Power Washers -- How Do You Extend its Life

[ScottB]

I don't use a pressure cleaner (washer) for my cars but have gone thru two around the house over the past -5- years. That might seem like a long time but these are used 3-4 times annually around the house. What have you found to extend their lifetime and any maintenance items that one can use ???

What was suggested from manufacturer:
1. Run out the fuel after each use
2. Clean out the lines and canisters of any cleaners
3. Check Oil at every use
4. Use the priming spray to clean out water pump after use and lubricate pump

 

[Andr3wilson]

That does sound like a lot.

Is it the motor going or the pump?

I know with the pump, if you let the pressure washer run for a bit of time (over a 1 minute) without running the water through the pump, it can actually melt the components inside. Happened to me a few times.

Also freezing is bad for them, but being that you are in Florida, I guess that not a problem for you!

The engine is a little harder to comment on. I find some engines are just better than others. I had a craftsman for a year before the engine died. I have a small Honda that I have had for 8 years now.

I would recommend servicing them regularly. Pull the pump off and make sure its lubricated and looking good, same with the engine.

I would also recommend getting a simple, more pro pressure washer like this one

This is identical to the one I have. They cost more, but because everything is exposed and put together simply, doing the work yourself to fix and service is a breeze.

I ran the pump out on mine, $210 later, had a new on in less than an hour. Still going strong today

If the one you have is still living, doing a good service to it every 10 uses will help. Unfortunately, most OTC/HD/Sears pressure washers have a finite life.

 

[ScottB]

It was indeed the pump .... the engines (Honda and Briggs) both were running fine and like new.

 

[Durallymax]

Which pressure washers do you use and what is specifically going bad on them?

For the limited use you use them I would strongly look into an electric one as long as it could fit your needs. If you just use it around your house, it could be made to work. Engines are tough to keep in good shape when they are never ran, they like to be run.

We use multiple pressure washers daily on our dairy farm. Aside from washing equipment they also wash down buildings for sanitation and wash down exteriors for looks and to help keep the dirt off so snow slides better. The only ones we have trouble with are the engine powered ones. The large stationary hot water one is 480 3ph and the burner is LP fired, the semi portable one that moves from bay to bay is 240 single phase and has been the longest lasting washer around here.

Our large one is an Alkota, I would recommend them but they are pricey. Our other electric one is an Allied. Karcher is good German engineering, at least their professional models are. Hotsy is another one many like.

 

[Durallymax]

At the end of the season fill the pump with thread cutting oil.

 

[Andr3wilson]

It was indeed the pump .... the engines (Honda and Briggs) both were running fine and like new.

Sounds like you may have let the pump "over charge" (I dont know the correct term) and build up too much pressure. They are always the first to go.

I would recommend trying to keep water flowing through the pump. Letting the water build up was the death of mine.

Again a simple open one is the best. 4 bolts to change the pump. Other ones have them buried under the engine in a housing. I think this is a marketing scheme to get people to buy a new one because it will cost more to fix than buy new.

But anyways, let us know what you go with!

 

[Vegas Transplant]

I would recommend trying to keep water flowing through the pump. Letting the water build up was the death of mine.

+1.
Even though this unit has a pressure release, the sprayer has a leak which allow the water to lightly spray as long as the engine is running. I never changed the o-ring as I felt this to be a desired trait.

30 wt. non-detergent oil.
One other tip would be to remove gun and hose to allow water to thoroughly drain from the line. Possibly store disconnected.



OAN: Also the reason I haven't installed the new gun and hose. Machine has lasted beyond my expectations so far.

 

[Advanced Detailing]

I have been using the same machine for over 12 years and i got it used.
The first time i changed the oil was after maybe 8 years, i know, crazy and stupid.
It may need a little tune up now but it's still working and for the first many years i was using it daily.
Besides a couple of oil changes, i changed the plug three times, maybe.

 

[TCFatboy]

Purchased a used Briggs&straton 16hp / 400psi / Gas engine with starter.

is going for his 3rd year. Just change the spark plugs and Oil twice a Year.
Lubricate some parts, Is a Monster!!! It helps me a lot for my high Pressure washing jobs!!! When need it for cars, I just go down on the Psi, to 700psi - 1000psi depending on the car or Truck

Had electric at the begining, Hummm not for Mobile for sure!!! Residential do it your self Yes

 

[neat e34]

This may not be your problem but what I see most people do is hook the water up, turn the machine on & try to start spraying instantly.
At this stage there is little to no water in the unit & it runs dry for a bit, sputtering, etc until it primes.
It's not much but over time it can't be good for the pump...

I hook my hose up &, with the unit off, pull the trigger until I get a steady stream of low-pressure water from the lance.
Even with the low-pressure you can see & hear the water spitting as the air is pushed out of the pump & lines...

Would also agree that with the amount you're using it an electric model might be best. Or a serviceable gas unit