Pressure cleaning equipment comes in several basic types that suit different needs and scales of work. Domestic electric units are compact and plug into standard outlets for light home tasks. Petrol models deliver more power through gasoline engines for tougher jobs without needing electricity. Commercial units offer durable builds with high performance for professional use. Trailer mounted systems combine everything on a towable rig for mobility. Skid units secure the machine to a frame that fits in vehicles like trucks or vans. Each type balances power, portability, and features to match simple cleanups or demanding operations.
Choosing the right type pressure cleaning equipment prevents common pitfalls like underpowered tools that drag out jobs or overpowered ones that risk damaging surfaces. It also keeps you safe by matching equipment to your skill level and the task at hand. For instance, beginners often start with electric models to avoid handling fuel, while pros opt for petrol or commercial setups for efficiency in big areas.
This guide starts by explaining what pressure cleaning equipment is and how it works in simple terms. Then it breaks down each main type with pros, cons, and best uses. You’ll get a framework for choosing based on your situation, plus key safety basics. Finally, frequently asked questions tie it all together for quick answers.
Types of Pressure Cleaning Equipment
Types of pressure cleaning equipment are usually grouped into four main categories so you can match the right machine to the right job. First, units are classified by power source such as electric, petrol or diesel engines, and battery systems, which affects noise, mobility, and runtime. Second, they are divided by temperature into cold water and hot water machines, depending on whether you need basic cleaning or heavy degreasing and sanitation. Third, they are ranked by duty level using PSI and GPM, from light duty homeowner models to commercial and industrial rigs built for continuous work. Finally, there are specialized types and attachments such as surface cleaners, water brooms, trailer or skid mounts, soft wash systems, and steam pressure washers that adapt a basic unit for faster production or more delicate tasks.
Here are the main types of pressure cleaning equipment:
1. By Power Source
Pressure washers are categorized by the type of power system that drives their pump. The power source determines how much pressure and flow the machine can produce, how portable it is, and where it can be used. Electric models suit smaller home projects, while gasoline and diesel machines provide the strength needed for demanding jobs in commercial and industrial settings. Battery powered units offer flexibility for quick, light tasks away from outlets. Choosing the right power source ensures that the machine’s capability matches the job requirements, environment, and runtime needs.
a. Domestic Electric Pressure Cleaners
Domestic electric pressure cleaners plug into a wall outlet and run quietly without exhaust. They suit homeowners tackling patios, driveways, or garden tools. In practice, most beginners find these units forgiving and easy to maneuver around a yard.
Advantages shine for casual use. They produce no fumes, so you work indoors if needed. Running costs stay low since electricity beats fuel prices. Storage is simple—their compact size fits sheds without hassle. Starters push a button, skipping pull cords.
Limitations include power caps around 1,500 to 2,000 PSI, fine for light dirt but slow on thick grime. Duty cycles mean short breaks to avoid overheating. You tie to an extension cord, limiting range. Misuse risks like spraying too close can pit delicate bricks.
Best for:
- Homeowners cleaning cars, bikes, or outdoor furniture.
- Light surfaces like vinyl siding or wooden decks.
- Users wanting plug-and-play simplicity.
Safety reminder: Check cords for damage before plugging in. Wear eye protection against splashback. Keep the unit dry to prevent shocks.
b. Petrol Pressure Cleaners
Petrol pressure cleaners rely on gasoline engines for untethered power. Serious homeowners and small contractors grab these for jobs like fence restoration or vehicle fleets. They bridge domestic ease with pro-level muscle.
Advantages include higher PSI up to 3,000 and stronger flow for blasting heavy mud or algae. Mobility lets you roam remote sites without outlets. No cords mean fewer trip hazards. They handle longer sessions on expansive driveways.
Limitations involve noise that demands ear protection and fumes requiring open air. Maintenance like oil changes adds upkeep. Initial costs run higher, and they need more storage space. Training helps avoid overpressuring, which can gouge concrete.
Petrol units fit as a step up from electrics but below full commercial rigs. Pair them with driveway and concrete cleaning tasks where power matters.
Best for:
Jobs needing sustained runtime without pauses.
Tough grime on paths, walls, or machinery.
Users with no nearby power but moderate budgets.
c. Commercial Pressure Cleaning Units
Commercial pressure cleaning units are built tough for daily demands. They deliver consistent high pressure and flow, often with hot water options. Professional contractors and facility managers rely on them for commercial building and hardstand cleaning.
“Commercial” means rugged frames, premium pumps, and extended warranties. PSI climbs to 4,000 or more, with flow rates suiting big jobs. Hot water capability melts grease faster than cold. These machines endure hours without faltering.
Typical users include cleaning crews for warehouses, parking lots, or graffiti removal. They cost more upfront but save time on repeat work. For occasional home use, they’re overkill—too bulky and powerful for small yards.
Pros of commercial units: Reliability under load, versatile attachments, efficiency on large scales. Cons: Heavier weight, complex setup, higher price tags. They suit pros offering professional pressure cleaning services.
Read more in detail: Pressure cleaning before and after.
d. Trailer Mounted Pressure Washer Systems
Trailer mounted pressure washer systems bolt a full setup onto a towable trailer. This includes the washer, large water tank, hose reels, and storage for chemicals. Mobile businesses use them for on-the-go jobs like site cleanups.
Key characteristics: Tanks hold hundreds of liters for water-scarce spots. Commercial-grade washers provide pro power. Everything organizes neatly for quick deployment. When you roll a trailer unit onto a tight site, you quickly notice the professional edge it brings.
Pros: Supreme mobility via towing, self-contained for remote work, boosts business image. Cons: High investment, needs a vehicle with hitch, demands regular checks on tires and brakes. Not for beginners—the scale suits established operators.
These systems shine in industrial yards or event venues without utilities. Compared to standalone machines: Trailers add independence but require parking space.
e. Skid Mounted Pressure Washer Units
Skid mounted pressure washer units fix the machine to a steel frame or “skid” for bolting into trucks, vans, or trailers. This low-profile design slides into vehicle beds easily. Mobile contractors favor them for flexible transport.
Unlike trailer rigs, skids offer mounting versatility without a dedicated tow unit. They often include tanks and reels but prioritize compactness. Typical users: Service providers for house washing and exterior cleaning, municipal crews, or fleet maintainers.
Pros: Fits existing vehicles, easier storage than trailers, durable for rough rides. Cons: Less onboard storage, requires secure fastening, can vibrate if not balanced. Compared to trailers, skids suit fleets avoiding extra towing.
In tight urban jobs, skids load quickly without hitching delays. They bridge portability and power for growing operations.
2. By Temperature
Temperature based pressure washers are categorized by whether the water they use is heated or not. Cold water units rely on high pressure alone to break dirt loose, while hot water models heat the stream to cut through grease, oil, and bacteria more effectively. The choice depends on whether the cleaning task involves standard surface dirt or tougher contaminants like fats, oils, and industrial residues.
a. Cold Water Pressure Washers
Cold water units are the most common type found in homes and many small commercial settings. They rely on water pressure alone to break apart dirt and debris, making them suitable for general cleaning tasks. Because they don’t include heating components, these machines are simpler in design and easier to maintain. They also have a lower upfront cost and are lightweight, which makes them easy to transport and operate in different areas.
Cold water pressure washers are effective for removing mud, dust, loose paint, and surface level grime from driveways, vehicles, fences, outdoor furniture, and building exteriors. However, when it comes to tough, sticky substances like grease and oil, their performance is limited since cold water does not break down these residues well. Adding detergents can help, but still won’t match the cleaning power of heated systems.
These systems are best for homeowners, maintenance teams, first time users, and businesses with basic cleaning requirements where cost and convenience matter most.
b. Hot Water Pressure Washers
Hot water pressure washers incorporate a built in burner system that heats the water to around 140–200 °F (60–93 °C). The combination of heat, pressure, and detergents dramatically increases cleaning power. Hot water loosens and dissolves oil, grease, fats, and industrial buildup much faster than cold water. The higher temperature also helps sanitize surfaces by killing bacteria and reducing contaminants, which is especially important in hygiene sensitive industries.
These units are commonly used in commercial kitchens, food processing, automotive workshops, farms, heavy machinery yards, and industrial facilities. Cleaning time is reduced because hot water softens hardened grime, making it easier to remove without excessive scrubbing. Although they cost more and require more maintenance due to burners and fuel lines, hot water pressure washers provide superior results for grease heavy or regulated environments where cleanliness and sanitation are critical.
In summary, cold water systems handle general cleaning at a lower cost, while hot water pressure washers are preferred for professional and industrial applications where grease removal and sanitation are top priorities.
3. By Duty Level / PSI & GPM
Pressure washers are classified by the force they deliver (PSI) and the volume of water they push (GPM). Together these determine how fast and effectively the machine removes dirt, stains, and buildup. Higher GPM moves more water to rinse debris, while higher PSI breaks the bond between grime and the surface. Choosing the right duty level prevents damage from overpowering delicate material and avoids wasted time from using underpowered tools.
| Category | PSI Range | GPM Range | Typical Use | Example Brands |
| Light Duty | 1,000–1,900 | 1.2–1.6 | Cars, patio furniture, small decks | Sun Joe, Karcher K series |
| Medium Duty | 2,000–2,800 | 1.8–2.5 | Driveways, siding, fences | Simpson Cleaning, Westinghouse |
| Heavy Duty / Pro | 2,900–4,000 | 2.5–4.0 | Paint prep, two-story homes, commercial | NorthStar, Simpson PowerShot |
| Commercial/Industrial | 4,000–7,000+ | 4.0–10+ | Graffiti, heavy equipment, fleet washing | Mi-T-M, Alkota, Landa |
4. Specialized Types
Specialized pressure cleaning equipment includes attachments and systems designed for specific surfaces, environments, and cleaning goals. These tools increase efficiency, improve safety, and protect delicate materials by tailoring water flow, pressure, heat, and chemical application to the task at hand.
a. Surface Cleaners
Surface cleaners are circular flat attachments that range from 12 to 24 inches. They use a spinning bar with two nozzles inside a housing that traps overspray. This design keeps water contained and spreads pressure evenly, which removes dirt without leaving streaks. These tools are ideal for driveways, patios, concrete paths, car parks, sports courts, and warehouse floors. Because they cover more width with each pass, they reduce job times by up to 60 percent compared to a wand. They also prevent striping caused by inconsistent pressure and keep operators dry since overspray is minimized. Larger units connect to commercial machines, while smaller ones suit residential tasks.
b. Water Broom
A water broom uses multiple nozzles placed in one straight line on a bar. It creates a uniform push of water that sweeps debris and grime forward. This tool is helpful on smooth surfaces like garage floors, tennis courts, decks, and pavers. It replaces traditional sweeping and rinsing in separate steps by performing both at once. Contractors use water brooms for regular maintenance routes because they cover wide areas quickly. They are also safer around loose gravel or jointing sand since the downward spray is controlled rather than concentrated.
c. Pressure Washer Trailers and Skids
Trailer units and skids are complete mobile setups for commercial operators. A typical configuration includes a gas or diesel pressure washer, water tank, chemical tank, hose reel, generator, and storage. Trailers tow behind a vehicle, while skids mount in utes, vans, or trucks. They allow cleaners to operate anywhere without a water source, which is valuable for rural areas, new construction sites, and council work. These systems improve productivity by keeping all equipment organized and ready for deployment. Professional cleaners use them for car parks, shopping centers, fleet washing, factory sanitation, and graffiti removal.
d. Soft Wash Systems
Soft washing uses low pressure under 500 PSI combined with chemical injection to break down organic growth like moss, lichen, mildew, and algae. The purpose is to clean without abrasion. Many roofing materials and delicate sidings cannot handle high pressure, including shingles, painted cladding, timber weatherboards, and insulated panels. The solution is applied through a dedicated hose and rinsed afterward with low pressure. The method kills growth at the root so regrowth slows down compared to water alone. It is also recommended for solar panels, render, awnings, and sandstone.
c. Steam Pressure Washers
Steam pressure washers heat water to very high temperatures, usually between 250 and 300 degrees Fahrenheit, while operating at lower PSI. The superheated vapor melts grease, loosens adhesives, removes chewing gum, and breaks down oil films. Steam is also effective for sanitizing surfaces because high temperature kills bacteria and many pathogens. They are used in kitchens, food processing facilities, equipment cleaning, vehicle detailing, and industrial degreasing. Steam reduces the need for harsh chemicals and allows cleaners to work indoors or in confined areas where overspray must be controlled.
People often confuse pressure washers with steam cleaners, but they differ. Pressure washers use cold or hot water under force, while steam cleaners heat water to vapor for sanitizing. Accessories let you adapt one unit for many jobs, from gentle rinses to aggressive stripping.
How Pressure Washers Work In Simple Terms
A pressure washer starts with a water inlet that connects to a tap or tank. The pump then squeezes the water to ramp up pressure. An electric motor or petrol engine drives that pump. From there, water travels through a high-strength hose to a trigger gun you hold. Pull the trigger, and it releases the stream via a nozzle that controls the spray pattern.
Pressure measures in PSI or bar—think of it as the force punching through grime. Higher numbers tackle stubborn buildup like oil stains. Flow rate, in liters per minute, shows how much water rushes out to rinse away loosened dirt. More flow speeds up coverage on large areas.
Match both to your surface. Too much pressure etches wood or strips paint unintentionally. Low flow leaves residues. Skilled users adjust nozzles and distance—hold closer for power, farther for gentleness. Always test on a small spot first.
Read more in detail: what is pressure cleaning?
Choosing The Right Equipment Type For Your Situation
Picking equipment starts with assessing your needs. Think through user type, job demands, and constraints. This framework guides decisions without overwhelming choices.
a. By User Type
Homeowners often begin with domestic electric units for occasional tasks. They offer safety and simplicity. Small business owners lean toward petrol models for versatility in client work. Growing contractors upgrade to commercial or trailer systems for efficiency. Industrial operators select skid units for fleet integration.
b. By Job Type
Light cleaning like patios suits electrics. Regular maintenance on buildings calls for petrol power. Heavy restoration with oils needs commercial hot water. Remote work demands trailer or skid mobility.
c. By Constraints
Budget limits? Start electric. Storage tight? Go compact. No power access? Choose petrol. Mobility key? Opt for a trailer or skid.
If you clean home exteriors mainly, start with electricity. For business startups on vehicles, try petrol. Scaling to pros? Invest in commercial trailers.
| Type | Best User | Key Jobs | Pros | Cons |
| Domestic Electric | Homeowners | Patios, cars | Quiet, affordable | Limited power |
| Petrol | Small contractors | Fences, driveways | Mobile, strong | Noisy, maintenance |
| Commercial | Pros | Buildings, lots | Durable, hot water | Costly, bulky |
| Trailer Mounted | Mobile businesses | Remote sites | Self-contained | Towing needed |
| Skid Mounted | Fleet operators | Urban jobs | Versatile mount | Vehicle space required |
Safety, Regulations, And Training Basics
High pressure systems pack force that can inject water through skin or hurl debris. Always wear PPE like safety glasses, gloves, boots, and ear protection. Never aim the lance at people, animals, or fragile spots. Maintain nozzle distance—start at 30cm and adjust.
Secure hoses to avoid trips. Manage cords or fuel safely. Inspect equipment daily for leaks or wear. High pressure demands respect; misuse causes cuts, bruises, or worse.
Many places follow formal standards for safe jetting. For example, an official guide for managing risks from high pressure water jetting outlines hazard controls and training. A safety alert on high pressure water jetting highlights injury prevention. Training units like the competency based training unit for using high pressure water jetting equipment stress supervised operation and refresher courses every two years. These examples show industry emphasis on preparation, from risk assessments to emergency stops.
Conclusion
Knowing the five core types of pressure cleaning equipment—domestic electric, petrol, commercial, trailer-mounted, and skid units—is the key to buying right and staying safe. Too many beginners grab the biggest machine and regret it fast.
My golden rule after 10+ years: power is cheap, control is earned. Start with the smallest unit that gets the job done, master technique and safety first, then scale up only when your skills and jobs demand it.
Test small areas, wear proper PPE, keep learning—and enjoy the satisfaction of a perfect clean. Stay safe out there!
FAQs
1. What are the main types of pressure washers?
Ans. Domestic electric, petrol-powered, commercial-grade, trailer-mounted, and skid-mounted.
2. What’s the difference between electric and petrol pressure washers?
Ans. Electric: quieter, lower maintenance, plugs into power — best for home use.
Petrol: higher power, fully mobile, no cord — ideal for big jobs and professional work but noisier and needs regular servicing.
3. What is a commercial pressure washer?
Ans. A heavy-duty machine with higher PSI, robust pumps and often hot-water capability, designed for daily professional use on large jobs.
4. What is a trailer-mounted pressure washer?
Ans. A complete pressure washing system (pump, engine, water tank, hose reel) built onto a towable trailer — perfect for mobile contractors working in areas without water or power.
5. What is a skid-mounted pressure washer?
Ans. The same heavy-duty setup as a trailer unit but mounted on a steel frame that slides into a van or ute — offers flexibility without needing a dedicated trailer.
6. Which type is best for home use?
Ans. A domestic electric pressure washer (1,500–2,000 PSI) — easy to use, quiet and powerful enough for driveways, patios, cars and fencing.
7. Which type is best for starting a pressure washing business?
Ans. Start with a strong petrol or commercial-grade cold-water unit. Upgrade to a trailer-mounted or hot-water system as your jobs and client base grow.
8. Are electric pressure washers powerful enough for concrete driveways?
Ans. Yes — most 1,500–2,000 PSI electric models remove dirt, mould and light stains from driveways easily when used with detergent and the right nozzle.
9. Do I need a hot-water pressure washer or is cold water enough?
Ans. Cold water is fine for 90 % of jobs (houses, driveways, vehicles). Choose hot water only if you regularly clean heavy grease, oil or need to sanitise surfaces.
10. What safety precautions should I take?
Ans. Always wear PPE (safety glasses, gloves, steel-cap boots), check hoses and fittings before use, never point the lance at people or animals, keep bystanders clear, and work on stable ground to avoid slips. High-pressure water can cause serious injury.
