Essential Tips And Guide On How To Start Gas Pressure Washers Properly
Gas pressure washers are fun and easy to use. But what you’ll most love about it is the instant and efficient results whether you’re washing your sidings or cars. However, it’s critical to do it properly or your cleaning session will be ineffective or worst, wreck your equipment.
Most pressure washer models pretty much have the same basic starting procedure. Also, you don’t need any particular tools to start both gas and electric washers. Nonetheless, it’s highly advisable to check your manual for the instructions of the manufacturer. With the right technique and by following our tips and guide, you’ll be able to finish your cleaning task without any hassle.
How Gas Pressure Washer Works
In comparison to its electric counterpart, a gas-powered washer can deliver higher water pressure. Some even deliver as much 3200 PSI or more. However, it also needs more water, usually around 2 to 3 GPM. This combination is what separates these washer models from electric ones.
Furthermore, gas washers are your best bet when taking on bigger jobs. These include deep-cleaning concrete, getting rid of old stains from your wooden deck, or preparing your siding for a paint job.
How To Prepare Your Gas Pressure Washer For Cleaning
Your gas pressure washer may seem intimidating, but setting it up is pretty simple and won’t require any special tools. Here’s a step-by-step gas pressure washers starting guide to help you:
Step 1: Place your unit on a level surface
Before anything else, make sure your pressure washer is standing on a level surface so that its engine is level.
Step 2: Check Oil
One of the things you need to do before doing any cleaning task is to ensure the oil of your pressure washer engine is clean. Its color should be a transparent yellowish-gold. If the oil seems black or dark, it’s time to change it.
Also, the oil should be at the right levels. If you need to add it, always turn off the fuel valve first.
Step 3: Check the water strainer
Check to see if the water strainer is in its proper place. Likewise, ensure that it is clear of any debris.
Step 4: Connect your high-pressure hose
Attach the high-pressure hose to the trigger handle and pump of your washer. Make sure to connect it securely to avoid any unnecessary accidents later on. You also want to uncoil and straighten it completely so that it won’t kink.
Step 5: Connect your garden hose
Attach a garden hose to your unit’s pump and the other end to your faucet. Then, turn your water supply and see if your garden hose has any leaks or kinks. If there are any, repair them first before getting started.
Step 6: Release air pressure
Before installing a nozzle, release air pressure by squeezing your pressure washer’s trigger. Hold it and wait until there’s a constant water flow.
Step 7: Add fuel
To add fuel, use a funnel. Fill up your washer until it’s full. Also, it’s best to add a fuel stabilizer whenever you fuel your equipment.
Moreover, it’s also a good idea to always use fuel without Ethanol since the chemical can damage smaller engines. However, make sure not to use those that are above E10. And since every gas-powered washer comes with 4-cycle engines, avoid utilizing fuel combined with oil.
Step 8: Attach a high-pressure nozzle
Select the right high-pressure nozzle suitable for the task at hand. Install it by simply pulling back the collar on the end of the gun and wand attachments.
Connect your nozzle of choice and then release the collar, ensuring that it snaps securely into place.
Step 9: Open the fuel valve and ready your pressure washer
Locate your washer’s fuel valve and set it to open. Then, put its on/off switch to on. Lastly, look for the choke switch or lever and set it to start.
Step 10: Start your gas pressure washer and get ready to clean
Start your outdoor cleaning equipment by pulling its starter grip, which is usually placed on top. Let its engine to work for a few seconds, and then push the choke lever to the run or off position.
Now, you’re ready to take on all those nasty filth and stains. Once you’re done, turn your unit’s engine switch to the off position. When you’ve shut it off, you can release any pressure that has built-up in the system by squeezing the trigger on the gun attachment. Then, turn off the faucet or water supply. Next, disconnect the high-pressure hose from your washer and its gun, as well as your garden hose.
Make sure to get rid of as much water as you possibly can from your hoses. Afterward, remove the high-pressure nozzle from the gun assembly and place it back to the unit’s holder.
What Should I Do When The Engine Of My Pressure Washer Won’t Start?
Sometimes, your gas pressure will not start, and this can be quite a headache since you won’t be able to accomplish anything. So if you encounter this problem, you can use this troubleshooting guide to help you fix it.
Fuel source
One of the first things you need to check is the fuel source of your unit. Of course, any gas-powered washer will not run without fuel, so make sure it has gas. Furthermore, you also need to make that the fuel mix is the recommendation of the manufacturer. Filling your unit’s tank with the wrong fuel causes your machine to not start and even damage its components severely.
Additionally, check if the fuel pump is in good working condition. The cause of the problem may be the fact that the gas is not reaching the motor. If that’s the case, the fuel pump may need replacement or seal it at least to prevent fuel pressure drops or leaks.
Spark plug
A defective spark plug is another reason why your washer is not starting. Lookout for any cracks on its porcelain insulator. Likewise, check the electrode has plenty of carbon buildup or if it’s burned away.
Before going straight to your local shop, test the component first to see if it’s working using a spark plug tester. But if it has been badly damaged or has gone through a lot of wear and tear, you need to replace it right away.
Too much air
Your washer may not also start if the hose and water pump contains too much air. Fixing this is simple. Just keep pumping water through the machine until you’ve removed all the air from its hose. Doing so can help the washer’s pump start and let water pressure flow. Most homeowners often opt for this solution and usually solves the issue.
Air filter
Air filters are one of the most vital components of any pressure washer. What they do is filter out the air to prevent the pump and engine from clogging up with dirt. If there’s clogging or they’re too filthy, the engine will find it hard to suck in ample air to work reliably. And if the case is already extreme, this can cause your machine to stop working.
The best way to fix this issue is to simply clean your unit’s air filter thoroughly by running it under warm water. Also, inspect the filter carefully if it’s too damaged or dirty that cleaning will not do. If that’s the case, you need to buy a new one altogether.
Carburetor
A damaged or clogged up carburetor is another problem that may be preventing your washer from starting. See if there’s leftover fuel in the tank that you haven’t used in weeks or months. This may have dried out already and left residue on the different elements of the carburetor.
The residue can clog the carburetor, which may cause it to not work, leading to a washer that doesn’t start. To solve this problem, you can use a cleaning agent, specifically made for carburetors, to flush it out. This process should remove any residue and enable your equipment to start. However, if the carburetor is too dirty or damaged beyond repair, then it’s time to replace it.
