When it comes to keeping a commercial fleet clean, pressure washing is often the go-to solution. But despite being one of the most effective ways to remove dirt, road film, oil, and grime, there are still plenty of myths floating around that might cause hesitation for some fleet managers.
At LPW, we’ve been supplying professional-grade industrial pressure washers to commercial vehicle operators across the UK for decades. And we’ve heard it all—”pressure washers damage paint”, “they use too much water”, or even “they’re too expensive to maintain.” So, we’re setting the record straight.
Let’s break down the most common misconceptions about pressure washing your fleet and explain why the right equipment is a smart, safe and cost-effective investment for any business.
Myth #1: Pressure Washing Damages Vehicle Paintwork
This is easily one of the biggest concerns we hear from new fleet operators—and thankfully, it’s one of the easiest to debunk.
The truth is, modern commercial pressure washers, like our LPW 400CM or LPW 400HM, are specifically designed for regular use on commercial vehicles. They’re not your average domestic jet washers. With precise pressure control and the use of caustic-free cleaning agents, our systems safely lift away dirt without stripping paint or damaging decals.
In fact, routine pressure washing actually protects your paintwork. Left untreated, built-up grime and road salt can eat into protective coatings and accelerate corrosion. A regular clean with the right pressure washer helps extend your vehicle’s lifespan and keeps your fleet looking professional and road-ready.
Myth #2: Pressure Washing Uses Too Much Water
Another common misconception is that pressure washing is wasteful. While it might seem like a high-volume approach, the reality is quite the opposite—industrial pressure washers are designed to be efficient.
At LPW, our machines feature a high-pressure chemical system, which improves cleaning performance while using less water and fewer chemicals overall. By applying cleaning solutions at pressure, the machine reduces product overuse and water waste.
Plus, because pressure washing is fast and effective, you spend less time cleaning each vehicle, which also means less water usage per clean. It’s a win for your environmental impact—and your water bill.
Myth #3: Hot Water Pressure Washers Aren’t Worth the Investment
If your vehicles deal with grease, oil or heavy road contamination (and let’s face it—most commercial fleets do), a hot water pressure washer isn’t just worth it—it’s essential.
Our LPW 400HM and 400HS models use hot water to break down stubborn substances faster than cold water. This means better results in less time, fewer chemicals required, and reduced effort from your team.
Hot water pressure washers are particularly effective for cleaning tankers, refuse vehicles, refrigerated lorries, and anything exposed to harsh environments. Yes, they require slightly more power to run—but the time and labour savings speak for themselves.
Myth #4: Pressure Washers Are Expensive to Maintain
Another myth we hear often is that pressure washers require constant maintenance and repairs. The key here is quality. Our LPW 400 Series pressure washers are built to last in demanding environments, with a robust, industrial-grade design that ensures reliability and longevity.
Every model comes equipped with an industrial trigger, lance, and a 9-metre twin-wire hose as standard, making them easy to operate and durable enough to handle daily use. And when regular maintenance is needed, it’s simple and straightforward—with service support and spare parts readily available.
Better still, we offer contract hire packages that include ongoing maintenance and servicing, so you don’t need to worry about downtime or unexpected costs. It’s all part of the Fleetcare solution that puts flexibility and control back in your hands.
Myth #5: You Have to Buy Outright to Get Quality Equipment
While purchasing your own equipment makes sense for many fleet managers, it’s not the only option. At LPW, we understand that capital expenditure doesn’t always align with your budget—that’s why we offer specialist rental and hire packages to suit your needs.
Whether you’re just starting out or managing a growing fleet, our rental solutions allow you to access the same state-of-the-art pressure washing systems without the upfront costs. You get top-tier equipment, regular maintenance, and peace of mind—all for a simple monthly payment.
Is Pressure Washing Right for Your Fleet?
Absolutely. When done right—and with the right equipment—pressure washing your fleet is one of the most efficient, cost-effective, and safe ways to keep your vehicles in top condition.
From mobile cold water units to wall-mounted hot water systems, LPW’s industrial pressure washers are purpose-built for commercial use. Whether you’re cleaning HGVs, tankers, vans, or anything in between, we’ve got a model (and a support package) that fits your operation.
Explore Our Pressure Washer Range Today
If you’re ready to upgrade your fleet cleaning process, explore our full range of commercial pressure washers. From the LPW 400CM mobile unit to our top-of-the-line LPW 400HS hot water model, we’ve got the tools to help your fleet shine.
Browse our industrial pressure washers
Got questions? Contact our team— we’re happy to help you find the perfect pressure washing solution for your fleet.
