How to choose the right pressure washer for industrial cleaning jobs

1 Nov

Choosing a pressure washer for industrial work isn’t something you want to rush. There’s a lot to think about, pressure, flow rate, power source, cost, and every job has its own quirks. Whether you’re removing grease in a workshop, cleaning brickwork, or shifting algae from a yard, the right machine makes all the difference.

At Aquajet UK, we’ve spent decades helping businesses pick equipment that fits the job, not just the spec sheet. We’ll walk you through the main things to look for so you end up with a washer that works hard, lasts, and saves you time in the long run.

Built for Professionals: Choosing a machine that works as hard as you do

Industrial cleaning is tough work. You need a machine built to match it. A professional-grade washer can run for hours at a time, day after day, without flinching, something a DIY model simply can’t handle.

The difference shows in the build. Stronger pumps. Better seals. Heavier frames. Machines like these are designed for constant use, not weekend jobs. When you choose wisely, you’re not just buying pressure, you’re buying reliability, and that pays off over time. It is also important to use the recommended cleaning products.

Key specs to consider before you buy or hire

Pressure and flow rate (PSI & LPM)

Think of PSI as your cutting force and LPM as the rinse. High pressure is what strips off paint, oil, or graffiti. High flow moves the dirt away fast.

If you’re working on delicate surfaces, painted walls, wood, or signage, you can reduce the pressure via the adjustable valve. For ground-in grime, graffiti, or engine grease, higher pressure and heat are your friend.

Hot vs cold water machines

This choice often comes down to what you’re cleaning.

Hot water units are unbeatable for oil, grease, and hygiene jobs - ideal in food, healthcare, or transport. The heat breaks down grease, oils and fats quickly.
Cold water washers handle general dirt, moss, or mud just fine and are cheaper to run. Good quality cleaning chemicals can improve your ability to remove dirt faster.

Portability and power source

Where you’ll use the washer matters.

Electric cold water models suit indoor work, quiet, clean, and no fumes.
Petrol or diesel machines are made for outdoor and remote areas. They’ve got the power and freedom to work where there’s no mains power.

If the job site’s off-grid, you can pair your washer with a suitable sized generator and you’re good to go.

Matching equipment to your sector’s needs

Every industry has its own challenges.

Construction
You’ll want a rugged, diesel or petrol-driven mobile washer that can take a beating and handle mud, concrete, and dust.

Facilities management
Compact, easy-to-move models make light work of regular cleans in tighter spaces.

Agriculture
High-flow washers shift mud, oil, animal muck, and residue from tractors, barns, and dairy kit with ease.

Have a look through our pressure washer hire options.

New or hire? Finding the best option for your budget

If you only need a washer now and then, hiring can be the smarter move. You get the right machine for the job, full support if anything goes wrong, and no big upfront cost. We also have a large range of accessories in the hire fleet that includes: 50 metre hose reel trolleys, telescopic lances, rotary floor tools, turbo lances and many more, ensuring that you have every thing you need to complete the task.

For ongoing contracts or frequent cleaning work, buying can make more sense long-term. Either way, we’ll help you choose the machine that fits your workflow and budget. We can also provide training so your team feels confident using the kit.

Why choose Aquajet UK?

We’ve been in this game for over 30 years, and our customers stick with us because we don’t just sell or hire out machines, we support them.

With nationwide delivery, full servicing and repair, and real people at the end of the phone, you’ll always have help when you need it.

Find out more on our About us or Service & Repairs pages.

Ready to get started?

If you’re ready to narrow down your options, give us a call or send over your job details. We’ll help you decide which machine model suits your requirements and provide a clear quote, and make sure you get the right washer and accessories for the work.

You’ll be talking to people who actually use this equipment and know it inside out.

Laura Gurney