How to Clean Spray Nozzles

Spray nozzles need to be periodically cleaned. They can accumulate contaminants from additives that stick to the surface and debris from exterior particles that collect along the nozzle's orifice in the environment. Knowing how to clean spray nozzle systems ensures that they are working optimally and can allow you to discover potential issues.

How Often Should You Clean Spray Nozzles

Every industry is different regarding how they use spray nozzles. Some use them daily while others only use them occasionally for a specific application. To determine how often to clean spray nozzles, create a schedule based on nozzle usage and when the nozzles begin to show irregular spray patterns, dripping, or a reduction in operation. Adjust the cleaning schedule accordingly. If you have outdoor spray nozzles, you want to clean them before winterizing the spray nozzle system in addition to following your regular cleaning schedule.

What You'll Need to Clean Your Spray Nozzles

Before cleaning the nozzles, you will want to gather all the necessary tools. First off, you want to gather at least three buckets or containers large enough to hold the spray nozzle components. One bucket will be used for soaking the spray nozzles. The second bucket is for cleaning and scrubbing the grime away. The last container will hold the rinse water.

You should also have gloves available if you are working with dirty nozzles that still may have residual chemicals that could be harmful to the skin. Select a cleaning solution suitable for the type of spray nozzle materials that will be cleaned. Some chemicals can be corrosive to certain metals and plastics. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions on the cleaning solution to ensure there won't be any issues.

Also, you will need a cleaning tool. Since the nozzle components are delicate, you want to use either a soft-bristled scrub brush or a toothbrush. Then you can get into the crevices and scrub away stuck on debris.

Steps to Cleaning Your Spray Nozzles

Preparation & Inspection Steps

You want to prepare your buckets for the spray nozzle parts. Put warm water into the soaking container and the wash container with regular clean water for the rinse container. Add the cleaning solution to the wash container based on the provided instructions on the bottle.

Inspect the spray nozzle system to determine if it is detachable. You can look over the manufacturer's installation instructions in regard to how to detach the nozzle or contact the company for technical information. In some corrosive environments, you may find that the nozzle can't be detached due to rust. Perform the appropriate repair instructions to the nozzle system if dealing with this issue.

Once you have the nozzle detached, inspect it for any physical signs of damage. You may notice breaks, cracks, or other harmful wear-and-tear that will require repair or replacement.

Remove and Soak the Nozzle

Place the nozzle components into the first container filled with warm, clean water. Let the parts soak to wash off surface debris and soften any stuck-on grime so it is easier to remove later. Be careful when moving the parts into the water as there could still be chemicals on the surface. Always wear gloves throughout the entire process.

Manual Cleaning Steps

Take out the sprayer nozzle parts and place them into the second container that has the cleaning solution. While you move the parts from one container to the next, take the soft brush or toothbrush and gently scrub the spray nozzle components. If there are detachable gaskets and seals, carefully remove them from the nozzle and clean them to get all the crevices. Let the scrubbed components soak in the cleaning solution.

Rinsing & Drying

Place the cleaned nozzle parts into the third container filled with rinse water. Take the opportunity to perform another inspection of the parts, as the caked-on grime could have covered over cracks and breaks that were not noticeable before during the preparation stage.

You want to allow the parts to dry completely before reassembling the gaskets, seals, and other attachments to the nozzle. This drying process prevents mildew and mold from forming.

Reinstalling Your Spray Nozzle

Once the nozzle components are dry and reassembled, you can reinstall the nozzles onto the spray system based on the manufacturer's instructions. You can now carefully rinse the brushes and containers to remove any residual chemicals in the dirty water.

You want to test the spray nozzle system before putting it back into regular use for your operations. If you notice that the spray pattern is off, or there is dripping, it could indicate a problem with the seal, a remaining clog, or damage to the nozzle.

When You Should Replace Vs. Cleaning

Always consider replacing the nozzles if there is any internal corrosion or buildup that cannot be cleared out after previous cleanings. Also, install new nozzles if there is significant wear and tear, breaks, or cracks in the nozzle.

If you see these problems, you should contact Lechler to perform a proper inspection of all your nozzles. We can determine whether there is a serious issue as well as help pinpoint what may be causing the problem. Then you can take the appropriate actions to rectify the issue.

Looking for a New Spray Nozzle?

While you now know how to clean spray nozzle equipment, there will come a time when you will need to get the systems replaced. Take the opportunity to upgrade your system with spray nozzles that will best fit into your operations.

Here at Lechler, we provide a range of spray nozzle products for all industries. We have  flat fan, mister, full cone, hollow cone, and atomizer nozzles available. If you need custom-designed options, we can learn more about your applications and spraying needs. Then our company can engineer and build the spray nozzles that will perfectly integrate into your existing systems. Contact us today to learn more.