Starter Spray Not Working Pressure Washer [Proven Ways To Fix]

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Updated in April 2025 | By John

There’s nothing more frustrating than a pressure washer that won’t start. You’re ready to clean the sidewalk, the driveway, or the deck, but the machine just sits there and sputters. If you’re dealing with this problem, you’re not alone. Starter spray not working is a common issue with pressure washers. But don’t worry, it’s usually an easy fix.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to troubleshoot and fix a pressure washer that won’t start. 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, read on!

Reasons Why Starter Spray Not Working Pressure Washer

Dirty or Clogged Nozzle

The most common cause of a pressure washer starter spray not working is a dirty or clogged nozzle. This can prevent the water from flowing through the nozzle and out the wand, causing the spray to be weak or nonexistent. To fix this problem, remove the nozzle from the wand and clean it with a wire brush or other small, abrasive object. Be sure to rinse the nozzle thoroughly after cleaning it.

Low Pressure

Another common cause of a pressure washer starter spray not working is low pressure. This can be caused by a number of factors, including a clogged filter, a faulty pump, or a leak in the system. To check the pressure, turn on the pressure washer and attach a pressure gauge to the outlet. If the pressure is below 2000 psi, there is a problem with the system.

Faulty Pump

If the pressure washer starter spray is not working and the pressure is normal, the problem may be a faulty pump. The pump is responsible for generating the pressure that powers the pressure washer, so if it is not working properly, the spray will not work. To test the pump, remove the inlet hose from the pump and turn on the pressure washer. If the pump is working properly, you should see water flowing out of the hose.

Leak in the System

A leak in the pressure washer system can also cause the starter spray not to work. This can be caused by a number of factors, including a damaged hose, a faulty gasket, or a loose connection. To check for leaks, turn on the pressure washer and look for any signs of water escaping from the system. If you see any leaks, repair or replace the damaged part.

How to Troubleshoot And Fix: Starter Spray Not Working Pressure Washer

Symptoms of a Starter Spray Not Working

There are a few different symptoms that you may experience if your pressure washer’s starter spray is not working properly. These include:

The pressure washer will not start at all.
The pressure washer will start, but it will not produce any pressure.
The pressure washer will start and produce pressure, but the starter spray will not come out.

Causes of a Starter Spray Not Working

There are a few different things that could cause your pressure washer’s starter spray to not work properly. These include:

A clogged or damaged nozzle:
The nozzle on your pressure washer is responsible for directing the starter spray out of the gun. If the nozzle is clogged or damaged, it will not be able to produce the proper spray pattern.

A dirty or damaged pump:
The pump on your pressure washer is responsible for creating the pressure that powers the spray. If the pump is dirty or damaged, it will not be able to produce the proper pressure.

A faulty pressure switch:
The pressure switch on your pressure washer is responsible for regulating the pressure of the water. If the pressure switch is faulty, it will not be able to properly regulate the pressure, which can lead to the starter spray not working properly.

How to Fix a Starter Spray Not Working

If your pressure washer’s starter spray is not working properly, you can try to fix it yourself by following these steps:

1. Check the nozzle:
First, check the nozzle to make sure that it is not clogged or damaged. If the nozzle is clogged, you can try to clean it with a needle. If the nozzle is damaged, you will need to replace it.

2. Check the pump:
Next, check the pump to make sure that it is not dirty or damaged. If the pump is dirty, you can try to clean it with a degreaser. If the pump is damaged, you will need to replace it.3. Check the pressure switch:
Finally, check the pressure switch to make sure that it is not faulty. If the pressure switch is faulty, you will need to replace it.

If you are unable to fix the starter spray yourself, you can take your pressure washer to a qualified repair technician.

Preventative Maintenance Tips

You can help prevent your pressure washer’s starter spray from malfunctioning by following these tips:

Clean the nozzle regularly:
The nozzle on your pressure washer is one of the most important parts, and it is important to keep it clean to ensure that it is working properly. You can clean the nozzle with a needle or a degreaser.

Maintain the pump:
The pump on your pressure washer is also an important part, and it is important to maintain it to ensure that it is working properly. You can maintain the pump by cleaning it regularly and by replacing the oil according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Inspect the pressure switch regularly:
The pressure switch on your pressure washer is a small part, but it is important to inspect it regularly to make sure that it is not damaged. If the pressure switch is damaged, it will need to be replaced.

By following these tips, you can help prevent your pressure washer’s starter spray from malfunctioning.

Also Read THis: Sun Joe Pressure Washer 2030 Detergent Not Working

FAQs: Starter Spray Not Working Pressure Washer

Why is my starter spray not working?

There are a few possible reasons why your starter spray may not be working.

The nozzle may be clogged: Try cleaning the nozzle with a small brush or needle.

The fuel may be old or stale: Try using fresh fuel.

The pressure washer may be out of gas: Check the fuel tank and make sure it is full.

The pressure washer may have a problem with the fuel pump: If you have checked all of the other possibilities and the starter spray is still not working, you may need to have the pressure washer serviced.

How do I clean the nozzle on my pressure washer?

To clean the nozzle on your pressure washer, you will need a small brush or needle.

1. Turn off the pressure washer and disconnect the hose from the gun.
2. Remove the nozzle from the gun.
3. Use the brush or needle to clean out any debris that may be clogging the nozzle.
4. Reattach the nozzle to the gun and reconnect the hose.

How do I use fresh fuel in my pressure washer?

To use fresh fuel in your pressure washer, you will need to:

1. Turn off the pressure washer and disconnect the hose from the gun.
2. Open the fuel cap and pour in fresh fuel.
3. Close the fuel cap.
4. Reattach the hose to the gun.

How do I check if my pressure washer is out of gas?

To check if your pressure washer is out of gas, you will need to:

1. Turn off the pressure washer and disconnect the hose from the gun.
2. Remove the fuel cap.
3. Look inside the fuel tank. If you can see the bottom of the tank, the pressure washer is out of gas.
4. Replace the fuel cap.

How do I fix a pressure washer with a problem with the fuel pump?

If you have checked all of the other possibilities and the starter spray is still not working, you may need to have the pressure washer serviced. A qualified technician will be able to diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.

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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