pump is driven by large belts that maintain a lower operating temperature. There is also a Thermo Sensor that will shut off the machine if things get too hot.
Pressure Pro customers tend to be loyal to the brand and get what they expect out of the unit. However, these pressure washers are usually not found on construction sites or in automotive shops.
You are spending a few hundred more, but still won’t get a top-notch unit. The hose included on the unit is only 20 feet long, so expect to purchase an additional hose to get more work done.
Also, many vendors will offer extended warranties on this product, but make sure that it is a commercial insurance policy, not one for homeowners. This sketchy practice has burned some buyers.
Pros:
- Aluminum frame construction
- Large belts lower operating temperature
- Thermo Sensor prevents overheating
Cons:
- Offered insurance not intended for commercial use
- Short 20-foot hose included
3. DEWALT DH4240B Heavy Duty Commercial Pressure Washer
Now you are getting into the real competition for the best commercial pressure washer. The first thing you will notice is that the price jumped up to $2000.
However, DeWalt built the DH4240B such that it pays you back on your investment. The specs appear much the same as the others and include 4200 psi, 5 nozzles, a 50-foot hose, pneumatic tires, etc.
But it is the details that stand up to all the demands you will place on the unit. Users report that it is able to run all day long without overheating or a drop in pressure.
When it is properly maintained as directed in the users manual, it is one of the more bulletproof commercial pressure washers on the market.
The Triplex pump uses ceramic pistons that can withstand heat buildup and keep working. Its Honda engine is time-tested to start the first time, even after sitting all winter long.
Users denote that it is durable, functional, and just keeps working as expected. Its frame is built using 10 gauge steel, so it is heavier and a little hard to move.
That just means it is harder to break. In the long run, the DH4240B is a fantastic machine that is designed to work long hours every day all through the season without complaining.
Pros:
- Triplex pump design with ceramic pistons
- Includes 5 nozzle adapters for multiple applications
- Durable Honda power that starts every time
Cons:
- A higher entry price for the same power
- Heavy and hard to lift
4. Generac 6565 Commercial Pressure Washer
Sometimes the lower price does not indicate a lower value. Generac has built a reputation for providing commercial equipment at business-friendly prices.
The Generac 6565 may be your choice for the best commercial pressure washer. You will find the Generac 420cc engine running the show, which is slightly larger than the more popular Honda.
The larger engine actually allows the unit to run a little cooler to extend the life of the pump. It features a low-oil shutdown sensor that prevents damage to the pump.
Finally, this unit runs a few hundred dollars below the DeWalt while delivering on the power and accessories you expect.
The drawbacks of this unit are strictly ergonomic. The pull cord for the engine is hidden on the bottom behind a bar from the frame, making it awkward to get going.
Also, the housing for the trigger handle on the pressure wand is made out of plastic, instead of metal, and is more likely to fail.
So, you may end up spending the same amount on the machine over time as you keep replacing the accessories as they break.
Pros:
- Reliable 420cc Generac engine
- Low-oil shut-down sensor
- Low price for professional power
Cons:
- Awkward placement for pull start cord
- Plastic trigger housing prone to breakage
5. Easy-Kleen EZO4035G-K-GP-12 Commercial Hot Water Pressure Washer
If you are looking for an option designed for your cold-weather pressure washing business, the best commercial pressure washer for you will be the Easy-Kleen EZO4035G-K-GP-12.
Many pressure washers pull in water from a garden hose and pressurize it in a manifold before pumping it out the nozzle. They don’t have storage tanks for the water.
This unit has an onboard oil-fired burner that heats up the 10-gallon tank so you can keep cleaning even when it is freezing outside.
Also, some cleaners are heat activated, so this pressure washer makes the most out of your cleaning products. Easy-Kleen stands behind every unit and eagerly works with its customers to take care of every question and concern you may have.
What is the downside? You will spend at least twice as much to invest in this unit, but you will be earning all year round.
Since the frame must support the extra machinery and the weight of a full water tank, it does not have swiveling wheels or an adjustable axle. It only moves forward and backward.
Rolling it around the corner while loaded is difficult. However, if you are working with a full tank, you won’t want to be rolling it around as it is a bit top-heavy, too.
However, professionals that purchase this unit tend to be thrilled with the performance and durability making it a smart buy for your pressure washing business.
Pros:
- Heated tank for year-round performance
- Responsive customer service
- Powered by reputable engines, pumps, and oil-fired burner
Cons:
- Double the price compared to other competitors
- Bulky and difficult to maneuver
- Onboard water tank adds even more weight
So, Which One Is The Best Commercial Pressure Washer?
In the end, the best commercial pressure washer award goes to the Generac 6565 Commercial Pressure Washer. Featuring an attractive lower price, it won’t empty your wallet when you make the purchase.
It includes all the power you need, has all the accessories, and boasts an engine and pump ready to get to work for years of service. Built for professionals, you can expect it to perform above expectations.
However, if you need to keep working into the cold winter months, you might want to consider the Easy-Kleen EZO4035G-K-GP-12 even if you end up spending twice the amount on the purchase.
Have you used any of these products? Share your experiences and insight with us in the comments section below or share on your own social media page.
We hope we have helped you find the right commercial pressure washer for your business.
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