Is there a release valve on a pressure washer?

Author: Brenden Daugherty DDS  |  Last update: Tuesday, August 26, 2025

Once the water gets so hot the thermal relief valve opens up to let hot water out and cold water in to keep from burning up the pump. Don't let the pressure washer run more then 2-3 minutes without pulling the trigger, shut it off if your not gonna be using it.

Where is pressure release valve located?

Pressure relief valves can be found number of areas but generally they are located in close proximity to the boiler on the connections between the pressurised central heating boiler itself. Remember that a non-pressurised or vented system will unlikely have one at all.

Where is the unloader valve located on a pressure washer?

The unloader valve is located between the pump and the trigger, if the unloader valve is not working properly, the pressure washer can be very dangerous. Always check the unloader valve before using a pressure washer, and be sure to follow the instructions for its proper use.

How do I know if my pressure release valve is bad?

Low or Fluctuating Water Pressure

If your water pressure doesn't seem to be as strong as it once was or you notice a significant loss of pressure when you use more than one fixture at the same time, your pressure reducing valve may be bad.

How do you test a pressure release valve?

The testing method:

After the inlet pressure is set, gradually adjust the regulating screw of the valve so that the outlet pressure can sensitively and continuously change within the range of maximum and minimum value without stagnation or jamming.

Pressure Washer Thermal Valve Explained

How do I know if my pressure washer unloader valve is bad?

Water leaks and inconsistent behavior are also signs of a potential failure in the near future. González: The typical signal when there is an unloader malfunction is a reduction of flow through the nozzle, which results in pressure loss. Dean: Typical symptom of an unloader failure is a sudden smooth pressure loss.

Why does my pressure washer shut off when I release the trigger?

When you let go of the trigger, the pressure builds up inside the pump again and turns off the motor. The pressure switch inside the pump controls when the motor turns on and off.

How much does it cost to replace a pressure release valve?

The required type of PRVs can cost anywhere from $90-$200 and can be purchased at a big box store. A plumber will charge anywhere from $200-$800 for materials and labor but a homeowner with a moderate level of maintenance knowledge might be able to switch out their PRV.

What happens if a pressure relief valve fails?

Oil pump pressure relief valves can fail in either the open or closed position. This can cause damage to the engine oil filter and to the engine itself. A pressure relief valve that is stuck open can allow too much oil to bleed off. This results in a lack of oil pressure and catastrophic engine damage.

Is there a pressure release valve?

A relief valve or pressure relief valve (PRV) is a type of safety valve used to control or limit the pressure in a system; excessive pressure might otherwise build up and create a process upset, instrument or equipment failure, explosion, or fire.

Where is my pressure release valve?

You should find the pressure relief valve on the top or the side of your boiler – it'll be connected to the hot water so look for pipes.

Do all pressure washers have an unloader valve?

A pressure washer unloader valve regulates water pressure and flow rates. Factory installed on all pressure washers, this important feature keeps internal pressure from climbing too high while the machine is running.

What is the most common cause of a pressure washer going faulty?

The number one cause of low or no pressure when using a pressure washer is a blocked or worn nozzle. Blocked nozzles will prevent water from escaping, while a worn nozzle will allow too much water to pass through, causing the pressure to drop.

How do you unstick an unloader valve?

How To Fix a Stuck Unloader Valve
  1. Disconnect the pressure washer from the power source.
  2. Locate the unloader valve—consult the owner's manual if unsure.
  3. Remove the valve carefully, following the manufacturer's instructions.
  4. Clean the valve with a mixture of warm water and vinegar using a soft brush.

What is the difference between an unloader valve and a relief valve?

The relief valve protects the low-volume/high-pressure pump from pressure above 3000 psi. The unloading valve is set at 500 psi to divert flow from the high-volume/low-pressure pump to tank when system pressure climbs above this setting.

How do you open a pressure release valve?

For most units, open the water pressure relief valve by simply lifting the valve up until the attached brass stem rises.

What happens if a pressure release valve fails?

Nearly 99% of PRV failures happen because of installation or re-installation issues. And when a PRV fails, it can lead to an explosion. Damaged equipment, disrupted work flow, and even injury may result. Why take that risk when you can easily tell whether or not your pressure relief valve needs replacing or repair.

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