When choosing an industrial-grade hot or cold water pressure washer, there are some considerations regarding portability. This can be cut-and-dry, but not always. We’ve put together a short guide to help you know the available options and help you figure out what might work best for your cleaning needs.

What are the Most Common Pressure Washer Setups?

The primary options you have when it comes to selecting a pressure washer are Portable, Stationary, and Skid.

Portable pressure washers are defined as having wheels for operator-based maneuvering. Pressure washers can have two wheels and be moved like a cart or four wheels on heavier machines. You can even opt for caster wheels to make turning a breeze.

Stationary pressure washers are just that–stationary. Typically mounted to a platform or the floor and secured in place, these machines are typically fully enclosed and have a cabinet-type design for a clean look.

Skid or Skid Mounted pressure washers are designed inside a metal frame to be mounted on vehicles or trailers. These machines are a hybrid of stationary and portable machines. While portable, they usually take up a larger footprint so water tanks, large hose reels, and additional gear can be included.

Breaking it Down – Pros and Cons

Portable Pressure Washer Pros and Cons

Pros –

• Machines can fit into small places and are relatively compact and easy to move.
• An all-in-one package, everything you need can be wheeled to where to need it. Bring the cleaning equipment to the mess.
• The machine can be loaded up and moved to other locations.

Cons –

• Winterization – Winterization is a must, or you can damage the pump, coil, and more if you live in a colder climate.
• Some machines are heavy. Even on wheels, some of these machines can push 600 pounds.
• Fuel and power are required. Ensure your tanks are full or you have access to enough power to run the machine (220V in many cases).

Stationary Pressure Washer Pros and Cons

Pros –

• Always ready to go. Cleaning when you need it. Power, Fuel, and Water are all hooked up and ready to go!
• No need to refuel – with Natural Gas and LP connections, you always have fuel.
• Power – With a hardwired connection, there are no worries about tripping breakers or finding a plug with adequate power.
• More cleaning power – these machines can be configured with massive heating and cleaning power.

Cons –

• With limited reach, you’ll need to bring your mess to the pressure washer, which is excellent for vehicles but not for cleaning up other messes.
• More costly. The machines cost more upfront, and there are additional install costs with the need for hardwiring and venting the exhaust for the engine.

Skid Pressure Washer Pros and Cons

Pros –

• Lots of customization and configuring options are available.
• Flexible – With the ability to mount to a truck, trailer, or van, you can take the cleaning power where you need it.
• Accessories – designing a setup with multiple hose reels and even designs for multiple operators allows for complete custom options. Adding water feed tanks allows for more remote cleaning without needing a water source.

Cons –

• It can become more costly with add-ons or building a custom trailer unit.
• Not easily portable until mounted to your vehicle.

We hope this helps you narrow your choice for a pressure washer. If you have more questions or want to discuss these options, we have dealers ready to help! Good luck with your search for a new pressure washer.