Pressure Washer Suction Hose Not Working [Easy Fixes!]

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Updated in April 2025 | By John

There’s nothing more frustrating than trying to use your pressure washer only to find that the suction hose isn’t working. This can be a major inconvenience, especially if you’re in the middle of a project. But don’t worry, there’s usually an easy fix.

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

Why Pressure Washer Suction Hose Not Working

Clogged Suction Hose

The most common reason for a pressure washer suction hose not working is a clogged hose. This can be caused by dirt, debris, or other materials that get sucked into the hose. To fix this problem, you will need to disconnect the hose from the pressure washer and clean it out. You can do this by using a garden hose to flush out the debris, or by using a brush to scrub the inside of the hose.

kinked or damaged hose

Another common cause of a pressure washer suction hose not working is a kinked or damaged hose. This can prevent the water from flowing freely through the hose, which will reduce the pressure of the spray. To fix this problem, you will need to inspect the hose for kinks or damage. If you find any, you will need to replace the hose.

Incorrect water pressure

If the water pressure at your home is too low, it can also cause the pressure washer suction hose not to work. This is because the water pressure is not strong enough to push the water through the hose. To fix this problem, you will need to increase the water pressure at your home. You can do this by contacting your local water company or by installing a water pressure booster pump.

Blocked inlet valve

The inlet valve on a pressure washer is responsible for allowing water to flow into the pump. If this valve is blocked, it can prevent the water from flowing into the pump, which will cause the pressure washer to not work. To fix this problem, you will need to clean or replace the inlet valve.

Faulty pump

If the pump on your pressure washer is faulty, it will not be able to generate enough pressure to power the spray. This can cause the pressure washer suction hose not to work. To fix this problem, you will need to have the pump repaired or replaced.

How to Troubleshoot And Fix: Pressure Washer Suction Hose Not Working

Symptoms of a Pressure Washer Suction Hose Not Working

There are a few telltale signs that your pressure washer suction hose is not working properly. These include:

The pressure washer is not producing enough pressure.
The pressure washer is making a loud whining noise.
The pressure washer is leaking water from the suction hose.
The pressure washer is not starting at all.

Troubleshooting a Pressure Washer Suction Hose

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it is likely that your pressure washer suction hose is not working properly. Here are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot the problem:

1. Check the hose for kinks or obstructions:
The most common cause of a pressure washer suction hose not working is a kink or obstruction in the hose. To check for a kink, simply run your hands along the hose to see if there are any tight bends or kinks. If you find a kink, try to straighten it out as much as possible. If you are unable to straighten out the kink, you will need to replace the hose.

2. Check the hose for leaks:
Another common cause of a pressure washer suction hose not working is a leak. To check for a leak, look for any signs of water coming out of the hose. If you see water leaking from the hose, you will need to repair or replace the hose.3. Check the pump:
The pump is the heart of your pressure washer, and if it is not working properly, it can cause the suction hose to not work properly. To check the pump, turn on the pressure washer and listen for any unusual noises. If you hear a loud whining noise, it is likely that the pump is not working properly. You will need to have the pump serviced or replaced.

4. Check the filter:
The filter is located at the end of the suction hose, and it helps to prevent debris from entering the pump. If the filter is clogged, it can restrict the flow of water to the pump, which can cause the suction hose to not work properly. To check the filter, remove it from the hose and clean it with a brush. If the filter is damaged, you will need to replace it.

Fixing a Pressure Washer Suction Hose

If you are able to identify and fix the problem with your pressure washer suction hose, you can usually get the hose back up and running in no time. Here are a few tips for fixing a pressure washer suction hose:

If the hose is kinked, you can try to straighten it out by running hot water over it.
If the hose is leaking, you can try to repair the leak with a patch kit.
If the hose is damaged, you will need to replace it.

You can find pressure washer suction hoses at most hardware stores. When choosing a replacement hose, be sure to select a hose that is the same size and length as the original hose.

Preventing Pressure Washer Suction Hose Problems

The best way to prevent pressure washer suction hose problems is to take care of your hose and to inspect it regularly for signs of damage. Here are a few tips for preventing pressure washer suction hose problems:

Do not kink or bend the hose.
Do not drag the hose across the ground.
Do not store the hose when it is wet.
Inspect the hose regularly for signs of damage.
Replace the hose if it is damaged.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your pressure washer suction hose in good working order and prevent problems down the road.

FAQs: Pressure Washer Suction Hose Not Working

Why is my pressure washer suction hose not working?

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

The hose is kinked or collapsed: This can prevent the water from flowing freely through the hose, which will reduce the pressure of your spray. Check the hose for any kinks or collapses and straighten it out if necessary.

The hose is clogged: Dirt, debris, or other material can build up inside the hose and block the flow of water. To clean the hose, disconnect it from the pressure washer and run water through it until the debris is cleared out.

The hose is damaged: If the hose is cracked or torn, it will leak water and reduce the pressure of your spray. Replace the hose if it is damaged.

The pump is not working properly: If the pump is not generating enough pressure, the water will not flow through the hose properly. Check the pump for any problems and have it repaired or replaced if necessary.

How do I fix a pressure washer suction hose that is not working?

To fix a pressure washer suction hose that is not working, you will need to identify the cause of the problem and take the appropriate steps to fix it. Here are some steps to help you troubleshoot the problem:

1. Check the hose for kinks or collapses: If the hose is kinked or collapsed, straighten it out and try again.
2. Check the hose for clogs: To clean the hose, disconnect it from the pressure washer and run water through it until the debris is cleared out.
3. Replace the hose if it is damaged: If the hose is cracked or torn, replace it with a new one.
4. Have the pump checked and repaired or replaced: If the pump is not generating enough pressure, have it checked and repaired or replaced.

What can I do to prevent my pressure washer suction hose from not working?

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

Keep the hose free of kinks and collapses: Make sure the hose is not kinked or collapsed when you are using it.

Clean the hose regularly: Inspect the hose for any debris or dirt that could clog it and clean it out as needed.

Replace the hose if it is damaged: If the hose is cracked or torn, replace it with a new one.

Have the pump checked and maintained regularly: A well-maintained pump will be more likely to generate enough pressure to properly power the hose.

What are the signs that my pressure washer suction hose is not working properly?

There are a few signs that your pressure washer suction hose is not working properly. Here are some of the most common signs:

The pressure of your spray is low: If the pressure of your spray is low, it could be a sign that the hose is not working properly.

The hose is leaking water: If you see water leaking from the hose, it could be a sign that the hose is damaged or cracked.

The hose is kinked or collapsed: If the hose is kinked or collapsed, it could prevent the water from flowing freely through the hose.

The hose is clogged: If the hose is clogged, it could block the flow of water.

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

If your pressure washer suction hose is not working, you should first try to troubleshoot the problem yourself. Here are some steps to help you troubleshoot the problem:

1. Check the hose for kinks or collapses: If the hose is kinked or collapsed, straighten it out and try again.
2. Check the hose for clogs: To clean the hose, disconnect it from the pressure washer and run water through it until the debris is cleared out.
3. Replace the hose if it is damaged: If the hose is cracked or torn, replace it with a new one.
4. Have the pump checked and repaired or replaced: If the pump is not generating enough pressure, have it checked and repaired or replaced.

If you are unable to fix the problem yourself, you should take your pressure washer to a qualified technician for repairs.

Also Read: Pressure Washer Trigger Gun 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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