Are you experiencing problems with your pressure washer? We’re here to provide swift and efficient solutions. Our expertise ensures that we can guide you through the troubleshooting process. Let’s tackle this issue head-on!
Check nozzles, belts, seals for air leaks, unloader valve, inlet filter, and battery. For gas models, inspect fuel, air filter, and clean carburetor for electricity, and check power, timer, and water intake. Replace worn seals and nozzles: clean nozzles, filters, carburetor. Tighten fittings to prevent air leaks. Add fuel stabilizer.
Does your cleaning equipment keep letting you down? Interested in learning how to fix these issues swiftly and efficiently? Our in-depth guide provides all the information you need to troubleshoot your machine. Keep reading, and let’s tackle these problems head-on!
Contents
- 1 How to Troubleshoot a Simpson Cleaning Pressure Washer
- 1.1 ● Troubleshoot a Simpson Cleaning Gas and Electric Pressure Washer:
- 1.2 ● Troubleshoot a Simpson Cleaning Gas Pressure Washer:
- 1.3 ● Troubleshoot a Simpson Cleaning Electric Pressure Washer:
- 1.4 ● Troubleshooting your Simpson Cleaning Gasoline Pressure Washer in more detail
- 1.5 ● Simpson Cleaning Electric Pressure Washer troubleshooting in more detail:
- 1.6 ● Simpson Cleaning Pressure Washer Pump system troubleshooting in more detail:
- 2 Why is My Simpson Pressure Washer Not Building Pressure?
- 3 How Do You Clean a Carburetor on a Simpson Cleaning Gas Pressure Washer?
How to Troubleshoot a Simpson Cleaning Pressure Washer
Use the following table to diagnose and troubleshoot a Simpson Cleaning pressure washer. There is a separate part for Electric models and gas models, and we start with problems that apply to both Gas and Electric Models:
● Troubleshoot a Simpson Cleaning Gas and Electric Pressure Washer:
Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
The suction tube or detergent bottle not connected properly | 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 |
My 20 years of experience have taught me to first start with the simplest solutions, such as checking the water supply and power source, before moving on to more complex issues.
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 fitting are tight | |
Erratic water pressure, changing up and down | Unloader valve | Check and clean the unloader valve. If in bad shape, replace it |
Ensure that all the fittings are tight | Unloader valve | Check and clean the unloader valve. If in bad shape, replace it |
● Troubleshoot a Simpson Cleaning Gas Pressure Washer:
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 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 engine is stalling, or starts and stops | 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 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. | |
Clean the air filter. Replace 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. |
Air filter | 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. | |
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. |
If you’re using a Simpson Cleaning Pressure Washer for the first time, start with a low-pressure setting and test it on an inconspicuous area first. Always wear protective gear and follow the safety instructions
● Troubleshoot a Simpson Cleaning Electric Pressure Washer:
Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
The motor buzzes but fails to run | 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 | Please wait for the washer to cool down and restart it | |
The pressure washer circuit breaker tripped | Call a Professional | |
Plug the cord into a different outlet | 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 | 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. | |
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 must replace it. |
● Troubleshooting your Simpson Cleaning Gasoline Pressure Washer in more detail
We will look at some of the troubleshooting steps in more detail. If the power system of your pressure washer is gas or diesel, the problem is often with the engine.
To diagnose this problem, start the pressure washer without connecting the high-pressure hose, and if your engine is not throttling up, it means there is an issue with the engine of your pressure washer.
Step 1: Check the battery
If the engine of your pressure washer isn’t starting, you may have a battery issue. First, examine the battery terminals of your pressure washer for any dirt or loose connections. Tighten the connections and remove any dirt from the terminals. This ensures the proper flow of current.
If the problem still isn’t resolved, check the battery’s condition. You can use a battery tester for this. Charge if needed. If the battery is ancient, replace it. If you have an older type, add electrolyte if the level is low.
Step 2: Check the fuel and filter
If you are still unable to start your pressure washer engine, then in the second step, check the fuel and fill it to the appropriate level.
Also, inspect the fuel filter. If it’s clogged because of any dirt or unnecessary contaminants, clean or replace the filter depending on its condition. Check the gas tank, as this is the most likely culprit.
If you leave the fuel in your pressure washer for some time, part of the fuel evaporates (bad gas). The evaporated fuel leaves thicker particles that can clog the fuel filter and carburetor. This can already happen after a few months. It can result in your pressure washer stalling or not starting.
I recommend draining the old fuel and replacing it with some fresh gas. A more straightforward solution is to add some fuel stabilizer when you plan not to use your pressure washer for some time. Do not forget to add it to your gas storage as well.
Step 3: Adjust the Unloader valve
Suppose the engine of your Simpson pressure washer stops when you trigger the spray wand and apply some force on the pressure washer. In this case, you must read the instruction manual for the recommended engine speed and adjust the unloader valve according to the specifications.
Examine the nozzle at the tip of your pressure washer and replace it with the correct nozzle size. Sometimes, after using the same nozzle on different surfaces at different RPM ratings, the nozzle wears out, leading to the pressure washer stalling.
● Simpson Cleaning Electric Pressure Washer troubleshooting in more detail:
In the case of an electric pressure washer, the electric motor is the probable cause behind issues with your pressure washer.
Step 1: Check the power supply
If the electric motor of your pressure washer isn’t working, then the reason could be that there’s no electrical power. Examine the cord, plugs, and wall socket. Check the wall plug with another appliance to ensure it works fine.
Suppose the motor did work just before. There could be an overheating issue. Sometimes, the motor trips because of overheating. In this case, reset your pressure washer manually through the thermal switch outside the motor after it has cooled.
Step 2: Check the timer
If your electric Simpson pressure washer isn’t working correctly, a faulty timer can also be the reason behind it. To resolve this problem, disconnect the leads from the timer and examine the machine. If your pressure washer doesn’t turn off after the time out, the timer is faulty, and you must replace it.
Step 3: Check the water supply
Sometimes, the source may not supply enough water to your pressure washer, which can result in cavitation (air bubbles). If you notice these air bubbles, check the water supply from the hose to the air compressor. If this looks fine, examine the pump packing. If they are worn, replace them.
● Simpson Cleaning Pressure Washer Pump system troubleshooting in more detail:
Pump starvation is one of the main reasons behind a poorly functioning pump. A pressure washer needs enough water to function correctly. Ensure that the intake lines are not kinked or clogged. Check that the hose is supplying enough water to the pump.
If your garden hose is long and has many kinks, it is possible that it does not produce enough pressure and Gallons Per Minute (GPM) for the pressure washer to work correctly. Check that the faucet is fully open and use a shorter hose.
Step 1: Check the pump
If you have problems with the pump, first check the head of the pump. If there’s no visible damage, check the inlet valve of your machine for any dirt blockage. Over time, dirt and debris gather inside the inlet filter.
Examine the seals and check for excessive wear after clearing any dirt and debris from the pump valve. Inspect the piston seals for any water leakage. If this is the case, it means that your seals are damaged. In that case, it is the reason behind the low pressure on your pressure washer.
Step 2: Check For Any Simpson Cleaning Pump Oil Leakage
Check the pump oil level. This is something you need to do regularly. If the pump oil runs low, it will get hot quickly. Also, check how the oil looks. The pump does not have an oil filter like a gas engine. This oil filter cleans the oil. In the case of the pump, check it manually. If the oil looks dirty, you have to replace it.
Examine the drain plug for any oil leaks due to a damaged seal. If this is the case, you must repair or replace the seal. Oil leaking from the crankshaft, oil sight glass, or piston oil seal is also possible. I recommended examining all the seals thoroughly. If there’s any oil leakage, replace that seal.
Step 3: Loose belt
Another critical step in troubleshooting low water pressure is the belt of your Simpson pressure washer. If it is loose or slipping, it can result in a decrease in pressure. If your machine has a belt, check it. Tighten or replace the belt if needed.
Why is My Simpson Pressure Washer Not Building Pressure?
Many factors affect the pressure of your Simpson Cleaning pressure washer. The most important factors to check are a worn nozzle or a blockage in the system. A loose or slipping belt, air leakage, or a problem with the unloader valve can also cause low water pressure.
Over time, every pressure washer loses some pressure due to wear and tear. With proper maintenance, you can ensure that this is limited. Following are some of the most common factors that could be the reason for the low pressure of your pressure washer.
● Reason 1: Worn Nozzle
If your pressure washer isn’t building any pressure, the most common reason is that the nozzle of your pressure washer is worn. Before using your pressure washer, check the nozzle and replace it with the proper size and color when necessary.
● Reason 2: Loose Belt
If your machine has a belt, it can be loose or slipping. Tighten or replace the belt. If it looks worn, I recommend constantly replacing it.
● Reason 3: Air Leakage
Air leakage can be a reason for lower pressure when some air leaks through your pressure washer’s internal plumbing. High air pressure is essential to maintain high water pressure.
You can fix this problem by disassembling your pressure washer, fixing the area where the air is escaping, and then reassembling the pressure washer.
● Reason 4: Dirt in the nozzle
Over time, your pressure washer can collect tiny particles that can clog the nozzle. This can result in lower pressure. You can see this often because the spray pattern of water from the nozzle looks different. To check if this is the case, use a different nozzle.
You can fix this problem by simply cleaning the nozzle. If it is too worn, replace it. Minerals or dirt sometimes get stuck in the high-pressure hose, resulting in a lower output water pressure. You can try to clean the hose with a thin metal rod or replace it.
● Reason 5: Unloader valve
Suppose your pressure washer is producing a lower or erratic output pressure. The unloader valve diverts the water flow towards the inlet.
When the unloader valve fails to do this, a lot of pressure builds up in the electric pressure washer. The motor will be under a lot of strain, must supply a lot of power driving the pump, and ultimately shut off.
To solve this problem, carefully inspect the unloader valve’s springs and other components. Readjust or replace the damaged parts or the whole valve if it’s fully damaged.
● Reason 6: Pressure Pump
Dirt and small debris gather inside the inlet filter. This can add up over time. When you notice a lower output pressure, check the inlet filter. You can easily clean it with an air compressor. If your machine doesn’t have an inline filter, I recommend adding one. This will improve the lifespan of your pump.
Regular maintenance, using the correct fuel and detergent, and proper storage can prevent many common issues with Simpson Cleaning Pressure Washers. These are some preventative measures users can take
How Do You Clean a Carburetor on a Simpson Cleaning Gas Pressure Washer?
Generally, you can clean the carburetor on a Simpson Cleaning gas pressure washer by removing the gas from the tank. Remove the throttle cover and the air filter, and disconnect the fuel line. Loosen the screws and pull out the carburetor. Remove the remaining gas.
Examine the carburetor for any dust, corrosion, or sticky residue. Spray the carburetor cleaner inside it and let it do its work. Inspect the jet passage.
If it’s blocked, spray the carburetor cleaner inside it as well. Finally, check the gasket holding the carburetor bowl to its body and ensure it’s not worn. Otherwise, replace it.
Assemble the carburetor and check if the engine is working fine. If you notice some sticky residue in the carburetor, this is due to bad gas. Gas turns bad after it’s a couple of months old. If you plan not to use your Simpson
You have been cleaning the pressure washer for some time (more than a couple of months) and draining the gas. Alternatively, you can add some fuel stabilizers to the tank. This will prevent the gas from going bad. Do not forget to add it to any gas you store, and do not use it.
How can I troubleshoot a pressure washer that is leaking water?
I recommend checking the hoses, filters, and seals for leaks. Clean or replace worn parts, tighten fittings, and add fuel stabilizer. Use this guide for detailed troubleshooting steps.
What should I do if my pressure washer is making a strange noise?
Check fittings, unloader valve, and air in the pump. Dirt in the nozzle or worn seals could also be causing the issue. Ensure all components are in good condition to resolve the noise.
How can I troubleshoot a pressure washer that has low water pressure?
Hi Sophia, for low water pressure on your pressure washer, check the nozzles, fittings, and air leaks. Also, inspect the fuel, air filter, and clean the carburetor for gas models. Replace worn seals and nozzles. Hope this helps!
What should I check if my pressure washer is vibrating excessively?
Check nozzles, belts, seals, unloader valve, inlet filter, and battery. For gas models, inspect fuel, air filter, and clean carburetor. Add fuel stabilizer. Hope this helps!
Is there a way to troubleshoot a pressure washer that is not turning on?
Hi Anna! Here are some quick troubleshooting tips for your pressure washer: check nozzles, hoses, filters, intake, unloader valve, fuel, air filter, carburetor, and connections. Hope this helps you get your pressure washer up and running!
Is there a guide on troubleshooting common pressure washer pump issues?
Thanks for your question, Tina! Our blog post covers comprehensive troubleshooting steps for pressure washer pump issues. Check it out for a detailed guide on how to quickly resolve common problems.
Is there a way to troubleshoot a pressure washer that is overheating?
Thank you for reaching out, Joyce! For troubleshooting an overheating pressure washer, check the nozzles, filters, fuel, and air filter. Tighten fittings, clean carburetor, and add fuel stabilizer. Best of luck!
What should I look for when troubleshooting pressure washer engine problems?
Thanks for reaching out, Roy! Make sure to check the fuel, air filter, and clean the carburetor when troubleshooting engine problems on your pressure washer. Let me know if you need more help!
How can I fix a pressure washer that is losing power during operation?
I hope this troubleshooting guide helps you get to the bottom of the power loss issue you’re experiencing with your pressure washer, Gail. Let’s work together to tackle this problem head-on!
What should I do if my pressure washer is losing pressure while in use?
Make sure to check the inlet filter and nozzle for clogs, air leaks, and worn seals, and adjust the unloader valve if needed. Keep troubleshooting step by step to solve the issue.
How can I troubleshoot a pressure washer that is not dispensing detergent properly?
We’ve got you covered, Owen! Check out our detailed troubleshooting guide on the blog post for solutions to your pressure washer detergent dispensing issue. Let’s fix it together!
What should I do if my pressure washer is losing pressure during use?
Check for air leaks in nozzles, belts, seals, inlet filter, and unloader valve. For gas models, inspect fuel, air filter, and carburetor. Tighten fittings, replace worn parts. Keep troubleshooting until resolved.
How can I prevent common issues with pressure washer maintenance?
Thank you for reaching out, Herbert! Check out our troubleshooting guide on the blog post for tips on preventing common pressure washer maintenance issues. Hope it helps!
What do I do if my pressure washer doesn’t turn off on its own?
If your pressure washer won’t turn off, check the unloader valve, inlet filter, and fuel. Clean the carburetor and ensure proper fuel flow. Replace worn parts for optimal performance.
Are there any troubleshooting steps for dealing with the smell of gas coming from the pressure washer?
Hi Dan, to troubleshoot gas smell on your pressure washer, check the fuel and air filters and clean the carburetor. Tighten fittings to prevent air leaks. Let me know if you need more help!
What are the common reasons for a pressure washer not starting?
Great question, Levi! Common reasons include nozzles, belts, seals, inlet filters, and fuel issues. Be sure to check these areas first. Hope this helps!
What maintenance steps can I take to prevent common pressure washer issues?
Hi Lloyd! Check nozzles, seals, filters, and battery regularly. For gas models, inspect fuel, air filter, and carburetor. Replace worn parts and tighten fittings to prevent air leaks. Good luck!
Is there a troubleshooting guide for specific pressure washer models?
I’ve got you covered! Check out the detailed troubleshooting guide provided in the blog post above for specific pressure washer models. Let’s solve those issues together!
Are there specific troubleshooting steps for gas pressure washers versus electric ones?
Vincent, check the blog post above for specific troubleshooting steps for gas versus electric pressure washers. I hope this helps you tackle any issues you might be experiencing.
Can I troubleshoot a pressure washer that is having trouble starting?
Troubleshooting a pressure washer that won’t start can be frustrating. Here are some quick fixes you can try: check all connections, inspect air leaks, clean filters and carburetor, and ensure proper fuel flow. Good luck!
Is there a specific troubleshooting guide for electric pressure washers?
Thank you for your question, Eleanor. Yes, there is a detailed troubleshooting guide for electric pressure washers in the blog post that can help you resolve any issues you may be experiencing. Let’s tackle this together!