How to Choose the Correct Tip Size for Your Surface Cleaner

Surface cleaners are a game-changer for pressure washing, offering faster and more uniform cleaning compared to traditional wands. 

However, achieving optimal performance and avoiding damage requires selecting the correct tip size for your surface cleaner. Here’s a guide to help you get it right.

Why Tip Size Matters

The tip size determines the pressure and flow rate of water exiting your surface cleaner. Using the wrong tip size can lead to issues like insufficient cleaning, equipment damage, or excessive wear. Proper tip sizing ensures:

• Optimal Cleaning Power: Achieve the right balance between pressure and flow.
• Protection for Surfaces: Prevents etching or gouging delicate surfaces.
• Prolonged Equipment Life: Reduces strain on your pressure washer and surface cleaner.

Understanding Tip Sizing Basics

Tip sizes are measured in orifice size, usually expressed in a four- or five-digit number, such as  25025 or 15030. Here’s what the numbers mean:

• The first two digits indicate the spray angle (e.g., 25° or 15°).
• The last two or three digits represent the orifice size in thousandths of an inch (e.g., 025 = 0.025 inches). Often times the last 2 digits can represent the GPM, as Spraying Systems carries their tips. For example their 1/4MEG-2504 is ¼” 25 Degree tip that is rated for 4 GPM.

The orifice size directly affects the pressure and flow rate:

• A smaller orifice increases pressure but decreases flow.
• A larger orifice reduces pressure but increases flow.

Steps to Choose the Right Tip Size

• Know Your Pressure Washer’s Specs: Start by checking the PSI (pounds per square inch) and GPM (gallons per minute) ratings of your pressure washer.
• Consult a Nozzle Chart: Use a nozzle sizing chart to match your pressure washer’s PSI and GPM with the appropriate orifice size. Charts are widely available online or from manufacturers.
• Match to Your Surface Cleaner: Most surface cleaners specify the required tip size range in their user manual. Ensure the tips you choose fall within this range.
• Consider Surface Type:
• Delicate surfaces (wood, painted areas): Opt for larger orifices to reduce pressure.
• Stubborn grime (concrete, stone): Use smaller orifices for higher pressure.
• Inspect and Replace Tips Regularly: Worn tips can reduce cleaning efficiency and increase water usage. Inspect tips for wear and replace them as needed.

Surface Cleaner Tips | Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using Too Small a Tip: Can overwork your pressure washer, potentially causing pump damage.
• Using Too Large a Tip: May result in poor cleaning performance and streaking.
• Ignoring Compatibility: Always ensure the tips are compatible with your surface cleaner’s design.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the correct tip size is critical for getting the best results from your surface cleaner. By understanding your equipment’s specifications and following these guidelines, you can enjoy efficient, effective, and damage-free cleaning.

When in doubt, consult your equipment’s manual or reach out to the manufacturer for recommendations. Keep your tools in top shape, and let the right tips do the work for you!