Top 5 Reasons Your Pressure Washer Isn’t Starting After Storage
Pressure washers are amazing tools for tackling tough cleaning jobs, from grimy driveways to dusty siding. After months in storage, nothing’s more frustrating than pulling out your pressure washer for a big cleaning job—only to find it won’t start. At Serv-Us, we hear this all the time. Whether you’re a homeowner or a pro, this common issue usually comes down to just a few culprits. Understanding why your pressure washer might not start is the first step to getting it back in action.
Here are the Top 5 Reasons Your Pressure Washer Isn’t Starting After Storage, and what you can do about them:
Fuel System Issues
A pressure washer’s engine needs a proper fuel supply to start. Old or stale fuel is a common problem. Fuel can degrade over time, leading to starting difficulties.
- Stale Fuel:
- Gasoline breaks down.
- It leaves gummy deposits.
- These deposits clog fuel lines.
- They can also clog the carburetor.
To address this issue, first, drain any old fuel out of the tank. Then, replace it with fresh, high-octane gasoline.
- Clogged Fuel Filter:
- A fuel filter blocks debris.
- Debris can enter the fuel tank.
- A clogged filter stops fuel flow.
- This prevents the engine from starting.
Always inspect the fuel filter. If it looks dirty at all, replace it.
- Dirty Carburetor:
- The carburetor mixes air and fuel.
- Stale fuel can leave residue.
- Residue clogs tiny passages.
- This disrupts the fuel-air mix.
Cleaning a carburetor can be complex, but sometimes a carburetor cleaner additive in the fuel tank can help dissolve minor clogs.
For more severe blockages, a complete carburetor cleaning or rebuild may be necessary. Contact Serv-Us at (973) 714-1718 for our repair services. We can help get your pressure washer back up and running.
Ignition System Problems
The ignition system creates the spark needed to ignite the fuel-air mixture. A weak or absent spark means the engine won’t start. Several components contribute to a healthy spark.
- Fouled Spark Plug:
- Carbon builds up on the plug.
- This prevents a strong spark.
- The plug looks black or wet.
- Replace it for the best results.
- Loose Spark Plug Wire:
- The wire connects to the plug.
- It carries electrical current.
- A loose connection cuts power.
- Check for a snug fit.
Start your troubleshooting here by checking the spark plug. Remove it and inspect it for signs of carbon buildup or damage. Clean it with a wire brush or replace it if it looks worn. Next, ensure the spark plug wire is securely attached to the plug.
If these steps do not produce a spark, the ignition coil might be failing.
- Faulty Ignition Coil:
- The coil generates high voltage.
- It sends power to the plug.
- A bad coil produces no spark.
- Testing with a spark tester helps.
Testing the ignition coil typically requires a multimeter or a spark tester. If you are not comfortable testing or changing your spark plugs, contact Serv-Us.
Oil Level and Quality
Engine oil lubricates moving parts and dissipates heat. An improper oil level or degraded oil can prevent an engine from starting, sometimes due to safety features. Many pressure washers have a low oil shut-off sensor.
- Low Oil Level:
- The engine needs proper lubrication.
- Low oil causes friction.
- A sensor stops the engine.
- Add oil to the correct mark.
Before starting your pressure washer, always check the oil dipstick. Make sure the oil level falls within the recommended range. If it’s low, add the type of oil specified in your owner’s manual.
- Dirty or Old Oil:
- Oil breaks down over time.
- It collects contaminants.
- Thick, dark oil is a problem.
- Change the oil regularly.
If the oil appears dark or sludgy, it’s time for an oil change.
- Wrong Oil Type:
- Engines need specific oil.
- Check the owner’s manual.
- Incorrect oil affects performance.
- It can harm engine parts.
Using the correct type and viscosity of oil for your specific pressure washer model is important for its long-term health. Watch out for leaking oil. It is one of the 10 common repairs for pressure washers.
Air Filter Obstruction
The engine needs a steady supply of clean air to mix with fuel. An air filter prevents dirt and debris from entering the engine. A clogged air filter restricts airflow, making it hard for the engine to start or run properly.
- Clogged Air Filter:
- Dust and debris build up.
- This blocks air intake.
- The engine struggles to breathe.
- It can prevent starting.
To check the air filter, simply remove its cover and inspect the filter element. If it looks dirty or clogged with debris, it needs attention.
- Dirty Filter Element:
- The filter media traps particles.
- Over time, it gets saturated.
- A dirty filter reduces airflow.
- Clean or replace it.
Depending on the filter type, you might be able to clean it with compressed air or by washing it gently with soap and water (make sure it’s completely dry before reinstalling).
If the filter is heavily soiled or damaged, replacing it is the best option for optimal engine performance.
Sprayer Gun or Hose Issues
Sometimes, the issue isn’t with the engine at all, but with the pressure washer’s output components. A common safety feature prevents the engine from starting if there’s back pressure or an obstruction.
- Clogged Nozzle:
- Debris can block the nozzle.
- This creates back pressure.
- The engine senses resistance.
- It may prevent starting.
Before starting, connect your garden hose to the pressure washer and turn on the water supply. Squeeze the trigger on the spray gun to purge any air from the system. If you hear air hissing, continue squeezing until a steady stream of water emerges.
Also, inspect the nozzle for any clogs. You can often clear a clogged nozzle with a small paperclip or a nozzle cleaning tool that might have come with your pressure washer.
- Kinked Hose:
- A bent hose restricts water flow.
- This creates a pressure build-up.
- The engine won’t start safely.
- Straighten any kinks.
Make sure the high-pressure hose is free of kinks and properly connected.
- Trapped Air in Pump:
- Air can get stuck in the pump.
- It prevents water circulation.
- The pump needs priming.
- Connect the water supply.
If your pump has trapped air, you should try priming it first. If it does not start, reach out to Serv-Us. We have replacement parts and accessories for sale. We can also tell you if the pump is worth repairing or buying new.
Top 5 Reasons Your Pressure Washer Isn’t Starting After Storage
Getting your pressure washer running smoothly after storage often involves checking a few key areas. Addressing fuel system issues, ignition problems, oil levels, air filter obstructions, and sprayer gun or hose issues can quickly resolve most starting troubles. A little routine maintenance goes a long way in keeping your pressure washer reliable. With these tips, you’ll be ready to tackle your next big cleaning project without a hitch.
Need parts, service, or just some expert advice? Serv-Us has your back. Check out our showroom today at 69J Wesley Street South Hackensack, New Jersey 07606.
