Why Pressure Washer Keeps Clogging Up?
You're wondering why your pressure washer keeps clogging up? Well, let me tell you, it's not uncommon. There are a few reasons why this might be happening, and I'm here to help you figure out what's going on.
Filter Clogging
It could be that the inlet screen is clogged. This is the screen that covers the opening where the water goes into the pressure washer. If it gets clogged, it can prevent water from getting in and cause pressure losing when you pull the trigger.
It's worth checking the outlet for blockages. The outlet is the part where the water comes out of the pressure washer and goes into the hose. If it's clogged, it can cause the pressure washer to work less efficiently or even stop working altogether. To clean out the outlet, you can use a small brush or a cloth to remove any debris that's blocking it.
Hard Water
Another reason for clogging could be mineral buildup. If you live in an area with hard water, minerals like calcium and lime can start to build up inside the pressure washer over time. This can cause blockages and reduce the pressure of the water coming out of the nozzle.
Nozzle Clogging
It's also possible that the nozzle itself is clogged. This can happen if debris like dirt or leaves gets stuck in the nozzle, or if mineral buildup occurs inside the nozzle.
If the nozzle is cracked or damaged, it can cause leaks. In this case, you might need to replace the nozzle entirely. But if it's just worn out, you can try cleaning it with a small brush or a cloth or replacing the O-ring or other parts that might be causing the problem.
How To Unclog Pressure Washer Nozzles
Step 1: Disconnect the High-Pressure Hose
The first step is to disconnect the pressure hose from both the washer unit and the spray wand. This allows you to thoroughly inspect and clear any blockages inside the hose. Repeat this process to disconnect the other end of the hose, whether it's attached to the pressure washer pump outlet or the spray wand inlet.
Step 2: Check the Inlet and Outlet Filter
I usually start by removing the pump inlet filter, which is located near the water supply connection. Many pressure washers have an inlet filter that screens debris from entering the pump. Use a wrench if needed. Rinse the filter screen under running water to remove any built-up debris.
Step 3: Flush the Pump
With the high-pressure hose disconnected, turn the washer on briefly to flush out any debris trapped inside the pump unit. You may see dirty water coming from the disconnected hose end. Flush for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Step 4: Inspect the Wand and Nozzle
Disconnect the wand from the pressure hose. This fitting works the same way as the hose connections. Look for any screws, caps, or clips and disassemble the sections of the wand to access its interior. For hard mineral deposits, try soaking problem areas in vinegar to help dissolve and loosen residues. Rinse all wand components thoroughly under running water, paying close attention to crevices. Shake out any still-trapped particles.
For the clogged nozzles, soak them in vinegar for 5-10 minutes so they can dissolve the mineral deposits that are stuck in the nozzles. Then use the needle to poke the clogged hole (not poke too hard, causing the nozzle to expand). Finally, clean it with a soft bristle brush to completely remove it.
Step 5: Reconnect and Test
Reconnect all parts and test the pressure washer It may take a few tries to clear a serious clog. Monitor for any loss in water pressure that could indicate debris remains in the pump or hoses. Try all wand nozzle patterns, checking for full, even spray, and no sputtering. If all seems clear, you're done! Give your unclogged washer a proper field test on some dirt.
Why Need To Unclog Pressure Washer?
The high-pressure washer also has a tendency to get worse very quickly if not cleared. Small debris can turn into a huge clogged mess inside the system as more gunk gets sucked in.
Along with pressure, a clog also restricts the volume of water being delivered. The more water you can apply at high pressure, the faster and more thorough the cleaning.
Preventing strain on the pump motor and maintaining free-flowing operation will maximize the performance lifespan of an expensive power washer investment.
Conclusion
With a few simple steps, you can easily unclog a blocked pressure washer and restore it to working order. Keeping filters clean and flushing the system periodically helps prevent future clogs from occurring. You'll be zipping through cleaning jobs with ease and confidence your equipment is properly maintained.
