Have you ever noticed your pressure washer pulsing or vibrating? It can be a worrying sign, but dont worry there are some simple fixes.
In this article, well take a look at what pressure washer pulsing is, and some of the common causes.
Well also explore how to unclog a clogged nozzle, diagnose problems with the unloader valve, and learn how to properly maintain your pressure washer.
Read on to find out more about why your pressure washer might be pulsing and how to fix it.
Table of Contents
Short Answer
Pulsing in a pressure washer can be caused by a few different things.
It could be due to a restricted nozzle or a clogged filter.
It could also be caused by a faulty unloader valve, or if the pump has been running dry.
If your pressure washer is pulsing, it’s best to check these components to determine the cause and take appropriate action.
What is a Pressure Washer Pulsing?
When a pressure washer starts pulsing, it means that the water is not flowing out as a steady stream, but rather in a pulsing or intermittent manner.
This pulsing can be caused by a few different things, the most common of which is a clogged nozzle.
The nozzle of the pressure washer can become clogged due to dirt or grime buildup, or even by a foreign object such as a nail or screw.
If the nozzle is clogged, the water pressure will be unable to make it through the nozzle, resulting in a pulsing effect.
Another possible cause of a pressure washer pulsing is a malfunctioning unloader valve.
The unloader valve is responsible for regulating the water pressure coming from the pump.
If the valve is not working correctly, it can cause the pressure washer to pulse.
In addition, a buildup of dirt or grime in the pump can cause the pressure washer to pulse.
This buildup can occur due to a lack of maintenance or regular use of the pressure washer.
If the dirt or grime is not removed, it can cause the pressure within the pump to be reduced, resulting in a pulsing effect.
Finally, a malfunctioning pressure relief valve can also cause a pressure washer to pulse.
The pressure relief valve is responsible for releasing excess water pressure from the pump.
If the valve is not working correctly, it can prevent the pump from releasing the excess pressure, resulting in a pulsing effect.
It is important to address any of these issues as soon as possible in order to prevent damage to the pressure washer.
Regular inspection and maintenance of the pressure washer can help to ensure that these issues are identified and addressed before they cause any damage.
Common Causes of Pressure Washer Pulsing
Pressure washers are powerful tools that can be used to quickly and effectively clean a variety of surfaces, from driveways and decks to cars and boats.
But when a pressure washer starts to pulsate, it can be a sign that something is wrong.
Pulsing is often caused by a few common issues, and understanding these issues can help you keep your pressure washer running smoothly and safely.
The most common cause of pressure washer pulsing is a clogged nozzle.
Nozzles become clogged over time, especially if theyve been used to clean tough, caked-on dirt and grime.
Clogged nozzles can cause the pressure washer to pulsate, as the water pressure is unable to pass through the nozzle.
Fortunately, this issue can be easily fixed by unclogging or replacing the nozzle.
Another common cause of pressure washer pulsing is a malfunctioning unloader valve.
Unloader valves are responsible for controlling the water pressure and pressure relief, and if the valve is not functioning properly, it can cause the machine to pulsate.
To fix this issue, you will need to inspect the unloader valve and, if necessary, replace it.
In addition, a buildup of dirt and grime in the pump can also cause pressure washer pulsing.
Dirt and grime can accumulate over time, and if it builds up, it can interfere with the pressure washers performance.
To fix this issue, you will need to clean the pump, or have it serviced by a professional.
Finally, a malfunctioning pressure relief valve can also cause the pressure washer to pulsate.
This valve is responsible for controlling the amount of pressure that is released from the machine, and if it is not functioning properly, it can cause the machine to pulsate.
To fix this issue, you will need to inspect and replace the pressure relief valve.
It is important to regularly inspect and maintain your pressure washer in order to prevent these issues from causing damage to the pump and other components of the pressure washer.
By understanding the common causes of pressure washer pulsing, and taking the necessary steps to address them, you can ensure that your pressure washer will remain in good working order.
Unclogging a Clogged Nozzle
When your pressure washer starts pulsing, one of the most common causes is a clogged nozzle.
The nozzle is responsible for directing the spray of water and if it becomes clogged, it can cause the pressure washer to start pulsing.
Clogs can be caused by dirt, grime, or other debris that has built up in the nozzle.
Thankfully, this issue can be easily fixed by unclogging or replacing the nozzle.
If you suspect that your nozzle is clogged, it is important to take the necessary steps to unclog it.
First, you will need to shut off the power to your pressure washer, then disconnect it from the water supply.
Next, you will need to remove the nozzle from the spray wand.
Make sure to wear protective gloves and eye protection while doing this as the nozzle may contain sharp edges.
Once the nozzle has been removed, inspect it for any blockage.
If you find any clogs, use a soft brush or compressed air to remove them.
If the clog is still present after attempting to remove it, then it is time to replace the nozzle.
When replacing the nozzle, make sure to use the correct size and type for your pressure washer.
If you arent sure, refer to the owners manual or contact the manufacturer for more information.
Once the new nozzle is in place, connect the pressure washer to the water supply and turn on the power.
Your pressure washer should be pulsing-free now!
When it comes to pressure washers, a clogged nozzle is one of the most common causes of pulsing.
By unclogging or replacing the nozzle, you can quickly and easily get your pressure washer back up and running.
However, it is important to remember that the other causes of pulsing, such as a malfunctioning unloader valve, a buildup of dirt or grime in the pump, or a malfunctioning pressure relief valve, should also be addressed to prevent any further damage to the pressure washer.
To ensure optimal performance, it is important to regularly inspect and maintain your pressure washer.
Malfunctioning Unloader Valve
A malfunctioning unloader valve is a common cause of pressure washer pulsing.
This valve is responsible for controlling the amount of pressure that the pump generates.
When the unloader valve is not working properly, it can cause the pressure washer to pulsing, as the pump is unable to generate the correct amount of pressure.
To determine if the unloader valve is malfunctioning, you should take the following steps.
First, check the valve for any visible damage or debris.
If you find any, you should clean or replace the valve as soon as possible.
If the valve appears to be working properly, you should then check the pressure settings.
If the pressure settings are incorrect, they should be adjusted accordingly.
If the pressure settings are correct, then the unloader valve may need to be replaced.
Buildup of Dirt and Grime in the Pump
When it comes to pressure washers, one of the most common causes of pulsing is a buildup of dirt and grime in the pump.
This is typically caused by the accumulation of dirt and debris in the pump, which can restrict the flow of water and cause the pressure to fluctuate.
In some cases, the buildup of dirt and grime can also cause the unloader valve to malfunction, which can also lead to pulsing.
In order to prevent a buildup of dirt and grime in the pump, it is important to regularly inspect and clean the pump.
This can be done by removing the pump cover and using a brush or compressed air to remove any buildup.
Additionally, it is important to regularly flush the pump with clean water after each use to prevent the accumulation of dirt and debris.
If the buildup of dirt and grime is severe, it may be necessary to replace the pump.
Finally, it is important to use the correct detergents and cleaning solutions with your pressure washer.
Certain chemicals, such as bleach, can corrode the internal components of the pump, leading to a buildup of dirt and grime.
Additionally, using the wrong detergents or cleaning solutions can lead to a buildup of foam in the pump, which can also restrict the flow of water and cause pulsing.
Malfunctioning Pressure Relief Valve
The pressure relief valve is an important component of your pressure washer as it regulates the pressure within the system.
When the pressure reaches a certain level, the relief valve will open and release some of the pressure.
If the pressure relief valve is not functioning properly, it can cause your pressure washer to start pulsing.
This is because the pressure within the system will be too high, causing the pressure washer to start pulsing instead of providing a steady stream of water.
When the pressure relief valve malfunctions, it can cause a number of problems.
First, it can cause the pressure washer to become over-pressurized, which can damage the internal components of the machine.
This can lead to costly repairs or even replacement.
Additionally, the pulsing can cause damage to the hose, wand, and other components of the pressure washer.
To prevent this from happening, it is important to regularly inspect and maintain your pressure washer.
Be sure to check the pressure relief valve for any signs of damage or debris.
If the valve is clogged or damaged, it should be replaced immediately.
Additionally, if you notice that the pressure washer is pulsing, you should check the pressure relief valve to ensure that it is functioning properly.
If you cant find the cause of the pulsing, its best to contact a professional for help.
Regularly Inspecting and Maintaining Your Pressure Washer
It is important to regularly inspect and maintain your pressure washer to prevent it from pulsing and causing damage to its components.
Regularly inspecting the pressure washer will help you identify any potential problems early and make sure it is running in optimal condition.
First, check the nozzle for any clogs.
A clogged nozzle can cause the pressure washer to pulse and should be unclogged or replaced as soon as possible.
You should also inspect the unloader valve for any malfunctions.
The unloader valve regulates the pressure of the water and can cause pulsing if it is not functioning correctly.
Next, inspect the pressure relief valve.
This valve is designed to open and relieve the pressure if it exceeds a certain level, and if it is malfunctioning, it can cause the pressure washer to pulse.
Be sure to check this valve regularly to make sure it is in proper working condition.
Finally, check for any buildup of dirt or grime in the pump of the pressure washer.
If the pump is clogged with dirt or grime, it can cause the pressure washer to pulse.
Be sure to regularly clean the pump to ensure it is free of dirt and grime.
By regularly inspecting and maintaining your pressure washer, you can prevent it from pulsing and causing damage to its components.
Be sure to check the nozzle, unloader valve, pressure relief valve, and pump on a regular basis to ensure your pressure washer is running in optimal condition.
Final Thoughts
Pulsing in a pressure washer is a common issue and can be caused by a few different things.
Unclogging the nozzle, inspecting the unloader valve, looking for buildup of dirt and grime, and checking the pressure relief valve are all important steps to take to prevent further damage to the pump.
To keep your pressure washer running smoothly and safely, it is important to regularly inspect and maintain it.
Now that you know why your pressure washer is pulsing, you can take the necessary steps to keep it working properly.