Half Sized Blog Element (Single Author Style)

Half Sized Blog Element (Multi Author Style)

Hotsy, Hotsy Cold Water Pressure Washer, Hotsy Hot Pressure Washer

Pressure Washer Troubleshooting: The Complete Guide

Experiencing low water pressure and not sure why? Or, maybe your pressure washer isn’t starting whatsoever. Perhaps you’re experiencing a separate issue with your unit entirely. Whatever problem you’re up against, you can rest assured in you’re in the right place. Hotsy is here to help with our complete guide to pressure washer troubleshooting! Our […]

by Keval Shah

Hotsy, Hotsy Hot Pressure Washer

Sandblasting vs Pressure Washing – Which One Works Best?

Proper surface preparation for painting can give you an advantage over your competitors by increasing the durability and aesthetic appeal of your work. Two options you have for this are sand blasting vs pressure washing – and today, we’ll highlight the pros and cons of each. Choosing the appropriate tools will not only increase customer […]

by Keval Shah

Hotsy, Hotsy Cold Water Pressure Washer, Hotsy Hot Pressure Washer

Pressure Washer Troubleshooting: The Complete Guide

by Keval Shah

Hotsy, Hotsy Hot Pressure Washer

Sandblasting vs Pressure Washing – Which One Works Best?

by Keval Shah

Full Sized Blog Element (Big Preview Pic)

Hotsy, Hotsy Cold Water Pressure Washer, Hotsy Hot Pressure Washer

Pressure Washer Troubleshooting: The Complete Guide

Our commercial pressure washer in San Antonio isn’t just the #1 choice for all your pressure washing equipment and supplies. It’s also the place you can turn to for all your questions regarding pressure washing. We’re here to help you make the most of your unit – and if something is wrong and you’re not in equipped to fix it yourself, just schedule an appointment with us for pressure washer service & repair.

Below, you’ll discover some of the most common issues with commercial pressure washers and tips for fixing the problem. First, let’s talk about what exactly pressure washer troubleshooting is.

What is Pressure Washer Troubleshooting Exactly?

Troubleshooting a pressure washer refers to the process of identifying and resolving problems or issues with the machine. This can include things like low pressure, loss of power, leaks, and other operational issues. The goal of pressure washer troubleshooting is to diagnose the problem and find a solution to fix it, so the pressure washer can function properly.

Thus, troubleshooting a pressure washer will look different depending on the issue you’re experiencing. As you can imagine, this can get quite complex – which is why it’s usually something that’s best left to the professionals here at Hotsy. If you got your pressure washer rental through us, and something isn’t quite right, don’t sweat it – just give us a call and we’ll bring you a replacement unit!

However, if you own your machine and want to try and give it a go yourself before entrusting the job with us, keep reading below – we’ll talk about troubleshooting some of the most common issues operators experience with their machines.

Pressure Washer Troubleshooting: Explaining the Most Common Problems With Pressure Washers

Ready to learn about power washer troubleshooting? We’ll start with the most common problems to try and help you resolve the issue fast and get back to cleaning efficiently and effectively. Let’s start with low pressure.

Low Pressure: Causes & Fixes

This is typically the most common problem with pressure washers. The entire point of using a pressure washer is to quickly and easily blast away tough muck and messes from a surface – whether you’re pressure washing a parking garage, pressure washing buildings, or even operating a car wash with pressure washers. But when your unit loses pressure, your machine becomes next to useless.

Low pressure can be caused by a number of things. These include a clogged nozzle, a blocked inlet water filter, or a malfunctioning pump. It could even be the water supply itself – not the pressure washer. When troubleshooting pressure washers, the best approach is to check the easiest solution first and rule it out before proceeding to more intensive repairs.

Weak Water Supply, Hose Problems, and Clogged Nozzles

So start by examining the water source itself. If you’ve got good pressure there, determine if the issue is with the hoses taking the water from your supply to your unit. Kinks or leaks can cut the pressure dramatically. Once you’ve ruled out issues with your hoses, it’s time to check the nozzle for clogs. Remove it from the wand and clear any debris that may be blocking the opening.

Next, Check the Inlet Water Filter

If the nozzle is not clogged, it could be a blocked inlet water filter giving you trouble. The inlet water filter is responsible for removing debris and particles from the water before it enters the pump. If it becomes clogged, it can reduce the amount of water that is flowing into the pump, which can cause low pressure. These filters need to be replaced every so often, and if you suspect the filter could be the cause of your low-pressure woes, it’s a good idea to swap it out.

If You Still Have Issues, it Could Be the Pump

Now – if you’re still experiencing low pressure, it’s likely your pump – where pressure is generated – is malfunctioning. if the pump’s seals are worn, or there’s a lack of oil, it can cause low pressure.

To check if the pump is the cause of the problem, you can inspect it for any leaks or damage, and check the oil level. We have an article on what pressure washer oil to use. Because this step involves taking the pressure washer apart to some degree, it may be best to leverage professional help unless you feel up to the task.

Water Leaks: Causes and Fixes

Water leaks don’t just result in wasted water. They can make a mess and contribute to lower PSI. They can be caused by worn or damaged seals/connections. Or, the hose itself could be damaged.

Of course, water leaks can also be caused by incorrect assembly or usage. So always consult the manual and make sure that the pressure washer is assembled and used correctly. Once you’ve ruled that possibility out, read through troubleshooting a pressure washer with a leak below – starting with assessing the hoses.

Puncture or Tear in the Hose

If you can visibly see the source of the leak in your hose, it’s pretty obvious what the cause and solution are. You’ll just need to replace the hose. Hoses need to be replaced every so often as they wear down with age. To prevent this in the future, try and keep your hoses up off the ground and avoid kinking them or driving over them with equipment – especially while they’re being used.

Worn or Damaged Seals/Connections

If you just see water spraying from the machine itself – not necessarily a hose – it can be harder to pinpoint the exact source of your problem. It’s likely the issue is worn or damaged seals/connections.

These are responsible for keeping water from leaking out of the hose, gun, or pump. If they become damaged or worn, they can allow water to leak out, reducing the overall pressure and efficiency of the machine. Look for any signs of wear or damage, such as cracks or breaks. If you find a damaged seal or connection, it will need to be replaced in order to stop the leak.

It’s also important to check the gun and wand for leaks, if the gun and wand are not tight or if the O-ring is damaged it can cause water leaks.

If you are unable to find the source of the leak, or if the problem persists after replacing the seals or connections, it may be necessary to take the pressure washer to a professional for further diagnosis and repair.

Loss of Power or Inability to Start the Unit: Causes and Fixes

What if you’re unable to get the unit to start up? Or, if the unit shuts down unexpectedly during use? This could be caused by something as simple as a faulty outlet or insufficient fuel. We’ll assume you’ve ruled out these possibilities. If so, it could be something more complex like a clogged air filter, worn spark plug, or something else.

Power-related problems are less common when you purchase the best commercial pressure washer possible – like the ones we offer at Hotsy. Even still, you could run into this issue – and rather than call it a day and sacrifice productivity, you can check to see if it’s one of the issues below.

Assess the Air Filter

One of the most common causes of power issues is a clogged air filter. The air filter is responsible for removing debris and dust from the air before it enters the engine, and if it becomes clogged, it can restrict the airflow and cause the engine to lose power or not start at all.

To check if the air filter is the cause of the problem, remove the air filter and inspect it for any signs of debris or clogging. If the air filter is dirty, clean it or replace it.

Check & Replace the Spark Plug

Another possible cause of power issues is a malfunctioning spark plug. The spark plug is responsible for providing the spark that starts the engine, and if it is fouled or damaged, it can prevent the engine from starting or cause it to lose power.

To check if the spark plug is the cause of the problem, remove it and inspect it for any signs of wear or damage. If the spark plug is fouled or damaged, it will need to be replaced.

These need to be replaced routinely, and even if your spark plug looks to be fine – it may be worth replacing if you’ve done the work to remove it already.

Whether you have a gas vs electric pressure washer, any power-related problems are worth getting professional help with. Bring it by a Hotsy location near you if you’re unable to rectify the situation yourself.

Soap Won’t Dispense: Causes and Fixes

This issue is so common we actually wrote a complete guide on why your pressure washer soap dispenser doesn’t work. And this is a problem that you can’t afford to allow to persist – because adding soap to pressure washers supercharges their cleaning capabilities.

There are a few likely culprits – it could be a clogged nozzle, similar to the issue of low pressure. Or, the detergent tank itself could be clogged. Maybe you chose the wrong nozzle for use with soap. We’ll assume you checked the detergent tank and ruled out low soap levels already. If so, let’s consider the most likely culprit: clogs in the unit.

Clogged Nozzle or Detergent Tank

First, rule out the possibility your nozzle is clogged just as you would for low pressure. Next, assure the issue isn’t in the detergent tank itself.

This can happen when you leave the soap in your tank while storing it – the suds can form a scum that clogs the emitter. If this is the issue, use a chemical cleaning agent to restore the tank to its original state.

Or, maybe you used the wrong kind of soap in your tank. We have an article on what soap to use in a pressure washer if you’d like to learn more. But really, just avoid using homemade pressure washer soap – stick with the best pressure washing soap at Hotsy instead.

Wrong Nozzle for Soap

There is a ton of different pressure washer nozzles out there – each having its place in your arsenal. But it’s important to choose the soap nozzle for a pressure washer in particular. Otherwise, the soap won’t come out properly. And, you can end up damaging your unit. Typically, you’ll want to use the black nozzle as it has the largest orifice.

Vibration Noises: Causes & Fixes

Picture this – your machine is working just fine, helping you blast through cleaning jobs like it’s nothing. But, you hear strange, vibrating noises coming from the unit itself. Should you just ignore the sound and continue cleaning? Definitely not!

This suggests there are loose components somewhere within the machine. If left unaddressed, this issue could result in more serious consequences – and more costly repairs. Here’s what you need to do:

Try to Pinpoint the Source of the Noise & Check Parts

During operation, the pressure washer’s various parts are subjected to a lot of stress and movement, and over time, they can become loose or worn. This can cause the pressure washer to vibrate excessively, making it difficult to use and potentially damaging to the machine.

To troubleshoot vibration, start by trying to pinpoint the source of the noise. From there, you can begin inspecting all of the parts of the pressure washer, including the frame, wheels, handle, and hose connections. Look for any loose or worn parts and tighten or replace them as necessary.

There are two specific components of pressure washers that are notorious for vibrating. These are the drive shaft or pumps. Check either of these and rule them out. If you find they are the culprit, it’s best to service a pressure washer with the pros at Hotsy. We’ll take care of it for you.

Other Potential Causes

If it doesn’t appear that the issue is fixed through our advice above, the source of noise could be something like a blocked water intake – or not enough oil in the pump or engine. So, check these as well and rule them out before scheduling your maintenance visit.

The Pressure Washer isn’t Cleaning Right: Causes and Fixes

Maybe you’re just going about your day cleaning and notice you’re not getting the results you’d hoped for. Your pressure washer isn’t blasting through the tough messes you’re up against. Is it something wrong with the pressure washer? Or, is it an operator error? We’ll help you assess either of these possibilities below:

Ruling Out the Pressure Washer

It’s no secret that not all pressure washers are created equal. Some are more effective than others. That’s why those who demand nothing but the best stick with Hotsy. After all, nothing cleans like a Hotsy! So – make sure you’re using a commercial hot water pressure washer that’s up to the task.

But really, issues with your pressure washer not cleaning a surface well can be attributed to inadequate PSI or GPM most of the time. So – what pressure PSI do I need? It varies from job to job. You wouldn’t want to use excess pressure on a surface that can be damaged – like a vehicle’s paint or a glass window.

That’s why it’s so important to get professional help in choosing a pressure washer. We can assess your unique needs and offer a recommendation accordingly. With that said, you’ll want a minimum of 1,500 PSI – but your needs could be as high as 3,500+. In terms of pressure washer GPM, you need at least four gallons per minute to remain efficient with ample water flow.

From there, make sure you’re using the right nozzle and hoses. Every job is different, which is why you need an arsenal of choices on standby. You can consider supercharging your unit with the best pressure washing attachments, too.

It Could be User-Error

Pressure washing isn’t all that complicated. However, we do have an article offering more advanced pressure washing tips to unlock the most effective, efficient cleaning process possible. If you haven’t read it yet we encourage you to do so. With that said, here are a few things you could be doing wrong:

Holding the wand too far away from the surface being cleaned
Not using the right sweeping motion (from top to bottom)
Not using the right soap for the job
Not allowing the soap to suds up and agitate the surface
Leaving the soap on too long and creating a film on the surface

Final Thoughts on Pressure Washer Troubleshooting

Our complete guide on pressure washer troubleshooting should have pointed you in the right direction as to what could be holding you back from your cleaning goals. We hope you feel more confident in troubleshooting your pressure washer now and getting back up and running quickly. If you still have questions or want the experts at Hotsy to provide a recommendation on what your issue could be, don’t hesitate to reach out – we’re here to help with all your maintenance and repair needs. Whether you’re a business owner with constant cleaning needs or you’re considering starting a pressure washing business – don’t hesitate to reach out!

by Keval Shah

Hotsy, Hotsy Hot Pressure Washer

Sandblasting vs Pressure Washing – Which One Works Best?

Choosing the appropriate tools will not only increase customer satisfaction but also make your work more efficient, thereby boosting your rate of job success. There are a number of similarities between sandblasting vs pressure washing, but it is the minor distinctions that determine where each method is applicable.

Here is a detailed comparison of the two, as well as some suggestions for getting the job done right.

What is the Difference Between Pressure Washing and Sandblasting?

When dealing with cleaning contaminants, pressure washing is the preferred method, whereas sandblasting is deemed more effective at removing existing paint from a surface.

Sand blasting creates a profile on the surface to be painted, providing a strong bond between the new paint layer and the surface. When combined with an etching agent, pressure washing can also profile a surface.

However, because pressure washing is not commonly used to remove paint, it is mostly used on new surfaces. However, hot water pressure washing can help you achieve the same result.

What is Commercial Pressure Washing?

Commercial pressure washing is classified into two types: cold water pressure washing and hot water pressure washing. It’s also referred to as water blasting or power washing.

Pressure washing is a surface preparation method that involves spraying a high-pressure stream of water onto the surface to remove contaminants such as grease and debris. Cold water pressure washers remove less resistant contaminants like oil, but you can customize with detergents and degreasers for pressure washers.

Before applying a new coat of paint, you can also use commercial hot water pressure washers to remove the old layer. To get the best results, however, you must follow the proper procedures for stripping paint with a pressure washer.

What is Dustless Sandblasting?

Sandblasting, also known as abrasive blasting, is a surface preparation technique that uses high pressure to release abrasive media to clean surfaces without generating a massive dust cloud. It is extremely effective at cleaning metal surfaces, but it is also effective at cleaning other materials.

Sandblasting removes paint and prepares the surface for the next coat of paint. It improves the adhesion of paint to the surface, thus improving the quality of your work.

Sandblasting can be wet or dry, depending on whether or not the abrasive media is moistened. Wet sandblasting uses a high-pressure stream of water to moisten the abrasive media before it contacts the surface. Moistening prevents dust clouds without interfering with the media stream’s effectiveness.

Sandblasting without water: Dry sandblasting uses high-pressure air instead of water to blast a stream of media.

Sandblasting vs Pressure Washing: Which is Best for Your Unique Needs?

Ready to discover which of these two methods is best for your unique needs? It all comes down to your surface preparation and painting abilities.

However, as a professional, you should choose a customizable option that can be used for multiple projects with a little improvisation. Nonetheless, here’s a side-by-side comparison of sandblasting vs pressure washing:

Advantages of Sandblasting

Sandblasting can be utilized in a variety of situations due to its variable surface cleaning intensity.

Due to the release intensity, sandblasting is also a quick method of surface cleaning. It is also well-known for its ability to clean various materials, making it a versatile choice.

Disadvantages of Sandblasting

Because abrasive blast media is more expensive than water, it is less popular among professional service providers. Sandblasting is also very intense, which increases the likelihood of damaging your painting surface. Dry sandblasting can also pollute the air by releasing dust clouds into it.

Advantages of Pressure Washing

Pressure washing is eco-friendly because it uses fewer chemicals and water while producing quick results. No dust clouds are released into the atmosphere during dustless pressure washing.

It is also more cost-effective because water is less expensive than abrasive blast media, a pot, and a compressor, resulting in a higher profit margin.

Sandblasting is ineffective at removing grease from surfaces, whereas pressure washing is. It is a gentle method of handling delicate surfaces that leaves no residue. Unless used at extremely high pressure or with a narrow pressure washer tip, pressure washing rarely causes damage.

Disadvantages of Pressure Washing

Pressure washing’s main drawback is that, if not used carefully, it can blitz through flimsier building materials. This may force water into unintended spaces, resulting in the destruction of insulation, flooring, and walls.

You can always adjust the water pressure or avoid using a narrow pressure washing tip.

The Verdict:

Since pressure washing targets difficult-to-reach surfaces and provides thorough cleaning, it is far preferable to other methods. Additionally, it eliminates all built-up material beneath floor surfaces, preventing property damage.

Tips for Beginning Commercial Pressure Washing

Many individuals believe that commercial pressure washing is as simple as purchasing a quality pressure washer and beginning operations the next day.

Although a commercial pressure washing business has a lower initial investment and a higher profit margin than most other businesses, there are a number of factors to consider in order to protect your investment and ensure steady business growth.

Choose the Best Pressure Washer

There are many different types of pressure washers designed for different types of jobs. The majority of paint manufacturers will rate their products as NACE or SSPC. Pressure washing is permitted for surface preparation under NACE standards 5 and 6.

However, when pressure washing NACE level 6 products, you may need to use an etching agent. NACE level 5 paints necessitate the use of a pressure washer with a PSI rating greater than 10,000. SSPC 1 indicates that oils and soils should be removed before painting, which can be accomplished with a pressure washer.

Hotsy is South Texas’ leading supplier of pressure washers. If you’re looking for the best commercial pressure washer machines, you should base your decision on specific factors like pressure washer GPM.

Don’t Forget the Detergent & Other Accessories

Using a good detergent can help you increase the intensity of your pressure washing and make your work more appealing. It makes it simple to remove contaminants like oils, tough stains, and grease. It also breaks down the rust and algae before applying pressure to make removal easier.

Detergents revitalize your surface and make it more receptive to new paint. Using homemade pressure washer detergent can be harmful, hence it is not the best soap for pressure washing.

The best detergents have specialized surface preparation formulations. Because of its larger noozle, which reduces water velocity and creates pressure in the hose for easy soap absorption, the black nozzle is the most popular soap nozzle for pressure washers.

Learn How to Use a Pressure Washer Safely and Effectively

Now that the question “What is the difference between pressure washing and sandblasting?” has been answered, learning some pressure washer tips and tricks can help you ensure safety and efficiency in your work.

Safety is an important consideration, especially when pressure washing commercial buildings. Unique jobs, such as pressure washing parking lots, require unique safety precautions to effectively remove residue without causing surface damage.

You will also learn about various improvements you can make, such as how to use soap with a pressure washer and whether to use hot or cold water. You can handle any type of machine, no matter how complicated it is to operate if you have pressure washer safety measures at your fingertips.

Pressure washing machines are designed for a variety of purposes, just as each technique is tailored to a specific situation. Hotsy has a complete line of these machines to help you complete any project successfully.

Safeguard Your Investment Over Time

To be sustainable, you must keep your working tools in perfect condition for the next job. This is where accessories like pressure washer oil come in handy.

Many tips are available, including how to winterize a pressure washer and general pressure washer servicing. Rust-preventive agents can also be added when cleaning metal surfaces with a pressure washer or wet abrasive blasting.

Whatever you’re cleaning, proper customization with the right accessory combination can do the job perfectly. Hotsy has a variety of such accessories that you can try out to see how they affect your work.

Final Thoughts on Sandblasting vs Pressure Washing

The primary difference between pressure washing and sandblasting is the media used. The latter employs water, whereas the former employs blast abrasive media.

Sandblasting is very effective at cleaning steel surfaces and removing paint, but it has more limitations than pressure washing, which is highly customizable.

Hotsy is the most popular commercial pressure washing store in San Antonio. Whether you wish to purchase equipment or seek commercial pressure washer rental services, we’re here to help you supercharge your cleaning or surface preparation process – stop by one of our South Texas locations today, give us a call, or browse our website!

by Keval Shah

First Name

Last Name

Company

Where are you located in Texas?

City ZIP / Postal Code

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Phone

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Hotsy Latest Posts

How to Clean a Bus With a Pressure WasherAugust 27, 2024 - 6:52 pm
Pressure Washing Meat Trucks: How to Clean Refrigerated Meat Delivery VehiclesAugust 27, 2024 - 6:50 pm
Pressure Washing Amusement Parks: How to Clean Amusement Parks Rides QuicklyAugust 26, 2024 - 6:44 pm

Half Sized Blog Element (Single Author Style)

Half Sized Blog Element (Multi Author Style)

Full Sized Blog Element (Big Preview Pic)

What is Pressure Washer Troubleshooting Exactly?

Pressure Washer Troubleshooting: Explaining the Most Common Problems With Pressure Washers

Low Pressure: Causes & Fixes

Weak Water Supply, Hose Problems, and Clogged Nozzles

Next, Check the Inlet Water Filter

If You Still Have Issues, it Could Be the Pump

Water Leaks: Causes and Fixes

Puncture or Tear in the Hose

Worn or Damaged Seals/Connections

Loss of Power or Inability to Start the Unit: Causes and Fixes

Assess the Air Filter

Check & Replace the Spark Plug

Soap Won’t Dispense: Causes and Fixes

Clogged Nozzle or Detergent Tank

Wrong Nozzle for Soap

Vibration Noises: Causes & Fixes

Try to Pinpoint the Source of the Noise & Check Parts

Other Potential Causes

The Pressure Washer isn’t Cleaning Right: Causes and Fixes

Ruling Out the Pressure Washer

It Could be User-Error

Final Thoughts on Pressure Washer Troubleshooting

What is the Difference Between Pressure Washing and Sandblasting?

What is Commercial Pressure Washing?

What is Dustless Sandblasting?

Sandblasting vs Pressure Washing: Which is Best for Your Unique Needs?

Advantages of Sandblasting

Disadvantages of Sandblasting

Advantages of Pressure Washing

Disadvantages of Pressure Washing

The Verdict:

Tips for Beginning Commercial Pressure Washing

Choose the Best Pressure Washer

Don’t Forget the Detergent & Other Accessories

Learn How to Use a Pressure Washer Safely and Effectively

Safeguard Your Investment Over Time

Final Thoughts on Sandblasting vs Pressure Washing

#1 Hotsy Dealer in South Texas

Subscribe

Hotsy Equipment Company

Hotsy Directions

Hotsy Latest Posts