Thinking about renting a power washer to clean your home’s exterior, driveway, or patio? You’re not alone. Power washers can remove years of dirt, grime, algae, and oil with high-pressure water, making it tempting to try a do-it-yourself approach. But before you head to the nearest hardware store, it’s worth taking a closer look at your options—and the hidden costs.
Yes, you can rent a power washer. But when you factor in the time, effort, and risk of property damage or injury, hiring a professional team like Cleantech might be the better investment. We’re here to break it all down for you.
Where Can You Rent a Power Washer?
Most people start with big-box home improvement stores when they’re looking to rent a power washer. Here are the most common rental options:
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Home Depot: Offers a wide range of power washers—from light-duty electric models to heavy-duty gas-powered units. Rental rates typically run around $38–$98 per day, depending on the pressure (PSI) and features.
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Lowe’s: Similar offerings with prices starting around $35–$100/day, including some with detergent injection features.
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Local Equipment Rental Shops: Many independently owned rental centers have commercial-grade washers, and may offer better customer service or training.
Keep in mind: these rental costs usually don’t include fuel, hoses, extension wands, cleaning chemicals, or transportation, which can easily add $30–$50 or more.
What Does It Really Cost to Power Wash It Yourself?
The true cost of DIY pressure washing goes beyond just the rental fee. You’ll also be paying with your time, energy, and potentially—if things go wrong—your wallet.
Here’s what you’ll need to consider:
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Rental Fee: $35–$100 per day
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Fuel & Detergents: $15–$40
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Protective Gear (Gloves, eyewear, waterproof boots): $10–$25
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Time Spent: 4–8+ hours depending on the size and condition of the area
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Risk of Damage: High PSI can damage wood, siding, paint, or even cause water intrusion
Most homeowners underestimate just how labor-intensive power washing can be, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the equipment. Surfaces like soft wood, aged brick, or vinyl siding can be permanently damaged if the wrong nozzle or pressure setting is used.
The DIY Risk: More Pressure Isn’t Always Better
It’s easy to think, “How hard can it be?” But pressure washing isn’t just about blasting water at a surface. Different materials require different techniques and settings. For example:
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Wood decks need low pressure and wide spray tips to avoid splintering.
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Concrete driveways can handle higher PSI, but must be cleaned evenly to avoid streaks.
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Vinyl siding can crack under too much force or trap water behind panels, causing mold growth.
One slip or wrong setting can mean expensive repairs or even personal injury. That’s a lot of risk for a few bucks saved.
Why Hiring Cleantech Is the Smarter Option
At Cleantech, we take the guesswork—and grunt work—out of power washing. When you hire us, you’re not just paying for equipment. You’re paying for:
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Expertise: We know exactly what pressure settings, nozzles, and cleaning agents are safe for each surface.
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Professional Equipment: Our commercial-grade washers produce consistent results and get the job done faster.
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Time Savings: What might take you an entire Saturday, we can complete in a fraction of the time.
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Peace of Mind: We’re fully insured and trained to protect your home and property.
Whether you need to clean your siding, driveway, patio, fencing, or blacktop—we’ll leave it looking like new, without the stress.
Skip the Rental. Get a Free Power Washing Quote Today.
Instead of spending your weekend wrangling hoses, reading manuals, and hoping for good results, why not let Cleantech handle the job professionally?
We proudly serve Columbus and the surrounding areas with expert power washing services that make homes shine again. One call gets you a cleaner, safer, and more beautiful property.
Request a free quote online to schedule your power washing service today.
