Alex (12) has spent the day pressure washing our patio with a cheap electric pressure washer and he told me he'd really like to start a pressure washing business.

Talk to me about your pressure washer recommendations.

The first rule on any pressure washer buying decision is to FORGET the psi rating. It isn't that it is useless; rather, it doesn't tell the entire story (or, frankly, much of it). PSI can be manipulated through various tips. So that isn't your concern. GPM is basically your biggest concern.

I think of anything lower than 3.2 GPM as disposible. That's probably not accurate any more as the pumps are a little better than they were when I had one of these, but they aren't designed to be used multiple hours a week. More like 4-6 a month, and even then, they last maybe 2 years if you're lucky. Back in the late '90s/early 2000s, you just threw the whole thing away because the new pump cost more than a new unit. The engines, be it a 5.5 (we're talking gas here) HP were solid, even the ones I don't like. Hence, for a homeowner that wants to use the heck out of his gas pressure washer, in my opinion, 3.2 and 3.5 gpm models are the absolute minimum. They usually come with good pumps that allow replacement oil (another must). Change the oil every 20 hours, by the way, or once a year.

Now, multi-hour a week use and for hire, that's a different ball game. You MIGHT be able to get away with 3.5 but if you ask the pros, 4.0 GPM models are the minimum. Again the pumps are better and the engines are good enough to last a long time if taken care of. Some say Honda leads the pack -- and my unit has a Honda -- but I'd say most any non-Chinese model will be fine. Suzuki, Kawa, Briggs, etc. I haven't looked at specific pumps lately so I don't have a pump recommendation. Read up on that.

You'll spend upwards of a thousand or more but you might try finding a used model. Again, the engines are borderline bulletproof -- if not abused -- and the pumps have come down in price so much that you can put a new pump on a good unit if needed. I don't like any of the accessories that come with pre-packaged units (I threw all my DeWalt branded stuff like hoses and guns away years ago). I invested in quality hoses, guns, and wands that I use on my gas and electric washers (converted all my electric ones to quick connect). Just make sure they take the PSI rating for your particular washer.

I don't think Northern Tool has what you need as far as washers but they do carry quality accessories, even for using these things commercially/side hustle. One thing to remember on gas units -- you MUST keep using the unit (i.e. spraying something) while the engine is running. Don't let it idle for longer than 30-45 seconds; turn the engine off. If it idles routinely, you'll wear out your pump. Higher end pumps may not have this problem (I don't know that; I'm just guessing that might be something they'd work on) but that would make any unit cost more than you'd want to spend.

Remember to budget for a good surface cleaner. Fences and driveways are going to be the bread and butter of the business.

An electric washer maybe the best thing for a 12y/o. The circular area attachment works well, but I've found it doesn't do as well as a wand and my driveway is 100' and I have to keep switching between wand and "surface cleaner" to send the water downhill.

Even the best CAT pumps will fail if you do not lube them after EVERY use. I've managed 10+years out of a Briggs and Stratton cause I've changed the oil regularly and lubed the pump every time.

ETA Changing the oil on some of these means turning it over and draining from the fill spout. The pump is in the way even if there is a drain plug. You can get a hand suction pump tho...

I hate to be the downer here.... but there are regulation requirements on the used water in a for hire business as this. Do some research. It is not often enforced....especially not for a kiddo....but it sure can be a big problem in some areas to the tune of about $25,000 in fines. But there are requirements for the wastewater and all kinds of things that can cause serious concern for a side hustle.

I would say start with a law mower.... and then as a value add for those customers let him upsell.

https://www.bing.com/search?q=regulations+for+pressure+washing+business+in+texas&PC=U316&FORM=CHROMN

Pressure washing in Texas is generally legal, but it is regulated by state, local, and HOA rules, with strict requirements for licensing, wastewater management, chemical use, and safety compliance.
State Regulations and Licensing
In Texas, commercial pressure washing is regulated by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Contractors must register their business, obtain liability insurance, and complete a TDLR-approved training program, including passing a written exam, to obtain a license. Licensing ensures public safety, environmental protection, and consumer protection, as improper pressure washing can cause injuries, property damage, or water pollution.

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) enforces environmental laws related to pressure washing. Improper disposal of wastewater or use of unapproved chemicals can result in fines up to $25,000 per day for each violation. Homeowners and contractors must prevent runoff from entering storm drains or waterways and use only approved detergents or industrial soaps.

Local and City Regulations
While pressure washing is generally legal statewide, local ordinances may impose additional restrictions. Some cities, especially those with water restrictions or urban environmental concerns, regulate water usage and runoff management. Property owners should check with their local municipality to ensure compliance with city-specific rules.

Safety Standards
Pressure washing can be hazardous. OSHA standards apply to commercial operations, requiring proper personal protective equipment (PPE) such as goggles, gloves, and waterproof clothing, as well as training for safe equipment handling. Employers are responsible for maintaining a safe work environment and conducting routine inspections.

HOA Rules
For homeowners in communities governed by HOAs (Property Owners' Associations), pressure washing may be subject to additional rules. Texas law requires HOAs to provide written notice before imposing fines for maintenance violations, including pressure washing issues, and to distinguish between curable and uncurable violations. Homeowners typically have 3060 days to correct curable violations and may request a hearing to dispute fines. HOA boards must vote on fines in open meetings to ensure transparency.

Best Practices for Compliance
Use low-pressure settings for residential cleaning to minimize surface damage and environmental impact.

Avoid harsh chemicals unless approved for use in pressure washing.

Contain and properly dispose of wastewater to prevent contamination of storm drains or local waterways.

Verify city-specific water usage restrictions before starting a project.

Ensure all commercial operators are licensed and insured according to TDLR requirements.


By following these guidelines, pressure washing in Texas can be conducted safely, legally, and responsibly, protecting both the environment and public safety while avoiding fines or legal issues.

Curious. We have four of the pumps I linked Mason to at the boat plant. We use them fairly hard every day to prep boats for shipping.
Other than changing the engine and pump case oil every 6 months cause we use them hard, where do you lubricate them daily?
We check the site glass in front of the pump for proper fill but don't know of any places to lubricate the pump.
Pumps are direct attached to the Honda engines so no couple fitting joints.
I use the same washer at the ranch and the same.
I don't think we have ever had them go down on us.

I'm guessing the commercial pumps have a feature such as you described. I'm not that familiar.

I know many of the diy washers pumps puke and have no lubrication. You can buy an aerosol lube w/ a garden hose attachment you can force feed the pump.

I'm too cheap to buy that so, I gravity feed the pump(tipping the washer on its back) and spray penetrate into the inlet and give the motor several pulls. Before doing that, I give the motor a few pulls to get any water out of the pump.

need some done here.

Roger that. I thought perhaps we have been really messing up at the plant not servicing our power washers correctly. I couldn't figure out what we couldn't be lubricating as the manuals didn't say anything about daily lubricating.
Makes me feel a lot better now. As I said we run them hard every day 6 days a week washing boats as prep for delivery.
Other than some by pass valve springs and some intake strainers I don't know we ever had a failure on any of them in five years since buying them.
The Honda engines and CAT pumps have held up well for as many hours we use them we think.

My experience from doing this with my son as he's grown up: only use ethanol free gas in it, run it dry at the end of the season, teach him how to check and change the oil as needed, and order carb parts and watch repair videos online. It's a good first job, my son did the same. He's doing our back patio this weekend.

Also consider upgrade to the hose length and be prepared to swap out wands and nozzles as the originals breakdown.

I'm in The Woodlands and have a Honda pressure washer that has been used once. It's about 4 years old and like new. I'll sell it if someone is interested.

Simpson Pressure washer with Honda engine. Pricey but worth it.

Be sure and look into insurance.....I wouldn't do it without some kind of liability insurance.

What kind of machine do you have and what are you looking to get for it? Mine and my neighbors' (also an Aggie) pressure washers crapped out this weekend so we are looking for replacements.

Hi there, if the OP doesn't get yours, my teen son would be interested in buying it. My dad toys with small engines and could get it going. We're in Houston.
Leigh Ann 281-seven five three-fifty two eleven.
Thank you!

Gunny456 said:

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Northern Tool has the best selection of gas pressure washers. Honda engine and CAT pump is what you want. I have a 3300 psi one I have had for about 10 years and use it almost every week for washing equipment or boats except in winter. Never had one issue with it.
I'll post a pic.
If you go with electric just make sure you get the CAT brand pump.

Here ya go:
https://www.northerntool.com/products/northstar-gas-cold-water-pressure-washer-3300-psi-2-5-gpm-honda-engine-model-157123-157123

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I bought one similar to this from Lowe's… it's 3500 psi gas.. it's a beast, maybe more than he would need. I would not buy an electric one, I have several, not very powerful. I probably have an electric one in a box I would give him.. Houston area