Home fixes: How to troubleshoot a pressure washer

Is your pressure washer refusing to start or dribbles water like a broken tap? The most common pressure washer problem is low water pressure, and it’s almost always caused by blocked nozzles or inlet filters. Pressure washer troubleshooting can be quick. Cleaning both is quick and resolves most problems. 

If cleaning doesn't work, you're in the right place. This guide will walk you through the most common pressure washer problems and show you how to troubleshoot a pressure washer yourself. 

3 types of pressure washers

Before you start troubleshooting, it helps to know whether you're working with an electric or petrol pressure washer. 

1. Gas pressure washer

Gas pressure washer

This type of pressure washer is best for deep cleaning, as it delivers higher pressure. They’re typically noisier, clunkier, and just like any tool that operates on an engine, at risk of overheating. It's often used for:

• Deep cleaning driveways, decks, or cement yards

• Heavy-duty stain removal

• Keeping work areas in production facilities clean (industrial type)

• Cleaning large vehicles

• Cleaning the exterior of your home, including awnings

2. Electric pressure washer

Electric pressure washer

Typically smaller than gas pressure washers, electric models produce lower pressure suitable for regular cleaning rather than stain removal or deep cleaning. They can be used for longer periods, but keep in mind that you'd be restricted to the length of their power cord and hose.

Some of the most common uses are:

• Cleaning wood decks, outdoor furniture, and pathways

• Cleaning windows and fencing

• Deep cleaning miscellaneous gear, like lawn mowers

3. Battery-powered

Battery-powered pressure washer

A battery-powered pressure washer is more compact and produces less pressure, so they're great for lighter-duty tasks. A battery-powered pressure washer can be used for:

• Cleaning tiled bathrooms and showers

• Cleaning sports equipment, from bikes to golf clubs

• Flushing out gutters

5 common pressure washer issues and what to do

Depending on the type you use, you might encounter instances when your pressure washer won't work properly. Before handing it off to a professional for service or repair, simple maintenance and simple troubleshooting might do the trick.

1. Pressure washer won’t start

There may be several culprits in this case. The first thing you want to do is ensure that your pressure washer is in good condition to run. For gas pressure washers, that means checking that you're not out of gas or engine oil and that the engine is switched on.

Electric pressure washer troubleshooting would need confirming that the pressure washer is plugged in appropriately to the source. Check if there is a loose plug or a faulty outlet. 

Meanwhile, if your battery-powered pressure washer isn't working, you may have to recharge or replace your batteries and clean the connection.

A few more steps you can take to resolve this issue include:

• Squeezing the trigger gun to release any pressure that has built up in the system.

• Opening the fuel valve and choke in case of any blockages

• Reconnecting a loose spark plug

• Cleaning the carburettor in case it's clogged

2. Pressure washer stops while in use

This is likely because your gas pressure washer needs to be refilled with oil, or a dirty air filter needs to be replaced. If you encounter this while using your electric pressure washer, check to see if the voltage is within the motor's specified range. If it keeps stopping, it may need professional repair.

3. Water leaks

Leaking in a pressure washer.

Do you notice your water leaks from your pressure washer, through the pump or spray wand? Here’s what you should do before calling in a pro:

• Check all hose connections are fully seated.

• Inspect if there are loose or broken seals and bolts on the pump housing.

• If the leak originates from the pump, test the thermal release valve–wait five minutes before use after you activate it.

• If the water leaks come from the spray wand, inspect the O-ring on the hose connection–replace it if damaged.

4. Low to no pressure

If you’re wondering why your pressure washer has low pressure or has lost pressure, it can be a cause of stress if your machine isn't helping you clean as it should.

• Check that you have an adequate water supply and that the water flow isn't being restricted.

• Look for signs of clogging, leaks, or kinks in the hose you're using.

• Remove and rinse the inlet filter under a tap. 

• Examine other parts of your pressure washer that could be blocked, such as the inlet, spray gun, and nozzle. You may have to clean them if you find any debris.

A dull or worn nozzle, or one that isn't the right fit for your pressure washer, may also reduce pressure, so ensure that it's attached properly or replace it if necessary. If nothing works, the unloader valve or pump seals might be the issue, and this would need professional pressure washer repair.

5. Pulsing pressure

Now, if you notice your pressure washer pulsating, it might be that there's air in the system. Pulsing pressure may also be due to obstructions, whether in the inlet, nozzle, or gun. A thorough cleaning of these parts should clear this up.

You may also need to adjust the power if you notice that your engine or motor is fluctuating. 

If those don’t work, this issue may be due to a faulty or damaged pump. Your pressure washer should be serviced so that the pump can be repaired or replaced.

Pressure washer maintenance and care

Cleaning the outdoor space.

You're likely to encounter certain issues if you've been using your pressure washer for some time. A few good maintenance practices can keep your machine running smoothly and minimise wear:

• Release compressed air from the system. Run the machine until the water stops flowing to purge compressed air.

• Routinely check for any obstructions in nozzles, tubes, tanks, and hoses. It's essential to not only keep the exterior clean but also to ensure that no debris can cause further damage later on.

• Make sure to winterise your pressure washer by draining water and filling it with antifreeze before storage during cold seasons to keep the pump in good condition.Take off the pressure in maintenance

Take off the pressure in maintenance

Going through these troubleshooting steps isn't just about fixing the problem yourself. It's about understanding what's actually wrong with your pressure washer. Once you know whether it's a clogged nozzle, a pump issue, or something with the motor, you're in a much better position to get maintenance help when you need it.

If the problem's beyond a quick fix, post a task on Airtasker with the details you've uncovered. You'll get accurate quotes from local pressure washer repair Taskers who know exactly what they're dealing with, and they can often come to you with the right parts ready to go. You can also call in a handyman for general home fixes.