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Concept:
When testing pressure washers, foam cannons, spray nozzles and other detailing equipment, specifications provided by the manufacturer only tell
part of the story. Real world testing requires accurate measurements of water flow, pressure, dilution volume, orifice size and electrical load
in order to understand how a product actually performs.
Over time, I have assembled a small collection of testing and measurement tools that allow me to take a more detailed look at the equipment
I review. These tools are particularly useful when measuring water flow and pressure, comparing pressure washer nozzles,
calculating dilution ratios, determining actual foam cannon orifice sizes, and monitoring the electrical load of the pressure washer.
Some of these tools are used for virtually every test, while others were added as the testing became more detailed. The goal is not to create laboratory grade testing equipment, but to make the measurements used throughout my reviews more accurate, repeatable and useful to enthusiasts trying to build or improve their own detailing setups.
Concept:
The Gryvoze digital water flow meter provides a way to measure the actual volume of water being delivered during pressure washer testing.
A must have item to easily and accurately test the flow rate of your Prossure Washer.
This becomes particularly useful when comparing different nozzle orifice sizes, since changing the orifice affects both pressure and water flow.
Why This Product Was Selected?
I purchased the flow meter specifically to expand my pressure washer nozzle testing. A smaller orifice can increase pressure, but it also restricts water flow, so I wanted a way to measure exactly how much water is being delivered with different nozzle sizes.
The Active 2.0 recommends a minimum nozzle size of 3.7, but I wanted to investigate 3.0 and 3.5 orifices as well as the more typical 4.0 size. By measuring water flow while simultaneously monitoring pressure and electrical load, I can better determine how much restriction each nozzle introduces and whether smaller orifices are practical for the Active 2.0.
The ±1% accuracy was also important. At the approximately 1.9 GPM flow rate of the Active 2.0, a meter with several percent error would make relatively small differences difficult to evaluate.
Features
Digital water flow measurement
1 to 13 GPM flow range
Approximately ±1% accuracy
Adjustable 360° Digital LCD display
3/4" NPT connections
Includes two brass 3/4" NPT to 3/4" GHT adapters
Durable Aluminum Metal Body
IPX8 Waterproof & Outdoor Ready
Hot & Cold Water Compatible 14°F to 176°F
Measures instantaneous and accumulated flow
Energy-Saving Design: LCD screen automatically turns off after 10 minutes of inactivity, extending battery life to over 1 year. Features a low battery alert.
Easy Battery Replacement: Batteries can be replaced without removing the flow meter from the pipeline.
EMI Protection: Designed to prevent false readings caused by electromagnetic interference from nearby pumps or motors
Designed for water and other compatible liquids
Multiple selectable measurement units
Selectable US Gallons, Quarts, Liters, Pints
Benefits
Allows actual water flow to be measured rather than estimated
Makes nozzle orifice comparisons more meaningful
Helps demonstrate the relationship between nozzle size, pressure and water flow
Useful for evaluating whether smaller orifices are overly restrictive
Provides more useful data when combined with pressure and amperage measurements
Helps establish repeatable flow measurements for future testing
Technical Data
Brand: Gryvoze
Model: A1201GHT
AISN: B0GBWQ4HCK
Accuracy: ±1%
Waterproof Rating: IPX8
Connection: 3/4" NPT
Display: Digital LCD
Measurement: Instantaneous and cumulative flow
Working Pressure: ~87psi max
Review
Final Thoughts
After spending time testing the Gryvoze A1201GHT Water Flow Meter, I came away impressed with both its construction and its usefulness for my particular pressure washer testing setup.
The first thing that stands out is the overall build quality. The aluminum housing and IPX8 waterproof construction give this meter a much more substantial feel than many of the inexpensive plastic flow meters commonly available. More importantly for my application, Gryvoze specifies ±1% accuracy across its 1 to 13 GPM measurement range.
That level of accuracy is particularly important when measuring the relatively low flow rate of the Active 2.0. At approximately 1.85 GPM, a meter with 4% accuracy could theoretically introduce an error of roughly 0.07 GPM in either direction. A ±1% specification reduces that potential range to approximately 0.02 GPM.
For general household pressure washing, that difference may not matter much. For nozzle testing, however, where I am comparing relatively small changes in flow between different orifice sizes, having a more precise instrument is important.
Calibration
The Gryvoze arrived with its calibration setting at 1000. After comparing its reading against my traditional bucket and weight method, I found that the meter appeared to read slightly high at that setting.
After performing some calculations, I then adjusted the calibration value to 1030 and performed another comparison.
The bucket test calculated approximately 1.85 GPM, while the Gryvoze displayed approximately 1.83 GPM.
Using those results, I calculated that a calibration value of approximately 1040 should bring the meter exactly to the bucket test result.
New Factor = Actual Volume / Meter Displayed Volume X Current Factor
1040 = (1.85gpm / 1.83gpm) * 1030
I have been using that setting since then.
This comparison does not establish that either method is absolutely correct, but the close agreement gives me confidence that the Gryvoze can provide a practical and repeatable measurement for my testing.
Observations
While performing the bucket test to confirm the calibration setting, I observed the following behavior over the one minute test period:
| Time |
Meter Reading |
Observation |
| 0–10 seconds |
Unstable |
System is coming up to pressure and flow |
| 10–45 seconds |
1.85 GPM |
Stable operating region |
| 45–60 seconds |
1.88 GPM |
Reading gradually increases |
The bucket test essentially measures the average flow rate over the collection period:
Total water collected ÷ total collection time
The flow meter, on the other hand, provides a live flow reading at any given moment.
During this one-minute test, the flow meter remained at approximately 1.85 GPM for most of the stabilized portion of the test before gradually increasing to approximately 1.88 GPM during the final 15 seconds. The bucket test still produced a calculated average of approximately 1.85 GPM because it measures the total water collected over the entire test period rather than the instantaneous flow rate displayed by the meter.
My Active 2.0, using a 4.0 orifice 40° fan nozzle, may actually be producing closer to 1.88 GPM over a longer continuous operating period, but I cannot practically verify this using my standard five-gallon bucket test. Collecting several minutes of output would require a substantially larger container and a practical method of weighing the additional water.
The increase from 1.85 to 1.88 GPM represents only about a 1.6% difference, so the change is relatively small and falls within the range of variation I would expect from a real world manual measurement.
For reference, at 1.85 GPM, one minute of output represents approximately 7,015 ml of water:
1.853 × 3,785.411784 = 7,015 ml
At 1.88 GPM:
1.88 × 3,785.411784 = 7,115 ml
That represents a difference of approximately 100 ml per minute.
The bucket test can also be affected by several small variables, including trigger timing, stopwatch timing, overspray, splashing, water loss during collection, and starting or stopping the collection slightly before or after the flow meter begins to stabilize.
As a result, I am keeping the Gryvoze calibration setting at 1040. With this setting, the meter reaches approximately 1.85 GPM after the initial stabilization period and closely matches my standard bucket test. This also allows me to quickly check nozzle flow rates after approximately 10 seconds of operation without having to perform a complete bucket test each time.
A Major Time Saver
This is probably the biggest advantage of adding the Gryvoze to my testing equipment.
The traditional bucket test works well, but it is considerably more involved than simply reading a flow meter. I have to weigh the empty bucket, capture the water for a measured period, deal with overspray and water loss, coordinate the pressure washer trigger with a stopwatch, weigh the completed sample and then calculate the resulting flow rate.
I even developed a plastic bag cover for the bucket with an opening for the nozzle because high pressure water can otherwise escape during the test.
That process is worthwhile when establishing a baseline or verifying another instrument, but it becomes tedious when testing multiple nozzles.
With the Gryvoze installed, I can simply look at the display while testing a nozzle and immediately see the GPM. That allows me to record pressure, amperage and flow rate together without repeating the entire bucket test for every nozzle.
For the type of detailed pressure washer and nozzle testing I perform, that makes this meter considerably more useful than its relatively simple appearance might suggest.
Installation and Display
Installation was straightforward. I installed the flow meter directly into the low pressure water inlet line feeding the Active 2.0.
One feature I particularly like is the 360° adjustable digital LCD display. Because I mounted the meter horizontally at the pressure washer inlet, I was able to rotate the display into a position where it is easily visible while operating the machine.
That flexibility is important in my application because a fixed vertical display would not have worked nearly as well with the way my equipment is configured.
Brass Versus Stainless Connections
The Gryvoze includes two brass 3/4" NPT to garden hose thread adapters. I initially preferred the idea of replacing these with stainless steel adapters to better match the rest of my equipment.
Unfortunately, the stainless adapters I purchased did not work. Their threads were straight rather than properly tapered NPT threads and they would not seal correctly. They also lacked the integrated swivel found on the Gryvoze adapters, which meant I could not orient the meter and display as easily.
After looking at the installation more closely, I decided the supplied brass adapters were actually the better choice.
The Active 2.0 already has a brass low pressure water inlet swivel built into the machine, and because the Gryvoze is installed directly at that connection, the two brass components effectively appear as part of the same assembly. Replacing the Gryvoze adapters with stainless would therefore provide little practical benefit.
The supplied adapters are well made, include the swivel functionality I needed and sealed properly all while avoiding any additional cost.
Who Is This For?
This is where I think the Gryvoze becomes a more specialized recommendation.
If you are a typical homeowner who uses a pressure washer with one primary nozzle and simply wants to determine its flow rate once, spending approximately $46 on a dedicated flow meter may not make much sense. A simple bucket test can provide a perfectly useful one time measurement.
However, for the more serious detailing enthusiast who wants to fine tune and expand their setup with different nozzle sizes for different applications, a flow meter like this becomes much more interesting. For example, a smaller orifice can provide higher pressure for pre soak applications where additional cleaning power may be beneficial, while a larger orifice can maximize water flow for faster rinsing during a standard pH neutral wash. Being able to quickly see how those different nozzles affect flow, combined with the relatively simple installation and modest cost compared with the overall investment in an enthusiast level pressure washing setup, makes this something worth considering.
Considering how simple it is to install and its relatively low cost compared with the overall investment in an enthusiast level pressure washing setup, this is a tool that serious detailing hobbyists may want to consider adding to their equipment.
Overall
Overall, I am very impressed with the Gryvoze Water Flow Meter. The aluminum construction, IPX8 waterproof rating, 1% stated accuracy, and adjustable 360° display make it feel considerably more substantial than the inexpensive plastic flow meters commonly available. More importantly for my particular testing, it eliminates the need to perform a bucket test every time I want to compare the flow rate of a different nozzle. Once calibrated, I can simply install a nozzle, pull the trigger, and immediately see the GPM along with the pressure and amperage readings from my other test equipment.
For my use, that makes it an extremely valuable addition to the testing equipment I use when evaluating different nozzle sizes. I can now see exactly how changing from a 3.0 to a 3.5 or 4.0 orifice affects flow, pressure and amperage, which is particularly useful when trying to fine tune a pressure washer setup rather than simply accepting the nozzle that came with the machine.
For a typical homeowner who uses one primary nozzle and simply wants to determine its flow rate once, I don't think spending approximately $46 on a dedicated flow meter is necessary. A simple bucket test can provide a perfectly useful one time measurement. But for the more serious detailing enthusiast who enjoys experimenting with different nozzle sizes for different applications, the equation changes. A smaller orifice can be used when additional pressure is desirable for applications such as pre rinsing or heavier contamination, while a larger orifice can maximize water flow for faster rinsing during a standard pH neutral wash. Being able to quickly see those differences makes experimenting with and fine tuning a pressure washer setup much easier.
Considering the relatively low cost compared with the overall investment in an enthusiast level pressure washing setup, along with how easy this is to install and use, I think the Gryvoze is well worth considering for anyone who regularly experiments with their equipment or wants more detailed information about how their pressure washer is actually performing.
For my own testing, it has already become one of those tools that I wish I had purchased sooner.
While the Gryvoze includes Brass adapters to connect the 3/4" NPT ports on the meter to the garden hose connections used by my pressure washer,
Finding them in Stainless Steel proved quite a challenge as many of the listings on Amazon advertise "NPT" but in fact are straight pipe threads which will leak.
Ultimately I found these which worked perfectly, both made by Fitvell.
3/4” FGHT Swivel to 3/4” MNPT Connector 304 SS
3/4” MGHT to 3/4” MNPT Connector 304 SS
The additional fittings cost approximately $30 total.
Product Manual PDF
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09.2026
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Watch the YouTube video below for full demonstration and review.
Concept:
The Measureman MA032 is a digital pressure gauge designed to provide a much more precise measurement of pressure than the analog gauge I previously used for pressure washer testing.
Why This Product Was Selected?
I previously used the MTM Hydro 43.5021 5,000psi analog pressure gauge. While it worked well for general pressure measurements,
the analog scale made it difficult to determine relatively small differences in pressure.
The gauge markings were in 100psi increments which only allowed me to estimate pressure to the clostes 25psi...not with the precision I wanted
for detailed testing.
The Measureman MA032 digital gauge displays pressure in single psi increments, allowing me to see changes that would otherwise be impossible
to identify. With an advertised accuracy of ±0.25% of full scale at 3000psi, it provides a much better measurement tool for comparing pressure
washer equipment.
Features
Digital pressure display
0-3000 PSI range
±0.25% full scale accuracy
1/4" NPT male connection
Stainless steel connection
3-1/8" display with protective rubber boot
Backlit display
5 digit display
3 Measurement units, 3000psi, 200bar, 20Mpa
150% overload capacity
IP54 rated housing
304 Stainless Case
316 Stainless Wetted Parts
Battery powered
Benefits
Provides much easier to read pressure measurements
Makes smaller pressure differences visible
Useful for detailed pressure washer nozzle testing
Helps compare different orifice sizes more accurately
Eliminates much of the guesswork associated with analog gauges
Provides repeatable pressure readings for future testing
For hydraulic, oil pressure, water pressure, air pressure measuring, for media which is not corrosive to stainless steel wetted parts
Technical Data
Brand: Measureman
Model: MA032
AISN: B07Z9RQQR3
Pressure Range: 0-3000 PSI
Accuracy: ±0.25% of full scale
Connection: 1/4" NPT male
Display Size: 3-1/8"
Display: Digital, backlit
Pressure Units: PSI, bar and MPa
Overload Capacity: 150%
Protection Rating: IP54
Power: Battery powered
Review
The Measureman MA032 Digital Pressure Gauge was added to my testing equipment to address one of the limitations of the analog pressure gauge I had been using for years. My previous setup used the MTM Hydro 43.5021 5K Gauge Kit, which combines the MTM Hydro #22.5006 5,000 PSI analog gauge with their #24.0101 stainless steel gauge fitting and quick connect assembly.
The MTM gauge has been perfectly functional, but the analog display makes it difficult to determine the exact pressure being produced. The gauge is marked in 100 PSI increments, so while I would typically report readings in approximately 25 PSI increments, those smaller measurements were really estimates based on the position of the needle.
As my pressure washer testing has become more detailed, I wanted something that would allow me to measure those differences more precisely.
That led me to the Measureman MA032.
Digital Precision
The biggest advantage of the Measureman is obvious as soon as you turn it on. Instead of trying to interpret the position of an analog needle, the digital display provides a numerical pressure reading in 1 PSI increments.
That is particularly useful when testing different pressure washer nozzle orifice sizes. A smaller orifice can increase pressure, while a larger orifice generally increases flow and reduces pressure. When comparing several sizes, being able to see the actual pressure difference makes the testing much more meaningful.
Rather than saying that one nozzle produced approximately 900 PSI and another produced approximately 950 PSI based on an analog needle, I can now record the actual digital readings and use those numbers as part of the overall test data.
That precision is important because pressure is only one part of my nozzle testing. I am also measuring flow rate and electrical amperage, so having a more precise pressure measurement allows me to see the relationship between all three.
Digital Does Not Mean Static
There is one important consideration when using a digital pressure gauge: the pressure produced by a pressure washer isn't perfectly static.
Even with a constant trigger pull, the pressure reading will move up and down somewhat. Rather than expecting the display to show one perfectly stable number, I watch the reading and use an average or representative value for my testing.
I also found that the gauge needs some time to settle after the pressure washer is activated. I generally allow approximately 10 seconds before I begin relying on the reading for my test results. I will continue using the gauge to determine exactly where that settling point makes the most sense, but the important thing is that I don't simply activate the pressure washer and immediately record the first number that appears.
In other words, the digital gauge improves the precision of the measurement, but it doesn't eliminate the need for good testing technique.
Installation
Unlike the MTM gauge setup, the Measureman does not simply plug directly into the existing pressure washer hose. Because it uses a 1/4" NPT lower connection, it needs to be installed into a tee in the pressure line.
I chose to install mine immediately before the short swivel gun, using the existing 3/8" quick connect at that location.
Initially, I considered purchasing a new stainless steel tee along with separate 3/8" male and female quick connects. However, the cost adds up quickly, and the resulting assembly would be considerably larger and bulkier.
Instead, I repurposed the tee that was already part of my MTM Hydro gauge setup. I removed the MTM analog gauge from the assembly and installed the Measureman in its place.
This turned out to be a much more practical solution. MTM Hydro does sell the tee separately, but once shipping is factored in, I found that repurposing the existing fitting made considerably more sense for my setup.
It also avoids adding additional connections to the pressure line, which means fewer potential leak points.
Size and Visibility
The biggest drawback compared with my old MTM gauge is physical size.
The Measureman has a 3-1/8" dial, making the overall gauge substantially larger than the compact MTM analog gauge assembly I previously used. That additional size isn't necessarily a problem when the gauge is sitting on a workbench, but installed between the pressure washer hose and short gun, it becomes considerably more noticeable.
It also isn't the easiest gauge to position for video recording. Because of where I installed it, I have to pay some attention to its orientation and camera position to make the display easy to see.
This is one area where the compact MTM analog gauge still has an advantage.
Battery and Operation
The Measureman is also somewhat less convenient from an operational standpoint. It requires the gauge to be manually turned on and off, and accessing the batteries isn't particularly convenient.
Hopefully battery replacement won't be something that needs to happen very often, but it is still worth mentioning because the analog MTM gauge obviously required no batteries whatsoever.
The tradeoff is that I am getting considerably more useful information from the digital display.
Accuracy
The MA032 is specified at ±0.25% of full scale, with a 0 to 3,000 PSI measurement range. At the full 3,000 PSI scale, that specification represents approximately ±7.5 PSI.
For the pressure range I am working with on the Active 2.0, that is more than sufficient for the type of comparative testing I am performing.
It is important to distinguish between the gauge's stated accuracy and the practical repeatability of the entire test. Even though the gauge can display pressure in 1 PSI increments, the pressure washer itself isn't producing an absolutely constant pressure, and factors such as trigger position, water supply and nozzle characteristics can all influence the actual reading.
For that reason, I view the digital gauge as a tool for obtaining more precise and repeatable comparative measurements, rather than assuming every single displayed PSI number represents an absolute laboratory measurement.
Cost and Value
There is a significant price difference between the two gauges, and that is something worth considering before making the switch.
My original MTM Hydro analog gauge setup cost approximately $40, while the Measureman digital gauge was approximately $60 by itself. Because the Measureman requires a tee to install it into the pressure line, I also spent approximately $35 including shipping for the additional fitting. That puts the complete digital setup at roughly $100 compared with the approximately $40 I originally spent on the MTM.
That is a substantial difference for what is essentially one additional capability: greater measurement precision.
The original MTM also has several practical advantages. It is smaller and lighter, requires no batteries, is always ready to use and provides an instantaneous pressure indication. There is also no waiting for the digital display to settle before taking a reading.
For those reasons, I would not recommend that everyone replace a perfectly functional analog gauge with a digital model. If your primary goal is simply to know approximately how much pressure your pressure washer is producing, the inexpensive MTM setup continues to be perfectly adequate.
I purchased the Measureman later in the development of my testing equipment because I had already established most of the rest of my measurement system and was looking for greater precision. If you are building a testing setup from scratch, I would probably prioritize the basic equipment first rather than spending nearly $100 on a digital pressure gauge.
There is, however, a legitimate argument for making accurate pressure measurement part of the core setup for a serious detailing enthusiast. If you want to experiment with different nozzle orifice sizes to find the best balance of pressure, water flow and electrical load, having an accurate pressure measurement can help you make much more informed nozzle selections.
Ultimately, I see the Measureman as a precision upgrade rather than a necessity. The additional cost is difficult to justify for someone who will install one nozzle and leave it there, but for enthusiasts who enjoy optimizing their equipment and want reliable data when experimenting with different configurations, the added precision can make the investment worthwhile.
Overall
The Measureman MA032 isn't necessarily a better pressure gauge for everyone. It is a better pressure gauge for my particular testing needs.
The MTM is smaller, simpler, requires no batteries and provides an instantaneous visual indication of pressure. For basic pressure washing, it remains perfectly usable.
But for the type of testing I am doing, the advantages of the digital gauge outweigh those drawbacks.
Being able to see pressure in 1 PSI increments is a significant improvement over trying to estimate readings from an analog gauge marked in 100 PSI increments. When I am comparing different nozzle orifice sizes and documenting how they affect pressure, flow and amperage, having a precise digital pressure reading makes the testing much more useful.
There is still some technique involved. I need to allow the gauge to settle, watch the pressure fluctuate and use an appropriate average rather than simply recording the first number that appears. The larger physical size and battery powered operation are also compromises compared with the compact MTM gauge.
But those are relatively minor drawbacks for my particular application.
As I continue building out a dedicated pressure washer testing setup, I consider the Measureman MA032 another important upgrade. The pin gauges tell me what the orifice actually measures, the water flow meter tells me how much water is moving, the power meter tells me how much electrical load the pressure washer is drawing, and this digital gauge tells me what pressure that combination is producing.
That combination gives me a much better understanding of what is actually happening when I change nozzle sizes or other components of the pressure washing system, rather than relying on a single approximate measurement.
For anyone doing detailed pressure washer or nozzle testing, I consider the move from an analog gauge to a digital gauge like the Measureman MA032 well worth it.
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MTM Hydro 24.0101 Gauge Fitting 3/8" QC 1/4" Port SS
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MTM Hydro 22.5006 Pressure Gauge 1/4" Bottom Mount 5000psi SS
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Concept:
Accurate dilution ratio testing requires more than simply measuring how much liquid is placed into a foam cannon bottle.
A digital scale provides a simple, repeatable and accurate way to measure water output by weight when determining native dilution ratios and panel impact ratio.
Why This Product Was Selected?
I previously used a scale designed primarily for measuring body weight. It displayed measurements in 0.1 kg (100ml) increments, which was
adequate for getting into the approximate range but not precise enough for the detailed dilution testing I wanted to perform.
The Ionsno K245 provides 1 gram resolution and a 44 pound capacity.
Why the 44 lb Capacity Is Perfect:
1 gallon of water: 8.34 lbs
5 gallons of water: 41.7 lbs
Empty bucket: 1 kg / 2.2 lbs
Full 5 gallon bucket: 41.7 + 2.2 = 43.9 lbs
Scale capacity: 44 lbs
So the Ionsno K245's 44 lb maximum capacity is almost perfectly matched to a full 5 gallon bucket of water, leaving just about 0.1 lb of capacity remaining.
That makes it substantially more useful for my testing because I can measure the water output produced during foam cannon dilution testing
with much greater precision.
The scale can also be used as an additional reference when checking the accuracy of the water flow meter, giving me another way to verify the measurements being collected during testing.
Features
44 lb / 20 kg maximum capacity
1 gram / 0.1 oz resolution
Large weighing platform 11.6" x 9.45"
Stainless steel and tempered glass construction for durability
Digital LCD display
Six measurement units (g, kg, lb, oz, fl.oz, ml)
Tare function
Four high precision load sensors
Includes two AAA batteries
Benefits
Provides more accurate dilution measurements
Improves repeatability between foam cannon tests
Makes soap and water measurements easier to document
Helps improve Panel Impact Ratio calculations
Can be used to cross check water flow measurements
Large capacity allows larger containers to be weighed without exceeding the scale's limits
Technical Data
Brand: Ionsno
Model: K245
AISN: B0GRMD1HY9
Maximum Capacity: 44 lb / 20 kg
Resolution: 1 g / 0.1 oz
Platform: Extra large
Construction: Stainless steel and tempered glass
Display: Digital LCD
Measurement Units: g, kg, lb, fl oz and ml
Power: 2 AAA batteries
Review
The Ionsno K245 Digital Scale has become an important upgrade to my pressure washer testing equipment. While my previous scale was perfectly adequate for getting approximate dilution ratios, it was only accurate to the nearest 0.1 kg, or 100 grams. As my testing has become more detailed, that level of resolution was no longer sufficient.
The K245 provides 1 gram resolution with a 44 lb (20 kg) maximum capacity, which makes it particularly well suited to the type of testing I am doing. At approximately $30, it also provides a level of precision that is difficult to justify ignoring, especially now that I am building out a more complete set of measurement tools.
Why More Precise Measurements Matter
I originally used an existing body weight scale for my foam cannon testing simply because I already owned it. It allowed me to get close enough to calculate dilution ratios and determine approximately how much soap should be added to a foam cannon.
For that particular application, being off by 50 or 100 grams isn't especially important. If I am trying to determine whether a foam cannon requires approximately 60 ml or 65 ml of soap, that level of precision isn't going to make a meaningful difference in the real world.
Flow testing is different.
When I recently used the K245 while testing my Gryvoze water flow meter, I discovered that the empty bucket I had previously been treating as exactly 1 kg actually weighed approximately 985 grams. That 15 gram difference isn't important when calculating a basic soap dilution, but it becomes relevant when using measured weight to calculate water volume and verify the accuracy of another precision instrument.
That is where the K245 really earns its place in my testing setup.
1 Gram Resolution
The scale measures in 1 gram increments, which is effectively 1 ml when weighing water. This gives me a much more precise way to measure the actual amount of water being discharged during my testing.
Rather than relying on an approximate bucket weight and a stopwatch, I can measure the starting weight, collect the entire output and determine the actual mass of the water discharged. That provides a much more accurate foundation for calculating flow rate.
It also gives me a way to independently verify the readings from my dedicated water flow meter.
Having two different methods of measuring flow is particularly useful when developing a testing procedure. The flow meter provides the quick real time measurement I need when testing individual nozzles, while the scale and bucket provide a more time consuming but highly useful reference measurement that can be used to check whether the flow meter is reading correctly.
44 Pound Capacity
The 44 lb / 20 kg capacity is another reason I selected this particular scale.
A pressure washer testing scale needs to be capable of handling considerably more weight than a typical kitchen scale. A gallon of water weighs approximately 8.34 lbs, so five gallons alone weighs approximately 41.7 lbs.
My empty testing bucket weighs approximately 985 grams, or 2.17 lbs, which means a full five gallon bucket would weigh approximately 43.9 lbs.
That makes the K245's 44 lb capacity almost perfect for this application.
It is also important to consider the output of the equipment being tested. Some of my foam cannon testing can produce approximately 15,000 ml of water, so I need enough capacity to accommodate that volume while still accounting for the weight of the collection container.
Many smaller household scales simply don't have enough capacity for this type of testing.
Large Platform
The large weighing platform is another feature that I particularly appreciate.
For normal food weighing, the size of the platform probably isn't especially important. For my application, however, I am placing a large bucket on the scale and collecting several gallons of water. Having enough surface area to properly center the bucket makes the setup considerably easier and gives me more confidence that the container is sitting securely on the scale.
The stainless steel platform is also a nice touch. It looks appropriate in a garage testing environment and should be easy to clean if water or other detailing products are spilled during testing.
The large digital readout is easy to see, although my bucket does partially overlap the display area when positioned on the platform. It isn't a major issue, but it is something worth noting when setting up the test.
Tare Function
The scale includes a tare function, which initially seems like an ideal solution for bucket testing. In theory, I could place the empty bucket on the scale, zero it out and then simply read the weight of the water.
In practice, however, I don't find this particularly useful for my foam cannon testing.
Some of my tests can run for several minutes, and the scale will eventually time out before the test is complete. Rather than having to reset the scale or worry about the display timing out, I simply record the empty bucket weight and subtract it from the final measurement.
In my case, that actually makes the testing process more reliable and repeatable.
More Than Just Testing Equipment
Although I purchased the K245 specifically for my detailing and pressure washer testing, it is still a general purpose digital scale. Its 44 lb capacity makes it useful for many other household applications as well, including food portioning and other items that require a larger weighing surface.
That versatility is a nice bonus, although the primary reason I purchased it was its combination of capacity and precision.
Overall
The Ionsno K245 is a perfect example of how my testing equipment has evolved as the reviews have become more detailed.
I could continue using my old 0.1 kg scale and still get reasonably close dilution calculations, just as I could continue using an analog pressure gauge and estimate pressure from a scale marked in 100 PSI increments. But once you start trying to understand small differences between products, having more precise measurement equipment makes the testing much more useful.
The K245 gives me 1 gram resolution, a large platform and a 44 lb capacity, all for approximately $30. For my particular application, that combination is hard to beat.
The most important benefit isn't simply that I can measure water more accurately. It is that I can now use the scale as an independent reference when testing my other equipment. I can compare the calculated flow from the bucket and scale against the reading from the Gryvoze flow meter, giving me greater confidence that both measurements are accurate.
For the typical homeowner who simply wants to determine how much water their pressure washer uses, this level of precision probably isn't necessary. But for an enthusiast who is testing different nozzles, foam cannons and flow rates and wants to build a more accurate testing methodology, I consider a scale like the K245 a very worthwhile addition to the equipment arsenal.
For my testing, the upgrade from 100 gram resolution to 1 gram resolution was well worth it.
Concept:
Foam cannon manufacturers frequently identify the size of the foam maker orifice in their product specifications, but the actual opening does not always correspond exactly to the advertised size. A precision pin gauge set provides a simple way to physically check the diameter of these small openings.
Why This Product Was Selected?
The pin gauge set was one of the first testing tools I purchased as I began expanding my testing equipment because orifice size is one of the
most important variables when evaluating foam cannons.
Rather than simply relying on the orifice size provided by the manufacturer, the pin gauges allow me to physically measure the actual opening
and verify whether it matches the advertised specification. This is particularly useful when comparing foam cannons from different manufacturers,
where the stated orifice size may not always match the actual measured diameter.
As demonstrated in our detailed Foam Cannon Orifice Testing Review,
however, orifice diameter is only one part of the equation. Nozzles from different manufacturers can vary in overall length, internal geometry,
inlet chamfer, manufacturing tolerances and other design characteristics that can influence flow characteristics even when the measured
orifice diameter is identical.
For that reason, orifice measurements should always be considered together with actual pressure, water flow and amperage testing rather
than being used as the sole indicator of nozzle performance.
Minus (-) means the material is removed entirely on the low side of the nominal dimension (-0.0002" / +0.0000")
Common Use: Ideal for "GO" testing of minimum hole diameters or "NO-GO" applications where the pin must not exceed a specific low limit
Features
50 precision steel pin gauges
0.011 to 0.060 inch range
0.001 inch increments
Class ZZ minus tolerance
±0.0002 inch tolerance
Approximately 2" gauge length
Heat treated, polished, burr-free, bearing steel construction
Hardened to approximately 60 to 62 HRC
The protective case is marked with each specification size for easy identification and organization
Benefits
Allows physical measurement of small orifices
Helps verify manufacturer supplied orifice sizes
Provides more confidence when comparing foam cannons
Helps explain differences in foam cannon performance
Makes it possible to document actual measured orifice sizes rather than relying solely on advertised specifications
Keeps the entire set organized and protected in the included case
Class ZZ minus tolerance pin gage has an allowable size variation of -0.0002 inches to +0.0000 inches (0.00508 mm) from the marked nominal size. This means the pin is never larger than the stated size and can be up to two tenths of a thousandth of an inch smaller.
Technical Data
Brand: TEXALAN
Model: SGUI-M0-IN
AISN: B086H8L4FQ
Type: Class ZZ minus pin gauge set
Quantity: 50 pieces
Range: 0.011 to 0.060 inch
Increment: 0.001 inch
Tolerance: ±0.0002 inch
Length: Approximately 2 inches
Hardness: 60 to 62 HRC
Material: Heat treated steel
Storage: Plastic carrying case
Review
The TEXALAN Steel Pin Gauge Set has become one of the more important pieces of equipment in my foam cannon testing setup because it allows me to physically verify the actual size of the orifice being tested.
When comparing foam cannons, orifice size is one of the most important variables affecting both foam cannon performance and the resulting dilution ratio. The problem is that I have found that the orifice size stated by a manufacturer or printed on an included nozzle does not always tell the entire story. Rather than simply accepting the advertised specification, I wanted a way to actually measure the opening myself.
That is where this set comes in.
The M0 set includes 50 individual steel pin gauges ranging from 0.011" through 0.060" in 0.001" increments, giving me a very useful range for measuring the small openings found in foam cannon orifices. The gauges are manufactured from heat treated bearing steel and are specified at HRC 60 to 62, with a 2" overall length and a minus tolerance of 0.0002". Each gauge is polished and burr free, and the set comes in a storage case with the individual sizes clearly identified.
For my testing, however, the most important feature isn't the construction or the storage case. It is the ability to take a nozzle that is supposedly a particular size and actually check it.
Measuring Actual Orifice Size
This becomes especially useful when I am comparing foam cannons from different manufacturers. Two cannons may both be advertised as using a particular orifice size, but that does not necessarily mean the actual openings are identical.
The pin gauges allow me to insert progressively larger gauges into the orifice until I determine the actual opening size. This gives me a much more reliable starting point for comparing one nozzle against another.
It is important to understand that orifice diameter alone does not determine flow performance. Nozzles from different manufacturers can have different overall lengths, internal geometry, inlet chamfers, manufacturing tolerances and other design characteristics that influence how water flows through them.
That is why I don't use the pin gauge as the only measurement in my testing.
Instead, it is one part of a larger testing process. I can measure the physical orifice size with the pin gauges, then measure water flow, pressure and electrical amperage while the nozzle is actually operating. This gives me a much more complete picture of what that particular nozzle is doing.
Useful for Nozzle Testing
The small increments are particularly useful for my pressure washer testing because I frequently work with relatively small orifices. A difference of only a few thousandths of an inch can have a noticeable effect on flow and pressure, so simply calling two nozzles "1.25" or "1.10" does not necessarily tell the entire story.
Having the gauges available also allows me to document the actual measured size when I publish testing results. This is important because it keeps the testing based on what I can physically verify rather than relying solely on manufacturer specifications.
I also like that the set covers a much wider range than I need for most of my current testing. While I am primarily interested in the smaller gauges for foam cannon and pressure washer nozzle testing, having 50 individual sizes available in one organized case means I don't have to purchase individual gauges as I encounter different nozzle designs.
Build Quality and Storage
The gauges themselves are made from heat treated bearing steel and specified at 60 to 62 HRC. They have a polished, burr free finish and are approximately 2" long.
The included storage case is another simple but important feature. With 50 individual gauges, keeping everything organized would quickly become frustrating without a dedicated case. The sizes are clearly identified, making it easy to select the gauge I need and return it to the correct position afterward.
For a precision measurement tool like this, organization is more important than it might initially seem. Losing one of the smaller gauges or accidentally mixing up sizes would defeat much of the usefulness of the set.
Overall
The TEXALAN pin gauge set is not a tool that most pressure washer owners will ever need.
For someone simply washing vehicles with a pressure washer, there is little reason to know whether a nozzle is actually sized as labeled
or if it is slightly off.
For my testing, however, it has become an essential tool.
I am constantly comparing foam cannons and pressure washer nozzles from different manufacturers, and I want to know exactly what I am testing. The pin gauges give me a simple and repeatable way to verify the physical orifice size before moving on to the more important real world measurements of pressure, flow rate and amperage.
The biggest takeaway is that orifice testing should be considered the starting point, not the complete test. A measured hole diameter tells me what the opening is, but the operating measurements tell me what that opening actually does.
For the relatively small investment, this 50 piece TEXALAN set provides a useful level of precision that simply isn't possible by relying on the markings supplied with many foam cannons. For anyone doing serious nozzle or foam cannon testing, I consider a good pin gauge set to be a worthwhile addition to the testing toolbox.
Concept:
A pressure washer's electrical load is an important part of the equation when testing different nozzle orifice sizes. The MECHEER PM01-US-W power meter allows me to monitor amperage while the pressure washer is operating, making it possible to see how changes in nozzle size affect the electrical load placed on the machine.
Why This Product Was Selected?
The power meter is one of the first testing tools to purchase because monitoring amperage is particularly important when testing pressure washers.
Different nozzle orifice sizes can produce different combinations of pressure, water flow and electrical demand.
A smaller nozzle may increase pressure, but it can also restrict water flow and change how the pressure washer operates.
Because the Active 2.0 has a relatively sensitive electrical load threshold, I want to make sure that testing smaller nozzles does not push
the machine beyond its recommended operating range.
By recording amperage along with pressure and water flow, I can better understand the complete picture of what is actually happening when
changing nozzle sizes.
Features
Digital electrical measurement
Measures voltage
Measures amperage
Measures wattage
Measures frequency
Measures power factor
Measures accumulated energy consumption
Backlit LCD display
Seven display modes
Adjustable overload protection
Data memory function
15 amp maximum current
1800 watt recommended maximum load
Benefits
Allows electrical load to be monitored during nozzle testing
Helps identify excessive amperage
Makes it easier to compare different nozzle sizes
Provides another measurement point when evaluating pressure and flow
Helps keep Active 2.0 testing within an appropriate electrical range
Provides an easy to read digital measurement rather than relying on estimates
Technical Data
Brand: MECHEER
Model: PM01-US-W
AISN: B0DY1PRQBW
Operating Voltage: 120V AC
Operating Frequency: 60Hz
Maximum Current: 15A
Wattage Display: 0 to 1800W
Current Display: 0.0 to 15.0A
Display: Backlit LCD
Measurement Modes: 7
Overload Protection: Adjustable
Power Source: AC power
Review
The MECHEER PM01-US-W Power Meter has become an important part of my pressure washer testing setup, even though its intended purpose is much broader than simply monitoring a pressure washer. For my testing, the most important function is its ability to provide a real time reading of the electrical load being placed on the pressure washer while I test different nozzle sizes and foam cannon configurations.
This is particularly important with the Active 2.0, where I am frequently testing different orifice sizes. A smaller orifice can increase pressure, but it also restricts water flow and can increase the electrical load on the pressure washer. Because of that, I don't want to select a nozzle based solely on the pressure it produces. I also want to know how much current the machine is drawing while operating with that nozzle.
The PM01-US-W makes that extremely easy. I simply plug the meter into the wall outlet and connect the pressure washer to the meter. Once the pressure washer is running, I can immediately see the amperage being drawn rather than relying on an estimate or trying to determine electrical load indirectly.
That information has become especially useful as I experiment with different nozzle sizes. For example, I can compare a 3.0, 3.5, 3.7 and 4.0 orifice and record the corresponding pressure, flow rate and amp draw. This gives me a much more complete picture of how each nozzle affects the pressure washer rather than looking at pressure alone.
The meter also gives me a convenient way to monitor the machine during foam cannon testing. Different foam cannons can have different flow characteristics even when they appear similar on paper, so monitoring amperage provides another useful data point when comparing them.
One of the things I like about the PM01 is that it provides considerably more information than I actually need for this particular application. The display can show voltage, amperage, wattage, frequency, power factor and accumulated energy, with multiple display modes available. For my purposes, I primarily concentrate on amps, but having the additional electrical information available is useful when troubleshooting or documenting testing conditions.
The backlit display is also easy to read while working in the garage, and the meter retains its usefulness as a general purpose electrical monitoring device outside of pressure washer testing. It is essentially a simple plug and play instrument that requires no complicated setup.
I also like having the meter in place as an additional safeguard when experimenting with nozzle sizes. I am intentionally testing smaller orifices than I would normally use in everyday washing, so being able to see the electrical load in real time allows me to determine where I am comfortable operating the Active 2.0 rather than simply assuming that a smaller nozzle is acceptable because it produces higher pressure.
That is really where this meter fits into my overall testing system. I now have dedicated equipment for measuring orifice size, pressure, water flow, electrical load and dilution, which allows me to evaluate pressure washer accessories using actual measurements rather than relying solely on manufacturer specifications.
Overall
For the average homeowner, a dedicated power meter probably isn't something that needs to be added to a pressure washing setup. If you have a pressure washer, use the same nozzle every time and simply want to wash your vehicle, there isn't much reason to monitor the electrical load.
For an enthusiast who enjoys experimenting with different nozzle sizes, foam cannons and other accessories, however, I think a simple meter like the PM01-US-W makes a lot more sense. It provides an inexpensive way to see exactly what is happening electrically as you change the configuration of your pressure washer.
For my particular testing, I consider it an essential piece of equipment. Pressure tells me what the nozzle is producing, flow tells me how much water is moving, and amperage tells me what that configuration is asking from the pressure washer. Having all three measurements together gives me a much better understanding of how different nozzle sizes actually perform.
The MECHEER PM01-US-W is inexpensive, simple to use and has performed exactly as I need it to. For anyone building a more serious pressure washer testing setup, I would consider it a worthwhile addition to the toolbox.
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