Blog Post

At Mud Dog Trailers, we’ve helped countless entrepreneurs launch and grow their pressure washing businesses.

Whether you’re starting with residential jobs or aiming for large-scale commercial contracts, the equipment you choose can make or break your business.

Having the right tools isn’t just about getting the job done; it’s about doing it efficiently, delivering professional results, and setting yourself apart in a competitive market.

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the essential gear you need, how it works, and what it takes to build an ideal setup for residential or commercial services.

We’ll also cover rough costs, so you can budget effectively and start with confidence.

What Topics We’ll Cover

• Choosing the Right Pressure Washer
• What is a Pressure Washer Trailer?
• Water Tanks and Reclaim Systems
• Hoses, Nozzles, and More
• Choosing a Surface Cleaner
• Detergents and Chemicals
• Minimal Pressure Washing Setup
• The Ideal Pressure Washing Set Up

Choosing the Right Pressure Washer

A pressure washer is the core of your operation. Its main job is to blast away dirt, grime, and stains using high-pressure water.

The power of a pressure washer is measured by PSI (pounds per square inch), which determines how forcefully water hits the surface, and GPM (gallons per minute), which affects the speed of cleaning.

• Electric Pressure Washers are best for light-duty residential tasks like cleaning patios or cars. They’re quiet, affordable ($150–$400), and require minimal maintenance, but they lack the power for larger or tougher jobs.
• Gas Pressure Washers offer more cleaning power and efficiency, making them suitable for residential and light commercial work. These machines, costing $300–$800, can handle driveways, fences, and home exteriors with ease.
• Diesel Pressure Washers are industrial-grade machines built for heavy-duty projects. They can tackle large commercial buildings or construction equipment, with prices starting around $1,500 and reaching up to $5,000.

For residential work, go with a gas-powered washer delivering at least 4,000 PSI and 4 GPM. This setup strikes the perfect balance between power and portability, ensuring you can handle a variety of surfaces quickly and effectively.

What is a Pressure Washer Trailer?

A trailer-mounted system transforms your pressure washing setup into a mobile cleaning unit.

Instead of lugging equipment in and out of a van or truck, you can store everything—including water tanks and hoses—securely on a trailer, ready to deploy at any job site.

These systems are particularly valuable if you’re working in areas without easy access to water.

With a mounted water tank, you can work independently, saving time and reducing logistical headaches.

Mud Dog Trailers offer customizable setups starting with The Mud Puppy at just $15,000 and several higher models depending on features like tank size, pressure washer capacity, and storage space.

Pressure washer trailers are great because they include almost everything you need for the job all in one easy-to-maneuver package.

For a residential business, a smaller trailer with a 250 gallon water tank and a gas-powered washer is ideal. For commercial services, we recommend a larger unit capable of holding 500 gallons or more, paired with a diesel washer for maximum power.

Water Tanks and Reclaim Systems

Water tanks ensure you’re always prepared, even at locations without a direct water source.

Tanks come in sizes ranging from 50 to 500 gallons ($100–$1,000), with larger tanks reducing downtime for refills.

For eco-conscious businesses, a reclaim system is invaluable.

These systems capture wastewater, filter it, and allow you to reuse it. This not only saves water but also ensures compliance with environmental regulations, particularly in urban or commercial settings.

Hoses, Nozzles, and More

High-quality hoses and nozzles are essential for reaching every nook and cranny. While standard equipment works for basic jobs, upgraded accessories can drastically improve your efficiency and results.

• High-Pressure Hoses: Designed to withstand the wear and tear of daily use, these range from $50–$150.
• Nozzles: These control the spray pattern and intensity. Turbo nozzles ($20–$50) deliver a rotating jet for tough grime, while soap nozzles ($10–$20) make applying detergents easy.

We recommend keeping spare nozzles and hoses on hand to avoid interruptions during jobs.

Choosing a Surface Cleaner

Surface cleaners are game-changers for large, flat surfaces like driveways, patios, and sidewalks.

These tools attach to your pressure washer and distribute water evenly across the surface, eliminating streaks and reducing cleaning time.

A high-quality surface cleaner costs $100–$500, depending on size and build. They’re indispensable for residential jobs, as they allow you to deliver professional, spotless results quickly.

Detergents and Chemicals

Detergents break down tough stains like oil, mold, and grease, making them an essential part of your arsenal.

Without them, you’d have to rely solely on water pressure, which isn’t always enough.

• Degreasers: Effective for driveways and machinery, priced at $20–$50 per gallon.
• Biodegradable Detergents: Eco-friendly and safe for residential areas, costing $30–$70 per gallon.

Investing in the right chemicals not only improves cleaning results but also shows clients you care about protecting their property and the environment.

Minimal Setup to Get Started with Residential Jobs

If you’re on a budget or just testing the waters, you can start with a minimal setup:

• Gas-Powered Pressure Washer: A reliable model delivering 3,000–4,000 PSI ($300–$600).
• High-Pressure Hose: A durable 50-foot hose ($50–$100).
• Nozzles: A basic set with a turbo nozzle ($30–$50).
• Surface Cleaner: A small but effective cleaner for driveways ($100–$200).
• Cleaning Detergents: A few gallons of all-purpose cleaner ($100).

Total Estimated Cost: $600–$1,050

This setup won’t handle the toughest jobs, but it’s enough to get started with residential clients and begin building your reputation.

Ideal Pressure Washing Setups and Costs

Residential Setup

For residential work, a streamlined, cost-effective setup includes:

• The Mud Puppy Pressure Washing Trailer: $14,995
• High-pressure hose and nozzles: $200
• Surface cleaner: $300
• Cleaning chemicals: $200

Total Estimated Cost: $15,695

Commercial Setup

For commercial services, where power and capacity are key, consider:

• The Mud Dog Trailer: $18,995
• Heavy-duty hoses and nozzles: $500
• Surface cleaner: $500
• Cleaning chemicals: $500

Total Estimated Cost: $20,495

How Much Can You Earn?

For residential jobs, you can charge $100–$300 per service, depending on the size of the area and the complexity of the job.

Commercial pricing varies significantly, as projects often require customized quotes based on square footage, surface type, and water reclamation needs.

With the right setup, a pressure washing business can generate a steady income and grow into a lucrative enterprise.

At Mud Dog Trailers, we’re here to help you every step of the way, from choosing the best equipment to customizing a setup that suits your needs. Ready to get started? Let us help you build the foundation for a successful pressure washing business today.