Frequently Asked Questions

Pressure Washer Chemicals/Cleaners
Q: Can I use chemicals that do not state pressure washer safe? Can I use bleach in my pressure washer?
A: It is recommended that only cleaning products that state "pressure washer safe" be used. Ensure to follow all of the manufacturer's instructions. Using bleach or any other chemicals/cleaners that do not state "pressure washer safe" can cause corrosion, premature wear and damage to seals and o-rings.

Continuous Water Source Requirement for Pressure Washers
Q: Does my pressure washer require a continuous water source?
A: Pressure washers require a continuous pressurized water source. If there is not adequate water to the pump, the unit will not operate correctly and the pump may sustain damage. Check your Operator's Manual for the specific requirements of gallons per minute and psi for your unit.

Pressure Washer Chemical Siphon Troubleshooting
Q: How do I get the pressure washer to siphon?
A: For basic operating instructions related to your specific pressure washer, refer to your product Owner's Manual.
Possible causes for lack of siphoning include:

• Chemical hose placed on improper port -- Check clear chemical hose is attached to the correct inlet on your pump.
  
• Pressure washer is not set to low pressure -- Be sure that the correct soap nozzle is being used. The unit must be set to low pressure to apply soap.
  
• High Pressure Hose Extension -- Use manufacturer’s recommended high pressure hose diameter (ID) and length.
• Chemical injection area is clogged or component needs to be replaced -- Test for blockage: Remove the extension wand from the trigger handle and check to see if there is a filter (on the end that connects to the trigger handle) if yes, remove it using a small screwdriver. This filter is not necessary, so if removing it corrects the problem, you can leave it off.

If the unit does not have the inline filter and the unit is still not siphoning: Remove the high-pressure hose from the pump, turn on the water supply, and start the engine. If the unit siphons, add one piece at a time until you lose the siphoning action to isolate the piece that would need to be cleaned out or replaced.

Pressure Washer Winterization
Q: How do I winterize my pressure washer? What kind of anti-freeze should I use?
A: Note: Please see your Operator's Manual for detailed instructions for this process.
Here are the steps to winterize:

• Flush chemical tube by placing it in a pail of clean water, while the unit is running. Squeeze pressure trigger in low pressure for two minutes.
• Shut down engine and allow it to cool down, then remove all hoses.
• Place throttle lever and or ignition switch in the STOP position. Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug. CAUTION: This is an extremely important step. Running the unit without water will damage the unit.
• Empty the pump of all liquids by pulling the recoil handle about six (6) times. This should remove most liquid from the pump.
• Use pump protector (no alcohol), connect the pump protector to the garden hose inlet adapter and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure a little of the pump protector comes out the high pressure hose connection to verify it has passed all the way through the pump.
  
  

Electric Pressure Washer Storage Procedures
Q: How do I store my electric pressure washer?
A: General Storage Tip -- Water should not remain in the unit for long periods of time. Sediments or minerals can deposit on pump parts and “freeze” pump action.

• Flush detergent system by removing tank from pressure washer, and dumping solution from tank (if applicable).
• Rinse cleaning tank out with fresh clean water. Fill tank with clean water.
• Run pressure washer with soap nozzle. Flush for one or two minutes.
• Dump remaining water out of cleaning tank. Push tank back into pressure washer base. Reinsert detergent hose and secure tank lid on tank.
• Place ON/OFF switch to OFF and turn off water supply. Point gun in a safe direction, disengage the trigger lock and squeeze trigger to relieve trapped pressure. After a few moments, release trigger on spray gun.
• Disconnect hose from spray gun. Drain water from hose, gun, and nozzle extension. Use a rag to wipe off the hose.
• Loosely coil the high pressure hose and store.
• Store unit in a clean, dry area that is protected from freezing temperatures.
• Cover unit with a suitable protective cover that does not retain moisture.
  
  

Pressure Washer Thermal Relief Valve
Q: Why is water coming out of the little fitting on my pump?
A: Most pressure washers are equipped with a thermal relief valve which will activate after the trigger on the gun is not used for 2 to 3 minutes (See Figure 1 as an example).
This is a safety feature designed to prevent the overheating of the pump. If you do not plan to use the pressure washer for a few minutes, it is recommended that the pressure washer is shut down to avoid unnecessary actuation of the thermal relief valve.

Figure 1