Get the right nozzle. Get the job done faster.

Using a worn or incorrect nozzle can reduce cleaning performance, increase wash time, or put unnecessary strain on other components on your machine.

Whether you are replacing a worn nozzle or setting up a new machine, nozzle selection plays a major role in cleaning performance. Ultimately, the nozzle is what creates the pressure.

This guide helps you match the correct nozzle size to your SPITWATER machine, so you clean faster, maintain machine performance and reduce avoidable wear.

With the right nozzle selection, you can:

• Maintain correct pressure and flow
• Improve cleaning speed and consistency
• Reduce wear on pumps and components
• Match machine output to the surface and application

How to read the Nozzle Selection Chart

To find the correct nozzle size:

• Find your machine pressure across the top row (bar or PSI)
• Follow down to your flow rate (L/min)
• Move across to identify the recommended nozzle size

*Always match nozzle selection to the manufacturer specification for your machine.

Important Notes:

• Never install a nozzle smaller than the recommended specification.
• Undersized nozzles increase pressure beyond system limits and place excessive load on pumps, seals and fittings.
  

Force and Pressure Come From the Nozzle

Pressure cleaners rely on balance between flow and pressure. The pump creates water movement. The nozzle controls restriction and force. Together they create flow and pressure at the surface.

Nozzle size directly affects:

• Cleaning force
• Water flow
• Machine operating pressure
• Cleaning speed
• Component wear

A nozzle that is too small increases restriction and pushes pressure beyond the machine’s functional limits. A nozzle that is too large reduces pressure and weakens cleaning impact at the surface. Both reduce efficiency on site.

The Impact of the Wrong Nozzle

Nozzles Wear Over Time

Nozzles are a consumable and as such, they wear during normal operation.

As the nozzle opening gradually wears and widens, pressure drops and cleaning performance becomes less effective.

This often happens slowly over time, which means operators may not notice the loss in performance straight away.

Signs of a Worn Nozzle

A worn nozzle can lead to:

• • • Reduced cleaning pressure
    • Slower wash times
    • Increased water consumption
    • Inconsistent spray patterns
    • Reduced chemical performance
    • Poor cleaning results

Even small increases in nozzle size can significantly affect machine pressure and cleaning impact.

More Pressure Does Not Always Mean Faster Cleaning

Many operators chase higher pressure when cleaning slows down.  In most applications, cleaning performance drops when pressure increases without enough flow to remove contamination, chemical to break down grease and soil or heat to speed up the cleaning process.

The result is slower washing, inconsistent results and unnecessary machine stress. The most effective cleaning setups balance pressure, flow, heat and chemical application together.

That balance improves:

• Cleaning speed
• Labour efficiency
• Water usage
• Equipment life
• Operating consistency

Some Surfaces Require Lower Impact

Some surfaces require lower impact to avoid damage. Reducing pressure by lowering engine speed or adjusting bypass settings often reduces flow as well. Less flow means slower rinsing and reduced cleaning speed.

To reduce cleaning pressure and intensity:  Increase nozzle size, or use a wider spray angle.  This spreads pressure over a larger surface area while maintaining effective water flow. This approach suits:

• Painted surfaces
• Machinery decals
• Soft stone and masonry
• Vehicle washing
• Sensitive coatings

Build a Better Cleaning Setup

The nozzle is only one part of the cleaning system. Pair the correct nozzle with accessories designed for your application. Recommended accessories include:

• Turbo nozzles for concentrated heavy-duty cleaning
• Surface cleaners for large flat areas
• Chemical injectors for controlled application
• Extended lances for improved reach and operator control
• Drain cleaning nozzles and jetting kits for pipe cleaning applications

The right setup improves cleaning speed, reduces operator fatigue and helps protect your equipment over the long term.