Cleaning Unit Calculator
Find the true cleaning power of your pressure washer
Cleaning Units
12,000
CU = PSI × GPM
Commercial Grade
Professional-grade for extensive commercial applications
Common Machine Presets
Why Cleaning Units Matter
Cleaning Units (CU) represent your machine's true cleaning power by combining pressure and flow. A machine with high PSI but low GPM might seem powerful, but it won't clean as fast as a balanced machine with solid PSI and meaningful GPM.
Cleaning Unit Ratings
- Less than 4,000 CU: Light residential (cars, small patios)
- 4,000-8,000 CU: Standard residential (driveways, decks)
- 8,000-12,000 CU: Heavy residential / Light commercial
- 12,000-20,000 CU: Commercial-grade equipment
- Over 20,000 CU: Industrial-strength cleaning
Quick Tip
For most residential cleaning, aim for 5,000-8,000 CU. This sweet spot offers plenty of power without overkill, and most quality equipment in this range is affordable and reliable.