When it comes to the pressure washing business, the importance of  knowing your equipment cannot be overstated. Having the best pressure washer for the job can drastically improve efficiency, deliver better results, and ultimately save you time and money.

In this guide, we’ll review the top five commercial-grade pressure washers, focusing on models with exceptional performance and robust aftermarket parts availability.

We only recommend (and carry) units that we’ve seen perform well based on decades of experience in the pressure washing industry.

We're often asked which pressure washer is best for concrete; so we'll be taking a look from that perspective as well.

The following pressure washers are ideal for heavy-duty industrial cleaning, fleet and equipment cleaning, surface preparation, municipal cleaning tasks, construction site clean-up, and much more.

We felt that a reliable top 5 list was needed, so we’ll be keeping this list updated as the world of pressure washing evolves.

Top 5 Pressure Washers

1. BE Pressure Professional 3500 PSI 8.0 GPM ($3,949.00)
2. BE Professional 3000 PSI 5.0 GPM Skid Pressure Washer ($1,799.99)
3. Simpson Professional 4200 PSI 4.0 GPM ($1,399) 
4. PSI Bandit Ultra 2500 PSI 8.0 GPM "Wash Down" Pressure Washer ($2,199)
5. Simpson PowerShot Professional 4400 PSI 4.0 GPM Pressure Washer ($899.99)

#1 | BE Pressure Professional 3500 PSI 8.0 GPM (Gas - Cold Water) Pressure Washer

This pressure washer truly sits on top of the hill, a powerhouse delivering 3500 PSI and an impressive 8.0 GPM. What sets this unit apart is its high flow rate combined with its industrial-grade components, making it ideal for large-scale commercial cleaning tasks.

This unit is excellent for concrete jobs. Anything approaching 4000 PSI comes with a high risk of etching the concrete, so be sure to dial it down and use the correct tip. Usually, 2500 - 3000 PSI is plenty to remove embedded dirt and grime from concrete.

Powered by a Honda GX690 engine and equipped with a General TSF2021 Triplex Pump, this model is built for durability and performance.

The belt drive system reduces wear and tear on the pump, extending its life and ensuring reliable operation even when pushed hard during long days.

While it comes at a premium price, the BE Pressure Pro offers the best in class performance, particularly for professionals who need a robust and reliable machine for heavy-duty use.

BE Pressure Professional 3500 PSI 8.0 GPM | Pros

• High Flow Rate: This unit delivers an impressive 8.0 GPM, making it ideal for heavy-duty cleaning tasks where volume matters.
• Durable Construction: The General TSF2021 pump is industrial-grade, featuring a reinforced body, forged brass manifold, and solid ceramic plungers, ensuring long-term durability
• Electric Start: The Honda GX690 engine comes with an electric start feature, adding convenience to its powerful performance.

BE Pressure Professional 3500 PSI 8.0 GPM | Cons:

• Cost: The high-performance features come at a price, making it one of the more expensive options on the market.
• Size: It's a bulky unit, requiring a suitable space for storage and transportation.

BE Pressure Professional 3500 PSI 8.0 GPM | Specs

• Engine: Honda GX690
• Pump: General TSF2021 Triplex Pump
• Price:$3,949.00
• Electric Start: Yes
• PSI: 3500
• GPM: 8.0
• SKU: B3524HTBG

Unique Fact: This model is designed with an electric start and belt drive system, increasing ease of use and enhancing durability.

#2 | BE Professional 3000 PSI 5.0 GPM Skid Pressure Washer

The BE Professional 3000 PSI Skid Pressure Washer is designed with mobility and versatility in mind, featuring a skid-mounted design that makes it ideal for truck or trailer setups.

Powered by a Honda GX390 engine and paired with a Comet pump, this unit provides a reliable and consistent performance for a wide range of cleaning tasks. We’ve found that the 5.0 GPM flow rate ensures efficient cleaning, while the 3000 PSI provides ample pressure for most commercial applications.

This pressure washer is also great for jobs that require embedded dirt removal from concrete. The 5 GPM falls a bit short of our #1 choice, but aside from the most demanding large jobs, this unit can tackle a pretty hefty work load.

It’s also worth mentioning that we get virtually no negative feedback on this unit, and that’s coming from guys who do this for a living. Despite its lower pressure compared to some other models, this unit hits the sweet spot between affordability and capability.

• Engine: Honda GX390
• Pump: Comet Pump
• Price:$1,799.99
• Electric Start: No
• PSI: 3000
• GPM: 5.0
• SKU: B3013HTBC

BE Professional 3000 PSI 5.0 GPM | Pros

• Versatile Skid Design: The skid-mounted design makes it ideal for truck or trailer installations, perfect for mobile cleaning operations.
• Reliable Engine: The Honda GX390 is known for its reliability and efficiency, providing consistent power for demanding jobs.

BE Professional 3000 PSI 5.0 GPM | Cons

• Lower PSI: While 3000 PSI is suitable for many applications, it may not be enough for extremely tough cleaning jobs compared to higher PSI models.
• Limited Flow Rate: At 5.0 GPM, it has a lower flow rate compared to other models on this list, which may affect performance in large-scale cleaning tasks.

Unique Fact: The Comet Pump used in this unit is a high-efficiency pump, specifically designed to provide maximum output while minimizing energy consumption, making it a more eco-friendly option.

#3 | Simpson Professional 4200 PSI 4.0 GPM Aluminum Frame Pressure Washer

The Simpson Professional 4200 PSI Pressure Washer is built with a great combination of power and portability. It features a Honda GX390 engine and a CAT pump, all housed in a lightweight, corrosion-resistant aluminum frame.

This model is ideal for professionals who need convenience and high pressure for their jobs. With 4200 PSI and 4.0 GPM, it can handle some pretty challenging situations.

Its aluminum frame offers strength and weight, making it easier to maneuver while also ensuring long-term durability. The 49-state compliant design makes it an environmentally responsible choice, adding to the list of perks that this unit comes with.

• Engine: Honda GX390
• Pump: CAT Pump
• Price:$1,399.99
• Electric Start: No
• PSI: 4200
• GPM: 4.0
• SKU: 60688

Simpson Pro 4200 PSI 4.0 GPM | Pros

• High PSI: With 4200 PSI, this model is great for deep cleaning and stripping surfaces.
• Durable Frame: The aluminum frame is both lightweight and corrosion-resistant, making it easier to maneuver while ensuring longevity.
• Direct Drive Pump: The CAT pump is known for its durability and efficiency, offering reliable performance even under heavy use.

Simpson Pro 4200 PSI 4.0 GPM | Cons

• Lower GPM: At 4.0 GPM, this unit may not be ideal for tasks requiring a high volume of water.
• Noise: Direct drive pumps tend to be noisier compared to belt-driven models.

Unique Fact: This model is compliant with 49 state emissions standards, ensuring that it meets strict environmental regulations without sacrificing too much performance.

#4 | Pressure System Innovations Bandit Ultra Skid 2500 PSI 8.0 GPM "Wash Down" Pressure Washer

The Bandit Ultra Skid Pressure Washer is a specialized machine designed for high-volume, low-pressure applications. We included it in our list because, although its use cases differ slightly from the other units, it’s a truly excellent machine.

With a Honda engine and Comet pump, this unit provides 2500 PSI and 8.0 GPM, making it perfect for jobs that require continuous water flow, such as washing down large areas or equipment. The belt drive system reduces wear on the pump, enhancing its longevity.

If we had to rate a pressure washer purely on longevity, this unit would be at the top of that list.

Also, with a 0-degree tip, you can still get a pretty serious water jet at 2500 PSI if you end up needing it for small areas.

• Engine: Honda GX390
• Pump: Comet Pump
• Price:$2,199.99
• Electric Start: No
• PSI: 2500
• GPM: 8.0
• SKU: B-K8025HC

PSI Bandit Ultra 2500 PSI 8 GPM | Pros

• High Flow Rate: The 8.0 GPM flow rate is perfect for large-scale cleaning, especially in agricultural or industrial settings.
• Belt Drive: Like the BE Pressure model, this unit uses a belt drive system to reduce heat and vibration, prolonging pump life.

PSI Bandit Ultra 2500 PSI 8 GPM | Cons

• Lower PSI: With only 2500 PSI, this model is better suited for high-volume, low-pressure cleaning tasks.
• Specialized Use: The "Wash Down" feature is ideal for specific applications but might not be versatile enough for general pressure washing needs.

Unique Fact: The "Wash Down" designation refers to its ability to handle continuous water flow, making it perfect for operations where constant water supply is required, such as in food processing plants or large farms.

#5 | Simpson PS60843 PowerShot Professional 4400 PSI 4.0 GPM Pressure Washer (Budget Option)

The Simpson PowerShot is an entry-level option that doesn't compromise on power. A budget unit that offers 4400 PSI and 4.0 GPM is nothing to scoff at, which is why a lot of guys choose this when they're just starting their business.

Powered by a CRX engine and equipped with an AAA pump, this unit is designed to provide professional-grade performance at a more accessible price point. The direct drive system ensures that the pump runs smoothly with minimal maintenance required.

In a nutshell, this model is an excellent choice for those who need high pressure without breaking the bank. While it may not have the same brand recognition as some higher-end models, the Simpson PowerShot can deliver impressively for those looking to make that big purchase at a later date.

• Engine: CRX420
• Pump: AAA Plunger Pump
• Price:$899.99
• Electric Start: No
• PSI: 4400
• GPM: 4.0
• SKU: 60843

Simpson PowerShot Pro 4400 PSI 4.0 GPM | Pros

• High PSI: At 4400 PSI, this model provides excellent pressure at a reasonable price.
• Affordable: Despite its high performance, this model is priced significantly lower than other professional-grade units, making it an excellent value.
• Direct Drive: The AAA pump provides reliable performance with minimal maintenance.

Simpson PowerShot Pro 4400 PSI 4.0 GPM | Cons

• Engine Quality: The CRX engine is not as renowned as Honda engines, which may lead to concerns about longevity and reliability.
• Lower GPM: The 4.0 GPM flow rate is on the lower end, which may slow down large cleaning jobs.

Unique Fact: This model is designed as a budget-friendly option for professionals, offering high performance without the high price tag, making it a great choice for those just starting in the pressure washing business or looking to expand their equipment arsenal.

Synopsis

The right pressure washer for your needs depends on your specific applications and your budget.

If you're looking for the best overall performance, the BE Pressure Professional 3500 PSI 8.0 GPM with the Honda GX690 engine is hard to beat. However, each of these models offers unique strengths and weaknesses.

By choosing any of these top-rated units, you'll ensure that you have reliable, powerful equipment at your disposal. Having a great unit, and knowing how to use it, is the key to your business's success. Remember, if you need any assistance at all, Spraywell is here to help!