Probable causes: clog, kink in hose, low inlet water pressure, corrosion, nozzle is not pulled back into the high-pressure setting
Tools that may be needed: channel-lock pliers
Steps to take:
First, make sure the nozzle is pulled back into the high-pressure setting. If that’s not the problem, make sure the garden hose that supplies water to the pressure washer is turned on and that the hose is not kinked. If the garden hose is supplying adequate water to the pressure washer, follow these steps:
- Turn off the pressure washer and water and squeeze the spray gun trigger to relieve pressure in the system.
- Disconnect the garden hose from the pressure washer and inspect the inlet on the pump for any obstructions.
- Disconnect the pressure hose from the pump outlet.
- Place the pressure washer in a position that has the pump outlet facing an open area.
- Turn on the water and then start the pressure washer. If the pump is free of any obstructions, the water will shoot 15-20 feet out of the pump outlet.
- If there is no water flow, the problem is in the pump or inlet filter. If your unit is under warranty, take it into the nearest service center for repair. If it is not under warranty, you should take it into the nearest service center or call Campbell Hausfeld Technical Support at (800) 543-6400.
- If water does shoot out 15-20 feet from the pump, the problem is located in the pressure hose/gun/lance assembly.
Identifying the problem in the pressure hose/gun/lance assembly:
- Unplug the electric pressure washer or shut off the gas pressure washer’s engine.
- Remove the lance from the pressure washer gun.
- Disconnect the lance from the spray gun and inspect it for damage.
- Twist the nozzle to the open position. (The metal blades will spread apart).
- Pointing the lance toward a light source, look through the nozzle to determine whether you can see any light showing through. If you cannot see any light, the nozzle is clogged.
- Clean the nozzle by inserting the tip cleaner (provided with unit) or a 3" long, small-gauge wire. Gently move the wire back and forth through the end of the nozzle to dislodge any debris.
- Remove the wire.
- Backflush the lance with a garden hose, spraying through the tip from the opposite direction that water flows during normal operation.
- Pointing the lance toward a light source, look through the nozzle to determine if you can see any light showing through. If you can see light, the tip is now clean.
- With the unit and water turned off reconnect the pressure hose and spray gun (without the lance) to the pump. Turn on the water, squeeze the gun trigger and then start the pressure washer.
- If there is still low water pressure, the problem is most likely a worn check valve in the spray gun. To protect your safety, the spray gun cannot be disassembled or repaired; it must be replaced.