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Why Pressure Washers Lose Pressure & What to Do? With Fixes

Pressure washing is a great way to wash large areas quickly and effectively. But one of the most common issues pressure washer owners run into is that the pressure washer unit loses pressure after some time. If the pressure washer is not spraying water with enough pressure it becomes difficult to remove dirt and clean a surface effectively.

Why do pressure washers lose pressure, and what to do:

  • The water supply hose is incompatible, damaged or the inlet filter is blocked
  • Worn out or blocked Nozzle
  • Water temperature is not compatible with the pressure washer unit
  • Problems with the engine itself
  • Incorrect adjustment of Unloader Valve
  • The air inside the pressure washer system
  • Bad water pump

Luckily most of the above-mentioned causes of low pressure can be fixed relatively easily, while a few of them might require professional help. Owning a pressure washer that is not producing as much pressure as you want or has a complete loss of pressure can be frustrating. Therefore, we are going to explain in detail the possible causes of pressure loss in the pressure washer and how you can overcome these causes.

Incompatible Damaged or Blocked Water Supply Hose

It is no surprise that pressure washers require plenty of water in order to work properly and produce a steady stream of highly pressurized water. A decent-sized pressure washer unit needs around 4 liters of water every minute to run properly. In fact, the supply hose or inlet hose of a pressure washer is probably the first component to check if you are experiencing low pressure from your pressure washer.

Incompatible Inlet/Supply Hose:

The diameter of a pressure washer supply hose matters a lot and you can’t expect to use the same diameter hose on every kind of pressure washer unit. If you use an inlet hose that is too narrow or too wide for the pressure washer it is going to provide an incorrect amount of water to the pressure washer unit and reduce the pressure of the unit.

Fix: Incompatible inlet/supply hose

The only way to solve the issue of an incompatible inlet hose is to get a new hose that is designed to be used with your pressure washer. You can refer to the user manual of your pressure washer to know the correct diameter inlet hose for your pressure washer. But if you don’t have the user manual for your pressure washer here are some general inlet hose diameters and their compatible pressure washer unit sizes:

  • 1/4” Hoses: These hoses are considered the smallest diameter and they are mostly used with small pressure washer units designed for home use or small electric pressure washers. If you have a pressure washer with a pressure rating of up to 3200 psi then a ¼” hose is the one you should use.
  • 5/16” Hoses: These are considered mid-diameter hoses and they are suitable for pressure washers rated between 2700-3600 psi. But these hoses are rarely used and are not very common.
  • 3/8” Hoses: These are the largest diameter hoses you can find in the market, and they are meant to be used for commercial grade pressure washers. Not only are these hoses wide, but they are also made with tougher materials and can be used for a pressure washer with up to a 10,000 psi rating.

Damaged Supply/Inlet Hose:

If the inlet hose of your pressure washer has any leaks or cracks in it, then the water can leak, and insufficient water will be supplied to the pump causing low water pressure. Since the pressure washer inlet hose has to withstand a lot of pressure, it is not uncommon for an inlet hose to crack or break. If the damage is not too severe and the cracks are not spread all across the length of the supply hose, you can repair the hose at home, but if the cracks are too big, it is best to get a new hose similar to the old one.

Fix: Damaged supply/inlet hose

You can use shears, a coupling kit with hose clamps, and a screwdriver to fix a crack or cut in the inlet hose. Once you have all the items ready you can follow these steps to repair the cracked or damaged inlet hose:

  • Step 1: Remove the hose: Remove the hose from the tap and the pressure washer unit.
  • Step 2: Cut the damaged section: Once you have spotted the crack you can cut the hose perpendicularly to remove the damaged section of the inlet hose using shears. Make the cuts at least half an inch on both sides of the crack.
  • Step 3: Secure both the pipe ends: Now, take the coupling kit with both male and female parts. But before fitting the ends of the hose on the male and female sides of the coupling kit, you will have to put the hose clamps over the hose to secure both ends of the pipe on the coupling kit.
  • Step 4: Insert the couplings: Next insert the male coupling into one end of the hose that you just cut and insert the female coupling into the other.
  • Step 5: Tighten the clamps: Tighten the hose clamps on both the male and female ends of the coupling kit to make sure the hose is held tightly onto the coupling kit. Use a screwdriver if needed.
  • Step 6: Join the ends of the coupling: Finally, you will have to join both the male and female ends of the coupling kit together to finish the repair. And you can do it simply by turning both ends together until they are tight.

Blocked Water Inlet Hose or Clogged Inlet Filter:

If the source of water you have been using to feed water into the pressure washer is not clean, it can cause the inlet filter to get blocked with debris. Inlet filter is usually located inside the point where the water supply hose connects to the pressure washer unit. Its job is to make sure no debris gets into the pressure washer pump and damages it. Besides the blocked inlet filter, there can also be a blockage inside the hose itself, and both of these blockages can be fixed fairly easily.

Fix: Blocked water inlet hose or clogged inlet filter

If you notice that you have a blockage in the hose pipe itself due to the accumulation of debris in it, then the best way to remove the blockage is to cut the section of the hose with the blockage using the same method that we explained above to repair the inlet hose. The inlet filter can even The cuts will have to be made so that the blockage is removed along with the cut section of the supply hose, and then you can rejoin both ends using a coupling kit. But when it comes to cleaning a blockage inlet filter, you can do that by following these simple steps:

  • Step 1: Remove the hose: Remove the inlet hose from the pressure washer inlet before removing the inlet filter.
  • Step 2: Remove the inlet nozzle: Turn the inlet nozzle on the pressure washer unit anticlockwise to take it off.
  • Step 3: Pull out the inlet filter: Once you have removed the inlet nozzle that the water supply hose connects to, you can see the inlet filter inside. To remove the inlet filter from the pressure washer unit you can use pliers to pull it out.
  • Step 4: Remove the debris: With the inlet filter removed, simply rinse off the debris under running tap water.
  • Step 5: Connect the inlet filter back: Place the inlet filter back inside the inlet housing and fit the nozzle on the inlet filter housing before reconnecting the inlet hose.

Worn-Out or Blocked Nozzle

Another more common cause of low pressure in a pressure washer is a worn-out or blocked nozzle that restricts the proper flow of water through it and, therefore, reduces the pressure washer’s pressure. So if you are experiencing loss of pressure or pulsating spray of water, then a blocked nozzle might be the culprit. The hole of the nozzle is already pretty narrow, and if the nozzle gets blocked, you will experience a significant pressure drop. Similarly, if the nozzle of the pressure washer has not been replaced for a long time, it will wear out, and the hole of the nozzle will become wider over time, causing a pressure drop.

Worn-out Nozzle:

Most people think that the nozzles of their pressure washer are meant to last forever. But depending on the quality of water, frequency of usage, and amount of pressure the nozzle is handling, it will wear out quicker, and therefore you will have to replace the nozzle sooner.

Fix: Worn out nozzle

While there is no specific duration after which you will have to replace your pressure washer nozzle, a good indicator that it is time to get a new nozzle for your pressure washer is if there is more than a 10% drop in pressure. Every pressure washer has a pressure gauge that tells you about the operating pressure of the unit. And you will have to remember the operating pressure of the pressure washer when you bought it brand new to know if the pressure has dropped more than 10% or not.

Note: Since there are other causes of loss of pressure in a pressure washer it is a good idea to rule out other possible causes of a drop in pressure before you replace the nozzle. But normally replacing the worn-out nozzle of the pressure washer should resolve the low-pressure issue.

Blocked Nozzle:

If you haven’t been using your pressure washer very often or if your pressure washer is not too old, then the cause of low pressure can be a blocked nozzle, especially if the spray of water seems to be pulsating or irregular along with low pressure. Luckily unblocking or unclogging a nozzle is a relatively simple task, and you can give it a try before replacing the nozzle because sometimes a nozzle is clogged and not worn out.

– Fix: Blocked nozzle

You can unblock a pressure washer nozzle with these simple steps:

  • Step 1: Remove the nozzle: The nozzle has to be removed in order to clean it because trying to clean the nozzle without removing it is only going to cause the debris to go back inside the nozzle. So to remove the nozzle you will have to turn off the pressure washer unit and squeeze the handle a few times to remove any pressure inside the nozzle. Remove the nozzle from the pressure washer gun by either turning or simply pushing the nozzle downwards depending on the type of pressure washer you own.
  • Step 2: Clean the nozzle: You can either use the nozzle cleaner that came with the pressure washer or use a straightened paper clip. But it is recommended to use the designated nozzle cleaner to avoid any damage to the nozzle. First, poke the nozzle from the front end (where the water sprays out).
  • Step 4: Remove the blockage in the nozzle: Push the blockage backward so that it comes out from the back of the nozzle.
  • Step 5: Place the nozzle under running water: Once you are sure that the blockage has been loosened up, place it under running water, preferably pressurized water, so that any loose debris can be flushed out from the nozzle.
  • Step 6: Reattach the nozzle: Place the nozzle back on the pressure washer gun and test to make sure the pressure is optimal.

Incompatible Water Temperature

There are two types of pressure washers, hot water pressure washers and cold water pressure washers. And both of them can only run properly when the correct water temperature is fed into them. If you are using incorrect water temperature in your pressure washer, your pressure washer will not provide optimal water pressure. Not to mention that the pressure washer pump can get damaged if wrong temperature water is used in it. Also, you can’t simply convert a hot water pressure washer into a cold water one and vice versa.  

– Fix: Incompatible water temperature

Refer to the user manual of your pressure washer to know if it is hot water or a cold water one. Once you have determined the correct water temperature for your pressure washer, ensure you are feeding the correct water temperature to your pressure washer.

Engine Problems

Gas-powered pressure washers provide the most power because a gasoline engine powers them. And just like any engine, a pressure washer engine requires regular maintenance to produce the optimal amount of power. But if a pressure washer engine is not being maintained regularly, it won’t perform properly, which results in a pressure drop. Unfortunately, from the fluids to the air filter of the pressure washer, there are quite a few items in the maintenance checklist of your pressure washer engine. And it is important to take proper care of your pressure washer engine if you want to enjoy high-pressure cleaning. A telltale sign of a bad pressure washer other than low water pressure is stalling, engine running rough, or suddenly shutting down. Sometimes a gasoline pressure washer might even fail to start, which is also an indicator of an engine problem.

Fix: Engine problems

If you want to get the maximum pressure from your gasoline-powered pressure washer and get rid of low pressure you have to keep the engine in perfect condition. Some of the most common engine maintenance you can do to increase its output is:

  • Keep an eye on engine oil: Engine oil is an important fluid for the engine of your pressure washer because it keeps the engine running smoothly by reducing friction between the internal components of the engine. However, if you have been using the same engine oil for more than 200 hours, the oil will lose its ability to lubricate the engine, therefore, reducing pressure. So it is essential to check the engine oil level every time you use the pressure washer and change the oil when needed.
  • Check the sparkplug: A bad sparkplug will cause the engine to lose power and run improperly and shut off completely. So if you notice misfires from your pressure washer engine and the fuel consumption is also higher than usual with an obvious loss of water pressure, it is a good idea to check the sparkplug of your pressure washer engine. First, remove the sparkplug and look for any cracks or signs of damage or being burnt completely. If you notice any of these signs, it is time to replace the sparkplug to get the proper water pressure out of your unit.
  • Check the air filter: The air filter does exactly what its name suggests. An air filter’s job is to provide clean air to the pressure washer’s engine and allow it to run properly. But if the air filter is not clean or damaged, you will start to experience lower power pressure from the pressure washer because of unclean air coming into the engine. So to check the air filter, open up the air filter housing and check if the filter is dirty or damaged in any way. In the case of a reusable foam filter, you can clean it and put it back inside the air filter housing. But if your pressure washer has a paper air filter, you will have to get a new air filter if the old one seems dirty and worn out.

Incorrect Adjustment of the Unloader Valve

The unloader valve is responsible for diverting water flow when the trigger of the pressure washer gun is not pressed. When you release the trigger, the unloader valve sends the water back to the pump’s inlet, therefore, stopping the flow of water to the nozzle. But apart from stopping the flow of water unloader valve can also affect the pressure of water that comes out of your pressure washer nozzle. If the adjustments on an unloader valve are incorrect, you will not get the pressure you require.

Fix: Incorrect adjustment of the unloader valve

You can adjust the unloader valve using the unloader valve knob located where the high-pressure hose is attached to the pressure washer. However, remember that adjusting an unloader valve is a very delicate task, and you should pay extra attention when adjusting the unloader valve:

  • Step 1: Run the washer: Run the pressure washer, at least 3400 rpm under the load with water flowing through it.
  • Step 2: Note the gauge reading: Now squeeze the trigger of the pressure washer gun and note the pressure that is shown in the pressure gauge. If the pressure on the pressure gauge reads low you will have to turn the unloader valve knob clockwise to increase the pressure.
  • Step 3: Adjust the valve knob: Squeeze the trigger again for a while and then release the trigger and start adjusting the unloader valve knob one turn at a time. Squeeze the trigger again and release it then turn the knob again you will have to repeat the process until the pressure reaches your desired level.
  • Step 4: Keep an eye on the gauge reading: Make sure that when you release the trigger the pressure gauge doesn’t increase more than 300psi above the pressure when the trigger is pulled and water is spraying.  

The Air inside the Pressure Washer System

If your pressure washer system has air trapped inside of it, you are going to experience a loss of pressure, vibrations, and sudden drop and increases in water pressure. Pressure washers with a suction mechanism for sucking water into the pump are more common to get air trapped in them. But none suction pressure washers can also get air in them and lose their pressure. The main cause of air entering the pressure washer system is loose fittings. If a hose or fitting is not airtight, air can easily get into the system and reduce the pressure. Since pressure washers are meant to work in a closed system, even a tiny space can cause air to get into the system.

Fix: The air inside the pressure washer system

Inspect the hoses and joints to ensure no damage to the hoses and the fittings are airtight. If you replace the hoses or fittings, make sure you replace them with correct sized hoses and fittings to avoid getting vacuum leaks and prevent air from getting into the system. Once you have identified and taken care of the cause of air getting into the system, you can then remove the existing air from the pressure washer using the steps explained below:

  • Step 1: Connect the hose: Connect the inlet hose with the pressure washer.
  • Step 2: Add water into the washer: Turn the water tap on to allow water to flow into the pressure washer without turning the pressure washer motor on.
  • Step 3: Press the trigger: Press the trigger of the pressure washer to allow water to flow through the system with the pump and engine off.
  • Step 4: Let the water flow: Keep the water flowing through the pressure washer for a few seconds until you are sure there are no bubbles of air left in the system.

Bad or Worn-out Pressure Washer Water Pump

The pump of the pressure washer is what actually pressurizes the water coming into the pressure washer unit. Your pressure washer pump may become weak because of improper usage and can even fail, causing a loss of pressure and even no pressure at all. A pressure washer pump can go bad due to either lack of proper water supply or due to being in a by-pass or standby for long periods. By-pass is a situation when the pressure washer is running but the trigger has not been pressed.

Fix: Bad or worn out pressure washer water pump

If your pressure washer cannot maintain even 1000 psi of pressure, then it is a clear indicator that you need a new pressure washer pump. When replacing a pressure washer pump, one thing to make sure of when replacing a pressure washer pump is to get the right replacement pump for your pressure washer. Avoid installing a pump with a higher PSI than your pressure washer engine is rated for because your engine will not be able to run a pump if it is above its recommended psi range. It is best to get a professional to replace the pressure washer pump for you to avoid running into any issues and damaging other components. Ensure that the shape and size of the replacement pump are the same as the pump you are replacing for a perfect fit.

Final Remarks

 All of the above-mentioned causes of low pressure should be investigated one by one because the loss of pressure might be caused by either one or due to multiple reasons. While most of the issues mentioned in this article can be fixed very easily, other items such as replacing a pump can be costly and difficult at the same time. Therefore if you want to avoid damaging your pressure washer pump, it is best to turn the pressure washer off when cleaning instead of letting it by-pass for long periods. Also, connect the water supply hose first before running the pressure washer to avoid causing air to get into the system. Then, with a little care, you can prevent your pressure washer from losing pressure in the first place.

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  1. Felecia Reed says:

    How often should I replace the pressure washer nozzle?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Hi Felecia, the pressure washer nozzle should be replaced when there is more than a 10% drop in pressure. Make sure it is compatible with your unit for optimal performance.

  2. Ian Kuhn says:

    What is the ideal water temperature for a pressure washer?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Ideal water temperature for a pressure washer depends on the unit. Cold water for most units, while hot water for hot water pressure washers. Refer to the manual for specifics.

  3. Bobbie Fisher says:

    I found the information about hoses and nozzles very helpful!

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Bobbie! I’m glad you found the information helpful. Let me know if you have any more questions about pressure washers – happy to help!

  4. Alicia Berry says:

    What are the common causes of a damaged inlet hose?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Hi Alicia, common causes of a damaged inlet hose include using an incompatible hose diameter or having a damaged hose. Replacing the hose with the correct diameter can solve the issue. Hope this helps!

  5. Jonathan Harvey says:

    The step-by-step guide on removing air from the pressure washer system is easy to follow.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Jonathan! I’m glad you found the guide helpful. Feel free to reach out if you have any more questions. Happy pressure washing!

  6. Lonnie Jennings says:

    How can I check if the water supply hose is compatible?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      To check if the water supply hose is compatible, ensure it is the correct diameter for your pressure washer. Replace if damaged or blocked, to maintain proper water pressure.

  7. Candice Morgan says:

    I never knew the water temperature could affect pressure washer performance.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Candice! Water temperature is a key factor in pressure washer performance. I’m glad to provide insights on this topic for your pressure washing needs.

  8. Nina Hunter says:

    Has anyone experienced a damaged pressure washer pump?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Hi Nina, if you’re experiencing a damaged pressure washer pump, it could be due to various factors like water supply hose issues or worn-out nozzles. Check out the blog post for detailed fixes. Hope this helps!

  9. Jacqueline Frazier says:

    This article explains the common issues with a pressure washer very clearly.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Jacqueline! I’m glad you found the article helpful in understanding common pressure washer issues. Feel free to reach out if you have any more questions or need further assistance.

  10. Terrance Banks says:

    I appreciate the advice on how to fix a blocked nozzle at home.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Terrance! I’m glad you found the advice helpful. Let me know if you have any more questions. Happy pressure washing!

  11. Brandy Thomas says:

    The tips on adjusting the unloader valve were very useful.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Brandy! I’m glad you found the tips on adjusting the unloader valve helpful. Let me know if you need any more assistance with your pressure washer.

  12. Eileen Diaz says:

    Great tips on how to maintain your pressure washer engine.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Eileen! I’m glad you found the tips helpful. Let me know if you have any questions or need further assistance with maintaining your pressure washer engine.

  13. Kristin Palmer says:

    How can I ensure my pressure washer engine is well maintained?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Hi Kristin, ensuring a compatible and undamaged water supply hose can help maintain your pressure washer engine. Be sure to check and repair any issues with the hose for optimal performance.

  14. Annie Crawford says:

    The video tutorials included in the article are very informative.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you for the positive feedback, Annie! I’m glad you found the video tutorials informative. Hopefully, they will help you troubleshoot any pressure washer issues you may encounter.

  15. Mia Long says:

    What are the signs of air trapped in the pressure washer system?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you for your question, Mia. Signs of air trapped in the pressure washer system include vibrations, fluctuations in pressure, and loss of pressure. Check for loose fittings and ensure all hoses are airtight.

  16. Tony Obrien says:

    Why do pressure washers lose pressure?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you for your question, Tony. Pressure washers can lose pressure due to various reasons like incompatible water supply hoses, damaged filters, worn-out nozzles, and engine issues. Check and fix these components to get your pressure washer working optimally.

  17. Bernard Carter says:

    Can I use a larger diameter hose with a smaller pressure washer?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Yes, you can use a larger diameter hose with a smaller pressure washer, but it is crucial to ensure compatibility for optimal performance. Refer to the user manual for the correct diameter.

  18. Melvin Holt says:

    Can I clean a blocked nozzle at home?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Hi Melvin, Yes, you can clean a blocked nozzle at home. Check the blog post for detailed steps on how to fix this common pressure washer issue easily.

  19. Floyd Bates says:

    This article is a must-read for anyone who owns a pressure washer.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Floyd! I hope you found the information helpful for maintaining your pressure washer pressure. Let me know if you have any questions!

  20. Eric Arnold says:

    What is the function of the unloader valve?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      The unloader valve ensures proper water flow in your pressure washer. If improperly adjusted, it can result in a pressure drop. Check and adjust it carefully to maintain optimal performance.

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