A pressure washer is a handy tool which has made a lot of our work easier. Cleaning has never been more convenient since this invention. With the help of a pressure washer, deep cleaning around your property has become easy.
This tool can effectively get rid of graffiti as well as the dirt and debris buildup outside your home. But like any other machine, pressure washers can also break down due to frequent use. The good thing is some of these problems are minor and can be fixed at home. Here are basic fixes you may find useful for some of the common pressure washer problems.
Low pressure
If you are experiencing low pressure, there could only be two things. It’s either that the pressure washer has an incorrect nozzle size or its nozzle has worn out. To fix this issue, make sure that you are using the correct size nozzles.
Also, see to it that water is coming into the equipment properly. When you spot broken or worn out nozzles, have them replaced immediately. Make sure the water hose allows maximum water flow.
Rough running of the pressure washer
When a pressure washer starts running rougher than the usual, it means that the inlet water is too hot. Use cold water instead to fix this problem.
Also be aware that even if your water faucet isn’t hot, the sunshine is enough to warm the trapped water in the hose. And it’s enough to cause this problem.
Another possible reason for this issue? There isn’t adequate air entering the inlet plumbing. To create pressure, you need the right amount of air and water.
Make sure that all components are working properly and don’t forget to check the discharge valves. Check the air filter of the pressure washer and determine if it needs replacement.
No pressure
If there isn’t any pressure at all coming out of your washer, it could be a faulty pump inlet valve or unloader valve. If these two are clogged, try to have them cleaned. But if cleaning doesn’t do the trick, the valves need replacing.
Leaking pressure washer
Pressure washers need regular maintenance to keep working properly
A leaking pressure washer could be a sign of a worn out seal. There are several seals found throughout the pressure washer. And one failing seal is enough to create a leak.
Water is not the only thing that can leak from a pressure washer. Oil leaks are also a common issue. To prevent this problem, make it a habit to check all your seals at least twice a year. Make sure to replace the worn out ones immediately.
There are also times when leaks are caused by broken plungers or worn out packing. This is a common event if the pressure washer is in heavy use for a long time. Have the damaged seals replaced as soon as you identify them.
Pulsating pressure
A variation in the water pressure could be an sign of a faulty pump. It could also mean that it has sucked up too much air. Get rid of the excess air by turning the machine off and squeezing the trigger.
Sudden shut down
If the pressure washer suddenly shuts down, there are two primary reasons you should be looking at. It has either run out of oil or it has run out of fuel. Make it a habit to check the oil levels of the pressure washer every time you’re going to use it.
Even if you have refilled the oil and fuel, make sure you don’t forget this step. This will help you identify any flaws in the manufacturing or leaks which may have developed over time.
Pressure washer not starting up
When the pressure washer won’t start even after checking oil and fuel levels, the next thing to check is the primer pump. Try to pump the fuel primer for about 6 to 7 times. Then do some more start ups and do 2 to 3 pumps for the next pulls. If it doesn’t work, let it sit for a few minutes before running the choke on full.
Pressure washer problems are inevitable, especially when they are heavily used for a long time. But it helps when you are familiar with some of the basic troubleshooting.
If all else fails or the problem is too complicated to fix at home, you’ll need professional pressure washer repair. Visit Greg’s Small Engine if you need help with all things related to pressure washer issues.
