Pressure Washer Tips: The Right Washer for the Job

Removing stains from walls, driveways, siding, or decks takes the right tool. A pressure washer can blast away dirt, grime, loose paint, and graffiti across many surfaces. When you rent, you get a quality unit at a competitive rate with support to match.

What to look for in a rental pressure washer

Power source

Choose gas or electric. Electric models tend to be smaller, lighter, and easy to use. That means plug in and go. Gas units deliver more power for heavy-duty cleaning, and you don’t have to stay near outlets for plugging in.

Power output (psi and gpm)

Output is measured two ways: pounds per square inch (psi) for water pressure and gallons per minute (gpm) for water volume. Higher psi means more cleaning power; higher gpm speeds the work. Pick a washer with enough output for the task without wasting energy.

• Light‑duty jobs: about 1,300–1,900 psi and about 2 gpm.
• Medium‑duty jobs: about 2,200–2,800 psi and about 2–3 gpm.
• Tough stains: more than 2,800 psi and about 3–4 gpm.

Water temperature

You can choose cold or hot water. Cold water models have less cleaning power but work well on loose dirt, mud, sand, and newer residues. Hot water models remove oil and grease more effectively because heat reduces viscosity, and they can defrost surfaces.

Nozzle opening size

Nozzle size controls spray angle. A smaller opening concentrates the stream for more force. Depending on the model, you’ll get an adjustable nozzle or interchangeable tips.

Cold Water Pressure Washers

Cold water pressure washers are ideal for breaking up dirt and stains on concrete and metal. They’re also preferred for wood and plastic, which can warp under high heat. 

Use them to wash away mud and debris on decks or equipment; you can add detergent to speed cleaning. Cold water units are typically more compact and require less maintenance.

Hot Water Pressure Washers

For greasy or oily surfaces, a hot water pressure washer breaks down oil and grease for effective removal. These machines can heat water up to around 200 degrees Fahrenheit (93 degrees Celsius), sanitize surfaces, and defrost in cold weather. 

They are typically larger, need more maintenance, and use additional components and fuel to keep water hot, which raises costs.

Should You Choose Cold or Hot Water?

For cleaning or sanitizing greasy, oily surfaces, hot water is the better option. Cold water units aren’t designed to remove these materials to the same extent. For general dirt and grime, cold water washers handle driveways and walls and are easier to transport with lower costs for small or infrequent jobs.

Industry

Both types work across many markets, but usage often follows the job. If you handle challenging substances like grease, grime, and oil — like oil and gas or waste management — a hot water unit can break down solids and kill harmful bacteria. 

Agriculture, construction, and transportation often use cold water machines that remove caked‑on mud and dirt.

Budget

Hot water pressure washers cost more to rent and operate because they heat water during use, require fuel, and have additional components that need preventive maintenance. If you have a limited budget and don’t often tackle difficult substances, a cold water unit can be the better fit.

Frequency of Use

If you clean frequently, a hot water unit can deliver greater speed and efficiency that’s worth the added cost. For occasional jobs, a cold water model may suffice. You can also rent either type for one‑off work to avoid upfront expense and maintenance.

Required Pressure

Different applications need different pressure. Cold water washers use high‑power jets to remove tough dirt and often provide higher psi and gpm. If you need a more forceful spray, a cold water unit can be a good match.

Application

As a rule of thumb, use hot water for automotive parts, engines, and components covered with grease or oil. Choose cold water for general cleaning like siding, garage floors, driveways, pavement, and other surfaces where you’re removing mud, dirt, sand, or paint.

Rent from The Cat^® Rental Store

The Cat^® Rental Store supplies powerful, reliable hot and cold water units at competitive rates with flexible terms. 

Want local help? Find The Cat Rental Store location near you to connect with your nearest branch.