The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Pressure Washing for Profit
Introduction
If you’ve ever watched pressure washing videos on TikTok or YouTube and thought, “That looks fun and profitable,” you’re absolutely right! However, there’s a lot more to it than just spraying water. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to get started, from essential equipment to proven techniques that will help you build a successful pressure washing business. Using the best power washer from the start ensures efficiency and top-quality results.
Pressure Washing Startup Checklist
- Willingness to Work Hard – Success requires effort and consistency.
- General Liability Insurance – Protect your business from potential liabilities.
- Startup Capital ($500-$1000) – Invest in essential tools and equipment.
Soft Washing vs. Down Streaming: Understanding the Basics
Soft Washing
Soft washing is a low-pressure cleaning method that uses chemicals to remove dirt, mold, and algae. Most systems run on a 12V pump and battery. The primary chemicals used include:
- Sodium Hypochlorite (SH) – The active ingredient in bleach for killing organic growth.
- Surfactant – Soap that helps SH stick to surfaces.
🛠 Recommended Equipment: – A reliable pump is crucial for soft washing, ensuring consistent chemical application without damage to surfaces. Everflow makes a great pump for bleach if you decide to take this route and i recommended the 5.5gpm pump found here https://amzn.to/4jSfLGs
Down Streaming
Down streaming is the go-to method for beginners. It uses a siphon tube connected to a pressure washer to draw chemicals from a bucket. This method automatically dilutes the mixture and is ideal for house washing.
🔧 Pro Tip: Always flush out your down stream injector with fresh water after every job to extend its lifespan and maintain efficiency.
I only recommend the 3-5 gpm General Pump downstream injectors, they seem to last the longest with good flow. Here is the link to them https://amzn.to/42L8bHz
Essential Pressure Washing Equipment – Why It Matters
Investing in the right equipment from the start is key to efficiency, safety, and professional results. The right tools not only make your job easier but also prevent damage to customer property and extend the lifespan of your gear.
Choosing the Right Pressure Washer
- PSI (Pounds per Square Inch): 2,000-3,000 PSI is sufficient for most surfaces.
- GPM (Gallons Per Minute): A 4 GPM machine is recommended for efficiency. Higher GPM means faster cleaning and less time spent on each job.
- Recommended Brands: Simpson pressure washers with Honda engines – known for durability and long-lasting performance.
🔗 Best Starter Machine: Simpson 4gpm pressure washer This good pressure washer provides a perfect balance of power and efficiency, making it the best choice for beginners. This is the meat and potatoes of your equipment and if you are serious about getting into this business i highly recommend the below unit to ensure security and reliability while on jobs.
Link to below pressure washer https://amzn.to/3CMtH3Z
J-Rod Nozzles – A Must-Have for Efficiency
A J-Rod setup allows easy switching between high and low pressure for applying and rinsing chemicals. It eliminates the need for a ladder when washing two-story homes, making jobs faster and safer.
🔧 Why It’s Important: Without a J-Rod, you’ll waste time manually switching nozzles and may struggle to reach higher areas, affecting job quality. Link to 4GPM J Rod Here https://amzn.to/4hJvINk
Surface Cleaners – The Game Changer for Driveways
For cleaning driveways and sidewalks, a surface cleaner is a must. A general rule is to buy 4 inches of surface cleaner per 1 GPM of your pressure washer.
🛒 Top Pick: 20′ BE Surface Cleaner– This tool drastically speeds up cleaning large flat surfaces and ensures a streak-free finish. Link to 20′ BE Surface Cleaner : https://amzn.to/3QbtTNk
The Business Side: Getting Customers
- Leverage Social Media – Join Facebook groups, post before-and-after photos, and list services on Facebook Marketplace.
- Door-to-Door Marketing – Print flyers and target neighborhoods with visibly dirty exteriors.
- Encourage Reviews – Ask satisfied customers to leave reviews on your business’s Facebook page.
Final Thoughts
Starting a pressure washing business is one of the easiest ways to make extra income with minimal investment. However, choosing the best power washer is crucial for efficiency, professionalism, and long-term success. Investing in a good pressure washer, J-Rod, and surface cleaner will save you time, reduce labor, and increase your profits. If you would like further consultation on how to start your pressure washing business please reach out to me for pricing regarding start up, compliance, and general FAQ.
