Electric Pressure Washer Stopped Working [Easy Troubleshooting]

We may earn commission from qualifying purchases through affiliate links - at no extra cost to you.
Updated in April 2025 | By John

Electric pressure washers are a powerful tool that can make quick work of cleaning a variety of surfaces. But when they stop working, it can be a major inconvenience.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to troubleshoot a common problem an electric pressure washer that won’t start.

I’ll explain the different causes of this problem and how to fix them.

By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to get your pressure washer up and running again in no time.

Reasons Why Electric Pressure Washer Stopped Working

No Power

The power cord is not plugged in or is not plugged in all the way.
The outlet is not working.
The pressure washer’s circuit breaker is tripped.
The pressure washer’s thermal overload protector has tripped.
The pressure washer’s motor is burned out.

No Water Flow

The water supply hose is not connected to the pressure washer or is not connected tightly.
The water supply valve is turned off.
The water filter is clogged.
The pump is not pumping water.
The pressure washer’s pressure relief valve is stuck open.

Low Pressure

The water pressure regulator is set too low.
The pump is not pumping water at full pressure.
The pressure washer’s pressure relief valve is stuck closed.

Other Problems

The pressure washer is leaking water.
The pressure washer is making strange noises.
The pressure washer is smoking.

How to Troubleshoot And Fix: electric pressure washer stopped working

Symptoms of a Pressure Washer that has Stopped Working

There are a few different symptoms that can indicate that your electric pressure washer has stopped working. These include:

The pressure washer won’t start
The pressure washer starts but doesn’t generate any pressure
The pressure washer generates low pressure
The pressure washer leaks
The pressure washer makes strange noises

Troubleshooting a Pressure Washer that has Stopped Working

If your pressure washer has stopped working, there are a few things you can check to try to troubleshoot the problem.

1. Check the power supply:
Make sure that the pressure washer is plugged in and that the power switch is turned on. If the pressure washer is still not working, try plugging it into a different outlet.

2. Check the water supply:
Make sure that the water hose is connected to the pressure washer and that the water is turned on. If the water hose is not connected properly, or if the water is not turned on, the pressure washer will not be able to generate any pressure.

3. Check the air filter:
The air filter on a pressure washer helps to keep the engine clean and free of debris. If the air filter is clogged, it can restrict airflow to the engine and cause the pressure washer to stop working. To check the air filter, remove it from the pressure washer and inspect it for dirt and debris. If the air filter is dirty, clean it with a clean cloth or replace it with a new one.

4. Check the oil level:
The oil level in a pressure washer should be checked regularly and topped off as needed. If the oil level is too low, it can cause the engine to overheat and eventually stop working. To check the oil level, remove the oil dipstick from the pressure washer and wipe it clean. Insert the dipstick back into the engine and remove it again. The oil level should be between the full and add marks on the dipstick. If the oil level is low, add oil to the pressure washer until the level reaches the full mark.

5. Check the spark plugs:
The spark plugs in a pressure washer help to ignite the fuel in the engine. If the spark plugs are damaged or fouled, they can cause the engine to misfire and eventually stop working. To check the spark plugs, remove them from the engine and inspect them for damage. If the spark plugs are damaged, replace them with new ones.

6. Check the fuel filter:
The fuel filter in a pressure washer helps to remove dirt and debris from the fuel. If the fuel filter is clogged, it can restrict the flow of fuel to the engine and cause the pressure washer to stop working. To check the fuel filter, remove it from the pressure washer and inspect it for dirt and debris. If the fuel filter is dirty, clean it with a clean cloth or replace it with a new one.

7. Check the fuel pump:
The fuel pump in a pressure washer helps to deliver fuel to the engine. If the fuel pump is not working properly, it can cause the engine to starve for fuel and eventually stop working. To check the fuel pump, remove the fuel line from the engine and turn on the pressure washer. If the fuel pump is working properly, you should see fuel flowing out of the fuel line. If you do not see fuel flowing out of the fuel line, the fuel pump may be defective and will need to be replaced.

8. Check the engine:
If you have checked all of the other components and the pressure washer is still not working, the problem may be with the engine itself. To check the engine, you will need to remove the spark plugs and turn the engine over by hand. If the engine turns over smoothly, the engine is probably not the problem. If the engine does not turn over smoothly, the engine may be defective and will need to be repaired or replaced.

How to Fix a Pressure Washer that has Stopped Working

Once you have identified the problem with your pressure washer, you can fix it by following the steps below:

1. Fix the power supply:
If the pressure washer is not getting power, you will need to check the power cord and the outlet. If the power cord is damaged, you will need to replace it. If the outlet is not working, you will need to have it repaired or replaced.

2. Fix the water supply:
If the pressure washer is not getting water, you will need to check the water hose and the water source. If the water hose is damaged, you will need to replace it. If the water source is not turned

Also Read THis: Gas Pressure Washer Stopped Working

FAQs: Electric Pressure Washer Stopped Working

Why did my electric pressure washer stop working?

There are a few possible reasons why your electric pressure washer might have stopped working. Here are some of the most common causes:

The motor is overheating: If the motor is overheating, it will automatically shut down to prevent damage. This can happen if the pressure washer is used for too long at a high pressure, or if the air intake is blocked.

The pump is damaged: The pump is the heart of the pressure washer, and if it is damaged, the pressure washer will not be able to generate pressure. This can happen if the pump is run dry, or if it is subjected to too much pressure.

The hose is kinked or damaged: A kinked or damaged hose can restrict the flow of water to the pump, which will cause the pressure washer to lose pressure.

The nozzle is clogged: A clogged nozzle can prevent the water from flowing out of the pressure washer at full pressure. This can be caused by dirt or debris getting caught in the nozzle.

The water supply is not adequate: If the water supply is not adequate, the pressure washer will not be able to generate enough pressure. This can happen if the water pressure is too low, or if the water flow is too slow.

How do I fix my electric pressure washer?

If your electric pressure washer has stopped working, you can try to fix it yourself by following these steps:

1. Check the motor: If the motor is overheating, you can let it cool down for a few minutes and then try turning it on again. If the motor still overheats, you may need to replace it.
2. Check the pump: If the pump is damaged, you will need to replace it.
3. Check the hose: If the hose is kinked or damaged, you can try to straighten it out or replace it.
4. Check the nozzle: If the nozzle is clogged, you can try to clean it out with a needle or a wire brush.
5. Check the water supply: If the water supply is not adequate, you can try to increase the water pressure or the water flow.

If you are unable to fix your electric pressure washer yourself, you may need to take it to a qualified repair technician.

What should I do if my electric pressure washer is still not working?

If your electric pressure washer is still not working after you have tried to fix it yourself, you may need to take it to a qualified repair technician. A repair technician will be able to diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.

How can I prevent my electric pressure washer from breaking down?

There are a few things you can do to prevent your electric pressure washer from breaking down:

Use it properly: Be sure to read the owner’s manual and follow the instructions for use. Do not use the pressure washer for tasks that it is not designed for.

Maintain it regularly: Keep the pressure washer clean and free of debris. Inspect the pressure washer regularly for signs of wear and tear, and replace any damaged parts as soon as possible.

Store it properly: When you are not using the pressure washer, store it in a cool, dry place. Do not store the pressure washer outdoors or in a damp area.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent your electric pressure washer from breaking down.

What are the signs that my electric pressure washer needs to be repaired?

There are a few signs that your electric pressure washer may need to be repaired:

The pressure washer is not generating enough pressure.
The pressure washer is making strange noises.
The pressure washer is overheating.
The pressure washer is leaking water.
The pressure washer is not turning on.

If you notice any of these signs, it is important to have the pressure washer repaired as soon as possible. Ignoring these signs could lead to further damage to the pressure washer, which could make it more expensive to repair.

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.

Leave a Comment