The X-Jet family is a go to for those who need distance, control, and clean rinses fast. This guide explains how X-Jet works, when to choose the Original vs. the M5, how to size it for your machine, and pro tips for dialing in ratios on real jobs.
What is an X-Jet—and why pros use it
X-Jet nozzles apply chemical externally, pulling solution from a pail through a short hose and mixing it at the nozzle, so no chemical ever passes through your pump, high-pressure hose, or gun. That protects seals, extends equipment life, and lets you switch from soap to rinse instantly by closing the chem valve.
If you’re applying stronger mixes like Delux® Rust Remover Plus or Crystal Clear Restore OA, this setup keeps your pump safe.
Key upsides
- Long reach for siding, second/third stories, gables, dormers. (Up to ~40 ft depending on your GPM/PSI and adjustment.)
- External proportioning with color-coded proportioner tips—no premix required.
- Quick soap → rinse by shutting the inline valve or disconnecting the chem hose.
See the X-Jet Product Page for specs and kit details.
Original X-Jet vs. X-Jet M5 (Which should I buy?)
Original X-Jet (High-Pressure Long-Range Nozzle)
- Fixed long/close patterns (via interchangeable sleeves), delivers a strong, tight stream when you need max throw and impact.
X-Jet M5 (Adjustable fan)
- Twists from ~5° pin stream to 60° fan.
- Ideal when you don’t need the zero degree “punch” of the Original.
- Reaches up to ~40 ft depending on setup. Max temp ~190 °F; models available for different GPM ranges.
Bottom line:
- Choose Original if you routinely need the hardest hitting, longest throw.
- Choose M5 if you want on the fly pattern control for soft washing, siding, and general exterior cleaning.
Compare both on our X-Jet Nozzles page.
Sizing your X-Jet to your machine (GPM matters)
Match the orifice to your GPM for proper draw and pattern. PowerWash.com stocks common sizes: #7 (1–2.8 GPM), #9 (3–3.5 GPM), #13 (4–4.5 GPM), #16 (5–6.5 GPM), #20 (7–8 GPM), #25 (8.5+ GPM).
See the X-Jet sizing chart here.
How the proportioner tips work (fast ratio math)
Each kit includes a 14-tip color set. Insert a tip into the brass barb to limit draw and change your water:chemical ratio; charts provide approximate mixes by machine GPM. Ratios vary by machine and conditions, so verify on site.
Example: Using 12.5% SH and a 3:1 (water:chem) tip, the on-surface SH is roughly ~4.2% (12.5 ÷ 3). Adjust with weaker/stronger tips to hit your target.
Learn more in our guide: How to Use X-Jet Proportioner Tips.
When to use X-Jet
Use X-Jet when you need:
- Stronger mix on the wall than a standard DS injector delivers
- Zero chemical through the pump (protect seals, quick swap between chems)
- Height without ladders on suitable surfaces
Some chemicals that excel with the X-Jet:
- Delux® Rust Remover Plus – for concrete rust/fertilizer stains
- Eff-Off Calcium & Efflorescence Remover – for mineral deposit removal
- V-501 Trans Fat Kitchen Degreaser – for greasy concrete, hoods, and flues
Setup & first-use checklist (M5 example)
- Select the correct M5 model for your GPM/PSI.
- Drop the pickup filter into your chem pail; connect the 15-ft hose to the nozzle barb; install a proportioner tip.
- Start at low fan, test an inconspicuous area, then twist toward narrow for reach (~5°) or wider for gentle application (up to ~60°).
- Soap→Rinse: Close the inline valve or pull the hose to cut chemical; keep spraying to rinse.
Safety & good practice
- Respect wind and drift: narrow the fan or pause
- Pre-wet and protect landscaping
- Wear PPE and follow chemical SDS
- Stay within spec limits (PSI, temp)
Troubleshooting quick hits
- Weak draw: Wrong orifice for your GPM, proportioner clogged, air leak on hose, too-long lift, or restriction at the barb
- Can’t hit 2nd story: Open pattern too wide or undersized model; twist toward pin-stream and verify GPM match
- Inconsistent ratio: Verify tip color vs. chart; confirm with a timed draw
Specs at a glance (M5 family)
- Spray pattern: ~5°–60° adjustable
- Reach: Up to ~40 ft (machine-dependent)
- Max temp: ~190 °F
- Max pressure: up to 4000 PSI (model-dependent)
- Includes: 15-ft hose with inline shutoff & filter, 14 proportioner tips (kit)
Buying at PowerWash.com
PowerWash.com stocks the X-Jet Original and X-Jet M5 in multiple orifice sizes, plus replacement parts, M5 variable heads, and the X-Jet Pail System.
FAQ
Does any chemical hit my pump with X-Jet?
No. X-Jet injects at the nozzle, keeping chemical out of your pump, hose, gun, and fittings.
How high can I realistically reach?
Up to ~40 ft with proper GPM/PSI and a narrow pattern; wind and nozzle size matter.
Do I still need to premix?
Often no—use the tip set to achieve your target on-surface strength. Always verify with a quick draw test.
What’s the main difference between Original and M5?
Original offers a fixed long/close pattern with stronger impact; M5 adds twist-to-adjust fan control (5°–60°).
Ready to kit out your crew?
Shop the full X-Jet Collection at PowerWash.com—plus live tech support to help you size for your rig.