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If a pressure washer stalls when the trigger is released, this usually indicates a fault in the unloader valve. It is a simple process to remove and replace the unloader.
How do you know if your unloader valve is bad?
Water leaks and inconsistent behavior are also signs of a potential failure in the near future. González: The typical signal when there is an unloader malfunction is a reduction of flow through the nozzle, which results in pressure loss. Dean: Typical symptom of an unloader failure is a sudden smooth pressure loss.
Can you run pressure washer without unloader valve?
In a pressure washer, water is pumped in faster than it’s let out. However, if the pressure washer gun is disengaged, and there is no unloader valve to redirect the pressurized water, the pressure would continue to build.
What are the symptoms of a bad unloader valve on pressure washer?
One of the most apparent problems with the unloader valve is less output pressure and a lower water flow. If the valve does not work correctly, the pressure washer pump will get hot, and more power is asked from the engine. If you have a gas pressure washer, you can hear more engine noise due to the higher load.
Why does pressure washer keep shutting off?
A clogged carburetor is most often the culprit if your pressure washer shuts off after a few minutes (source). As such, checking the carburetor should be the first thing you do. According to this Repair Clinic, when you leave fuel inside the tank of your pressure washer, some parts of it evaporate (source).
Why is my pressure washer pulsing?
Why is my pressure washer surging? Water flow may be restricted to the pressure washer. Check that all hoses are free of kinks, leaks, or blockage. If the nozzle has even a little bit of dirt in the tip, it may cause enough obstruction for the pressure washer to pulsate.
How long can a pressure washer run without pulling the trigger?
You should not run a pressure washer (except professional equipment) for more than five minutes. While the duration may vary from model to model, it should be between 3 and 5 minutes. Leaving your pressure washer running for more than five minutes can result in overheating.
What is a trapped pressure unloader?
A trapped pressure unloader is a simple valve with a spring mechanism mounted in a Brass body. There is A channel within the body that gives water access to the back of a piston. When the trigger is released the pressure against the piston increases and pushes the spring open to allow the water to pass into the bypass.
Can you adjust an unloader valve?
Now while the gun is engaged you can adjust the pressure by turning the adjusting knob between the two nuts and the nylock on top. If you adjust the unloader without the gun engaged, when you do engage the trigger parts in the unloader move rather violently and could damage the unloader.
How do I stop my pressure washer from pulsing?
Simply turn off your pressure washer and disconnect the hose. Keep your garden hose attached and allow water to run through it for 20-30 seconds. Turn off your garden hose and reassemble. Try using your pressure washer as normal and see if that fixes the pulsing.
What does a unloader valve do?
The gun and unloader make up a two-part valve system that directs water into bypass back to the pump or float tank. This is called sending the water into bypass. Generally, unloader valves are pressure-actuated and are opened by the increase in pressure occurring when the valve in the gun closes.
Why does my Nilfisk pressure washer keep cutting out?
Problem: The pressure washer cuts out. If your machine cuts out occasionally, it could be because you are using an electric extension cable. Extension cables must always be 13 amp constant rating and no longer than 20 metres. Please check your operating instructions for correct specifications.
Why does my greenworks pressure washer keeps shutting off?
Water leaking from a loose connection can cause the unit to cycle on and off. Verify if the pressure hose has an O-ring at the connection. If missing, this will also cause the unit to cycle on and off. While the unit is running look for any water leaks that may cause the unit to turn back on.
Can I start my pressure washer without water?
Although you can start a pressure washer without water, it is not advisable to do it. The water helps to lubricate the pump and help to keep it cool. Without the lubrication and cooling properties of the water, dry starting will cause the pump to wear down quickly.
Can you use an extension cord on a pressure washer?
Do not use an extension cord. They can drastically shorten the life of your machine. If you must use one, it must be 12 gauge wire if over 25 feet in length. Using any length of 16, 18 or lighter gauge extension cord will not supply enough power to your pressure washer and the motor will not start or run properly.
What happens if you put too much oil in a pressure washer?
When changing or adding oil, do not overfill the engine crankcase. Overfilling oil may cause smoking, hard starting, spark plug fouling, and oil saturation of the air filter. Do not run the pressure washer before connecting and turning on the water supply failing to do so will result in damage to the pump.
Do Pressure washers have adjustable pressure?
One of the most important features to look for on a large semi-pro gas pressure washer is variable or adjustable pressure controls. This way you can tailor the strength of PSI depending on your cleaning task. Variable pressure is especially important on power washers as powerful as these units.
