De Walt is a trusted power tools manufacturer that produces gas and electric pressure washers. Despite its reliability, your De Walt pressure washer might occasionally give off some performance glitches that could affect your normal cleaning operations. This article provides a troubleshooting guide to help you fix these issues for all types of De Walt pressure washers.
De Walt Pressure Washer Problems
If your De Walt pressure washer engine doesn’t start or stalls, examine the carburetor jets and the air and fuel filters. Check that the tank vents are clear and that there is no vapor lock in the fuel lines. For an electric pressure washer to function correctly, the input voltage must be within limits prescribed, and the power supply shouldn’t be defective. If the motor makes a buzzing noise, look for a bad capacitor, a damaged pump, or a pressure buildup in the system.
In the following sections, I will look at both gas and electric pressure washers made by De Walt. The possible problems that may occur are mentioned along with their solution strategies.
Contents
- 1 Problems with the De Walt Gas Pressure Washer Engine
- 1.1 ● 1. De Walt Pressure Washer: Keeps Stopping and Starting
- 1.2 ● 2. De Walt Pressure Washer: The Engine won’t run
- 1.3 ● 3. De Walt Pressure Washer: Engine Stops
- 1.4 ● 4. De Walt Pressure Washer: Engine not providing enough Power
- 1.5 ● 5. De Walt Pressure Washer: Oil Leak
- 1.6 ● 6. De Walt Pressure Washer: Water in Oil
- 2 De Walt Electric Pressure Washer Problems
- 3 De Walt Pressure Washer troubleshooting table:
Problems with the De Walt Gas Pressure Washer Engine
A four-stroke petrol engine powers the pump in gas pressure washers. The presence of the engine and fuel system components increases the total complexity of the system, hence raising the maintenance requirements. This eventually makes these models more prone to undergo problems.
Here are some of the most common problems with your De Walt pressure washer engine.
● 1. De Walt Pressure Washer: Keeps Stopping and Starting
If your pressure washer starts and stops repeatedly, it might be due to a clogged carburetor jet or a vapor lock in the fuel lines. A defective fuel filter may sometimes be the source of the problem.
Most engine problems in pressure washers are due to an issue with the carburetor or the filters. The carburetor jets are likely to become blocked due to stale fuel deposits. Hence, the amount of gasoline reaching the engine impacts combustion, decreasing engine power output.
Besides carburetor or filter clogging, a vapor lock is another typical cause of the problem. A vapor lock is created by a continuous accumulation of gasoline vapors within the fuel lines caused by an obstruction in the fuel tank vents.
– Solution:
To resolve the issue, carefully clean the jets of your carburetor with WD-40 or a carb-cleaner solvent. Ensure that all flow passageways have been thoroughly cleaned, including the bowl’s nut, which is a jet in itself. Aside from carb cleaning, you should examine and change your fuel filter. I also recommend cleaning the fuel tank vents to prevent vapor accumulation that might cause a vapor lock.
● 2. De Walt Pressure Washer: The Engine won’t run
If your engine doesn’t start, check to see if the spark plug is in good working order. If the problems continue, dismantle the carburetor and use carburetor cleaning liquid to clean the ports.
Carbon buildup wears away spark plug electrodes over time, reducing spark quality and making the engine starting harder.
– Solution:
Remove the spark plug to inspect the electrodes. If the electrodes appear to be damaged, replace the plug. If the problem continues, consider examining your pressure washer’s carburetor. Remove the carburetor and properly clean it to eliminate any remaining fuel. I recommend getting a carburetor repair kit for your brand and model to help with the repair. Often they include a cleaning solvent to remove sticky residues.
● 3. De Walt Pressure Washer: Engine Stops
If your engine stalls quickly after starting, you should thoroughly inspect and clean the air and fuel filters. Check the tank for vapor lock and ensure the carburetor is clean and properly adjusted.
The air and fuel filters keep harmful particles out of the carburetor. As a result, these filters become clogged with dirt regularly, changing the engine’s air-fuel mixture and resulting in power loss.
– Solution:
Inspect these filters separately and clean/replace them as needed to resolve the issue. If the problem persists, check the gas tank for vapor lock and adjust the carburetor screws.
● 4. De Walt Pressure Washer: Engine not providing enough Power
If your engine isn’t producing enough power, check the water supply and make sure the hoses aren’t kinked. Make that the air filter and carburetor jets are clean.
The air-fuel mixture may be too high if the engine isn’t producing enough power. This means the engine is getting too much gas but not enough air to create enough power after combustion. The carburetor, filters, or both might cause the problem.
– Solution:
To ensure adequate air supply, examine the air filter, which should not be blocked with dust. Moreover, the L and H screws on the carburetor should be correctly adjusted. The engine’s RPMs are controlled by these screws at both low and high speeds.
Also, ensure no air is trapped in the pump and that the hoses are not kinked since this generates severe back pressure on the engine. Hence, it may not deliver enough power.
● 5. De Walt Pressure Washer: Oil Leak
The most common cause of oil leaks in your engine is a faulty seal. In almost all circumstances, replacing the seal would fix the problem. Oil may also spill in rare occasions due to an overfilled oil reservoir.
You may purchase an oil seal kit to assist you in replacing seals as needed. Oil seals can be found in oil inlets. Two inlets on either side of the engine are generally covered with caps.
– Solution:
With a screwdriver, remove the seal and inspect its condition. Replace it if it appears to be damaged. As a precaution, you should avoid overfilling your oil tank, as this may result in oil pouring from these inlets.
● 6. De Walt Pressure Washer: Water in Oil
If water enters the engine oil, the oil seal is weakened. In this situation, you should replace the seal according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
When you add water to the oil, it turns milky. A damaged oil seal is a possible cause, and a worn-out engine piston is another less likely cause. Mechanical wear causes metal to break off from pistons over time, increasing the gap between the piston and the cylinder walls.
As a result, water entering the piston via the inlet manifold may enter the crankcase and blend with oil to create a milky suspension.
– Possible Solutions:
If your engine is less than 5 years old, the seals/gaskets are most likely faulty. As a result, you’ll need to replace the seal/head gasket on your engine. Contact the manufacturer if your engine is still under warranty and request this replacement. I would not advocate putting your warranty at risk by replacing it yourself.
In the instance of a worn-out piston, check with the manufacturer to see if the engine’s warranty is still valid. If not, the engine in your pressure washer may need to be replaced.
De Walt Electric Pressure Washer Problems
Electric pressure washers require less maintenance than their gas-powered counterparts, as using an electric motor reduces the system’s complexity. Moreover, the risk of malfunctions, as well as noise levels and pollutants, is generally lower. As a result, these devices have grown in popularity in the market.
This blog article addresses difficulties with the start-up procedure of electric pressure washers. The most common motor-related issue with electric pressure washers is the motor not starting or abruptly stopping while in operation. It may occasionally generate a buzzing noise without producing any power output.
● De Walt Electric Pressure Washer not running
Check the fuse and ensure the electrical outlet is operational if an electric pressure washer does not start. If it still does not start, the electric motor may have failed.
Examine the following if your pressure washer motor isn’t working:
– Step 1: Check for Power Outlet Issues
If your electric pressure washer isn’t working, first check the outlet. Unplug the pressure washer and inspect the outlet using a voltage tester or other tools. If it doesn’t function and you see a ‘reset’ button, press it. Check the circuit breaker in the fuse box if this does not work.
– Step 2: Examine the Fault Circuit Interrupter.
Because of the voltage drop, a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) may have been engaged. Reset the GFCI after removing the pressure washer plug. If it still engages when you attach your pressure washer when it is wet, let it dry before starting again. There is an issue if the pressure washer continues to stop after drying.
– Step 3: Inspect the Extension Cord
Remove the extension cable from your pressure washer and try plugging it in directly. Check that the plug is inserted correctly into the power outlet. If it works now, the issue was with the extension cable.
– Step 4: Examine the Fuse
If the power outlet works correctly (with a bulb or other appliance), ensure the fuse within the machine or at the plug of its cord hasn’t burned out. Look in the guidebook if you can’t locate it. If the fuse has blown, it must be replaced.
– Step 5: Examine the power cord
If it still doesn’t start, the power cord may be faulty. The issue might be resolved by changing the power cord. Check with your pressure washer manufacturer to check whether the warranty is still in effect. If not, you should consider changing the chord on your own.
– Step 6: Inspect the Capacitor
A faulty capacitor usually causes a buzzing sound from your pressure washer’s motor. You can replace the capacitor on your own, but if you are unsure how to do this, ask a professional for help.
If the machine still doesn’t start, examine and replace the electric motor if it’s still under warranty.
● De Walt Electric Pressure Washer Motor Stops
A power failure in the socket or a faulty capacitor is the most typical cause of pressure washer motor failure. A voltage drop in the socket may occasionally cause it to shut off.
The motor automatically shuts off when the voltage falls below a certain threshold. Using a multimeter, check the voltage level in the socket. Pressure washer voltage requirements vary depending on where you reside. Pressure washers are commonly powered by voltages ranging from 140V to 240V.
If the voltage is correct, but the washer does not start, the capacitor in the motor may need to be changed. A clear sign is when your motor is humming and provides little power. Replace the capacitor with an equivalent model and re-inspect the pressure washer motor. Hopefully, it will restart soon. If it still won’t start, your manufacturer needs to repair or replace the malfunctioning electric motor.
● De Walt Electric Pressure Washer Motor Makes a Buzzing Noise
A buzzing noise from your electric pressure washer engine suggests a damaged capacitor or too much pressure buildup in the system. A faulty pump could be the source of the issue.
- Capacitor: The most typical cause of the motor humming might be a malfunctioning capacitor. Motor RPMs are reduced by insufficient charge storage. To fix the issue, you should replace the capacitor and check whether it works well now.
- Low Voltage: If the supplied voltage is lower than the pressure washer’s operating range, the motor may not operate at its specified RPMs and instead emit a buzzing noise.
- Pressure Buildup: When the spray gun is not released, water pressure builds up in the hoses. This creates back pressure on the pump and, as a result, the motor, affecting its rotational speed. Test the motor by pressing the spray cannon to relieve the pressure.
- Damaged pump: Pressure washer pumps can be damaged due to poor maintenance. In that case, the motor overheats because the pump fails to generate adequate pressure. To guarantee that the pump functions, check that the pistons and plungers are adequately lubricated. If not, consider replacing the pump.
De Walt Pressure Washer troubleshooting table:
Problem | Cause | Solution |
The pressure washer is not producing high pressure | Hose with small diameter | Replace your hose with a 1″ (25mm) or 5/8″ (16mm) hose |
Restricted water supply to the washer | Check for the kinks and leaks in the hose | |
Inadequate water supply | Ensure the water source is unobstructed and fully turned on | |
Clogged intake filter | Remove the filter and rinse it with warm water | |
Air in the pump | Ensure that the hose and fittings are airtight. Shut off the washer and squeeze the trigger until water flows steadily from the spray tip | |
The suction tube or detergent bottle is not connected properly | Install the suction tube and detergent bottle correctly | |
Detergent too thick | Dilute the thick detergent by adding water | |
Obstructed spray tip | Remove the debris with a needle | |
No pressure tip on the wand | Install a suitable pressure tip at the end of the wand | |
If your model has a belt, it can be loose. | Tighten or replace the belt. |
Problem | Cause | Solution |
Pulsing pressure washer (output pressure varies high and low) | Inadequate water supply | Ensure that the water source is fully on and check the hose for kinks and blockage |
Obstructed spray tip | Remove the debris with a needle | |
Pump sucking air | Ensure that the hose and fittings are airtight. Shut off the washer and squeeze the trigger until water flows steadily from the spray tip | |
Clogged intake filter | Remove the filter and rinse it with warm water | |
Calcified hose, tip, or trigger | Clean the hose, pressure tip, or trigger with vinegar or a cleaner designed for this purpose |
Problem | Cause | Solution |
Noisy Pump | Air in the pump | Ensure that the hose and fittings are airtight. Shut off the washer and squeeze the trigger until water flows steadily from the spray tip |
Clogged inlet filter | Remove the filter and rinse it with warm water | |
Pump leaking water | Damaged or worn water seals | Replace the seals with new ones or call a professional |
Loose fittings | Ensure that all the fittings are tight | |
Erratic water pressure, changing up and down | Unloader valve | Check and clean the unloader valve. If in bad shape, replace it |
No output pressure. Or the motor stops when using the trigger (electric models) | Unloader valve | Check and clean the unloader valve. If in bad shape, replace it |
● De Walt Gas Pressure Washer Engine troubleshooting table:
Problem | Cause | Solution |
Leaks in the spray wand, spray tip, or extension | Damaged or broken O-rings or plastic insert | Replace the worn O-rings or call a professional |
Pressure washer pump dripping oil | Worn or damaged oil seals | Inspect the oil seals and replace them if worn |
No water from the washer outlet | The water supply is off | Turn the water supply ON |
Kink in the hose or faucet not fully open | Remove any kinks and debris from the hose or water lines. Check and fully open the faucet. |
Problem | Cause | Solution |
The motor won’t start | Check the battery | Check if the battery is charged correctly. Charge or replace when in bad condition. Examine the battery terminals for a proper connection. Clean if needed. |
Check the fuel filter | Clean the fuel filter if dirty. In that case, check the gas tank, as this is the most likely culprit. | |
Check the gas supply | Check the fuel level and add if needed. Ensure that the gas can flow to the carburetor. Remove any blockage. | |
Check the Air-filter | Clean the air filter. Replace it when it is in bad condition or it is a paper air filter. | |
Check the carburetor | Remove and clean the carburetor with some carb cleaner. It is also possible to clean it without removing it. | |
Fuel gap blocked | Check that the hole in the fuel cap is open. Clean if needed. | |
The engine is stalling, or starts and stops | Check the carburetor | Remove and clean the carburetor with some carb cleaner. It is also possible to clean it without removing it. |
Air filter | Clean the air filter. Replace it when it is in bad condition or it is a paper air filter. | |
Check for bad gas | Suppose you have old gas, more than a few months old. It can turn bad. Drain and replace the gas. Next time add a fuel stabilizer. |
● De Walt Electric Pressure Washer Motor troubleshooting table:
Problem | Cause | Solution |
The motor won’t start | The power switch is in the “OFF” or “0” state | Turn the power switch “ON” or “1” |
Cord not plugged | Plugin the power cord | |
Damaged, too long, or improper extension cord | Replace the existing cord with a 25′ (7.6m) 14 AWG cord or a 50′ (15m) 12 AWG cord | |
Inadequate power from the electrical outlet | Plug the cord into a different outlet | |
The pressure washer circuit breaker tripped | Please wait for the washer to cool down and restart it | |
The motor buzzes but fails to run | Loss in voltage due to the extension cord | Plug the unit directly into the outlet without an extension cord. If the problem isn’t solved, replace the extension cord |
Low supply voltage | Ensure that only the pressure washer runs on that circuit at the time of use | |
Residual pressure in the system | Shut off the washer and squeeze the trigger to release pressure | |
Residual friction among the internal components | Cut the water supply and turn the machine ON for 2 to 3 seconds. Try it a couple of times or until the motor starts. Don’t let the machine run dry for more than 3 seconds. | |
Unit not used for long periods | I recommend calling a professional for help | |
Motor not working | Faulty Timer | Disconnect the leads from the timer. If your pressure washer doesn’t turn off after the time out, the timer is faulty, and you need to replace it. |
My engine isn’t providing enough power, how can I troubleshoot this?
Hey Layla, have you checked the water supply, hoses, and carburetor jets? Ensuring proper airflow and fuel delivery can help increase your engine’s power output. Hope this helps!
Is there a way to fix a power failure in the socket of my electric pressure washer?
Have you tried checking the voltage levels in the socket and replacing the capacitor if needed? It might help resolve the power failure in your electric pressure washer.
The troubleshooting tables provided are very helpful in identifying and fixing issues with my De Walt pressure washer.
Thank you, Mark! I’m glad you found the troubleshooting tables helpful for your De Walt pressure washer. Happy cleaning!
I found water in the oil of my pressure washer, what should I do?
If you found water in the oil of your De Walt pressure washer, the oil seal might be damaged. Consider replacing the seal as per manufacturer instructions to resolve the issue.
My electric pressure washer is not running, what are the steps to troubleshoot it?
For troubleshooting your electric pressure washer, start by checking the power outlet, extension cord, and capacitor. Replace the faulty parts as needed. If issues persist, contact De Walt for professional assistance.
How can I check the fuse in my De Walt electric pressure washer?
To check the fuse in your De Walt electric pressure washer, ensure the outlet is working, then inspect the fuse in the machine. If it’s blown, replace it. Reach out to a professional if needed.
How do I properly adjust the carburetor screws on my De Walt pressure washer?
To properly adjust the carburetor screws on your De Walt pressure washer, clean the jets with a carb-cleaner and adjust the screws until the engine runs smoothly. Check for vapor lock in the fuel lines. Good luck!
The step-by-step instructions for troubleshooting my De Walt pressure washer are easy to follow and very useful.
Thank you for the positive feedback, Isaiah! I’m glad the troubleshooting guide for De Walt pressure washers was helpful to you. Happy cleaning!
What should I do if my De Walt pressure washer engine won’t run?
Check the spark plug and carburetor for debris. Clean the fuel filter and tank vents. If problems persist, consider professional maintenance. Best of luck with your De Walt pressure washer.
What is the best way to clean the carburetor jets in a De Walt pressure washer?
To clean the carburetor jets in your De Walt pressure washer, use WD-40 or a carb cleaner solvent. Thoroughly clean all flow passageways, including the bowl’s nut. Also check and clean the fuel filter and tank vents to prevent vapor lock.
Thank you for outlining the common issues with De Walt pressure washers and providing clear solutions to fix them.
Thank you for your positive feedback, Kristen Hernandez! I’m glad you found the troubleshooting guide helpful for De Walt pressure washers. Let me know if you have any other questions.
My De Walt pressure washer keeps stopping and starting. How do I fix this issue?
Hi Debbie, to fix the start-stop issue with your De Walt pressure washer, try cleaning the carburetor jets and fuel filters. Also, make sure the tank vents are clear to prevent vapor lock. Hope this helps!
I have a buzzing noise coming from my De Walt electric pressure washer motor, what could be causing it?
Hi Kim, the buzzing noise from your electric pressure washer motor could indicate a faulty capacitor or pressure buildup. Try replacing the capacitor and releasing pressure in the system. Hope this helps!
I have an oil leak in my De Walt pressure washer, what is the best solution?
To fix an oil leak in your De Walt pressure washer, try replacing the faulty seal. Make sure not to overfill the oil tank to prevent leaks.
This article has been incredibly helpful in guiding me on how to maintain and repair my De Walt pressure washer. Thank you!
Thank you for your kind words, Vanessa! I’m glad the article helped you maintain and repair your De Walt pressure washer with ease. Happy cleaning!
How can I ensure that the hoses on my De Walt pressure washer are not kinked?
To prevent kinks in your hoses, ensure they are straightened before each use and avoid sharp bends during operation. Regularly inspect and clean the hoses to maintain optimal performance.
I appreciate the detailed solutions provided for each problem that may arise with my De Walt pressure washer.
Thank you, Evelyn! I’m glad you found the troubleshooting solutions helpful for your De Walt pressure washer. Let me know if you have any other questions or need further assistance.
What could be causing the motor to stop in my De Walt electric pressure washer?
Check the power source, capacitor, and pressure buildup in the system as possible causes for your De Walt electric pressure washer motor stopping. Consider replacing the capacitor or inspecting the pump.
How do I fix water getting into the oil of my De Walt pressure washer engine?
To prevent water from getting into your De Walt pressure washer engine oil, check the integrity of the oil seal and replace if necessary. This should solve the issue.
What should I do if my De Walt pressure washer engine stalls quickly after starting?
For a quick stalling engine fix, clean the carburetor jets, air, and fuel filters. Check for vapor lock in the fuel lines and clear tank vents. Adjust the carburetor as needed.