Pressure washers are perfect for cleaning your house, objects, and a variety of surfaces efficiently. High-pressure water is a strong force that can even remove tough stains. But when a pressure washer experiences a surging problem, it can hinder your work significantly. A surging pressure washer can have multiple causes. The first step to fix it is to do some troubleshooting.
How Do I Fix My Pressure Washer Surging:
Generally, the first step in fixing a surging pressure washer is to check that every hose is free of kinks or blockages. Ensure that the faucet is fully open, and check and tighten all the connectors. If your pressure washer still is still surging, check and remove any trapped air in the pump and hose. Check and clean the nozzle, the various filters, and the unloader valve.
Through this article, you will learn the reasons behind your pressure washer surging. I will show you how to troubleshoot and fix the most common reasons.
Contents
- 1 Why is My Pressure Washer Surging?
- 1.1 ● Reason 1 – Surging pressure washer: Restricted Water Flow
- 1.2 ● Reason 2 – Surging pressure washer: Spray Nozzle
- 1.3 ● Reason 3 – Surging pressure washer: Pump Packings
- 1.4 ● Reason 4 – Surging pressure washer: Trapped Air
- 1.5 ● Reason 5 – Surging pressure washer: Damaged Unloader
- 1.6 ● Reason 6 – Surging pressure washer: Garden Hose Filter
- 2 How to Troubleshoot a Surging Pressure Washer?
Why is My Pressure Washer Surging?
In general, the most common reason for your pressure washer surging is restrictions in the water flow. This can be due to a kink or blockage in the hose or a problem with the nozzle. Using a pressure washer on several surfaces can lead to a worn or clogged nozzle. Inspect the pump packings for any damage and ensure that the water source supplies an adequate amount of water to the pump. Another reason for surging can be some trapped air in the pump. Or stuck debris in the pump due to not having a hose filter inside the pump inlet.
If your pressure washer is facing a surging problem, there can be many reasons for it. I will list the most common causes and how to fix them:
● Reason 1 – Surging pressure washer: Restricted Water Flow
One of the most common reasons for the surging problem in your pressure washer is a restricted water flow. Make sure that all connected hoses are free of kinks, leaks, and blockages. Also, ensure that all hoses are fitted and connected correctly.
● Reason 2 – Surging pressure washer: Spray Nozzle
Another reason that can cause a surging problem is a clogged spray nozzle. Attach another nozzle and see if this fixes the surging problem. If this is the case, the nozzle is clogged. Use a very thin metal wire to clean it. You can also purchase a nozzle cleaning kit and use that to clean the nozzle inside completely. If that doesn’t work, replace the nozzle.
● Reason 3 – Surging pressure washer: Pump Packings
Damaged pressure washer pump packings can also be the reason behind the surging problem. If damaged, they need to be replaced. If the packings are fine, check the water supply. Ensure that your pressure washer pump is getting enough water from the source at the required minimum GPM (Gallons per minute). If it is significantly lower, the pump can run hot and can lower the output pressure.
● Reason 4 – Surging pressure washer: Trapped Air
If the water pressure is still shifting from high to low, it can be due to trapped air in the pump. Because of this trapped air, your pressure washer’s pump can’t produce enough pressure to push water out of the nozzle at the required settings. You can fix this problem by first disconnecting the hose of the pressure washer.
Let the water flow through the hose until all the air in the hose is gone. Reconnect the hose to the pressure washer. Turn on the pressure washer and let it run for some time. This should ensure that all the air in the pump is removed. Check if this has fixed the surging problem.
Check the inline filter. Over time, dirt and debris gather inside it. This can increase significantly after a while and limit the amount of water flowing to the pump. Clean the inline filter with an air compressor. I recommend adding an inline filter if your machine does not have one.
● Reason 5 – Surging pressure washer: Damaged Unloader
The main purpose of a pressure washer unloader is to relieve the water pressure when the trigger is released, or the nozzle is blocked. Inspect the unloader that is situated above the water inlet. If it’s restricted, it can cause the pressure washer to surge.
Disassemble the unloader valve and clean the components. Adjusting the unloader pressure valve is a tricky process. The goal of the unloader valve adjustment is to find the spot where the pressure is maximum. And the pressure spike when you release the trigger is minimal. Remove the top, lock the nuts. Clip the pressure gauge and start tightening the spring. Once the spring is adjusted, engage the trigger to prevent blockages in the unloader valve. Adjust the knob until you find the spot where pressure is maximal, and the spike is minimal.
The unloader valve of a pressure washer has a tension spring responsible for releasing the pressurized water when the trigger is pressed. The tension spring is also responsible for decreasing the pressure when the trigger is released. By adjusting the pressure washer unloader valve, the goal is to find the ideal setting for the tension spring.
● Reason 6 – Surging pressure washer: Garden Hose Filter
Sometimes, dirt and debris get stuck inside the pump, which can be the reason for the pressure washer surging. If your water system is coming from a more dirty source, like certain ground or rainwater systems, I highly recommend adding a garden hose filter.
This will filter out dust and dirt in the water before it enters your pressure washer. Also, ensure that your machine is using an inlet filter. If not, add one.
How to Troubleshoot a Surging Pressure Washer?
Generally, the first step in troubleshooting a surging pressure washer is to check the spray nozzle for any dirt. If the nozzle is fine, check the unloader valve for any damage or trapped air. Examine the hose and filter for any leakage or restrictions. If there are none, check the water supply and the valves of your pressure washer.
Surging is a decrease in the water pressure in your pressure washer. If water pressure decreases after running the machine for a few minutes, it means that your machine has a surging issue. There can be many factors that can cause this problem. Use to following steps to troubleshoot:
● Step 1: Check the Nozzle
Most of the time, the pressure washer’s nozzle is the main issue behind the surge in pressure. Check the nozzle of your pressure washer. Mount a different one and see if this fixes the problem. If that is the case, the nozzle is likely dirty.
If there is any dirt inside, clean it with a thin metal wire. Or use a nozzle cleaning kit. Also, make sure that your nozzle isn’t partially plugged in. This can also be the reason for the loss in water pressure. If your nozzle is worn out, then you need to replace the nozzle.
● Step 2: Check the Unloader valve
The second step is to check the unloader valve. It is used to divert the water flow from the pump towards the bypass. This unloader can also be used to troubleshoot a surging pressure of water coming out of the pressure washer’s nozzle.
The unloader is situated above the water inlet. Locate the unloader and open it to check if there is any blockage or if it’s worn out. You can adjust the unloader valve slightly to increase the pressure of the washer. Connect a pressure gauge when adjusting the unloader valve to prevent the pressure from getting too high.
During the unloader valve adjustment, check the pressure and find the optimal setting. The spike that you will see when releasing the trigger mustn’t be higher than 10%. A high spike can damage the internals of the pressure washer.
If your machine is still producing a low pressure after adjusting the unloader valve, then your valve might be broken and in need of replacement.
● Step 3: Check the Hose and Filter
After adjusting the unloader valve, check the inlet hose and filter for any restrictions that could be the reason for the low pressure. In this case, clean the hose completely. Ensure that the faucet you use is fully open.
It is also possible that the pressure washer or hose contains trapped air. Disconnect the hose from the pressure washer. Let the water flow until only water comes out. Connect the hose again to the pressure washer. Now pull the trigger and allow the water to flow for some time. This should remove any air from the system.
● Step 4: Check the Water Supply
Sometimes, the source may not supply an adequate amount of water to your pressure washer. This can result in cavitation or air bubbles at the nozzle. Cavitation is a clear sign that not enough water is reaching the pressure washer.
Most manufacturers mention they need 2 gallons per minute (GTM). But my experience is that with a lower amount, they still work fine. But ensure that you have at least a flow of 0.9 GTM. I recommend using a good hose. The minimal diameter should be ¾ inches to avoid any surging in your pressure washer. The longer the hose, the more important a good hose will be.
Suppose the water supply is not a problem. Examine the pump packings. If they are worn out, replace them.
● Step 5: Check the Pressure Washer Valves
The last step in troubleshooting a surging pressure washer is to check the valves. If the inlet or discharge valves aren’t in good working condition, they need replacing. The inlet valve lets the water into the manifold. The inlet valve closes, and water is trusted downwards by the plunger towards the discharge valve.
The discharge valve releases the water. It’s located on the outer side of the pump. If your valves are in good working condition, check the spring of the valve. It could be broken. In that case, replace it.
How do I know if the pump packings need to be replaced in my pressure washer?
You may need to replace the pump packings if the pressure washer is surging. Check for hose kinks, blockages, and proper water flow to troubleshoot.
Can a pressure washer surge if the water supply pressure is too high?
Hi Kristen, yes, a high water supply pressure can cause a pressure washer to surge. Check for restrictions, nozzle clogs, air in the pump, and damaged pump packings. Good luck troubleshooting!
I find the suggestion to use a garden hose filter to prevent debris from causing pressure washer surging very useful, thank you.
Thank you, Arnold! I’m glad you found the tip helpful. Let me know if you have any other questions related to pressure washers.
What are the signs that indicate trapped air in the pump of a pressure washer causing surging?
To avoid surging in your pressure washer, check for kinks in the hoses, clean the nozzle, remove trapped air, inspect the pump packings, and ensure proper water flow.
I never knew that the length and quality of the hose could impact pressure washer performance and cause surging, great tip!
Thank you, Martha Rose! I’m glad you found the tip helpful. Feel free to reach out if you have any more questions about pressure washer maintenance.
I never knew that trapped air in the pump could be a reason for a pressure washer surging, very interesting information.
Thank you for your feedback, Ronald! Trapped air in the pump is a common issue that can cause pressure washer surging. I’m glad you found the information interesting.
This article is very informative, I appreciate the detailed steps provided to troubleshoot pressure washer surging issues.
Thank you, Lois! I’m glad you found the troubleshooting steps helpful. Let me know if you have any more questions.
Is it necessary to regularly clean the filters in a pressure washer to prevent surging issues?
Regularly cleaning the filters in a pressure washer is essential to prevent surging issues. Make sure to check and clean all filters to keep your pressure washer running smoothly.
Thank you for explaining the importance of checking the water supply for a pressure washer experiencing surging.
Thank you for your feedback, Gertrude! I’m glad you found the information about checking the water supply for a surging pressure washer helpful.
Is there a way to prevent debris from getting stuck in the pump of a pressure washer?
Hi Brayden! To prevent debris from getting stuck in the pump of a pressure washer, ensure all hoses are free of blockages, clean the nozzle, remove trapped air, and add a filter. Hope this helps.
I found the tips on checking the unloader valve very helpful, especially the recommendation to use a pressure gauge.
Thank you, Sofia! I’m glad you found the tips helpful. Using a pressure gauge to check the unloader valve can make a big difference in troubleshooting a surging pressure washer.
The tips on cleaning the nozzle with a thin metal wire are very practical and helpful, thank you for sharing.
Thank you for your positive feedback, Salvador Hicks! I’m glad you found the nozzle cleaning tips helpful. Happy cleaning with your pressure washer!
This article provides a comprehensive guide to troubleshooting pressure washer surging, which is very helpful for beginners.
Thank you, Enrique! I’m glad you found the troubleshooting guide helpful for beginners like yourself. Let me know if you have any more questions or need further assistance.
Will using a longer hose affect the performance of a pressure washer and cause surging?
Using a longer hose can potentially cause surging in a pressure washer due to water flow restrictions. Ensure hoses are clear of kinks, nozzles are clean, and pumps are free of air.
Very insightful information on how to adjust the unloader valve of a pressure washer to prevent surging issues.
Thank you for the insightful information on adjusting the unloader valve for a pressure washer. I appreciate the troubleshooting tips provided in your post!
The explanation on the importance of checking the pressure washer valves in troubleshooting surging issues is very informative, thank you.
Thank you for your feedback, Bob! I’m glad you found the information on pressure washer valves helpful. Let me know if you have any other questions.
This article is overly detailed and lengthy, making it difficult for readers to quickly troubleshoot their pressure washer surging issues. It could be more concise and to the point.
Thank you for your feedback, Luke. I will take your advice into consideration for future posts to make troubleshooting more concise and effective.
Is it possible for the pump packings of a pressure washer to cause surging even if they are not visibly damaged?
Peggy, ensure your pump packings are in good condition. A damaged pump packing can cause surging in your pressure washer, even if not visibly damaged.
What should I do if after checking the nozzle and unloader valve, my pressure washer still surges?
If checking the nozzle and unloader valve didn’t resolve the issue, consider inspecting the pump packings and garden hose filter. Additionally, ensure that the pump is receiving adequate water supply and that the unloader valve is functioning properly.
Can a garden hose filter alone solve surging issues in a pressure washer?
A garden hose filter alone may not solve surging issues in a pressure washer. Check for restrictions in water flow, a clogged nozzle, damaged pump packings, trapped air, and damaged unloader valve.
I appreciate the step-by-step troubleshooting guide provided in this article.
Thank you for your feedback, Janet. I’m glad you found the troubleshooting guide helpful. Let me know if you have any other questions related to pressure washer maintenance.