Is a Pressure Washer Worth It?

When you hear pressure washer, a high-pressure water tool used to clean surfaces like driveways, decks, and siding. Also known as power washer, it's not just for pros—it's becoming a common tool for homeowners tired of scrubbing by hand. But is buying one worth the cash, or are you better off hiring someone? The answer depends on how often you’ll use it, what you’re cleaning, and whether you see it as a tool or a business opportunity.

Let’s talk about pressure washing equipment, the machines, nozzles, hoses, and detergents used to deliver high-pressure water for cleaning. You can pick up a basic electric model for under £150, or spend £500+ on gas-powered units that handle tougher jobs. If you’re cleaning your patio once a year, that electric one might be enough. But if you’re tackling grease on a commercial kitchen floor, or grime off a whole house exterior, you’ll need more power—and that’s where the real cost comes in. Maintenance, water usage, and replacement parts add up fast. And if you’re thinking of turning this into a pressure washing business, a service offering professional exterior cleaning using pressure washing equipment, you’re looking at £2,000–£5,000 in startup costs for commercial gear, insurance, and marketing.

Now, here’s the thing: people who use pressure washers regularly say it saves hours. One homeowner in Portsmouth cleaned her 30-year-old driveway in 90 minutes—something that used to take her all weekend with a brush and bucket. Another guy in Southampton started cleaning neighbors’ patios on weekends and now makes £400 a week. That’s not magic—it’s just knowing how to price a job right. pressure washing profit, the net income earned after subtracting equipment, fuel, and labor costs from service fees isn’t about working harder—it’s about working smarter. Charge £80 for a driveway, spend £10 on fuel and time, and you’re ahead. Do that five times a week? You’re making a solid side income.

But here’s the catch: not every surface can handle pressure. Brick, old wood, painted siding—mess it up and you’re looking at repairs, not savings. That’s why many people still hire professionals. And if you’re not confident, renting a unit for a day might be smarter than buying. Or better yet, skip the hassle entirely and get your oven cleaned by a pro who knows how to handle delicate surfaces without damage.

So is a pressure washer worth it? If you’re cleaning more than twice a year, or you’ve got the time to learn how to use it safely, yes—it pays off. If you’re just curious, or you only have one dirty patio, maybe not. The real value isn’t in the machine. It’s in knowing when to use it, when to walk away, and when to call someone who already has the right gear—and knows how to use it.

Below, you’ll find real guides on pressure washing costs, how much you can actually make, and whether starting a business is as easy as it looks. No fluff. Just what works.