If you’ve ever struggled to clean grease, oil, or stubborn grime with a standard pressure washer, you already know cold water has its limits. That’s where hot water pressure washers come in. These powerful machines blast dirt with heated water, cutting through grease and sanitizing surfaces far more effectively. They’re the go-to choice for auto shops, construction crews, and anyone who needs deep cleaning power. In this guide, we’ll look at the best hot water pressure washers, how to choose the right one, and why investing in one is worth it.
Quick Picks
- Best Overall: NorthStar Gas Hot Water Pressure Washer – 4000 PSI, 3.5 GPM – Heavy-duty performance with reliable Honda engine and diesel burner.
- Best Budget: Simpson MB1518 Hot Water Pressure Washer – 1500 PSI, 1.8 GPM – Compact electric model for lighter commercial cleaning.
- Best Premium: Hotsy 965B Diesel Hot Water Pressure Washer – 4000 PSI, 5 GPM – Industrial-grade machine built for nonstop professional use.
Buyer’s Guide – How to Choose a Hot Water Pressure Washer
Hot water pressure washers are serious cleaning machines. Here are the main factors to consider before buying:
- Power (PSI & GPM): PSI measures cleaning force; GPM measures water flow. For grease and oil, a balance of 2000–4000 PSI and at least 2–4 GPM is ideal.
- Fuel Type: Most hot water units use diesel or kerosene burners. Engines can be gas or electric.
- Portability: Some are cart-mounted, while others are skid units meant for trailers and work vehicles.
- Durability: Look for steel frames, ceramic plungers, and high-quality pumps for longevity.
- Usage Needs: Occasional users may be fine with compact electrics, while contractors and shops should consider heavy-duty diesel-powered models.
Detailed Reviews – Best Hot Water Pressure Washers
1. NorthStar Gas Hot Water Pressure Washer – 4000 PSI, 3.5 GPM
Who it’s for: Contractors, auto detailers, and heavy-duty users needing high power with portability.
- Key Benefits:
- 4000 PSI and 3.5 GPM
- Reliable Honda GX390 gas engine
- Diesel-fired hot water burner
- Durable CAT pump with ceramic plungers
Pros:
- Commercial-grade build
- Strong cleaning power
- Portable cart design
Cons:
- Heavy (500+ lbs)
- Requires diesel fuel for burner
Verdict: A balanced choice between price and professional cleaning strength. Check Price Here
2. Simpson MB1518 Hot Water Electric Pressure Washer – 1500 PSI, 1.8 GPM
Who it’s for: Small businesses or workshops needing occasional hot water cleaning.
- Key Benefits:
- 1500 PSI and 1.8 GPM
- Electric-powered, no gas engine maintenance
- Diesel-fired burner for hot water
- Compact frame fits in tight spaces
Pros:
- Compact and quiet
- Great for small garages or kitchens
- Lower cost entry point
Cons:
- Not as powerful as larger models
- Best for light-duty hot water cleaning
Verdict: The best budget-friendly option for small-scale hot water pressure washing. Check Price Here
3. Hotsy 965B Hot Water Pressure Washer – 4000 PSI, 5 GPM
Who it’s for: Professionals in construction, agriculture, or industry who need nonstop cleaning power.
- Key Benefits:
- 4000 PSI and 5 GPM
- Diesel engine with oil-fired burner
- Heavy-duty industrial frame
- Legendary Hotsy reliability
Pros:
- Top-tier build quality
- Massive cleaning output
- Designed for continuous use
Cons:
- Very expensive
- Requires trailer or permanent setup
Verdict: The gold standard for industrial hot water pressure washers. Check Price Here
4. Mi-T-M HSP Series Hot Water Pressure Washer – 3000 PSI, 4 GPM
Who it’s for: Contractors who want a portable skid-mounted washer with solid performance.
- Key Benefits:
- 3000 PSI and 4 GPM
- Gas-powered Honda engine
- Diesel-fired burner system
- Skid-mounted for trailers and trucks
Pros:
- Compact skid design
- Trusted Mi-T-M brand
- Reliable for job sites
Cons:
- Requires vehicle/trailer for transport
- Mid-range compared to larger units
Verdict: A practical workhorse for contractors and mobile businesses. Check Price Here
5. Easy-Kleen Professional 4000 PSI Hot Water Pressure Washer
Who it’s for: Professionals wanting a rugged unit for long-term use.
- Key Benefits:
- 4000 PSI and 3.5 GPM
- Gas engine with diesel burner
- Powder-coated steel frame
- Stainless steel coil housing
Pros:
- Excellent durability
- Great heat retention
- Powerful cleaning performance
Cons:
- Heavy to move
- Best suited for professional environments
Verdict: A top choice for tough environments needing reliable performance. Check Price Here
6. Shark SGP-403037 Hot Water Pressure Washer – 3000 PSI, 3.5 GPM
Who it’s for: Commercial users wanting a compact but strong hot water washer.
- Key Benefits:
- 3000 PSI and 3.5 GPM
- Gas-powered engine
- Diesel-fired burner
- Compact cart frame
Pros:
- Smaller footprint than most
- Great power-to-size ratio
- Reliable components
Cons:
- Not as high-flow as industrial models
- More suited to mid-size jobs
Verdict: Ideal for users who want professional power in a compact frame. Check Price Here
Comparison Table
| Model | Power | Engine | Burner | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NorthStar Gas Hot Water | 4000 PSI / 3.5 GPM | Honda GX390 | Diesel-fired | Check Price |
| Simpson MB1518 Electric | 1500 PSI / 1.8 GPM | Electric | Diesel-fired | Check Price |
| Hotsy 965B | 4000 PSI / 5 GPM | Diesel | Oil-fired | Check Price |
| Mi-T-M HSP Series | 3000 PSI / 4 GPM | Honda Gas | Diesel-fired | Check Price |
| Easy-Kleen Pro | 4000 PSI / 3.5 GPM | Gas | Diesel-fired | Check Price |
| Shark SGP-403037 | 3000 PSI / 3.5 GPM | Gas | Diesel-fired | Check Price |
FAQ – Hot Water Pressure Washers
1. Do I really need a hot water pressure washer?
If you’re cleaning grease, oil, or industrial messes, yes. Hot water cleans up to 50% faster and sanitizes surfaces better than cold water.
2. What fuel do they use?
Most models use gas or diesel engines, with burners powered by diesel, kerosene, or heating oil.
3. Can I use cold water in a hot water washer?
Yes, they can run with cold water only, but the real advantage is heating.
4. How hot does the water get?
Most units heat water up to 200–250°F, which is enough to cut through grease and kill bacteria.
5. Are they worth the price?
For residential use, probably not. But for contractors, garages, and industries, the time saved and cleaning power easily justify the cost.
Conclusion
A hot water pressure washer is an investment in speed, power, and deep cleaning ability. For most professionals, the NorthStar Gas Hot Water Pressure Washer is the best balance of performance and price. If you’re on a tighter budget and need a compact unit, the Simpson MB1518 is a great entry point. And if you want the ultimate industrial machine, the Hotsy 965B delivers unmatched reliability and cleaning strength.
Ready to take your cleaning power to the next level? Choose from the models above and experience how hot water makes all the difference in serious cleaning jobs.