If your electric pressure washing leaks, it’s essential to find the problem as quickly as possible. We created this guide to help you identify the leak, take apart the pump, fix the issue, and safely assemble everything without any problems.
If you face any further issues or need professional help, call Bluffton Pressure Washing Pros at – 877-749-6437.
Common Causes of Leaks
Understanding the common causes of leaks can help you identify and address the issue more effectively and clearly:
- Cylinder Head: Many times because of freezing conditions a cylinder head gets cracked or fails and can cause internal leaks which is a serious issue.
- Hoses: Wear and tear or damaged seals on connectors can lead to leaks in the hoses.
- Plungers and O-rings: In most cases, leaks in the pump are caused by cracked or broken plungers and worn-out O-rings.
- Trigger Handle: A defective valve or damaged O-ring in the trigger handle can cause leaks.
Tools You’ll Need
Below are the tools that you’ll need to fix your pressure washer:
• A flashlight
• A set of wrenches
• Screwdrivers
• A small container for screws
• Degreaser
• New seals and O-rings if needed
Also Read:
How to Fix a Clogged Pressure Washer
Finding the Leak
To identify the leak in your electric pressure washer, you should start by examining the area around the pump case for any visible oil. Make sure the washer is off and unplugged for your safety.
Closely examine the joints and seals of the pressure washer as leaks often originate from these spots. You can use a flashlight to brighten up hard-to-see areas to make sure that there are no signs of oil. If you see some oil you can just wipe it away run the washer and then check again to pinpoint the exact location.
This step-by-step guide will help you locate the exact source of the leak in the machine without dismantling it unnecessarily which makes the process safe and straightforward.
Taking Apart the Pump
You should start by removing the plastic covers to expose the pump making sure that you’re tracking all the parts and screws. To avoid losing the screws you can put them in a small container. Disconnect any wires or hoses carefully that are attached to the pump.
Next step, use a wrench to loosen and remove the bolts holding the pump casing. Once all the bolts are removed, slowly and gently separate the pump case halves and keep your focus on the procedure so that you do not damage any internal components by mistake.
If you find any mixture of oil and water inside of the machine then clean it with a degreaser. Identify the water side of the pump and inspect for worn seals or damaged parts. Work step by step to make sure you remember how each part fits together so that you can reassemble it easily.
Putting It Back Together and Testing
During reassembly stay precise and patient to make sure you put every component in the right place. Start by aligning the pump parts carefully and make sure each seal and o-ring is properly fit in place.
Secure the hex bolts evenly and to avoid uneven pressure tighten them in a criss-cross pattern. Double-check the oil level in the pump to verify it’s sufficient but not overfilled.
Once you’re confident that everything is correctly assembled then connect the pressure washer to a power source and a water supply. Turn the machine on and monitor it for any leaks. Run the washer for a few minutes to check its performance. Your safety is important so always wear protective gear and never bypass safety checks.
Helpful Tips
If you find it hard to remove the parts you can use penetrating oil and wait a few minutes before trying again. When putting the washer back together double-check that all seals and O-rings are in the right place to prevent future leaks.
Preventing Future Problems
To keep your pressure washer working well and prevent any kind of problems in the future keep the below points in mind:
• Check seals, O-rings, and hoses regularly for wear
• Store the washer in a dry place that doesn’t get too hot or cold
• Clean the pump and other parts often to prevent any kind of buildup
By following these tips, you can fix most leaks in your pressure washer and keep it running smoothly for a long time.