What is a fan tip nozzle?

A fan tip nozzle is a threaded attachment that fits onto a pressure washer wand to deliver water in a flat, sweeping spray rather than a single concentrated jet. Each nozzle is marked with a degree rating that indicates the width and pressure distribution of that spray pattern. Columbia-area pressure washing crews rely on these nozzles to match water pressure to the surface being cleaned.

The degree ratings work inversely to water force. A 0-degree nozzle (red tip) fires the most concentrated stream, best suited for hard surfaces like concrete driveways with stubborn stains or industrial buildup. The 15-degree yellow tip provides moderate concentration and works well on sealed concrete, brick, and asphalt without causing damage. The 25-degree green tip produces a wider fan and reduced pressure, making it suitable for wood decks, siding, and gutters where surface protection matters. The 40-degree white tip spreads water across the broadest area with the gentlest impact, used for delicate surfaces, landscaping cleanup, and rinsing tasks where you need coverage without erosion or etching.

Pressure washing operators select the correct degree based on both the substrate (concrete, wood, vinyl, painted surfaces) and the contamination level. Using the wrong nozzle risks surface damage or incomplete cleaning. Most professional jobs require multiple nozzles on hand to switch between different areas of a property.