Whether you’re about to start a pressure washing business or looking to upgrade your toolkit, knowing exactly what equipment you need can save you time, money, and headaches.
This pressure washing equipment list breaks down the essentials, from machines and nozzles to business management tools. Follow our guide to buy what you need.
Your complete pressure washing business equipment list:
⚠️ The tool prices listed are approximate ranges. Pricing will vary by brand, store, quality, and whether the tools are new or used.
How much should you spend on pressure washing equipment?
Together, all the tools in this list cost $4,905-20,400 in total, but you can start with just some and add more to your toolkit over time.
And a van, truck, or trailer setup will run you an additional $3,000-20,000+.
Pressure washers
As you’d expect, pressure washers are the backbone of your business. Whether you’re blasting grime off a driveway or cleaning mildew off siding, this machine does the heavy lifting.
Depending on the type of work you plan to take on (light residential or heavy-duty commercial), your washer setup can cost anywhere from $300 to $6,000+. Let’s break it down by type:
1. Cold water pressure washer ($300-2,000): Most pressure washing businesses start with this. Affordable and versatile, cold water units are ideal for washing siding, decks, and sidewalks where you’re removing dirt, dust, or algae. But not grease. They’re lighter, easier to transport, and don’t need as much maintenance.
2. Hot water pressure washer ($2,000-6,000+): If you’re planning to clean greasy restaurant dumpsters or commercial kitchen exteriors, you’ll want hot water. These machines bring the heat, using onboard burners to raise water temps and break down grime. Just like washing dishes, hot water always cleans better. Hot water pressure washers are pricier. But if you’re going after industrial clients or fleet washing contracts, they’ll eventually pay for themselves.
Electric units ($300-1,000) are quiet, clean, and better suited for small jobs or indoor work. But for serious power and mobility, you need a gas model.
Gas-powered units ($300-6,000+) don’t need to be tethered to an outlet. And they pack way more PSI and GPM, which is important when you’re tackling a big surface or working in an area without electricity. But be prepared for more noise and regular engine maintenance.
Where to buy: Big box stores can be hit or miss. For pro-grade equipment, your best bet is to look at suppliers that cater to pressure washing businesses. Check out Pressure Washers Direct, Northern Tool, EnviroSpec, or local distributors and repair shops.
If you have no budget to start with and you want to get started, go rent a machine for a hundred bucks a day. And then go wash five or six driveways, and turn around at the end of the day and buy your own machine.
Hoses and hose reels
Hoses carry all that cleaning power right where you need it. And you need good hoses, because a bad one can ruin your day, whether it bursts because it can’t handle the pressure, or it leaves black scuffs all over the concrete.
You’ll need a few types of hoses to handle different jobs. Expect to spend anywhere from $2,000 to $4,575 on this essential pressure washing equipment.
3. High-pressure hoses ($75-250): Look for hoses that are at least 50-200 feet long, so you don’t have to keep repositioning your rig. “Non-marking” is key, and a good one can handle 4,000+ PSI without kinking or cracking.
4. Low-pressure hoses ($50-120): These are used mostly for soft washing or when applying detergents before the rinse. They’re the gentle touch for more delicate surfaces like painted wood or older siding.
5. Hot water-rated hoses ($125-300): A must if you’re running a hot water rig. These are built to handle high temps without blistering or swelling. You’ll need these for grease-heavy jobs
6. Manual hose reels ($50-180): A basic manual reel can save you time and headaches. You won’t spend 10 minutes untangling them before every job. These are simple and can mount to your truck or trailer.
7. Electric hose reels ($300-700): These are all about efficiency. Hit a switch and your hose winds up like magic. They’re especially handy for big jobs where every minute counts.
8. [Optional] Chemical-resistant hoses ($100-275): If you’re planning to use bleach or other strong cleaners, you’ll want a dedicated chemical hose. Standard hoses will degrade over time if they’re not designed for caustic liquids.
9. [Optional] Automated hose reels ($700-1,200): When running a high-volume operation, automated reels are like having a second set of hands. They reel in hose with precision, saving time and reducing wear.
Where to buy: You’re not going to a garden center for these hoses. You need pressure washer tools made for people who do this for a living, so start your shopping at The Power Wash Store, Pressure Washers Direct, and Northern Tool.
Spray guns, lances, and wands
Spray guns and wands are mission-critical tools for your pressure washer, and they can be the difference between a clean job and a complaint.
Expect to spend $200-570. Here’s what to consider:
10. Spray guns ($60-150): A professional-grade spray gun with an ergonomic design keeps your hand from cramping on long jobs. It gives you better control when precision matters.
11. Standard and dual lance wands ($40-120): A standard lance gets the job done, but a dual lance gives you flexibility and saves time. Letting you flip between applying chemicals and rinsing without swapping gear.
12. Telescoping/extension wands ($100-300): These extendable wands (up to 24 feet) help you clean second- or third-story siding and roofs without needing a ladder. They’re a must for soft washing taller homes or commercial buildings.
Where to buy: Check out these pro-level spots that carry tools made for your working conditions—The Power Wash Store, Pressure Washers Direct, and Clean Garage.
Nozzles and attachments
Nozzles might be small, but they’re some of the hardest-working pressure washing tools in your arsenal. Swapping them out takes seconds, but choosing the right one makes all the difference in performance and safety.
Expect to spend $750-2,360 on nozzles and attachments:
13. Standard quick-connect nozzles ($10-30): These color-coded tips (0°, 15°, 25°, 40°) control your spray angle and pressure, which you’ll need to adjust to different surfaces without causing damage.
14. Turbo/rotary nozzles ($40-90): These nozzles cut through tough stains and grease. They spin a tight zero-degree jet in a circular motion, which is perfect for concrete, stone, and other hard surfaces that need deep cleaning power.
15. Specialty nozzles like chemical injectors and foamers ($20-60): These help apply soap, degreasers, or other chemicals, whether you’re doing roof treatments or house soft washes. Foamers also improve dwell time and coverage.
16. Flat surface cleaners ($150-600): These disk-style attachments clean driveways, patios, and parking lots in wide, even passes. They’re great for scaling your flatwork jobs.
17. [Optional] Stainless steel or carbide nozzles ($30-80): Built to handle high PSI and heavy use, these are a worthwhile upgrade from brass. If you’re in the commercial game, durability pays off in fewer replacements.
18. [Optional] Heated surface cleaners ($500-1,500): If you’re using a hot water rig, these cleaners handle the added heat without warping or breaking down—making them ideal for heavy-duty industrial jobs.
Where to buy: For reliable nozzles and attachments that can withstand the grind, look at suppliers that specialize in pressure washing equipment like The Power Wash, Pressure Washers Direct, and Xterior Cleaning Store.
Water supply and recovery
Having a reliable water source is a must if you’re serious about efficiency and professionalism. The right water supply and recovery setup makes your equipment run smoother and keeps you in good standing with local regulations. And if you’re a mobile washer, this can especially make or break your ability to take on bigger jobs.
Expect to spend anywhere from $1,250 to $5,100 on these tools to manage your water source and wastewater:
19. Onboard water tanks for mobile setups ($200-1,500): These 50- to 300-gallon tanks let you bring your water with you, which is critical when a job doesn’t have accessible spigots. Tanks give you control over your schedule and ensure you’re not relying on a customer’s water setup.
20. Water recovery systems ($800-3,000): Required in many cities for environmental compliance—especially near storm drains. They vacuum and filter wastewater, allowing you to avoid fines and stay eco-friendly.
21. [Optional] Float tanks ($250-600): Maintain steady water flow to your pressure washer. These tanks act as a buffer, so your system runs smoothly no matter the inlet pressure.
Where to buy: For water tanks and recovery systems that integrate with your pressure washing equipment, consider trusted retailers like PowerWash.com, The Power Wash Store, EnviroSpec, and Pressure Washers Direct.
Chemicals and detergents
If water was all you needed to do the job, customers would do the pressure washing themselves. But pros know that using the right detergents and injection system can make the job faster and more effective.
Expect to spend $100-340 to help you cut the grime in half the time:
22. Pressure washer-safe detergents ($20-50 per container): These types of cleaning detergent are designed for house washes, siding, windows, and other light-duty cleaning. They’re also safe for pumps and surfaces when used correctly.
23. Degreasers ($30-80 per container): Break down oil and grime where standard detergents fall short. Ideal for commercial flatwork, dumpster pads, or restaurant grease removal.
24. Specialty cleaners ($25-60 per container): These include rust removers, oxidation cleaners, and efflorescence removers. Great for tackling specific stains or prepping surfaces before sealing or painting.
25. Chemical injectors ($25-150): These components mix chemicals into your water stream. Downstream injectors are the most common and protect your pump from chemical damage. Upstream injectors provide stronger mixes when needed.
Where to buy: You’ll want reliable chemical products and injector kits from sources trusted by pros, like PowerWash.com, The Power Wash Store, and Pressure Tek.
Safety gear
Whether you’re soft washing house siding or blasting grime off concrete, there are risks. Budget $115-430 for this pressure washing equipment to stay comfortable on the job and avoid injuries:
26. Safety goggles ($10-30): Use goggles to shield your eyes from debris and chemical splashes. They’re especially necessary on windy days and when working above your head.
27. Gloves ($10-40): Durable, chemical-resistant gloves protect your hands from harsh detergents and make it easier to maintain your grip when your equipment gets wet.
28. Waterproof boots and clothing ($50-200): Keeping dry reduces the risk of slips and helps prevent exposure to chemicals or contaminated runoff.
29. Hearing protection ($15-60): Gas-powered machines and surface cleaners get loud. Earplugs or muffs prevent hearing damage.
30. Respirators ($30-100): When using bleach-based or strong cleaners, a respirator will protect your lungs from fumes.
Where to buy: You can find safety gear from the same suppliers that carry tools for your pressure washer. Stock up at places like PowerWash.com, The Power Wash Store, Northern Tool, and Home Depot.
Accessories
The right accessories help you stay efficient and organized on the job. These supporting tools can be the difference between a smooth day and a frustrating one.
Budget $190-1,025 for these accessories:
31. Ladders ($100-400): You need a good ladder to reach gutters, second-story siding, and roof lines.
32. Extension poles ($50-250): These poles allow you to reach high areas without climbing, helping you cover more ground safely. They’re ideal for soft washing or brushing windows and siding.
33. Brushes and scrubbers ($15-75): Loosen up grime on delicate surfaces or give heavy stains a pre-scrub before rinsing.
34. Toolboxes, racks, and storage bins ($25-300): Organize your gear to save time between jobs and protect your nozzles, fittings, and chemicals from damage.
Where to buy: Look at retailers that specialize in pressure washing equipment and contractor-grade gear, like The Power Wash Store, Pressure Washers Direct, Northern Tool, and Home Depot.
Vehicle
Your vehicle is both transportation and the backbone of your business when you’re running mobile jobs. Whether you’re working driveways one day and commercial storefronts the next, you need a setup that can haul your pressure washing equipment and stay organized.
Choosing the right rig for your business will depend on your budget and how much space you need for your tools.
Here are the main vehicle setup options:
35. Van ($4,000-12,000+): Vans offer enclosed security for your gear, which can extend the life of your equipment. They’re ideal for urban routes and winter work.
36. Truck mount ($5,000-20,000+): Truck-mounted setups are a popular choice. They offer quick setup and breakdown, with plenty of space to secure tanks, reels, and other equipment.
37. Trailer mount ($3,000-10,000+): A trailer gives you the flexibility to tow your full setup to any job site, and unhook it from your vehicle when you don’t need it. Great for crews with multiple vehicles.
My first trailer build was around $20,000, which at the beginning I financed it. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that to get started.
As long as you’re eager to get out there and get the work, you’re going to get that money back pretty quickly.
Business management tools
Tools that streamline your quoting, scheduling, and customer service are just as important as hoses and nozzles.
Here are a few tech tools that can help you book more pressure washing jobs and keep customers happy:
38. Pressure washing invoice generator
Jobber’s pressure washing invoice generator lets you create and download a professional invoice that you can send to your customers in minutes.
Simply add your company and client information, job details, and pricing. Then download your invoice as a PDF, which is easy to send to clients.
Cost: Free
Or try Jobber’s field service invoicing software to:
- Convert job details into invoices
- Send multiple invoices at once with batch invoicing
- And automatically follow up with customers on overdue payments
39. Fleet management software
Fleet management software uses GPS to locate, monitor, and track the efficiency of your work vehicles.
FleetSharp is a great option for mapping out more efficient routes and reducing fuel costs. This app lets you track:
- Vehicle activity
- Vehicle location
- Driver behavior (like speeding)
- Mileage
- Maintenance alerts
- And gas levels
Cost: Varies by number of vehicles
40. Accounting software
Accounting software is essential for managing expenses, payments, and all your finance work. QuickBooks Online is ideal for pressure washing businesses of all sizes that need to track:
- Payments from clients
- Payments to contractors or employees
- Receipts to prepare for tax season and claim tax deductions
Plus, QuickBooks Online integrates with Jobber to help you keep your customer, invoice, and payment information accurate without double entry.
Cost: Starting at $22/month
41. Pressure washing business software
Pressure washing software like Jobber helps you create quotes, schedule service calls, send invoices, and collect payments—from the office or the job site.
Using Jobber, you can win bigger jobs by suggesting additional pressure washing services or maintenance packages. Customers can pick the option that best fits their needs and watch their total update automatically before they approve.
Jobber helps you automatically send quote follow-up emails, collect a signature online, and easily access estimate details when the job starts. To schedule work quickly and without errors, compare team member schedules side by side in Jobber. See who’s free and immediately schedule the work with one tap.
Jobber sends automatic reminders to let your crew know as soon as a job is added to their schedule—or if an existing visit gets rescheduled.
Building your toolkit for success
Success in pressure washing starts with having the right gear to get the job done right and safely. Investing in dependable equipment will pay off in performance, professionalism, and repeat customers.
Start with the essentials that match your pressure washing services. Then build up your arsenal as your workload grows. You don’t need to load up your trailer on day one.
Keep this pressure washing business equipment list handy as a reference when you’re ready to upgrade or expand your setup.