Why do pressure washer pumps go bad?

Author: Erik Rowe  |  Last update: Monday, January 26, 2026

Repeated heavy use of a pressure washer can cause heat damage over time. Extra hard use can cause pump meltdown. The internal parts get so hot, they actually melt and bind up the pump. This kind of damage requires the pump to be replaced.

What causes the pump to go bad on a pressure washer?

Possible Pump Issues
  • Faulty Pump Seals : If the seals are damaged, they might allow the pump to build initial pressure before failing.
  • Worn or Damaged Pump Pistons : If the pistons are worn, they may not maintain pressure after the initial burst.
  • Blocked or Malfunctioning Valves

What is the life expectancy of a pressure washer pump?

On some pumps, the pistons are driven by a plate on an angle (wobble plate), and in other cases, the pistons are driven by a crankshaft. Crankshaft-driven pumps are generally built better and will last longer. Low-cost pressure washers have pumps with very low life expectancies—some as low as 60 – 100 hours.

How do you know if your pressure washer pump is bad?

How do you know if a pressure washer pump is bad?
  • You experience a decrease in pressure or none at all. ...
  • You hear unusual noises. ...
  • You see leaks or drips. ...
  • The pump cycles on and off often. ...
  • Your pressure washer is old.

Is it worth it to rebuild a pressure washer pump?

If the replacement parts are expensive, it may make more sense to buy a new pump instead. However, if you have a high-quality pump that is used in an industrial setting, rebuilding it can be a cost-effective and efficient solution.

Top Reasons Your Pressure Washer Pump Is Destroyed & Has No Pressure!

What wears out on a pressure washer pump?

Check the seals, packings, and O-rings for wear. These can easily be replaced, saving you the cost of a new pump. However, major leaks such as the ones caused by cracked or damaged plungers, can lead to pump failures. Plungers can be repaired or replaced, but the cost should be considered.

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 much does it cost to replace a washer pump?

Auto Windscreen washer pump: how much does this product cost? The price of car parts within the auto Windscreen washer pump category ranges from £2 to £109, depending on the vehicle type, manufacturer, and product specifications.

How do I know if my washer needs a new pump?

Firstly, just to check you are on the right path, here are the warning signs that your drain pump is broken:
  1. You can't hear the pump when it's draining the water out.
  2. You can hear a low humming sound when on spin cycle but the water doesn't drain.
  3. The washing machine fills up with water as normal.

How to check if a pump is bad?

Common symptoms and what may be causing them
  1. Abnormal flow. If the flow is abnormal, this is a definite sign of a problem. ...
  2. Noisy pumps. The most common noise is that of that of rocks in a can. ...
  3. Frequent clogging. ...
  4. Overheating. ...
  5. Air Leaks.

What is the most reliable pressure washer pump?

Triplex plunger pumps are the highest quality pressure washer pumps, offering longer life and better performance.

Is it OK to leave a pressure washer running?

And never leave your pressure washer unattended while running. If you have to walk away for more than a minute, turn the pressure washer off. It's not good for your pump to leave it running while not in use, and shutting it off can prevent unwanted accidents.

Why does my pressure washer engine keep dying?

Well, there can be a lot happening within the parts of a pressure washer but some of the most common causes why it starts and dies are issues related to spark arrestor, fuel filter, fuel cap, carburetor, and clogging of the pressure washer filter.

What causes a pressure pump to fail?

Cavitation: when liquid pressure falls below vapour pressure, bubbles form and implode on impellers and interior surfaces, damaging pump internals, disrupting flow and leading to seal failure. Temperature: blocked discharge can result in fluid stagnation, resulting in a spike in temperature.

Can a pressure washer pump be fixed?

Triplex pumps featured on professional grade pressure washers can be rebuilt, but the axial cam pumps used on residential series pressure washers cannot.

How much does it cost to rebuild a pressure washer pump?

Pump Repairs: Seals, Valves, and Unloader Valves

A complete pump replacement is even more costly, often ranging between $200 to $500. In some cases, you may find that the age of your pressure washer warrants upgrading to a new one rather than repairing the pump. We'll talk more about this shortly.

How to tell if a pressure washer pump is broken?

How to determine if your pressure washer pump is faulty
  1. Water leak. If water leaks from a crack in the pump itself, the entire pump must be replaced. ...
  2. Oil leak. If oil leaks from your pressure washer pump, one of the seals, gaskets or pistons may be damaged. ...
  3. Inconsistent pressure. ...
  4. Low pressure. ...
  5. Loud noises.

How long does a pump last on a pressure washer?

Axial cam pumps are a step above wobble pumps. They generally last around 500 to 800 hours and are used in pressure washers under 3,500 PSI. Axial cam pumps are efficient and lightweight. However, they have a tendency to overheat when used for long periods of time.

How do I know if my washer pump is bad?

Disruptive noises: When your washing machine makes loud, thumping sounds during the drainage phase, it might indicate that the pump has a clog or can't effectively empty the water. No washer movement: Washing machines spin and jerk quickly to loosen dirt on fabrics.

Is it worth rebuilding a power washer pump?

When considering a repair on an older pump, if the pump costs more than 50% of the value of a new pump, then it is likely better to just replace the pump vs. repairing the pump.

Is replacing a water pump easy?

Replacing a car water pump could be a simple or difficult job, depending on the vehicle and the water pump's location. It's a job usually best left for professional mechanics. The water pump may be hidden under other components and may require special tools depending on the vehicle's design.

How much does a washer pump cost?

On average, the washer pump replacement cost is between $20 and $100 (CAD 27 to CAD 134) just for the part itself, according to data from HomeGuide.

What is the average life of a pressure washer?

Electric pressure washers often come with a lower price tag than gas models and tend to last about three to five years. On the other hand, gas-powered pressure washers have a lifespan of between five and seven years.

Why is my pressure washer not pumping water?

When the pressure washer starts but no water comes out, the problem could be due to insufficient water supply or a clogged filter. Make sure the water supply is adequate and the filters are clean.

What is most important when buying a pressure washer?

Choose Your Pressure Washer's Cleaning Power

A pressure washer rated with a higher PSI and GPM cleans better and faster but often costs more than lower-rated units. Perfect for smaller jobs around the home like cleaning outdoor furniture, grills and vehicles.

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