Pressure Washer Won’t Start: Troubleshooting Common Issues

When your gas pressure washer won’t start, it can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you need it for a big cleaning job. No matter if it is an engine that just refuses to turn over or a ratty-high-revving motor that can barely run, the good news is that most of the identifiable problems are simple to solve. From here on, you will be given clear, practical solutions and steps to follow so you can get back to work and avoid eye-watering repairs.

Today in this guide, we share everything about the gas pressure: washer and how to fix common problems with it. We will attempt to get basic functionality from your machine, and some understanding of it when it refuses to play with the rest.

Reasons Why Your Gas Pressure Washer Won’t Start

If your gas pressure washer won’t start, several common issues could be causing the problem. Knowing these could help you identify and fix the root of the issue with ease since each of the above could be a possible concern. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the most likely causes:

Stale Fuel

When fuel remains in the tank for a long time it tends to go rancid, which makes it difficult for the engine to start. Over time, the fuel becomes nonflammable, and the engine may not be able to fire the fuel or even turn over.

How to Fix It:

• Drain the old fuel from the tank and dispose of it properly.
• All the vapor and deposit should be flushed out with fresh gasoline before proceeding with any activity. It is recommended to always use good quality fuel that does not contain more than 10% ethanol because ethanol corrodes the fuel system.
• Include fuel stabilizer if you are going to idle the pressure washer for several days, to prevent fuel from going bad.

When you are powering your pressure washer during the winter, make sure to drain the engine prior to storing, or if you’re unable to do that, add some fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from degrading.

Dirty Carburetor

A dirty or clogged carburetor is one of the most frequent causes for the gas pressure washer not to start up. If the fuel cannot be supplied at the engine’s required rate, then the motor will not start or run very badly.

How to Fix It:

• Turn off the fuel valve and unscrew the carburetor to meet the Wishlist.
• Clean the carburetor by using a carburetor cleaner. Take them apart to clear the debris or any dirt, dust, or even old fuel deposits.
• Look for this about the fuel jets within the carburetor and if choked, clean them appropriately.
• Put back the carburetor and reinstall it once it is clean.

Clean the carburetor periodically, especially if you plan to store the pressure washer for long periods, to prevent buildup and clogging. If you do not have the time or capability to clean it yourself then it can cost from $50 to $100 up to the model and the mechanic.

Faulty Spark Plug

A worn or dirty spark plug can prevent the engine from starting by failing to produce a spark to ignite the fuel.  This can be as a result of the spark plug getting capped with carbon or at times if the spark plug has a faulty electrode.

How to Fix It:

• Take out the spark plug using a spark plug wrench.
• Checking for the presence of deposits on the spark plug or the presence of checks or cracks indicates proper combustion is taking place. With a wire brush, wash the plug, or else, get a new one if it is rusted or if it has worn out.
• Test the spark by scraping the side of the spark plug against the metal and hand-pulling the starter cord. If there is no spark it might be the time to replace the spark plug.

Change the spark plug once every year to help maintain the efficiency of the engine and ease starting. Spark plugs are cheaper and depending on the kind you require they range between $5 to $15. You just need to replace a spark plug, which is easy to do.

Ignition Coil Problems

The ignition coil generates the spark that ignites the fuel. If the ignition coil is faulty, it won’t provide the necessary spark to the spark plug, preventing the engine from starting.

How to Fix It:

• Test the ignition coil with a multimeter to check for continuity. If there’s no continuity, it’s time to replace the ignition coil.
• Inspect the ignition coil for visible damage or wear. If the coil is cracked or damaged, replace it.

Regularly check the ignition coil during maintenance to ensure it’s in good condition. Avoid using the pressure washer with the coil in poor condition, as it can cause further damage. Ignition coils can range from $20 to $50, depending on the model and brand. Replacing them usually requires a few basic tools and can be manageable as a DIY repair.

Broken Flywheel Key

The flywheel key ensures that the flywheel and crankshaft are properly aligned. If the flywheel key breaks, the engine timing will be off, and the engine may run roughly or fail to start.

How to Fix It:

• Remove the flywheel by taking off the flywheel nut and gently lifting the flywheel off.
• Inspect the flywheel key for damage or breakage.
• Replace the broken flywheel key with a new one, ensuring it’s properly aligned before reinstalling the flywheel.

While flywheel key failure isn’t common, be mindful of any unusual engine sounds or backfiring, which could indicate a broken flywheel key. Flywheel keys are inexpensive (usually under $5), but replacing them can be time-consuming. If you’re unfamiliar with the process, professional repair costs may range from $50 to $100.

Excessive Pump Pressure

If the pump is over-pressurized, it can make the engine harder to turn over or cause starting issues. This could happen due to blockages or buildup inside the pump, or if the pressure relief valve is malfunctioning.

How to Fix It:

• Check for clogged nozzles and clean them thoroughly with water or a nozzle cleaning tool.
• Inspect the pump for blockages or debris that could be restricting water flow.
• Examine the pressure relief valve to ensure it’s functioning properly. If it’s defective, replace it.

After every use, flush the pump with clean water to prevent dirt and debris buildup. Store the pressure washer in a dry, clean place to avoid damage to the pump. Replacing nozzles typically costs $5 to $15, while pump replacements can be more expensive, ranging from $100 to $300, depending on the model and brand.

When to Call a Professional for Troubleshooting

Many of the issues that arise with pressure washers can be eliminated with DIY methods but some situations warrant professional care for proper repair and maintenance.

Evaluating the Need for Professional Help

It’s essential to recognize when DIY repairs may not suffice:

• Complex Issues: Anything to do with parts inside the engine, hidden electrical wiring or another advanced addition will be better solved by a mechanic.
• Safety Concerns: Pressurized water and electricity do not mix without the proper tools or know-how.
• Warranty Considerations:  Repairs may need to be made by a certified technician in order for you to keep your warranty.

Benefits of Hiring a Professional Pressure Washing Service

Engaging a professional pressure washing service offers several advantages:

• Expertise and Experience: Different units of pressure washers are available in the market, and professionals are capable of understanding the problems immediately and solving them.
• Quality Assurance: Some of the prestige jobs that will need to be done by professionals are normally backed by
• Time Savings: It is convenient to hire the services of an expert since it frees up your time especially when your pressure washer is in for repairs or servicing..

Although it costs a slightly larger amount for professionals to be hired to do the work compared to when one decides to do it themselves, the service is usually professional and efficient and will make sure that the pressure washer will run for as many years as possible.

Conclusion 

In this guide, we went over simple troubleshooting processes needed to solve some of the more popular challenges plaguing your gas pressure washer.  It is very important to understand these difficulties, which are inherent in most gas pressure washers. These include clogged fuel, carburetor, spark plugs or high-pressure pump. A gas pressure washer should be well maintained for it to work for long without having to be taken for repairs hence the need to fix a pressure washer as soon as any issue is noticed. Keep this guide handy, and you’ll be ready to tackle any starting issues with confidence!