Blog

Nov 19, 2025

Choosing The Right Pressure Washer for Your Job

Different Needs. Different pressure washers.
There are many units to choose from - gas or electric, cold water, with a range of flow rates, PSI ratings, sizes and features. Finding the best one for you comes down to what kind of cleaning you will need to do. 

Start with the basics.

• "First do no harm" applies here as it does in medicine. Too much pressure, measured in pounds per square inch (PSI) and volume, AKA flow rate or GPM (gallons per minute), can tear through dirt, paint, or stain, then do the same to the fragile wood, plastic, or light metal surface you want to protect. 
• Too little pressure can make removing serious grime from heavy equipment or concrete floors and walls impossible. Attempting heavy-duty cleaning jobs takes time that busy contractors and farmers can't afford.  

The PSI rating alone can give you a good idea of what kind of washer you're looking for:

• Residential Light - Duty (Electric) 300- 1999 PSI 
• Residential Medium - Duty (Electric) 2000- 3299 PSI
•  Industrial Heavy-Duty Cleaning (Gas) 3300 - 4600+ PSI

Make an economical choice. Electric-motor models cost less to buy and maintain, and you don't have to add anything but soap. Costlier gas-engine models might need fuel, oil, and parts, but they use metal components that help them last longer than electrics, which rely on many plastic parts that cost more to repair.

Where will you be using your pressure washer?

• Will you be close to the house with access to power and water, or will you be out in the middle of nowhere with neither?
• Most electric-motor models can't range farther than the reach of their hose or power cord.
• Heavier gas-powered pressure washers have large built-in water and fuel capacities, allowing them to work in fields or on other remote job sites.

Other Advantages of Electric and Gas Washers

• Ease of use: Electric motors have the advantage of easier startup and a lightweight, compact build that makes them easier to move around and store. With no emissions and quieter operation, they reduce health risks and help you keep the peace with your neighbors.
• Toughness: In addition to durability and longevity, gas models' heavier construction, including solid steel cages, protects their components from damage. Features like flat-free tires make them easier to handle on uneven terrain.

What are you trying to remove? Dirt is one thing; grease is another. So is old paint, along with various other natural or synthetic chemicals you want gone. If you regularly face the challenging buildup of these substances, you have another choice to make:

Hot Water Pressure Washers vs. Cold Water Pressure Washers

• Hot water breaks down or "melts" grease, grime and other chemicals that cold water struggles to budge. It's generally considered the solution for tough cleaning jobs.
• Cold water removes dirt from more sensitive surfaces that hot water can damage. It also eliminates steam, which can obstruct your view of your work.

So, what's the best pressure washer for you? Whatever it is, chances are we have it in our extensive collection of BE Pressure Washers, including gas-engine, electric-motor, hot water, and cold water models.

Call or visit your nearest Flaman location, and we'll help you zero in on the ideal unit for your home, farm, or business.