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A pressure washer stalling when the trigger is pulled is mostly due to a faulty unloader valve, O-rings, pressure washer trigger, or a too-high setting of the unloader valve. The unloader valve cycles the water back to the inlet, diverting the flowing through the pump system.
How do you know if your unloader valve is bad?
If it is inconsistent and you see sudden changes in the pressure, it is clear that your unloader valve has a problem. Other signs include your pressure washer pump running hot and excessive load on the engine. The engine load will quickly increase, and the pump will run hot. And over time, it can even damage the pump.
Why does my pressure washer keep stopping?
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 does my pressure washer surge when trigger released?
Surging occurs when the pressure is fine and then weakens. It is caused when the flow rate for the pump cannot be supported by the water supply. Problems can mount from there so it is important that it is dealt with as soon as possible.
How do I know if my pressure washer has a bad unloader valve?
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.
How do I know if my pressure washer wand is bad?
Several indicators will show a faulty pressure washer pump. The most common is a leak, pulsating output pressure, and low output pressure. Leaks are often caused by a worn or damaged pump seal. A pulsating pressure indicates that there is not enough water in the pump.
Do all pressure washers have an unloader valve?
Power washers that have a trigger gun control on them most likely have an unloader or bypass valve.
Why does my pressure washer keep starting and stopping?
The stalling of the engine of your electric pressure washer may be because of the bad unloader valve, which is due to the pressure inside the pump becoming greater than your engine’s power to rotate your pump.
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.
How do you fix a pulsing pressure washer?
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.
How do I stop my pressure washer from surging?
How to Troubleshoot a Surging Pressure Washer Remove the nozzle and clean it with a nozzle cleaning kit. You may have a partially plugged spray nozzle. Check the unloader and repair or replace it. Check the inlet hose and filter. Secure an adequate water supply. Inspect valves and clean or replace them as needed.
Why is my pressure washer revving?
If your pressure washer experience some erratic engine revving, this can be due to a problem with the air filter, a gas issue, a problem with the spark plug, or an improper carburetor adjustment.
What is unloader valve?
The Unloader valve is designed to respond to an increase in pressure or a change in water flow. The trigger shuts off the water flow, causing the unloader valve to re-circulate the water back to the header tank or alternatively back to the inlet side of the pump. This is sending the water into bypass.
What do check valves do in a pressure washer?
Pressure washer check valves let enough water flow through the pump and manifold to pressurize the water at the nozzle. If the pressure washer check valves are damaged, the pump won’t build pressure. Air in the inlet water supply can damage the pressure washer check valves, as can chemical residue left in the pump.
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.
Is it OK to run 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.
Do you turn the water on before you start a pressure washer?
It should not be hooked to a potable water source. Turn on the water. The pressure washer hose will fill with water, so it is important to purge the system of excess air before starting the unit. Simply squeeze the trigger on the gun and the air will release.
