Key Differences
Residential pressure washers and commercial pressure washers are designed for different types of cleaning tasks and have some key differences.
Residential pressure washers are typically smaller and less powerful than commercial pressure washers. They are designed for use around the home, such as cleaning decks, patios, driveways, and cars. They usually have a PSI (pounds per square inch) rating of around 2,000 to 3,000 PSI and a GPM (gallons per minute) rating of around 2 to 2.5 GPM. They generally carry aluminum pumps which have a significantly limited life expectancy and are non-repairable. These pressure washers are usually electric or gas-powered and are relatively easy to operate.
Commercial pressure washers are designed for heavy-duty cleaning tasks and are larger and more powerful than residential pressure washers. They have higher PSI (pounds per square inch) and GPM (gallons per minute) ratings and are equipped with durable pumps that can handle constant usage. They are typically powered by Honda gas engines and are built to withstand frequent use and abuse. Their pumps can last more than 2000hrs before requiring a rebuild. They can be more complex to operate and maintain compared to residential pressure washers.
Commercial pressure washers also have more advanced features like hot water and steam capabilities, which allows them to remove even more stubborn stains and dirt. They also have more attachments such as larger surface cleaners which can make cleaning larger areas more efficient and effective.
In summary, residential pressure washers are designed for light-duty cleaning tasks around the home, while commercial pressure washers are designed for heavy-duty cleaning tasks and can handle larger areas and more demanding cleaning jobs.
Cost differences
Residential-grade
The cost of a residential pressure washer can vary depending on the specific model and its features. On average, however, you can expect to pay the following:
- Electric pressure washers: These pressure washers typically range in price from around $100 to $400. Electric pressure washers are generally more affordable than gas-powered models and are suitable for light-duty cleaning tasks around the home.
- Gas-powered pressure washers: These pressure washers typically range in price from around $300 to $800. Gas-powered pressure washers are generally more powerful than electric models and are suitable for more heavy-duty cleaning tasks, such as cleaning decks and patios, driveways, and cars.
It’s important to keep in mind that these are approximate costs, and the actual cost of a pressure washer may vary depending on the features it includes. Some models may come with additional attachments or accessories that can add to the cost.
It’s also important to consider the long-term costs of a pressure washer, such as maintenance and replacement parts.
Commercial-grade
The cost of a commercial pressure washer can vary depending on the specific model and its features. On average, however, you can expect to pay the following:
- Electric pressure washers: These pressure washers typically range in price from around $1000 to $5000. Electric pressure washers are generally less powerful than gas-powered models, but still, offer enough pressure for lots of commercial cleaning tasks as long as your electrical infrastructure can manage 220/240v without blowing the fuse.
- Gas-powered pressure washers: These pressure washers typically range in price from around $5000 to $15000. Gas-powered pressure washers are generally more powerful than electric models and are suitable for larger residential projects, heavy-duty cleaning tasks like fleet washing, graffiti removal, and other commercial and industrial cleaning jobs.
- Hot water and steam pressure washers: These pressure washers typically range in price from around $3000 to $25000. They are more specialized and advanced pressure washers, they are able to clean surfaces with hot water and steam, which is more effective on certain types of stains and grime.
It’s important to keep in mind that these are approximate costs, and the actual cost of a pressure washer may vary depending on the features it includes. Some models may come with additional attachments or accessories that can add to the cost. Additionally, the size of the machine, the PSI, GPM, as well as the heating source, will also determine the price.
Just like the cheaper residential units, it’s important to consider the long-term costs of a pressure washer, such as maintenance and replacement parts. Investing in a higher-quality model may be more expensive up front, but it can save money in the long run.