Ever wonder why your 12V soft wash system doesn’t work quite like it should? Keep blowing fuses or dealing with never ending pump issues? Your problem could be as simple as using the wrong nozzles. Yes it could be that simple. Let’s break it down.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Nozzle Tips for Roof Cleaning with Your 12V Soft Wash System
See Video walkthrough at the bottom of this article
The nozzle tips you choose can dramatically impact the function of your soft wash pump system.
The orifice size of your nozzle tip plays a critical role in achieving optimal performance from your soft wash system, especially when cleaning roofs. For a 5.3 or 5.5 GPM pump, it's best to use a 30 orifice size tip. This setup allows for a balanced flow and pressure.
If you’re utilizing a more powerful 7 GPM pump, a 40 orifice size tip is recommended. This larger orifice accommodates the pump’s increased flow rate.
A few more “Tips” no pun intended
- Use only stainless 1/4 meg nozzles
- You will need a stainless 4 nozzle holder. This is also referred to as a jrod or J Rod
- Use the right gun, we have tested many and found the ST510 polypropylene gun to be the best
- Cut and recrimp your fittings on your soft wash hose yearly. This is a common area to get gummed up and restrict the flow from the pump to nozzle
- Make sure your pressure switch is set properly. There’s a small hex screw on the top of the pressure switch.
- Make sure there is no air leaks anywhere in your system. 12V systems function vastly different with a little air leak.
- RINSE your pump thoroughly after each use not just once at the end of the day. We recommend letting the pump run water for up to 10 minutes.
5.3 and 5.5 Nozzle Sizes
- 0030
- 1530
- 2530
- 4030
Very important: 4030, no 40030. The size with the extra zero is commonly a high pressure nozzle and will NOT work for a 12V pump.
7 GPM Nozzle Sizes
- 0040
- 1540
- 2540
- 4040
Under sizing your nozzles can lead to numerous issues to the pump.
Recommended Pump: Remco Dual Control Pump Smooth Flow.
This is not the commonly used RV or water pumps that most use. This pump is one of the few designed for the soft wash industry.
Understanding Spray Patterns for Roof Cleaning
In addition to selecting the right nozzle size, understanding the different spray patterns available is essential for maximizing the effectiveness of your soft wash system during roof cleaning. The right spray angle can help you achieve thorough cleaning while minimizing the risk of damage.
1. 0 Degree Nozzle: This nozzle produces a concentrated stream of water, making it ideal for targeted cleaning of stubborn stains, such as algae or moss. However, caution is advised, as the higher pressure can damage shingles if used too close.
2. 15 Degree Nozzle: Offering a narrow fan pattern, the 15-degree nozzle is effective for more focused cleaning tasks. It’s suitable for cleaning roofs where dirt and debris have built up, providing a balance between pressure and coverage.
3. 25 Degree Nozzle: This nozzle provides a wider spray pattern than the 15-degree option, making it an excellent choice for general roof cleaning. It allows for effective cleaning of larger areas while minimizing the risk of water intrusion under shingles.
4. 40 Degree Nozzle: The 40-degree nozzle offers the widest spray pattern, making it perfect for rinsing and applying cleaning solutions evenly across larger roof surfaces. It’s gentle enough to use on delicate roofing materials, ensuring that surfaces are cleaned without damage.
Conclusion
Choosing the right nozzle tips in conjunction with an appropriate pump is crucial for achieving superior results in roof cleaning with your soft wash system. For 12V systems, pairing a 5.3 GPM pump with 30 orifice size tips or a 7 GPM pump with 40 orifice size tips will ensure optimal performance. The Remco dual control pump is an excellent investment, providing the reliability and versatility needed for effective roof cleaning.
By understanding the different spray patterns—0, 15, 25, and 40 degrees—you can select the right nozzle for your specific roof cleaning tasks. This. With the right equipment and knowledge, you can achieve the best results. Happy washing!
