Drain the Oil Out of the Pressure Washer: What Pros Say

To keep your pressure washer well-maintained and ensure its performance stays unaffected, you should replace its oil regularly. Most manufacturers recommend replacing the oil after 50 hours of operation or annually if you don’t use the machine regularly.

Drain the oil out of the pressure washer.

It is critical to replenish the oil from a pressure washer for various reasons. The oil protects the pump and the engine from harm caused by excessive friction and heat and ensures that it runs smoothly. It tends to become stale from dirt, debris, and other impurities over time, decreasing its effectiveness and damaging the engine. Hence, routine oil changes play a key role in preserving the pressure washer’s peak performance and prolonging its life.

If your pressure washer is becoming noisier than usual or isn’t working as effectively as it once did, it’s probably time for an oil change. You need to know how to correctly drain the pressure washer’s oil before changing the oil. This post will examine the need for oil draining, when, and what experts say about the procedure.

How Do You Drain the Oil Out of a Pressure Washer?

Please note that oil is to be changed for both the pump (if it’s a plunger type) and the engine (if it’s a gas pressure washer). Axial and wobble-type pumps do not require oil changes as they are filled with oil permanently during manufacturing. Following these three simple steps, draining oil from a pressure washer can become relatively easy.

1. Check the Oil Levels:

Before you proceed with changing the oil, look at the current oil levels in the engine. Remove the dipstick from the engine and check the oil level. It should be filled to the crosshatch on the dipstick. Also, monitor the oil quality. If it appears dark in color, it most certainly needs to be changed.

While you are changing engine oil, you can also replace the pump oil, if applicable. The frequency of oil changes is roughly the same for the engine and the pump. Doing so ensures that both oil changes are carried out once.

2. Eliminating Contaminants from The Pump:

Clear the pump of pollutants to prepare the pressure washer for oil drainage. Turn on the water supply, and detach the wand from the spray gun. Next, turn the engine on while keeping the spray gun trigger pressed.

Hold the trigger down until there is a constant spray of water for around two minutes before depressing it. This step ensures that the pump gets purged off the contaminants before replenishing the oil.

3. Oil Draining:

After removing the impurities from the pump, you can drain the oil. The oil cap on the water pump must first be removed using a wrench. Pour the used oil into a new container by tilting the pressure washer at a certain angle. You can tilt your pressure washer back into its normal position once you’ve completely removed the oil. A similar procedure is to be followed for the engine.

4. Oil Replacement

After draining the oil, you can move on to the final stage, i.e., replenishing the oil. To fill your pump/engine with oil, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines while selecting the oil grade. Most pumps use synthetic motor oils with 10W30 viscosity. However, if you live in colder areas (less than 50^o F), you can use 5W30.

After you’ve selected the oil, use a funnel to fill it inside your pump/engine without causing spills. Make sure you keep a regular check on the dipstick marking and avoid overfilling the engine. After that, set the pressure washer upright. Be cautious to wipe up oil spills, and discard used oil and filthy rags.

Note: Observe the local environmental laws when carrying out the procedure. 

Now that the oil is changed, your pressure washer is set for a test run.

How Often Should You Change the Oil in A Pressure Washer?

Generally, the pump oil should be changed every 200 to 250 working hours, every three months if you use it frequently, or once a year if you don’t. For more specific details, you can also consult the owner’s manual.

The instruction booklet will also specify the oil you should use to replace the old oil in the pump. If you use your pressure washer frequently, it’s safer and better to check the oil level every 50 hours or three months, whichever comes first.

Signs to Watch Out for:

When using a pressure washer, most users report that the water starts to get milky in color. You most likely need to replace the oil in your pump if the water has a lot of distinctly loose particles in it. To do so, you’ll need to buy non-detergent oil. This kind of oil stops foaming and corrosion. Never add used oil to your machine; dump the old oil properly after each refill.

Preventive Maintenance

Make sure you can clean your pump of contaminants before every use. This includes releasing the spray gun’s wand and starting the engine. Allow the water to flow for a while, open the safety lock and reconnect the wand after a few minutes. Doing these steps ensures that the debris deposits from the water do not get stuck in the pump for long.

Also, always ensure your pressure washer has an inlet filter. This filter removes the contaminants that come with water and ensures the supply of clean, filtered water for the pump.

What Happens If You Put Too Much Oil in A Pressure Washer?

Overusing oil in your pressure washer might reduce its performance and lifespan. The following are a few outcomes of overfilling the oil reservoir:

• Malfunctioning: The pressure washer either malfunctions or stop working entirely.
• Overheating: If the oil is filled to the brim, the foam may develop inside the crankcase, leading to an overheated and seized engine.
• Leakage: Foam development may lead to oil leakage, which would be a nuisance and further impair the pressure washer’s effectiveness.
• Clogged: The pump/engine could become clogged by extra oil, which would cause it to stall or run poorly.
• Gaskets and seals: Overfilling the oil can harm the gaskets and seals, leading to leaks and other issues.

In the end, this could seriously impact the engine, requiring pricey repairs or purchasing a new pressure washer. Following the manufacturer’s instructions for oil levels and maintenance guarantees that the pressure washer runs smoothly and stays that way.

Does A Pressure Washer Have Oil in The Pump?

Pressure washers require oil in the pump to ensure proper operation and smooth movement of pistons, plungers, and connecting rods.

The oil lubricates and safeguards the pump’s pistons, crankshaft, and bearings. Developing a thin layer also helps reduce friction and wear on these components. Additionally, it helps reduce heat and eliminate dust and dirt, which is essential to prolong the pump’s lifespan.

The type and quantity of oil needed for the pump vary based on the brand and model of the pressure washer. Some pressure washers need specialized pump oil, while others use engine oil. Read the instruction manual to get the right one. Generally, you can always use the same oil for your engine and the pump.

Preventative Maintenance:

Regular upkeep of the pump is critical to ensure the pressure washer’s optimal performance. Over time, the oil may become contaminated or deteriorate, which might decrease its lubricating efficiency. Consequently, inspecting and changing the pump oil regularly is critical, following the manufacturer’s recommended intervals.

Failing to replace the pump oil could result in decreased pump performance, damage to the pump components, costly repairs, or even the need for pump replacement.

How Do You Change the Oil on a Pressure Washer Pump?

Let’s discuss how to replace the pressure washer pump oil correctly.

1. Pump Cleanup:

Turn on the water supply, then remove the sprayer’s wand. Next, turn the engine on and press the trigger of the pressure washer gun for 2 minutes to drain the remaining water and dirt. This also helps warm up the pressure washer.

2. Remove the Oil

Drain out the engine’s oil and fuel. To release the pressure within, you must first turn the knob or loosen it and release the reservoir’s top access bolt. Your wrench will be helpful here if there is a bolt. There are three different methods for disposing of the oil. 

The first method involves using an oil drain plug to remove it from the oil reservoir’s bottom. The second method involves using a suction hose. You can also turn the pressure washer in either direction to drain the used oil into your container. Have a pan or old tray ready to collect any leftover oil if the other options become necessary.

3. Store the Oil

Pour the new fresh into your oil storage container after you’ve emptied the old oil, then put that away for the time being. Reconnect the drain bolt or knob again.

4. Add Fresh Oil:

Pump oil pre-measured bottles are available with some models. Generally, you should choose a non-detergent pump oil with SAE-30 grade. The viscosity can be 10W30 (in summer) or 5W30 (in winter). Take your funnel, and fill the pump with oil until it is about 3/4 full.

5. Close the Pump:

Reconnect the bolt and tighten it securely. If oil has leaked around the cap or in the vicinity, clean it up with a towel. Set your pressure washer in the vertical position. You can start using your pressure washer again after a short while.

How Do I Check the Oil in My Pressure Washer Pump?

If your pressure washer pump is malfunctioning, check its oil levels. If the oil levels are insufficient, you must raise them to ensure your pressure washer pump operates appropriately. Oil levels can affect how the pressure washer pump functions. You can check the oil levels in your pump in two ways:

• Check the owner’s manual: Find the recommended oil level for your specific pressure washer by consulting the owner’s manual for your pressure washer pump. Depending on the particular type of pump you have, this will vary.
• Check the Oil Levels: Most pumps have a viewing glass from which the oil levels can be checked. The owner’s manual can help you locate the viewing glass on your pump. It has a red dot or two parallel lines, like those on a spirit level. The oil level in the pump can then be noted with respect to these lines.

Note: Please avoid disassembling your pump or removing any component to check the oil levels. Most pumps come factory assembled and are filled with oil. Hence, it would be best to be cautious not to dislodge any pump parts as they may not be assembled again.