Electric Pressure Washer Not Working: [Reasons + Fixed]

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Updated in April 2025 | By John

Electric pressure washers are a valuable tool for homeowners and businesses alike. They can be used to clean a variety of surfaces, from cars to driveways to decks. However, like any other tool, electric pressure washers can malfunction. When this happens, it can be a major inconvenience. Not only is it frustrating to not be able to use your pressure washer, but it can also be dangerous. If the pressure washer is not working properly, it could spray water in an unintended direction, which could cause injury.

This troubleshooting guide will help you quickly diagnose and resolve the most common problems with electric pressure washers. By following the steps in this guide, you can get your pressure washer back up and running in no time.

Why Electric Pressure Washer Not Working

No Power

The pressure washer is not plugged in or the outlet is not working.
The pressure washer’s power cord is damaged.
The pressure washer’s motor is burned out.

Water Won’t Come Out

The water supply hose is not connected to the pressure washer or the faucet.
The water supply hose is kinked or blocked.
The pressure washer’s pump is clogged.
The pressure washer’s pressure regulator is set too low.

Pressure Is Too Low

The pressure washer’s pump is not working properly.
The pressure washer’s pressure regulator is set too low.
The pressure washer’s water filter is clogged.

Pressure Is Too High

The pressure washer’s pressure regulator is set too high.
The pressure washer’s pump is overworking.
The pressure washer’s water hose is too small.

The Pressure Washer Is Making Noise

The pressure washer’s pump is not lubricated properly.
The pressure washer’s pump is worn out.
The pressure washer’s impeller is damaged.

The Pressure Washer Is Leaking

The pressure washer’s seals are worn out.
The pressure washer’s hoses are damaged.
The pressure washer’s pump is leaking.

How to Troubleshoot And Fix: Electric Pressure Washer Not Working

Symptoms of an Electric Pressure Washer Not Working

There are a few different symptoms that can indicate that your electric pressure washer is not working properly. These include:

The pressure washer won’t start
The pressure washer starts but doesn’t build pressure
The pressure washer makes a loud noise
The pressure washer leaks water
The pressure washer doesn’t spray water

Troubleshooting an Electric Pressure Washer Not Working

If your electric pressure washer is not working, there are a few things you can check to troubleshoot the problem. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Check the power supply:
Make sure that the pressure washer is plugged into an outlet that is providing power. If the outlet is not working, try plugging the pressure washer into a different outlet.

2. Check the fuse:
Some pressure washers have a fuse that can blow if the pressure washer is overloaded. To check the fuse, look for a small, round, black object in the power cord. If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new fuse that is the same size and type.3. Check the water supply:
Make sure that the pressure washer is connected to a water source that is providing water at a high enough pressure. If the water pressure is too low, the pressure washer will not be able to build pressure.

4. Check the pump:
The pump is the heart of the pressure washer. If the pump is not working properly, the pressure washer will not be able to build pressure. To check the pump, turn on the pressure washer and listen for a loud humming noise. If you don’t hear a humming noise, the pump is not working properly.

5. Check the hoses and nozzles:
The hoses and nozzles can become clogged with dirt and debris, which can prevent the pressure washer from spraying water. To check the hoses and nozzles, disconnect them from the pressure washer and inspect them for damage. If the hoses or nozzles are damaged, replace them.

Fixing an Electric Pressure Washer Not Working

Once you have diagnosed the problem with your electric pressure washer, you can fix it. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Replace the fuse:
If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new fuse that is the same size and type.

2. Clean the water supply:
If the water supply is dirty, clean it with a hose.3. Replace the pump:
If the pump is not working properly, replace it with a new pump.

4. Clean the hoses and nozzles:
If the hoses and nozzles are clogged, clean them with a hose.

Preventing Problems with Your Electric Pressure Washer

There are a few things you can do to prevent problems with your electric pressure washer. These include:

Use the pressure washer according to the manufacturer’s instructions:
This will help to prevent damage to the pressure washer.

Don’t overload the pressure washer:
If you overload the pressure washer, the fuse can blow.

Don’t use the pressure washer on delicate surfaces:
The pressure washer can damage delicate surfaces, such as paint and siding.

Clean the pressure washer regularly:
Cleaning the pressure washer will help to prevent dirt and debris from clogging the hoses and nozzles.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent problems with your electric pressure washer.

FAQs: Electric Pressure Washer Not Working

Why is my electric pressure washer not working?

There are a few possible reasons why your electric pressure washer may not be working. Here are some of the most common:

The pressure washer is not plugged in properly: Make sure that the power cord is plugged into an outlet and that the outlet is turned on.

The pressure washer is not turned on: Check the power switch to make sure that it is in the On position.

The pressure washer is out of water: Make sure that the water tank is filled with water.

The pressure washer is clogged: The pressure washer may be clogged with dirt or debris. Try cleaning the filter and the nozzle.

The pressure washer is damaged: If the pressure washer is not working after you have checked all of the above, it may be damaged. You may need to take it to a repair shop.

How do I troubleshoot a pressure washer that is not working?

If your pressure washer is not working, here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot the problem:

1. Check the power cord: Make sure that the power cord is plugged into an outlet and that the outlet is turned on.
2. Check the power switch: Make sure that the power switch is in the On position.
3. Check the water tank: Make sure that the water tank is filled with water.
4. Check the filter and nozzle: The pressure washer may be clogged with dirt or debris. Try cleaning the filter and the nozzle.
5. Take the pressure washer to a repair shop: If the pressure washer is not working after you have checked all of the above, it may be damaged. You may need to take it to a repair shop.

How do I clean a pressure washer filter?

To clean a pressure washer filter, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the pressure washer and disconnect the power cord.
2. Remove the filter from the pressure washer.
3. Rinse the filter under running water.
4. Use a brush to clean any dirt or debris from the filter.
5. Reattach the filter to the pressure washer.

How do I clean a pressure washer nozzle?

To clean a pressure washer nozzle, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the pressure washer and disconnect the power cord.
2. Remove the nozzle from the pressure washer.
3. Soak the nozzle in a solution of vinegar and water for 15 minutes.
4. Use a brush to clean any dirt or debris from the nozzle.
5. Rinse the nozzle under running water.
6. Reattach the nozzle to the pressure washer.

How do I maintain my electric pressure washer?

To maintain your electric pressure washer, follow these tips:

Clean the pressure washer after each use: This will help to prevent the build-up of dirt and debris.

Inspect the pressure washer regularly for damage: If you see any damage, have the pressure washer repaired or replaced.

Store the pressure washer in a cool, dry place: This will help to protect the pressure washer from the elements.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance: The manufacturer’s instructions will provide specific information on how to maintain your particular pressure washer.

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About The Author

I am John, and I am the creator of this website. I have been in the woodworking industry for about 5 years. I developed my passion for DIY projects around the house when I was in high school. I have discovered a new appreciation for those who have the experience to pass along their expertise. They know what works best and are able to help others. I am proud to be among them.

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