Pressure Washer Lance Not Working [Step-By-Step Fixes]

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Updated in April 2025 | By John

There’s nothing more frustrating than having a pressure washer that doesn’t work. You need to get the job done, but your tool is letting you down. If your pressure washer lance isn’t working, you’re not alone. This is a common problem, but it’s one that can be easily fixed.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to troubleshoot and fix a pressure washer lance that isn’t working. I’ll also provide tips on how to prevent this problem from happening in the future. So if you’re ready to get your pressure washer back up and running, let’s get started!

Reasons Why Pressure Washer Lance Not Working

No Water Flow

– No water coming out of the lance
– Water coming out of the lance very slowly
– Water coming out of the lance in a weak stream

Water Leaking

– Water leaking from the connection between the lance and the pressure washer
– Water leaking from the connection between the lance and the spray tip
– Water leaking from the spray tip

Pressure Washer Lance Clogged

– The spray tip is clogged with dirt or debris
– The nozzle is clogged with dirt or debris
– The lance is clogged with dirt or debris

How to Troubleshoot And Fix: Pressure Washer Lance Not Working

Symptoms of a Pressure Washer Lance Not Working

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

The pressure washer is not producing any water:
This is the most obvious symptom, and it can be caused by a number of different problems, including a clogged nozzle, a broken hose, or a faulty pump.

The pressure washer is producing low pressure water:
This can be caused by a clogged nozzle, a kinked hose, or a problem with the pump.

The pressure washer is producing a weak stream of water:
This can be caused by a clogged nozzle, a kinked hose, or a problem with the pump.

The pressure washer is producing a crooked stream of water:
This can be caused by a bent nozzle or a problem with the pump.

The pressure washer is making a strange noise:
This could be a sign of a problem with the pump or the motor.

How to Troubleshoot a Pressure Washer Lance Not Working

Once you have identified the symptoms of your pressure washer lance not working, you can begin to troubleshoot the problem. Here are a few steps to help you get started:

1. Check the nozzle:
The nozzle is the most common cause of a pressure washer lance not working. To check the nozzle, remove it from the lance and inspect it for any damage. If the nozzle is clogged, you can try cleaning it with a wire brush or by soaking it in a vinegar solution. If the nozzle is damaged, you will need to replace it.

2. Check the hose:
The hose can also be a source of problems for a pressure washer lance. To check the hose, inspect it for any kinks or tears. If the hose is kinked, you can try straightening it out. If the hose is torn, you will need to replace it.3. Check the pump:
The pump is the heart of a pressure washer, and it can be the cause of a number of problems. To check the pump, turn on the pressure washer and listen for any unusual noises. If the pump is making a strange noise, it could be a sign of a problem. You can also try checking the oil level in the pump. If the oil level is low, you will need to add oil to the pump.

4. Check the motor:
The motor is another important component of a pressure washer, and it can also be the cause of problems. To check the motor, turn on the pressure washer and watch for any unusual behavior. If the motor is not running smoothly, it could be a sign of a problem. You can also try checking the spark plugs and the air filter. If the spark plugs are fouled or the air filter is dirty, you will need to clean or replace them.

How to Fix a Pressure Washer Lance Not Working

Once you have identified the problem with your pressure washer lance, you can begin to fix it. Here are a few steps to help you get started:

1. Clean the nozzle:
If the nozzle is clogged, you can try cleaning it with a wire brush or by soaking it in a vinegar solution.

2. Replace the hose:
If the hose is kinked or torn, you will need to replace it.3. Add oil to the pump:
If the oil level in the pump is low, you will need to add oil to the pump.

4. Clean or replace the spark plugs and the air filter:
If the spark plugs are fouled or the air filter is dirty, you will need to clean or replace them.

Preventing Pressure Washer Lance Problems

You can help prevent pressure washer lance problems by following these tips:

Use the right type of water:
Do not use water that is too hot or too cold.

Do not use the pressure washer on delicate surfaces:

Clean the pressure washer regularly:

Store the pressure washer properly:

By following these tips, you can help keep your pressure washer lance working properly and avoid costly repairs.

Also Read THis: Pressure Washer Not Working Correctly

FAQs: Pressure Washer Lance Not Working

Why is my pressure washer lance not working?

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

The lance is clogged: This is the most common cause of a pressure washer lance not working. Clogs can occur due to dirt, debris, or soap buildup. To clear a clog, try using a wire brush to clean the inside of the lance.

The lance is damaged: If the lance is bent or damaged, it can prevent the water from flowing properly. If you think your lance is damaged, you should replace it.

The pressure washer is not turned on: Make sure that the pressure washer is turned on and that the water is flowing properly.

The pressure washer is not producing enough pressure: If the pressure washer is not producing enough pressure, it will not be able to clean effectively. Check the pressure washer’s settings to make sure that it is set to the correct pressure.

The water hose is kinked or damaged: If the water hose is kinked or damaged, it can prevent the water from flowing properly. Check the hose for any kinks or damage and repair or replace it as needed.

How do I fix a clogged pressure washer lance?

To fix a clogged pressure washer lance, you can use a wire brush to clean the inside of the lance. Here are the steps:

1. Turn off the pressure washer and disconnect the water hose.
2. Remove the lance from the pressure washer.
3. Use a wire brush to clean the inside of the lance.
4. Reattach the lance to the pressure washer.
5. Turn on the pressure washer and test it to make sure that the clog is cleared.

How do I know if my pressure washer lance is damaged?

There are a few ways to tell if your pressure washer lance is damaged. Here are some of the signs to look for:

The lance is bent or cracked.
The lance is leaking water.
The lance is not producing enough pressure.
The lance is not cleaning effectively.

If you see any of these signs, it is likely that your lance is damaged and needs to be replaced.

How do I adjust the pressure on my pressure washer?

The pressure on your pressure washer can be adjusted by turning the pressure regulator. The pressure regulator is usually located on the front of the pressure washer. To adjust the pressure, turn the regulator clockwise to increase the pressure or counterclockwise to decrease the pressure.

What should I do if my pressure washer is not producing enough pressure?

There are a few reasons why your pressure washer might not be producing enough pressure. Here are some of the most common causes:

The pressure washer is not turned on: Make sure that the pressure washer is turned on and that the water is flowing properly.

The pressure washer is not producing enough water: Check the water hose for any kinks or damage. If the hose is kinked or damaged, it can prevent the water from flowing properly.

The pressure washer is clogged: The pressure washer can become clogged with dirt, debris, or soap buildup. To clear a clog, try using a wire brush to clean the inside of the pressure washer.

The pressure washer is damaged: If the pressure washer is damaged, it may not be able to produce enough pressure. If you think your pressure washer is damaged, you should have it repaired or replaced.

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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