Pressure Washing Business Deductions: Equipment, Chemicals, and Vehicle Expenses

Pressure washing deductions:

Equipment (Section 179 or de minimis safe harbor):

• Commercial pressure washer (hot water or cold water): $2,000-$10,000, Section 179
• Surface cleaner attachments: $300-$1,500, de minimis safe harbor
• Water tank and pump system: $500-$3,000
• Hoses, fittings, quick connects: $200-$800 per year (supplies if replaced regularly)
• Chemical injection system: $200-$500
• Trailer-mounted rig (complete system): $5,000-$30,000, Section 179
• Generator (if used for remote jobs): $1,000-$5,000, Section 179
• Safety equipment (goggles, boots, rain gear): supplies expense

Chemical costs (ordinary business expense):

• Sodium hypochlorite (bleach) for soft washing: $500-$2,000/year
• Surfactants: $200-$500/year
• Degreasers for commercial jobs: $300-$1,000/year
• Rust removers, concrete cleaners, specialty chemicals
• All chemical costs are deductible as supplies or cost of goods sold

Vehicle expenses:

• Truck or van used to tow equipment: standard mileage rate ($0.70/mile in 2025) or actual expense method
• If the vehicle exceeds 6,000 lbs GVWR (most work trucks do), it qualifies for full Section 179 expensing with no luxury auto limitation
• Trailer registration and maintenance: deductible
• Fuel for pressure washer and generator: deductible (separate from vehicle fuel)

Insurance:

• General liability ($500-$2,000/year): essential for property damage claims, fully deductible
• Commercial auto insurance: deductible
• Workers’ comp (if employees): deductible
• Umbrella policy: deductible

Marketing:

• Vehicle wrap or lettering: deductible (advertising expense, not capitalized)
• Google Ads, Yelp, Thumbtack leads: deductible
• Door hangers, yard signs, business cards: deductible
• Before/after photo shoots for portfolio: deductible