Thinking about starting a pressure washing business? You’re not alone. With low startup costs and high demand, pressure washing is one of the fastest-growing service businesses. From cleaning driveways and siding to commercial buildings, the opportunities are endless. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to start a pressure washing business step by step — including equipment, costs, licenses, pricing, and marketing strategies.
Why Start a Pressure Washing Business?
- Low Startup Costs: You can launch with under $5,000 in equipment and supplies.
- High Demand: Homes, businesses, and municipalities need regular cleaning.
- Scalable: Start part-time and grow into a full-time company.
- High Profit Margins: Many jobs have 50–70% profit margins.
Step 1 – Plan Your Business
- Define your services: residential, commercial, fleet cleaning, or all of the above.
- Decide your target market: homeowners, real estate agents, property managers, etc.
- Choose a business name and register it legally.
Step 2 – Get Licenses and Insurance
- Business License: Check your local requirements.
- Liability Insurance: Protects you if property is damaged.
- Workers’ Compensation: Required if you hire employees.
Step 3 – Buy the Right Equipment
Your equipment is your most important investment. You’ll need at least one commercial-grade pressure washer and accessories.
Essential Equipment:
- Commercial hot water pressure washer (3000–4000+ PSI)
- Surface cleaner (20+ inches)
- High-pressure hoses (50–100 ft)
- Nozzle set and turbo nozzles
- Chemical injector and detergents
- Protective gear (gloves, boots, eyewear)
Best Commercial Pressure Washers for Business
1. Hotsy 965B Hot Water Pressure Washer – 4000 PSI, 5.0 GPM
Who it’s for: Professionals who need industrial-grade cleaning.
- Diesel-powered, oil-fired burner
- Triplex pump for durability
- Removes grease, oil, and industrial dirt
Verdict: The gold standard for professional washers. Check Price
2. Mi-T-M HDS Series Hot Water Pressure Washer – 3500 PSI, 4.0 GPM
Who it’s for: Contractors and cleaning businesses.
- Gas-powered Honda GX engine
- Commercial triplex pump
- Portable skid mount design
Verdict: A rugged washer built for daily business use. Check Price
3. Simpson Water Blaster WB60824 – 4400 PSI, 4.0 GPM
Who it’s for: High-volume residential and commercial jobs.
- Honda GX390 engine
- CAT industrial triplex pump
- Heavy-duty steel frame
Verdict: Great value for professionals starting out. Check Price
4. NorthStar Gas Hot Water Pressure Washer – 4000 PSI, 4.0 GPM
Who it’s for: Contractors who need mobility and reliability.
- Honda GX engine
- Commercial triplex pump
- Hot water cleaning for grease and oil
Verdict: A strong contender for professional startups. Check Price
5. Easy-Kleen Professional 4000 PSI Hot Water Washer
Who it’s for: Businesses looking for long-lasting durability.
- Diesel-fired hot water system
- Commercial-grade triplex pump
- Built for continuous use
Verdict: A heavy-duty option for contractors and fleets. Check Price
Cost Breakdown – Starting a Pressure Washing Business
- Commercial Pressure Washer: $2,500–$6,000
- Surface Cleaner & Accessories: $300–$800
- Hoses, Nozzles, Chemicals: $200–$500
- Marketing Materials: $200–$500
- Insurance & Licenses: $500–$1,500
Total Estimated Startup: $4,000–$8,000
Step 4 – Set Your Pricing
- Driveways: $150–$300
- House Washing: $200–$500
- Deck/Fence Cleaning: $100–$300
- Commercial Jobs: $0.20–$0.40 per square foot
Step 5 – Market Your Business
- Google Business Profile: Show up in local searches.
- Facebook & Nextdoor: Target local homeowners.
- Flyers & Door Hangers: Still effective for neighborhoods.
- Referral Discounts: Encourage word-of-mouth growth.
Step 6 – Grow and Scale
- Reinvest profits into better equipment and trucks.
- Hire employees for larger contracts.
- Expand into roof cleaning, gutter cleaning, and fleet washing.
Comparison Table – Best Pressure Washers for Business
| Model | PSI / GPM | Engine | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotsy 965B | 4000 / 5.0 | Diesel | Industrial Cleaning | Check Price |
| Mi-T-M HDS Series | 3500 / 4.0 | Honda GX | Contractors | Check Price |
| Simpson Water Blaster | 4400 / 4.0 | Honda GX390 | Residential & Commercial | Check Price |
| NorthStar Hot Water | 4000 / 4.0 | Honda GX | Mobile Cleaning | Check Price |
| Easy-Kleen Pro | 4000 / 4.0 | Diesel | Fleet & Commercial | Check Price |
FAQ – Starting a Pressure Washing Business
1. How much can I make?
Many part-time operators make $500–$1,000 per week. Full-time contractors can make $50,000–$100,000+ annually.
2. Do I need a hot water pressure washer?
Hot water isn’t required, but it makes grease and oil removal much easier for commercial jobs.
3. Can I start with a residential washer?
You can, but it may limit the size of jobs you can take. Commercial machines are faster and more reliable.
4. How do I get my first clients?
Start with neighbors, local Facebook groups, and Google Business listings. Offer discounts for first-time clients.
5. Is this business seasonal?
In colder regions, work slows in winter. Many operators add snow removal or holiday light installation to stay busy.
Conclusion
Starting a pressure washing business is one of the best low-cost ways to become your own boss. With a solid plan, the right equipment, and smart marketing, you can quickly build a profitable business. Begin with a reliable commercial pressure washer like the Hotsy 965B or Simpson Water Blaster, set fair pricing, and focus on delivering great results. Clients will return year after year, and referrals will help your business grow fast.
Ready to get started? Invest in the right gear, get your first customers, and build your pressure washing business today.