A pressure washer is a powerful tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, from cleaning driveways to removing graffiti. However, when the pump on a pressure washer stops working, it can be a major inconvenience. Not only is it frustrating to be unable to use your pressure washer, but it can also be dangerous if you try to use it without the pump working properly.
This guide will help you troubleshoot a pressure washer pump that is not working. By following the steps in this guide, you can quickly diagnose and resolve the problem, so you can get back to using your pressure washer as soon as possible.
Here are some of the common causes of a pressure washer pump not working:
Dirty filter: The filter on a pressure washer can become clogged with dirt and debris, which can restrict the flow of water and prevent the pump from working properly.
Low water pressure: If the water pressure at your home is too low, it may not be enough to power the pump on your pressure washer.
Faulty pump: The pump on a pressure washer can wear out over time and eventually fail. If the pump is faulty, it will need to be replaced.
Why Pump Not Working On Pressure Washer
No Water Flow
No water supply to the pump:
Check the water supply hose to make sure it is connected to the pump and the faucet. Make sure the faucet is turned on.
Clogged water filter:
Remove the water filter and clean it with a brush.
Damaged water pump:
The water pump may be damaged if it is running but not pumping water. Replace the water pump if necessary.
Pump Won’t Start
The pressure washer is not plugged in:
Make sure the pressure washer is plugged into an outlet.
The pressure washer is turned off:
Turn the pressure washer on.
The pressure washer’s safety switch is engaged:
Press the pressure washer’s safety switch to disengage it.
The pressure washer’s thermal overload protector has tripped:
Allow the pressure washer to cool down for several minutes before trying to start it again.
Damaged pressure switch:
The pressure switch may be damaged if the pressure washer is not starting. Replace the pressure switch if necessary.
High Pressure Washer Won’t Build Pressure
The pressure washer is not primed:
Prime the pressure washer by following the manufacturer’s instructions.
The pressure washer’s relief valve is stuck open:
Close the pressure washer’s relief valve.
The pressure washer’s pump is damaged:
The pressure washer’s pump may be damaged if it is not building pressure. Replace the pump if necessary.
How to Troubleshoot And Fix: Pump Not Working on Pressure Washer
Symptoms of a Bad Pressure Washer Pump
There are a few telltale signs that your pressure washer pump may be bad. These include:
The pressure washer won’t start or starts but won’t build pressure.
The pressure washer makes a whining or grinding noise.
The pressure washer leaks fluid.
The pressure washer’s water output is weak.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s likely that your pump needs to be replaced.
How to Troubleshoot a Pressure Washer Pump
Before you start troubleshooting your pressure washer pump, it’s important to make sure that the problem is actually with the pump and not with another component of the pressure washer. To do this, you can perform the following checks:
Check the hoses and fittings for leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the fittings or replace the hoses.
Check the water supply to the pressure washer. Make sure that the water supply is turned on and that there is adequate water pressure.
Check the pressure washer’s switch. Make sure that the switch is turned on and that it’s not stuck in the off position.
If you’ve checked all of these things and the pressure washer still isn’t working, it’s likely that the problem is with the pump. To troubleshoot the pump, you can follow these steps:
1. Turn off the pressure washer and disconnect the power cord.
2. Remove the pump cover.
3. Inspect the pump for any damage. Look for cracks, leaks, or other signs of wear and tear.
4. Check the pump’s impeller. The impeller is a small, fan-shaped blade that rotates inside the pump. If the impeller is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
5. Check the pump’s seals. The seals help to keep the water inside the pump. If the seals are damaged, they will need to be replaced.
If you’ve checked the pump and found no damage, it’s likely that the pump is bad and needs to be replaced.
How to Replace a Pressure Washer Pump
Replacing a pressure washer pump is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few steps. To replace the pump, you will need:
A new pressure washer pump
A socket wrench
A screwdriver
Penetrating oil
1. Turn off the pressure washer and disconnect the power cord.
2. Remove the pump cover.
3. Disconnect the pump’s hoses.
4. Remove the pump’s mounting bolts.
5. Remove the old pump.
6. Apply penetrating oil to the threads of the new pump.
7. Install the new pump.
8. Tighten the pump’s mounting bolts.
9. Reconnect the pump’s hoses.
10. Replace the pump cover.
Once you’ve replaced the pump, you can test the pressure washer to make sure that it’s working properly.
Conclusion
If your pressure washer pump is bad, it’s important to replace it as soon as possible. A bad pump can damage other components of the pressure washer and can also be dangerous. By following the steps in this guide, you can easily troubleshoot and replace a bad pressure washer pump.
FAQs: Pump Not Working on Pressure Washer
What could be the reason that my pressure washer pump is not working?
There are a few possible reasons why your pressure washer pump may not be working. Here are some of the most common causes:
The pump is not getting enough water: Make sure that the water supply to the pump is turned on and that there is no blockage in the hose.
The pump is overheating: If the pump is running for too long without a break, it can overheat and stop working. Allow the pump to cool down for a few minutes before trying to use it again.
The pump is clogged: The pump may be clogged with dirt or debris, which can prevent it from working properly. Try cleaning the pump according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
The pump is damaged: If the pump is damaged, it will need to be repaired or replaced.
What should I do if my pressure washer pump is not working?
If your pressure washer pump is not working, here are a few things you can do:
Check the water supply: Make sure that the water supply to the pump is turned on and that there is no blockage in the hose.
Check the pump for overheating: If the pump is running for too long without a break, it can overheat and stop working. Allow the pump to cool down for a few minutes before trying to use it again.
Check the pump for clogs: The pump may be clogged with dirt or debris, which can prevent it from working properly. Try cleaning the pump according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Have the pump repaired or replaced: If the pump is damaged, it will need to be repaired or replaced.
How can I prevent my pressure washer pump from not working?
There are a few things you can do to prevent your pressure washer pump from not working:
Keep the water supply to the pump turned on: This will ensure that the pump has a constant supply of water to work with.
Don’t let the pump run for too long without a break: Allow the pump to cool down for a few minutes every 15-20 minutes of use.
Clean the pump regularly: This will help to prevent clogs from forming and damaging the pump.
Have the pump inspected and serviced regularly: This will help to identify any problems with the pump before they become serious.
What are the signs that my pressure washer pump is damaged?
There are a few signs that your pressure washer pump may be damaged. These include:
The pump is not making any noise.
The pump is making a loud noise.
The pump is leaking water.
The pump is not generating enough pressure.
The pump is overheating.
If you notice any of these signs, it is important to have the pump inspected and repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
How much does it cost to repair a pressure washer pump?
The cost of repairing a pressure washer pump can vary depending on the type of pump and the extent of the damage. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 for a repair. If the pump is severely damaged, it may be more cost-effective to replace it.
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