Pressure washing
Pressure washer nozzle colors: which tip to use
- 4 sources
Buy links on this page go through our /go/ redirects to the manufacturer or retailer. We earn nothing from them today; that may change. Disclosure.
Quick answer
The color tells you the spray angle. Red is 0°, yellow 15°, green 25°, white 40°, and black is the low-pressure soap tip. Generac says the colors are universal across brands, and that the narrower the angle, the more pressure lands on a smaller area. Simpson's manual says the white 40° tip gives lower pressure over a wider spray.
Replacement nozzles with 1/4-inch quick connect:
Simpson 80145 5-Nozzle Set Simpson 80143 Turbo NozzleNozzle chart
| Tip | Use (Simpson manual) | Surfaces Simpson lists |
|---|---|---|
| Red 0° | Spot cleaning hard, unpainted surfaces and high-reach areas | Unpainted metal and concrete. Do not use on wood. |
| Yellow 15° | Intense cleaning of unpainted surfaces | Grills, driveways, concrete and brick walkways, unpainted brick and stucco |
| Green 25° | Standard tip for most jobs | Yard tools, sidewalks, lawn furniture, unpainted siding, stucco, gutters, eaves, concrete and brick |
| White 40° | Painted or delicate surfaces | Cars, trucks, RVs, boats, wood, painted brick and stucco, vinyl and painted siding |
| Black (soap) | Low pressure, applies cleaning solution | Safe on all surfaces. Check the cleaner suits the surface first. |
Simpson's manual says detergent won't siphon unless the black soap nozzle is installed. Many kits, like Simpson's 80145 set, include all five tips with 1/4-inch quick-connect plugs.
Turbo (rotating) nozzles
A turbo nozzle spins a 0° stream in a circle. Generac describes it as 0° power with 25° coverage, and warns the 0° spray can damage wood, siding and some metals. Generac suggests it for concrete, brick and other very hard surfaces.
Distance and angle
- Simpson's manual says to keep the nozzle about 4 feet from siding, and to use only the white 40° tip at least 4 feet from windows.
- Don't aim straight at the surface. Hold the wand at a 45° angle.
- To lower the pressure on the surface, step back or switch to the 40° tip.
Changing a nozzle
- Set the trigger lock.
- Pull back the quick-connect collar on the wand.
- Insert the nozzle and let the collar snap back.
- Pull on the nozzle to make sure it's secure.
Guides in this section
Aim the gun in a safe direction, always. Simpson's manual warns the spray can cause fluid injection injuries and severe cuts, and says never to touch a leak in a high-pressure hose or fitting. Lock the trigger before you change tips.
How we work: nozzle uses and distances come from Simpson's operator manual. Color and turbo notes come from Generac. Sources are listed below.
Questions people ask
What do the pressure washer nozzle colors mean?
They mark the spray angle: red 0°, yellow 15°, green 25°, white 40°, and black for low-pressure soap. Generac says the colors are universal.
Which pressure washer nozzle is safe for cars?
Simpson's manual lists the white 40° tip for cars, trucks, RVs, boats, wood and painted surfaces.
Can I use the red 0° nozzle on wood?
No. Simpson's manual says do not use it on wood. It's for spot cleaning unpainted metal and concrete.
Sources
Last checked Oct 23, 2026. Pressure washer spray can cause injection injuries. Lock the trigger before changing tips and release the pressure before disconnecting anything, as Simpson's manual says.
Keep going
Related guides