Troubleshooting Guide: Common Pressure Washer Pump Problems and Solutions

Encountering issues with your pressure washer pump can be frustrating, but understanding the root causes and knowing how to address them can help keep your equipment running smoothly. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore common pump problems, their causes, and the solutions to resolve them effectively.

Pump Motor Not Running

Problem: The pump motor fails to start or run.

Causes:

  • Pump motor switched off

  • GFCI tripped

  • No voltage in the machine

  • Clogged water nozzle

  • Insufficient voltage/amperage

Solutions:

  1. Turn on the pump motor switch.

  2. Reset and test the GFCI.

  3. Check the power source for voltage.

  4. Clean the water nozzle to remove any obstructions.

  5. Ensure the use of a proper drop cord for sufficient voltage/amperage.

Pump Noisy

Problem: Unusual noises emanating from the pump.

Causes:

  • Air in the suction line

  • Pump valves dirty

  • Check valve springs worn

  • Low pump oil

  • Pump bearings worn

  • Incoming water temperature too high

Solutions:

  1. Check inlet water fittings for air leaks.

  2. Clean or replace pump valves.

  3. Replace worn check valve springs.

  4. Add SEA 30wt. non-detergent oil to the pump.

  5. Replace or rebuild the pump if bearings are worn.

  6. Reduce the temperature/ambient temperature of incoming water.

Water Dripping from Pump

Problem: Leakage of water from the pump.

Causes:

  • Worn plunger packing

  • Plunger retainer oil ring worn

  • Cracked ceramics

Solutions:

  1. Install a new packing kit to replace worn plunger packing.

  2. Replace the oil ring on the plunger retainer.

  3. Replace cracked ceramics to prevent leakage.

Oil Dripping from Pump

Problem: Leakage of oil from the pump.

Causes:

  • Oil seal worn

  • Cracked manifold

Solutions:

  1. Check and replace worn oil seals.

  2. Replace cracked manifold components to prevent oil leakage.

Fluctuating Pressure

Problem: Inconsistent pressure output from the pump.

Causes:

  • Unloader not adjusted

  • Valves worn

  • Dirt or blockage in valves

  • Pump sucking air

  • Worn plunger packing

Solutions:

  1. Adjust the unloader to specifications.

  2. Replace worn valves with a valve kit.

  3. Clean or replace valves to remove dirt or blockage.

  4. Check the water/detergent supply to prevent air intake.

  5. Replace worn plunger packing with a new packing kit.

Pump Head Overheating

Problem: Overheating of the pump head during operation.

Causes:

  • Extended period in bypass mode

Solutions:

  1. Pull the trigger gun to ensure continuous water flow and prevent extended periods of bypass mode operation.

By following these troubleshooting steps, you can effectively diagnose and address common pressure washer pump problems, ensuring optimal performance and prolonging the lifespan of your equipment.