Solving pressure washer problems

Most pressure-washing problems are relatively easy to fix yourself. Here are a few tips to get the pressure washer performing as expected.

Pressure washer pulsates while spraying

A clogged spray tip causes the pump to work harder and can produce a pulsing sensation while you're squeezing the spray gun trigger.

1. Turn off the engine and the water supply.

2. Point the spray gun in a safe direction, press the trigger release or safety latch and squeeze the trigger to release the pressure in the system.

3. Remove the spray tip and use a small paper clip to remove any debris that's clogging the opening.

Pressure washer has low water pressure

If a low volume of water comes out of the pressure washer, a clogged spray tip is one possible cause. Inadequate water flow into the pressure washer can also produce a weak spray.

1. Shut down the engine and release the trapped pressure from the system.

2. Disconnect the garden hose from the pressure washer and run water through it to make sure no clogs are present.

3. Check the water inlet screen and remove any debris.

Tip: If the hose is more than 50 feet long, use a shorter one. A hose that's too long can greatly reduce water pressure. 

Pressure washer detergent doesn't mix with spray

1. Make sure that the detergent shut-off valve is in the on position.

2. Confirm that the spray tip is designed for detergent.

3. Check that the setting you have chosen is a low pressure for detergent dispensing.

Pressure washer causes streaks

Using a too-high nozzle pressure setting for rinsing may damage the surface you’re cleaning. Working too quickly, failing to keep a consistent distance from the cleaning surface and not using a steady, even, overlapping spray pattern can produce uneven cleaning results. To prevent streaking on vertical surfaces, apply the detergent from the ground up and then rinse from the top down before the cleaning solution has a chance to dry.