January 01, 2016

Choosing the correct spray tip for a pressure washer

Choosing the correct spray tip for a pressure washer
Choosing the correct spray tip for a pressure washer

Several different types of spray tips are available to use on a pressure washer, so how do you know which tip is the right one for the surface you’re cleaning?  Here’s an overview of the different size spray tips and their ideal uses.

  • Use the zero-degree maximum-pressure spray tip for removing rust and paint, and for heavy duty cleaning like removing grease and oil stains. This spray tip is also good for reaching the second story of your house.

  • The 15-degree general-purpose spray tip is a higher-pressure tip for use on masonry, walkways, fences, patios and decks.

  • Use the 25-degree general-purpose spray tip for house siding and large flat areas such as your driveway.

  • The 40-degree spray tip is for cleaning delicate items such as furniture or fabrics.

  • Use the low-pressure spray tip to apply detergent to the area you’re cleaning.

If you’re still unsure which spray tip to use for your project, start with a lower-pressure spray tip and work your way up in pressure if needed. Test the pressure from the spray tip on a small, inconspicuous area of the surface you’re cleaning. Always keep the spray tip 8 to 24 inches away from the area you’re cleaning to avoid damaging the surface.

Symptoms for gas pressure washers

Choose a symptom to see related pressure washer repairs.

Main causes: faulty unloader valve, bad pressure regulator…

Main causes: stale fuel, gummed up carburetor, engine needs tune up, throttle and choke controls need adjustment, bad re…

Main causes: dirty air filter, stale fuel, clogged or dirty carburetor, bad unloader valve…

Main causes: broken recoil spring, damaged recoil starter…

Main causes: overfilling engine with oil, improper fuel/air mixture, choke system problems, dirty carburetor, engine nee…

Main causes: pump running for more than 5 minutes when the spray wand isn't being used, faulty pressure relief valve, ba…

Main causes: insufficient water supply, clogged water inlet screen, clogged pressure hose, faulty pump check valves, stu…

Main causes: using a high-pressure spray tip when applying detergent, clogged siphon tube, chemical injection system fai…

Main causes: damaged recoil starter, oil inside cylinder, locked up engine piston…

Repair guides for gas pressure washers

These step-by-step repair guides will help you safely fix what’s broken on your pressure washer.

How to install a pressure washer chemical injection kit

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Repair difficulty
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The pump can be damaged by air in the inlet water supply or by chemicals that remain in the pump body after using the ch…

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less

Articles and videos for gas pressure washers

Use the advice and tips in these articles and videos to get the most out of your pressure washer.

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