Let’s face it, there are some jobs that are just too rugged for a floor sweeper. And what happens if the mess in question is outside? Or not even on the ground? Allow me to introduce you to the pressure washer.
These state-of-the-art pressure washers excel in tasks that pose distinct challenges to most other types of janitorial equipment. From stubborn moss or mildew on the side of a building to spraying away grease from a kitchen floor mat, these machines offer a unique cleaning solution for even the most unusual tasks.
Whether you’re looking to maintain siding, outdoor dining furniture, or even painted surfaces, a commercial pressure washer can effortlessly navigate anything from a light general maintenance cleaning to heavy-duty soil removal. Their effectiveness goes beyond the surface-level removal of dirt, reaching down into the depths of embedded grime for a degree of cleanliness that traditional cleaning methods struggle to achieve.
If you haven’t already, 2025 is the year to add a commercial pressure washer to your business’s cleaning and maintenance program. If you already have one but want to increase worker productivity, improve cleaning results, and extend the life of your surfaces, now is the time to consider an upgrade.
So, how do you know which pressure washer is best?
We’ve made the decision easier for you by putting together this guide. There are a handful of important features to consider, which we’ll break down and use for a side-by-side comparison of the best commercial pressure washers of 2025.
8 Key Features to Consider When Purchasing a Pressure Washer
Let’s look at which key features you need to consider before buying the best pressure washer for your facility’s needs.
- Pressure (PSI)
- Flow Rate (GPM)
- Power Source
- Portability
- Hose Length & Nozzle Options
- Durability & Build Quality
- Safety
- Additional Features
- Cost
1. Pressure (PSI)
The PSI, or pounds per square inch, indicates the power of the spray from the pressure washer.
Different surfaces require different levels of pressure. Softer surfaces like wood require lower PSI to avoid damage, while more solid surfaces like concrete can handle higher pressure. Similarly, the type of soil can determine the level of pressure needed. Lighter soils like dirt can be removed with lower PSI, while a higher PSI would be necessary to strip paint.
On many machines, the level of pressure can be adjusted for use on a variety of different surfaces or contaminants. It is crucial to use the correct corresponding pressure for light, medium, and heavy-duty cleaning tasks.
2. Flow Rate (GPM)
Flow rate is measured in GPM, or gallons per minute, and measures how much water the washer is using while in operation – directly impacting cleaning efficiency and speed.
GPM goes hand in hand with PSI in how effective your pressure washer is at cleaning a surface. For smaller jobs, softer surfaces, and light soil, lower GPM will suffice. Larger jobs, solid surfaces, and heavy debris require higher GPM.
3. Power Source
All of the pressure washers on our list are either electric powered pressure washers or gas powered pressure washers:
Electric Pressure Washers plug in to a power source and feature the upsides of being lightweight, quieter, and low maintenance. They also produce no exhaust, offer unlimited run time, and tend to have a smaller footprint. These are ideal for smaller or indoor jobs.
Gas Pressure Washers burn fuel as they operate, but are more powerful, more rugged, and ideal for large-scale or outdoor jobs. Gas pressure washers should only be run in well-ventilated areas such as outside.
4. Portability
One of the most important factors that determines a pressure washer’s portability is its weight. The weight of pressure washers can vary drastically – varying from as low as 40 lbs. to as high as 600 lbs. or more. Typically, electric models and light-duty machines will weigh less and the gas-powered and heavier-duty models will weigh more.
Factors such as the size and weight of the pressure washer, whether or not it has wheels or handles, and the power source being electric or gas can also determine the level of portability.
5. Hose Length & Nozzle Options
Pressure washers have a variety of different hose length and nozzle options to choose from that affect the reach and convenience of using your machine.
The nozzle types to choose from include:
- 15° (yellow nozzles) are a great medium option and are used for removing dirt, mold, paint, and more. It can be used on most unpainted hard surfaces.
- 25° (green nozzles) are used for light-duty projects, like sweeping away dirt, mud or leaves. It is optimal for use on driveways and decks.
- 40° (white nozzles) are used for delicate jobs and are safe to use on painted surfaces and all types of wood.
- Soap nozzles (black nozzles) are the lowest pressure spray and are safe for use on all surfaces. It is most often used for applying cleaning solutions and pre-washing. Always verify the compatibility of your cleaning solution before use by checking the label on the bottle or referencing the product’s SDS sheet.
6. Durability & Build Quality
Pressure washers are made from a variety of (and sometimes a combination of) materials – plastic, aluminum, stainless and welded steel, and more. Typically, the heavier-duty the machine, the more durable of a material it will be made of.
The materials used in the pump, frame, hose, and motor tend to dictate the pressure washer’s resistance to wear and tear. Other factors that can contribute to durability include where and how often the machine is used.
Some of the models covered in this article feature fully serviceable pumps and motors.
7. Safety
When selecting a commercial pressure washer, safety should be a top priority. These machines operate at extremely high pressures, making them powerful cleaning tools but also potential safety hazards if not used properly. From preventing accidental injuries to ensuring compliance with workplace regulations, choosing a pressure washer that meets industry safety certifications is essential.
It is important to note that all pressure washers that Imperial Dade offers are Certified to UL 1776 Safety Standards for Pressure Washers by ETL–a nationally recognized product testing laboratory.
This is important for 3 reasons:
- Legal compliance: According to OSHA regulation 1910.399 and 1910.303(a), it is the law that all equipment used in the workplace must be “listed” by an “approved” testing agency. Failure to comply can result in penalties assessed per infraction.
- Worker protection: It will save you time and money if you protect your workers by providing them with safe equipment.
- Liability protection: One of the best ways to legally protect yourself against a workplace accident is by purchasing equipment that has been certified to rigorous safety standards.
8. Additional Features
Even with all of the above factors to consider, there are some bonus features that can make or break your pressure washer decision:
Detergent injection/metering allows for the easy addition and application of cleaning agents. It ensures that the chemical is applied at a desired ratio evenly and in a controlled manner, reducing the risk of spills and injury.
Automatic shut-off features work as a foolproof safety mechanism, forcing the machine to turn off after a set amount of time. This also helps preserve water, chemical, and energy, and reduces wear and tear on the pressure washer’s key components.
Accessory compatibility with components such as surface cleaners, foam cannons, turbo nozzles, and more may be vital to ensuring your pressure washer can tackle the jobs you need it for.
9. Cost
There are a few factors that contribute to cost, but the most significant one is the pressure washer’s power. A light-duty machine will almost always be cheaper than a heavy-duty one.
Other factors to consider are the machine’s power source, with electric models being less expensive than gas-powered ones, and durability and build quality. If a machine is built with higher-quality materials, it will cost more.
Additional accessories like hoses, nozzles, and trigger guns can also increase your cost if they aren’t already included with your model.
4 Best Commercial Pressure Washers of 2025
To answer the question, “Which pressure washer is best?”, let’s look at our top 4 picks in no particular order:
- Karcher Pro HD 400 ED
- Karcher Pro Am HD
- Landa® HD
- Landa® MHC4-35324E
| Machine Name | Karcher Pro HD 400 ED | Karcher Pro Am HD | Landa® HD | Landa® MHC4-35324E |
| PSI | 1300 PSI | 3500 PSI | 4000 PSI | 3500 PSI |
| GPM | 1.7 GPM | 2.4 GPM | 4 GPM | 3.5 GPM |
| Power Source | Electric | Gas engine (pull cord) | Gas engine (pull cord) | Gas engine (electric start) |
| Hose Length | 33 ft. | 35 ft. | 50 ft. | 50 ft. |
| Weight | 45 lbs. | 85 lbs. | 149 lbs. | 600 lbs. |
| Notable Features | Fully serviceable pump. Auto start/stop. Lightweight with retractable handle. | Fully serviceable pump. Removable detergent tank. | Fully serviceable pump. Direct drive and belt drive models. Corrosion resistant frame. Puncture-proof tires. | Fully serviceable pump. Direct drive and belt drive models. Built for everyday use. Fully adjustable thermostat. |
| Ideal Use | Light-duty indoor applications. | Light-duty exterior cleaning. | Medium-duty. Dirt, natural growth removal. | Heavy-duty. Continuous exterior cleaning jobs. BSC, stadium, campus, etc. |
1. Karcher Pro HD 400 ED
SKU#: 15209900
Mfr#: 1.520-990.0
What makes the Karcher Pro HD 400 ED one of the best pressure washers of 2025?
The Pro HD 400 ED is the only electric-powered unit on our list and is also the only one optimized for indoor use.
Mobility is one of this machine’s best selling points, being the lightest machine on our list, operating both vertically and horizontally, and featuring a retractable handle. This medium-duty machine is great for a wide variety of applications including restaurants, kitchens, event spaces, back of house cleanup, wash mats, garbage cans, eating areas, and more.
It is also one of the most affordable options on our list.
Pressure (PSI)
1300 PSI makes this the lowest pressure on our list, but that is exactly what you need for indoor use.
Flow Rate (GPM)
Similar to PSI above, 1.4 gallons per minute is ideal for use indoors compared to the other units on this list.
Power Source
The Pro HD 400 ED is the only electric unit on our list, offering the highest level of portability, the lightest weight, endless runtime, and no exhaust.
Portability
This machine is optimized for indoor use, is mobile, light and compact, can operate vertically and horizontally, and features wheels and a retractable handle.
The Pro HD 400 ED weighs 45 lbs. and is 36”x14”x13”, making it light and compact enough to store practically anywhere.
Hose Length & Nozzle Options
At 33 feet, the Pro HD 400 ED’s kink-resistant hose is great for use in indoor spaces. The trigger gun features an auto start/stop mechanism and a wand with a multi-purpose power nozzle.
Durability & Build Quality
This machine is made primarily of plastic and features some metal elements, including a stainless-steel wand. It has a lighter build, but is a step up from a big box store machine, making it ideal for mobility and indoor use.
Additional Features
Some additional features include:
- EASY!Force Advance Trigger Gun that eliminates operator holding force by holding the trigger down once initially activated.
- With a maximum allowable water temp of 115°F, the Pro HD 400 ED is a cold water pressure washer, making it great for general cleaning tasks like removing dirt or other light soils.
- An adjustable pressure switch on the pump, allowing for a variety of light to medium-duty uses.
- ETL certified to UL1776 safety standards.
Cost
As an electric, lighter-duty pressure washer, this is the second most affordable option on our list.
2. Karcher Pro Am HD
SKU#: 11074690
Mfr#: 1.107-469.0
What makes the Karcher Pro Am HD one of the best pressure washers of 2025?
The Pro Am HD is the least expensive pressure washer on our list.
Ideal for outdoor use, this gas-powered machine is great for light-duty, occasional users and is a step up from big box retailer pressure washers. It features a fully serviceable pump and removable detergent tank, making service and maintenance a breeze. Works well in a variety of scenarios, including cleaning outdoor eating areas, garbage receptacles, benches, and more.
It is also the lightest-duty gas-powered unit covered today.
Pressure (PSI)
3500 PSI is very standard for this list, matching most of the other options.
Flow Rate (GPM)
2.4 GPM is fairly low for this list, being the lowest among gas-powered options, but is able to maintain higher pressure due to its 35-foot high-pressure hose.
Power Source
The Pro Am HD features a Karcher KXS gas engine with pull start. Gas models are more powerful, rugged, and ideal for large-scale or outdoor jobs.
Portability
Portability is the name of the game with the Pro Am HD. At only 85 lbs. and featuring oversized flat-free tires, this machine is tailor-made for exterior cleaning remote areas where electricity is unavailable.
The Pro Am HD is 22.4”x20.7”x39.4”, making it light and compact enough to store practically anywhere.
Hose Length & Nozzle Options
A 35-foot hose is smaller than the average pressure washer, but factors into the unit’s portability and pressure. The Pro Am HD comes standard with 4 1/4” quick connect nozzles (15°, 25°, 40° & soap).
Durability & Build Quality
This rugged machine features a welded steel frame, oversized flat-free tires, and a stainless-steel wand, making it ideal for outdoor use.
Additional Features
Some additional features include:
- A removable handle for compact storage.
- With a maximum allowable water temp of 104°F, the Pro Am HD is a cold water pressure washer, making it great for general cleaning tasks like removing dirt or other light soils.
- Triplex professional-grade pump, unloader valve, and convenient on-board accessory storage.
- ETL certified to UL1776 safety standards.
Cost
Despite not being an electric model, this is the lightest-duty gas-powered machine and is the least expensive option on the list.
3. Landa® HD
| Direct Drive: SKU#: 98077290 Mfr#: 9.807-729.0 | Belt Drive: SKU#: 98077300 Mfr#: 9.807-730.0 |
What makes the Landa® HD one of the best pressure washers of 2025?
The Landa® HD boasts the highest PSI and GPM on our list.
One of the most versatile cold water, gas-powered, medium-duty pressure washer options, the Landa HD® comes as either a direct drive or belt drive unit, allowing you to select the one that best fits your business’s needs.
The direct drive model is more compact and lighter than the belt drive, but the belt in the belt drive model acts as a shock absorber, eliminating vibration and heat transfer and leading to less wear and tear on the pump. Both are great for the general wash down of common areas, dirt removal and mold, mildew, or algae removal from a variety of surfaces, including both concrete and wood.
It is also the middle of the road for cost.
Pressure (PSI)
4000 PSI is the highest on this list, meaning it can tackle the toughest tasks with ease.
Flow Rate (GPM)
4.0 GPM is the highest on this list. The belt drive model tends to pull from the water tank more efficiently.
Power Source
The Landa® HD features a Honda GX390 gas engine with pull start. Gas models are more powerful, rugged, and ideal for large-scale or outdoor jobs.
Portability
If you are looking for more portability, the direct drive model is more compact and lighter than the belt drive model. Either unit can be utilized as a cart (standard) or converted to a skid (optional) to increase versatility.
The Landa® HD weighs 149 lbs. and is 43”x26”x27”, meaning you’ll need a dedicated space to store it, like a garage, shed, or warehouse bay.
Hose Length & Nozzle Options
Features a 50-foot hose, which is tied for longest on our list. There are a plethora of optional wand and nozzle upgrades to choose from, but it comes with a standard trigger gun, wand, and nozzle set.
Having such a long hose allows you to maximize your cleaning area without having to move the machine, which is ideal for heavier units.
Durability & Build Quality
Both models feature weldless, lightweight aluminum frames that are corrosion resistant as well as fully serviceable pumps and motors. As mentioned before, the direct drive model is more compact and lighter than the belt drive, but the belt in the belt drive model acts as a shock absorber, eliminating vibration and heat transfer and leading to less wear and tear on the pump. Either way, you’re getting a durable industrial pressure washer. Choose wisely!
Additional Features
Some additional features include:
- Puncture-proof tires.
- With a maximum allowable water temp of 140°F, the Landa® HD is a cold water pressure washer, making it great for general cleaning tasks like removing dirt or other light soils.
- A down stream soap injector.
- ETL certified to UL1776 safety standards.
Cost
This is a heavier-duty machine than the first two options and is the second-most expensive option on the list.
4. Landa® MHC4-35324E
| Direct Drive: SKU#: 11100420 Mfr#: 1.110-042.0 | Belt Drive: SKU#: 11100770 Mfr#: 1.110-077.0 |
What makes the Landa® MHC4-35324E one of the best pressure washers of 2025?
The Landa® MHC4-35324E is the best heavy-duty pressure washer on our list.
Like the Landa HD®, the Landa® MHC4-35324E also comes as either a direct drive or belt drive unit, allowing you to select the one that best fits your business’s needs. Both are great for heavy-duty projects and continuous exterior cleaning jobs, such as Class A buildings, stadiums, campuses, and environmental cleanup.
The Landa® MHC4-35324E generates its own hot water (up to 250°F) using a diesel-fired burner system, and features a fully adjustable thermostat, giving you the flexibility to clean a broad variety of soils.
This is the most expensive machine on our list.
Pressure (PSI)
3500 PSI is very standard for this list, matching most of the other options.
Flow Rate (GPM)
3.5 GPM is near the top of this list. The belt drive model tends to pull from the water tank more efficiently.
Power Source
The Landa® MHC4-35324E features a Honda GX390 gas engine with electric start. Gas models are more powerful, rugged, and ideal for large-scale or outdoor jobs.
Portability
At 600 lbs., this is the least portable pressure washer on our list, but what it loses in portability, it makes up for in durability and build quality. It does feature 13 in. flat-free tires that make it easy to maneuver on flat surfaces and it can also be mounted onto a trailer with an optional Trailer Mount Kit. It can also be fed directly from the water source, without a water tank!
Need a little extra mobility? Caster wheel kits are also available to best suit your needs.
The Landa® MHC4-35324E’s dimensions are 52”x29”x25”, meaning you’ll need a dedicated space to store it, like a garage, shed, or warehouse bay.
Hose Length & Nozzle Options
Features a 50-foot hose (complete with a 24 in. guard for burst protection), which is tied for longest on our list. There are a plethora of optional wand and nozzle upgrades to choose from, but it comes with a standard trigger gun, vario wand, and stainless-steel nozzle set.
Having such a long hose allows you to maximize your cleaning area without having to move the machine, which is ideal for heavier units.
Durability & Build Quality
Both models feature a rugged 1 1/4 in. square tube steel chassis, finished with a powder coat of weather-resistant epoxy, a rust-free 10-gallon diesel fuel tank, and a control panel that has a fully adjustable thermostat, hour meter, and tachometer, with a digital display that can remind you when maintenance is due.
Safety features include a rupture disk and thermal pump protector to reduce pressure and heat, as well as a detergent injector to apply detergent with the simple twist of the wand handle. With either model, you are getting a durable industrial pressure washer.
While both are designed for continuous use, the direct drive model should be used 25 hours per week or less to prevent excessive wear and tear. For heavier use, more than 25 hours per week, the belt drive model is strongly recommended.
Additional Features
Some additional features include:
- Puncture-proof tires.
- Fully adjustable thermostat, making the Landa® MHC4-35324E suitable for all cleaning jobs, including grease and oil.
- Cleaning grease and removing gum with ease.
- Easy coil access via the machine’s lift-out design.
- ETL certified to UL1776 safety standards.
Cost
As the most industrial option on our list, it is also the most expensive option on our list, but it offers the most efficient clean.
How to Choose the Right Pressure Washer for You
From power source to portability, there are many factors that go into selecting the right pressure washer. Out of all of the things covered, the most important ones to consider are the PSI and GPM of the machine, as these will determine the level of cleaning you will be able to accomplish. All in all, you are looking to explore the reviewed machines and select the one that suits your tasks best.
Here is a step-by-step guide to choosing the right pressure washer for you:
- Assess your cleaning needs.
- How often and for how long will you be cleaning? Heavier users are best served with a belt drive unit.
- What types of surfaces will you be cleaning? Are you looking to clean softer surfaces like wood or siding, or more durable ones like concrete?
- Consider cleaning intensity. Are you looking to do some light general maintenance or heavy-duty cleaning?
- Choose the right pressure for your cleaning needs.
- Light-duty cleaning: <2000 PSI
- Medium-duty cleaning: 2000-3500 PSI
- Heavy-duty cleaning: >3500 PSI
- Consider your power source.
- Electric: Good for smaller and indoor cleaning jobs.
- Gas-powered: powerful for heavy-duty cleaning tasks.
- Evaluate additional features.
- Does it have adjustable pressure settings or a vario wand if you need to clean a variety of soils and surfaces?
- Does it come with a short/long enough hose? Keep in mind additional length can be added to any of these listed machines.
- Is the machine portable enough to suit your needs?
- Compare models and make a decision.
- Consider your budget and included features at that price point.
- Reach out to your local Imperial Dade facility for a free equipment demo or to request a quote.
- Explore the reviewed machines and select the one that suits your tasks best.
Final Thoughts
If you’re still unsure which one is best for your facility, let’s quickly recap the best commercial pressure washers of 2025:
If you’re looking for a mobile unit that can be used indoors, particularly in the restaurant industry, you can’t go wrong with the Karcher Pro HD 400 ED. Its lightweight design, ability to operate both vertically and horizontally, and retractable handle make mobility its highest selling point. It is also one of the most budget-friendly options.
If you’re purely driven by cost, look no further than the Karcher Pro Am HD. Despite its low price tag, it knocks light-duty cleaning out of the park. Its fully serviceable pump and removable detergent tank make service and maintenance a breeze. It has a surprisingly high maximum pressure (3500 PSI) relative to its relatively low flow rate (2.4 GPM), meaning you can save water and clean more for less.
If you want the most versatile, middle of the road option, consider the Landa® HD. It comes as either a direct drive or belt drive unit, and both are great for the general wash down of common areas, dirt removal and mold, mildew, or algae removal from a variety of surfaces, including both concrete and wood. It has the median cost but offers the highest maximum PSI and GPM on the list.
For the most industrial, heavy-duty jobs, you’ll want the Landa® MHC4-35324E. Both the direct drive and the belt drive models are great for continuous exterior cleaning jobs, such as Class A buildings, stadiums, and campuses, and are perfectly suited to remove food, vendor grease stains, gum removal, garbage areas, and more. These machines are built to work and built to last with the highest durability and build quality. Remember that while both are designed for continuous use, the direct drive model should be used 25 hours per week or less to prevent excessive wear and tear.
In any case, be sure to assess the specific needs of your facility or business before purchasing.
If you’re interested in seeing any of these industrial floor sweepers, reach out to an Imperial Dade facility near you for a free equipment demo. One of our janitorial equipment experts is available to live demo the equipment at your facility.
If you have questions about any of the equipment in this guide, you can submit them to our help center. Otherwise, reach out to an Imperial Dade facility near you to speak directly with a member of our janitorial equipment staff.
We hope this guide has been helpful! If you’re looking for the latest and greatest recommendations regarding other janitorial equipment, consider checking out one of our other related videos and articles, linked below.