How to Start a Pressure Washer (and What to Do if Your Pressure Washer Won’t Start)

You buy or rent your first power washer and get it to your property, only to be stumped–how does starting a pressure washer even work?

Figuring out how to start a pressure washer might seem tricky initially, but it’s easier than you think. Even if your pressure won’t start, you can make a few simple tweaks to fix it.

This guide will teach you all the necessary tricks to get your machine going. You’ll go from your pressure washer not starting to blast away dirt and grime on your property in no time.

If you repeatedly ask yourself, ”Why won’t my pressure washer start?” it may be time for an upgrade.

Our team at RJP Hotsy has the best commercial pressure washers in New Jersey for sale or rent. We’ll work with you to analyze your situation and set you up with the ideal machine that is easy to start and won’t fail when needed.

Benefits of Pressure Washing for Businesses

Before we discuss how to start a pressure washer, it’s crucial to explain why you need these nifty machines.

After all, if you’re dealing with a pressure washer not starting, you need to make sure it’s worth your while.

Commercial businesses worldwide rely on pressure washers to streamline cleaning tasks. Alternative cleaning methods, such as manual scrubbing or harsh chemical applications, either take too long or harm employees and product quality.

The biodegradable soaps used in pressure washing give you a safe clean. The best pressure washing chemicals can even prevent damage to your precious equipment and structures.

In the long run, regular pressure washing saves you time and money.

The cost to rent a pressure washer will be far less than the payroll savings you’ll get. A high-quality pressure washer turns a task that requires several people to clean for hours to just one person over an hour or two.

Investing in a quality pressure washer is a no-brainer for your business; it just takes a couple of attempts to learn all the ins and outs. Once you know how starting a pressure washer works, you’ll be well on your way to getting your commercial property as clean as a whistle.

How to Start a Pressure Washer: Step-by-Step Guide to Starting a Pressure Washer

Let’s explore everything you need to know about how to start a pressure washer, from securing a water source to the differences between starting electric pressure washers vs gas pressure washers.

Prepare the Area for Cleaning

Before starting a pressure washer, ensure your cleaning area is secure. Whether you’re pressure washing concrete parking lots, building sidings, or industrial equipment, you must remove any extra objects.

Furniture, tools, light fixtures–anything that doesn’t want to get wet or that can become a dangerous projectile needs to go. For electrical outlets or other things you can’t move, you can cover them up with a protective tarp.

You should also inspect the surface for problem areas, which will help you focus on them during cleaning.

Checking Oil and Fuel Levels (for Gas Powered Models)

Your checklist for starting a pressure washer will vary based on the type of engine it has. You’ll need to verify that your machine has suitable oil and fuel levels for gas models. Use the dipstick to check your levels, and refill as needed.

Make sure you’re using a suitable blend of fuel and oil. The specifics will depend on your model, but SAE 5w-30 or 10w-30 oil and E10 gas are good starting points. If you’re wondering why won’t my pressure washer start, it may be because you’re using the wrong fuel.

Connecting to a Water Source and Choosing a Nozzle

You can learn how to start a pressure washer ideally, but if there’s no water flowing, you won’t get much cleaning done.

Depending on your area and cleaning needs, water sources can range from your typical garden hose to a nearby pipe or fire hydrant. If you have a pressure washer trailer, you can bring water to your job sites.

Nozzles affect how your machine cleans. Narrow nozzles are better for tough stains in a small area, while wide-angle options clear large areas faster. 20-40 degree nozzles are a great starting point.

Filling With Detergent

In addition to learning how to start your machine, you should research what soap to use in a pressure washer.

Choose a biodegradable detergent that is suitable for your surfaces. Delicate vehicles or siding require softer soaps, while tough stains require caustic blends.

We recommend Hotsy’s pressure washing soaps, featuring biodegradable ingredients and specific battle-tested and effective formulas.

Starting a Gas Pressure Washer

Starting a pressure washer with a gas engine is simple. First, ensure your area is well-ventilated, then locate your fuel valve. Flip it to ‘ON’ and engage the choke with a few presses.

From there, grip the starter code and give it a quick pull.

It should start, and you can let off the choke from there. If you find your pressure washer not starting, we’ll cover solutions in the next section.

Starting an Electric Pressure Washer

Electric models are easier to start up than gas engines. You’ll need to plug your machine into a GFCI outlet. Ensure all your connections are working, flip the switch, and you’re all set.

Adjust Pressure Settings and Get to Cleaning

After you start your machine, you’ll want to monitor your pressure settings. Starting with a lower setting will allow you to get a feel for the force without damaging your surfaces.

You must find a good GPM and PSI for a pressure washer. PSI and GPM on a pressure washer stand for pounds per square inch and gallons per minute, referring to the force (PSI) and volume (GPM) of your water.

PSI ranges from 1000 for delicate surfaces to over 4000 for heavy-duty jobs, while GPM ranges from 1 to 8+. Consult your retailer for guidance on your specific surface.

Breaking Down the Pressure Washer Post-Cleaning

When you’re done cleaning, take some time to store your machine correctly. Then, you’ll follow the steps you used to start a pressure washer: unplugging it or turning off the engine, disconnecting the water supply, and draining the water.

This is a good time to run a pump-saving liquid through your machine. Doing so before pressure washer storage will extend the lifespan of your machine.

My Pressure Washer Won’t Start: Troubleshooting Tips

You’ve picked up your powerful cleaning machine, but then you’re stopped in your tracks. My pressure washer won’t start, and I’m unsure if it’s my fault or the machine’s.

A pressure washer not starting is a common enough problem, with several potential issues. Thankfully, most solutions for troubleshooting a pressure washer are cheaper than the costs to repair a pressure washer, so you can try these before visiting a repair shop.

Check the Fuel or Power Supply

Why won’t my pressure washer start? The first place to check is the power source of your machine. A faulty fuel tank or electrical outlet could be the cause.

This should always be your go-to since it’s quick to verify.

Inspect the Spark Plug

There is fuel in the tank, but my pressure washer won’t start. What should I do now?

You’ll need to perform some additional troubleshooting from here, but don’t worry—it will be simple.

Your spark plugs are usually located front and center on your engine.  You can remove them with a socket wrench. Check for signs of damage, as any cracks will require replacement.

Ensure Proper Choke Positioning

If your gas pressure washer won’t start after inspecting your spark plugs, the choke might be the culprit. The choke is usually a lever or dial right near your pull cord. Make sure it is eased open, not closed. A closed choke lacks the air necessary for the pressure washer to run correctly.

Prime the Pump

The pump is the next possible cause if your pressure washer won’t start. Whether you have a direct drive or belt drive pressure washer, you need your pump working correctly to get water flowing.

You can prime your pump with water by connecting it to your water source and letting it flow through. Gas engines also feature a priming bulb that you squeeze to get things rolling.

Do not turn on your engine before water flows through. Starting it without proper lubrication can damage it.

Take a Look at the Carburetor

If your pressure washer won’t start and you hear plenty of sputtering noises, it could be a sign of a faulty carburetor.

With your engine turned off and your spark plugs disconnected, find the carburetor, which looks like a metal box with hoses attached.

Check for leaks, clogs, and caked-on debris. Then, clean your carburetor. If that doesn’t work, have a professional inspect it.

Assess the Air Filter

Near the carburetor is an air filter. If it’s dirty or clogged, your engine won’t be able to run correctly. Foam filters can be cleaned, while paper filters require replacement.

Air filter upkeep is crucial to maintaining a pressure washer, so don’t overlook it.

When your pressure washer won’t start, it can be extremely frustrating–but it doesn’t have to be. Rather than worrying about it yourself, why not let the pros take over?

When in Doubt, Reach Out!

At RJP Hotsy New Jersey, we’re here to help you. We are the #1 home for commercial pressure washer repair in NJ, with the expertise to diagnose your machine and get it back up and running quickly.

Our team has mastered the art of how to repair pressure washers with a comprehensive inspection process and speedy service.

While many starting issues can be fixed quickly, if your machine needs further repairs, we’ll help you avoid downtime. Rather than struggling with where to rent a pressure washer, you can rely on us.

We’re the #1 home for commercial pressure washer rental in NJ, with a diverse rental inventory of commercial hot water pressure washers in New Jersey and commercial cold water pressure washers in New Jersey suitable for any job. We also offer sales and commercial pressure washer leasing in NJ, including commercial pressure washer trailers in NJ.

We assist with pressure washer trailer setup, including mounting a pressure washer to a trailer and plumbing a pressure washer trailer to ensure proper flow.

No matter your cleaning needs, our team is here to help. We’ve been trusted by hundreds of local businesses from the Phillies to Penske, helping them restore their commercial properties with high-quality equipment.

We’ll walk you through choosing a pressure washer, including the differences between commercial vs residential pressure washers and hot water vs cold water pressure washers. Let us select the perfect equipment while you can sit back and dream about how clean your properties will be!

Final Words on How to Start a Pressure Washer

You’re all set once you know the basics of starting a pressure washer, such as how to use a choke or prime the engine. However, additional issues may require deep troubleshooting.

That’s where our team is here to help. We have knowledgeable and friendly staff who will answer all of your questions.

We’re here to help with everything, including pressure washer sizing, how to increase GPM, pressure washer techniques, how to rent a pressure washer, the rental age, and how to use soap with a pressure washer.

Whether buying or renting a pressure washer, RJP Hotsy is the #1 choice in the Garden State. Call us or stop by our store to get started!

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