Pressure Washer vs. Jetter: Choosing the Right Tool

We get this question all the time, can I use my pressure washer as a jetter? The short answer: yes, with the right tools. Both machines use high-pressure water to clear debris, but that’s where the similarities end.

When it comes to clearing clogged pipes, grease buildup, or roots, knowing the difference between a hydro jetter vs. pressure washer can make or break your results. Let’s break it down.

Flow (GPM vs. PSI: Why It Matters)

When comparing jetter GPM vs. pressure washer, flow is the game changer. Your typical pressure washer runs between 2.5–4 GPM, while most jetters start at 4 GPM and go up to 25 GPM.

A good rule of thumb: 1 GPM per 1” of pipe diameter for normal maintenance.

Heavier jobs like grease or roots demand higher flow. A high-pressure washer might hit 4,000 PSI, but if the GPM is too low, it won’t move debris efficiently through the pipe. Think of PSI as the cutting power and GPM as the shovel. You need both to clean, not just punch holes in blockages.

PRO TIP: For effective cleaning, aim for higher GPM when jetting, not just high pressure. That’s where a true hydro jetter shines.

Built for the Job: Design & Components

Both machines feature a pump, engine, and pressure control system (usually an unloader valve). But a professional jetter adds features that make all the difference:

Pressure gauge for real-time monitoring
Pulsation valve to shake the hose through tough bends
Hose reel with continuous-length jetting hose
Multiple nozzles tailored for different jobs
Flow control to start or stop water safely. Larger jetters include a water tank that ensures steady flow and cooling, even during long bypass cycles. A jetter is built specifically to do the job, not just blast water.

Duty Cycle: Longevity and Load

Homeowner-grade pressure washers (2700–3000 PSI, 5–7 HP) are designed for light-duty use. They’re not built to run for hours or handle heavy debris. Hydro jetters, on the other hand, are engineered for continuous duty with heavier parts, better oil capacity, and longer lifespans. When you’re cleaning multiple drains a day, that difference adds up to less downtime and more profit.

Drive Type: Direct, Belt, and Gearbox Systems

Direct Drive systems dominate the pressure washer market, compact but not ideal for long hours. The pump connects directly to the engine, spinning at the same RPM, which causes higher heat and faster wear.

Belt Drive units slow the pump speed to 1450–1750 RPM, run cooler, hold more oil, and typically last four times longer than direct drive.

Gearbox Drive systems offer similar durability but in a more compact layout, ideal for skid and trailer jetters. They also provide smoother pulsation for better hose movement and performance.

IMPORTANT: Belt and gearbox jetters provide stronger, steadier flow, exactly what you need when cutting through roots or grease-heavy lines.

When to Use a Jetter Instead of a Pressure Washer

If your goal is cleaning surfaces like concrete or siding, a pressure washer is fine. But when you’re dealing with pipes, drains, or sewers, you need a hydro jetter.

Use a hydro jetter when:

You need to clear roots, grease, sludge, or scale inside pipes.
You want complete cleaning, not just partial flow restoration.
You need long hose runs or variable flow control.
You care about safety, efficiency, and reduced service time. Pressure washers can’t match that versatility or endurance.

PRO TIP: A hydro jetter is like a scalpel, designed for precision inside the line. A pressure washer is more like a hammer, useful, but not built for surgical cleaning.

Final Thoughts: Why It Pays to Jet Smarter

Yes, you can use a pressure washer as a jetter, but if you’re serious about drain cleaning, a jetter is built for the job. With better flow, longer life, and the right nozzles, a hydro jetter helps you clear lines faster, safer, and more profitably.

Jetters Northwest offers a full range of professional systems and support for every operator, contact us today to talk with our team or get help choosing the right setup.