If you're in the pressure washing business, you’ve likely heard about shooter tips—the attachment that promises to improve your chemical application and rinsing capabilities. But are they really a game-changer, or just another overhyped tool? Let’s break it down in this post, looking at real-world results and what you need to know to make an informed decision.
What Is a Shooter Tip?
Shooter tips are attachments that fit onto your pressure washer gun. Their purpose is to create a tighter, more controlled stream of water or chemical, making it easier to reach higher areas like siding, roofs, and dormers. They come in various materials—stainless steel, aluminum, and even titanium—ranging from budget options to high-end models like those from Skunk Washworks.
But here’s the burning question: are they a necessity or just a luxury?
The Real Deal: Shooter Tips in Action
Shooter tips can be incredibly useful if your pressure washer setup is optimized. In tests and demonstrations:
- Shooter tips produce a tighter stream, reducing overspray and preventing mist from drifting onto cars, windows, and plants.
- When paired with an eight-gallon-per-minute (GPM) machine, shooter tips can hit heights of up to 55 feet.
That said, a shooter tip alone won’t work miracles. To achieve these results, your plumbing and pump setup must also be dialed in:
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Plumbing In: Ensure the pump intake has a sufficient water supply, using a minimum of half-inch or 5/8-inch hoses for smaller pumps, and three-quarter-inch hoses for high-GPM models.
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Plumbing Out: Use appropriate outlet hoses to reduce restrictions that strain your pump.
Without the right plumbing, even the best shooter tip won’t deliver the results you’re looking for.
What Shooter Tips Won’t Do
Shooter tips aren’t magic, and they have limitations:
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They Won’t Replace Your Pump: If your pump or plumbing is underperforming, no tip can fix that.
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They Won’t Defy Physics: Expecting a 12-volt or gas pump to shoot 90 feet in the air? Think again. Shooter tips can give you a few extra feet, but they won’t turn your system into a water cannon.
Debunking the Shooter Tip Hype
Are shooter tips snake oil? Absolutely not. When used correctly, they’re a helpful tool for many pressure washers. However, they’re not a substitute for proper equipment maintenance and setup. Think of them as the icing on the cake—a small upgrade that can improve performance, but only if the foundation (your pump and plumbing) is solid.
Get the Best Results: Optimize Your Business
Shooter tips are just one part of the equation. If you’re serious about growing your pressure washing business, the Local Domination Course: Zero to $7K is the ultimate resource. Created by industry pros Justin Rogers and the Lean & Mean Academy, this course covers:
- Chemical mixing and application techniques.
- Pressure washing processes for optimal results.
- Marketing strategies to grow your business to $7,000/month and beyond.
Many successful businesses have started with this course, and it’s packed with actionable insights to help you dominate your local market.
Final Thoughts
So, are shooter tips worth it? Yes—but only if your system is set up correctly. Ensure your plumbing and pump are optimized, and choose a tip that fits your equipment. Shooter tips won’t revolutionize your setup, but they can give you the edge you need to work more efficiently and effectively.
Ready to take your pressure washing business to the next level? Check out the Local Domination Course: Zero to $7K and start building your dream business today.
