High Pressure Washer Not Working [Proven Fixes!]

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Updated in April 2025 | By John

Your high-pressure washer is one of the most valuable tools in your arsenal for cleaning your home and property. But when it stops working, it can be a major inconvenience. Not only is it frustrating, but it can also be costly to have it repaired or replaced.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the common causes of a high-pressure washer not working and how to troubleshoot each one. By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to fix your high-pressure washer yourself and get back to cleaning.

Why High Pressure Washer Not Working

No Water

No water supply to the pressure washer
Water supply valve is turned off
Water filter is clogged
Water hose is kinked or damaged
Pump is damaged

Low Pressure

Water pressure regulator is set too low
Water filter is clogged
Pump is damaged
Engine is running too slowly

High Pressure

Water pressure regulator is set too high
Pump is damaged
Engine is running too fast

Won’t Start

Engine is not getting fuel
Engine is not getting spark
Engine is flooded
Starter is damaged

Makes Noise

Pump is making a whining noise
Pump is making a grinding noise
Engine is making a knocking noise
Engine is making a rattling noise

Leaks

Water is leaking from the pump
Water is leaking from the hose
Water is leaking from the gun

How to Troubleshoot And Fix: High Pressure Washer Not Working

Your high-pressure washer is a valuable tool for cleaning your home, car, and other surfaces. But what happens when it stops working? Don’t panic! There are a few simple things you can check to troubleshoot the problem and get your washer up and running again.

Step 1: Check the power

The first thing you should do is check to make sure that your high-pressure washer is plugged in and turned on. If it is, then you can move on to the next step.

Step 2: Check the water supply

Make sure that there is water flowing to your high-pressure washer. You can do this by checking the water hose to make sure that it is not kinked or blocked. You should also check the water filter to make sure that it is clean.

Step 3: Check the pump

If the water is flowing to your high-pressure washer but it is not generating pressure, then the problem may be with the pump. You can check the pump by listening for any unusual noises. If you hear a whining or grinding noise, then the pump may be damaged and will need to be replaced.

Step 4: Check the hoses

If the pump is working properly but you are still not getting any pressure, then the problem may be with the hoses. Check the hoses for leaks or kinks. You should also make sure that the hoses are properly connected to the pump and the spray gun.

Step 5: Check the spray gun

If the hoses are connected properly and you are still not getting any pressure, then the problem may be with the spray gun. You can check the spray gun by removing the nozzle and inspecting it for damage. You should also make sure that the nozzle is properly screwed onto the spray gun.

Step 6: Troubleshooting Tips

Here are a few troubleshooting tips that may help you fix your high-pressure washer:

Try cleaning the water filter.
Try replacing the o-rings on the pump.
Try bleeding the air out of the pump.
Try adjusting the pressure regulator.
Try replacing the spray gun.

Conclusion

If you have tried all of these troubleshooting tips and your high-pressure washer is still not working, then you may need to take it to a professional for repairs.

FAQs: High Pressure Washer Not Working

Why is my high pressure washer not working?

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

The water supply is not turned on: Make sure that the water supply to your high pressure washer is turned on and that the water pressure is sufficient.

The hose is kinked or blocked: Check the hose to make sure that it is not kinked or blocked. If it is, straighten it out or remove the blockage.

The nozzle is clogged: Clean the nozzle to remove any dirt or debris that may be blocking it.

The pump is not working properly: If the pump is not working properly, it may need to be repaired or replaced.

The motor is not working properly: If the motor is not working properly, it may need to be repaired or replaced.

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

If your high pressure washer is not working, here are a few things you can try:

1. Check the water supply: Make sure that the water supply to your high pressure washer is turned on and that the water pressure is sufficient.
2. Check the hose: Check the hose to make sure that it is not kinked or blocked. If it is, straighten it out or remove the blockage.
3. Clean the nozzle: Clean the nozzle to remove any dirt or debris that may be blocking it.
4. Check the pump: If the pump is not working properly, it may need to be repaired or replaced.
5. Check the motor: If the motor is not working properly, it may need to be repaired or replaced.

How can I prevent my high pressure washer from not working?

There are a few things you can do to prevent your high pressure washer from not working:

Always turn off the water supply when you are not using the high pressure washer: This will help to prevent the pump from overheating.

Do not kink or block the hose: This can damage the hose and prevent the high pressure washer from working properly.

Clean the nozzle regularly: This will help to prevent the nozzle from becoming clogged and the high pressure washer from not working properly.

Have the pump and motor regularly serviced: This will help to ensure that they are working properly and that your high pressure washer is operating at peak performance.

What are the signs that my high pressure washer needs to be repaired or replaced?

There are a few signs that your high pressure washer may need to be repaired or replaced:

The high pressure washer is not producing enough pressure.
The high pressure washer is making strange noises.
The high pressure washer is leaking water.
The high pressure washer is not turning on.

If you notice any of these signs, it is important to have your high pressure washer repaired or replaced as soon as possible.

Where can I get my high pressure washer repaired or replaced?

There are a few places where you can get your high pressure washer repaired or replaced:

The manufacturer: The manufacturer of your high pressure washer may offer repair or replacement services.

A local repair shop: There are many local repair shops that can repair or replace high pressure washers.

An online retailer: Some online retailers offer repair or replacement services for high pressure washers.

Also Read: Husky Pressure Washer Pump Not Working

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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