Nozzle Guide & Selection Tool
Master the essential tool: pressure washing nozzles
Nozzle Color Chart
Red
0°
Pencil Jet
Uses:
- Concrete etching
- Removing stubborn paint
- Industrial cleaning
PSI Range:
3000-4000+
Extremely Dangerous
Yellow
15°
Heavy Stripping Jet
Uses:
- Concrete cleaning
- Removing heavy paint
- Extreme staining
PSI Range:
2500-4000
Dangerous
Green
25°
General Purpose
Uses:
- Driveway cleaning
- Deck cleaning
- Most general tasks
PSI Range:
2000-4000
Standard
White
40°
Light Cleaning & Rinsing
Uses:
- Rinsing vehicles
- Siding cleaning
- Light surface cleaning
PSI Range:
1500-3000
Safe
Black
65°
Soap/Chemical Application
Uses:
- Applying detergent
- Applying house wash
- Chemical distribution
PSI Range:
400-800
Safe
Nozzle Size Calculator
Calculate recommended nozzle orifice size based on your desired flow rate and pressure.
Estimated Nozzle Size
1.44
Orifice size (in inches, × 1/16")
This is an estimate. Always verify with your equipment specifications and test on a small area first.
Understanding Nozzle Angles
Nozzle angles determine how the pressure fan spreads. A tighter angle (red, 0°) concentrates force in a small area (dangerous!). A wider angle (black, 65°) spreads the force across a larger area (safer, but less impact).
Nozzle Selection Guide
- Deck or delicate surfaces? Use white or black nozzles (low impact).
- Heavy driveway cleaning? Use green or yellow nozzles (medium to heavy impact).
- Applying detergent? Always use black nozzle at low pressure (400-800 PSI).
- Concrete etching or paint removal? Red nozzle only if you're a professional.
Critical Safety Rules
- Never point any nozzle at people, animals, or yourself—even low-pressure nozzles cause injury.
- Never use red or yellow nozzles on siding, paint, or delicate surfaces.
- Keep nozzle at least 12 inches from surfaces when testing—move closer only if safe.
- Wear safety glasses and appropriate PPE for all pressure washing work.
- Always start with white or green nozzle and work up if needed.