So, I take it you are familiar with this scenario: Life was peaceful until your pressure washer decided to take a vacation. Imagine the audacity! So, what now?
First of all, take a chill pill and calm down my man (or woman), because we’re going to tackle these issues head-on because, let’s face it, you don’t have time to sit around sipping lemonade while the dirt cackles manically at your misfortune. So, buckle up, buttercup, let’s dive headfirst into the most common pressure washer problems and how to troubleshoot them.
1) The Pressure Washer Won’t Start: An Unexpected Journey
If you’ve pulled the started cord and nothing is happening, your pressure washer might be playing hard to get. But in a more likely scenario, there’s something wrong with it on a technical basis.
Here are some steps that might help:
- Check the basics: Is there enough fuel? Is the switch turned on? Yes, it can be that simple sometimes. The day could be saved by a mere flick of a switch. Your heroic act of the day!
- Inspect the spark plug: If the spark plug is dirty or faulty, the engine won’t start. So get that plug sparkling clean or replace it if needed. Because sometimes, all we need is a little spark in life… and pressure washers.
2) Low Pressure: The Fellowship of the Nozzle
Your pressure washer used to pack a punch that would make Mike Tyson blush. But now, it’s closer to a geriatric turtle on tranquilizers. What happened?
- Is your water supply adequate?: You wouldn’t run a marathon without hydrating, right? Same goes for your pressure washer. Check the water supply to ensure it’s up to par.
- Check the nozzle: It might be clogged or simply not the right size. So whip out your detective hat and magnifying glass – it’s time to inspect!
3) Pressure Washer Pulsating: The Two Variables
So you’ve successfully started your pressure washer only to realize it’s pulsating weirdly. It’s this weird noise going back and forth, not stable at all. What could be the problem?
- The inlet could be blocked: The culprits could be anything from debris to teeny-tiny aliens (but mostly likely, it’s debris). Clean it up and see if it makes a difference.
- The pump might need a look-over: It may be worn or dirty, and let’s face it, none of us perform at our best when we’re worn out or dirty.
4) Leaking Pressure Washer: The Return of the Drip
If your pressure washer is attempting to create a pool around itself, it’s probably leaking. And unless you’re trying to create an impromptu water park, you’ll want to tackle this issue quickly.
- Check the hose connection: Is it tight enough? If not, give it a snug fit. But be careful not to go Incredible Hulk on it.
- Inspect the seals: They could be worn out and need replacement. After all, even seals need a break, you know.
5) Your Pressure Washer Has Become A Smoke Machine: A Song of Water and Fire
If your pressure washer has decided to double as a smoke machine, it’s probably not prepping for a surprise rock concert.
- Too much oil: Overenthusiasm while oiling can lead to this. Measure the right amount next time. Yes, less can be more.
- Check the air filter: A dirty or blocked air filter can cause the engine to smoke. So put on your rubber gloves and get cleaning.
The Bottom Line
Congratz! You made it to the very end, so I guess you’ve found at least some information useful. At least I hope that is the case. Now that you are familiar with the most common pressure washer problems and know how to troubleshoot them, go forth and clean that side walk!