Need to clean your driveway, siding, or deck but don’t own a pressure washer? Renting is an option, and most home improvement stores offer daily and weekly rentals. But is renting the best choice — or would you save more money by buying one instead? In this guide, we’ll cover where to rent pressure washers, rental costs, pros and cons of renting, and the best alternatives to buying.
Where Can You Rent Pressure Washers?
Most major hardware and tool rental stores carry pressure washers. The most common places to rent include:
- Home Depot Tool Rental – Offers electric, gas, and hot-water models. Rentals usually start at $40–$60 per day.
- Lowe’s Tool Rental – Similar to Home Depot, with residential and commercial-grade washers.
- Menards – Offers heavy-duty gas models for larger jobs.
- Local Equipment Rental Shops – Independent rental stores may carry pro-grade options.
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Pressure Washer?
Rental costs vary depending on size and power. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Electric Light-Duty (1500–2000 PSI): $30–$40 per day
- Gas Medium-Duty (2500–3200 PSI): $50–$75 per day
- Gas Heavy-Duty (3500+ PSI): $80–$100 per day
- Hot Water/Commercial: $150+ per day
Weekly rentals are usually 3–4 times the daily cost. For example, renting a $75/day washer might cost $225–$300 for a week.
Pros of Renting a Pressure Washer
- No Storage Needed: Perfect for small apartments or if you rarely use one.
- Access to High-Powered Units: You can rent professional-grade models for one-time heavy jobs.
- Lower Upfront Cost: If you only need it once, renting is cheaper than buying.
Cons of Renting a Pressure Washer
- Expensive Over Time: Two or three rentals can cost as much as owning one.
- Availability Issues: During summer, rental washers may be booked out.
- Time Pressure: You only have a limited rental window — no flexibility if weather changes.
- No Ownership: You don’t get to keep the tool for future cleaning jobs.
When Renting Makes Sense
Renting a pressure washer is a smart choice if:
- You only need it once (like prepping a deck for staining).
- You don’t have storage space.
- You want to test one before buying.
When Buying Makes More Sense
Buying is better if:
- You’ll use it more than 2–3 times a year.
- You want flexibility (wash cars weekly, clean siding, freshen patios).
- You want to avoid rental hassles.
Best Alternatives to Renting – Pressure Washers Worth Buying
If you decide to buy instead of rent, here are top-rated models under $500 that pay for themselves after just 2–3 rentals.
1. Sun Joe SPX3000 – 2030 PSI, 1.76 GPM (Electric)
- Best budget-friendly electric washer
- Dual detergent tanks
- Safe for cars, decks, patios
2. Ryobi 2300 PSI Brushless Electric Pressure Washer
- Brushless induction motor for durability
- Onboard hose reel
- 2300 PSI makes it versatile
3. Westinghouse WPX3200 – 3200 PSI, 2.5 GPM (Gas)
- Gas-powered mobility
- Strong enough for driveways and siding
- 1-gallon soap tank
4. Simpson MegaShot MSH3125 – 3200 PSI, 2.5 GPM (Gas)
- Honda GC190 engine
- Durable OEM axial pump
- Best-selling gas washer under $400
Comparison Table – Rent vs Buy
| Option | Cost | Best For | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent Electric Washer | $30–$40/day | One-time car or patio wash | Home Depot 2000 PSI Rental |
| Rent Gas Washer | $75/day | Driveways, siding, decks | Lowe’s 3000 PSI Rental |
| Buy Electric Washer | $150–$250 (one-time) | Cars, patios, small driveways | Sun Joe SPX3000 |
| Buy Gas Washer | $300–$400 (one-time) | Heavy-duty driveway/siding cleaning | Simpson MegaShot MSH3125 |
FAQ – Renting Pressure Washers
1. Is it cheaper to rent or buy?
If you only need it once, renting is cheaper. But buying pays off after 2–3 uses.
2. Do rentals come with hoses and nozzles?
Yes, but accessories like foam cannons or surface cleaners usually cost extra.
3. Can I rent a hot water pressure washer?
Yes. Most tool rental centers carry hot water models for commercial cleaning, but they’re expensive.
4. Do I need a deposit?
Yes, most stores require a deposit or credit card hold when renting.
5. What if the rental breaks?
Rental shops handle maintenance and repairs. But if it’s damaged from misuse, you may be liable.
Conclusion
Renting a pressure washer is a great option if you only need it for a single project. But if you plan to use one more than once or twice a year, buying your own is the smarter choice. The Sun Joe SPX3000 is a perfect entry-level electric model, while the Simpson MegaShot is a powerful gas option for bigger jobs.
Our recommendation: Rent if you only need it once, but buy if you’ll use it even a couple of times a year. Ownership gives you flexibility, convenience, and long-term savings.