Why does my pressure washer keep bogging down?

Author: Makenna Carroll  |  Last update: Wednesday, November 5, 2025

A clogged nozzle is usually the main cause of low water pressure from pressure washers. Over time, dirt and debris build up in the nozzle and restrict pressurized water flow. A washer service expert can clean the nozzle with a brush or push compressed air through the nozzle to fix this problem.

What causes a pressure washer to bog down?

A failed unloader valve won't recirculate water back to the pump inlet, so pump outlet pressure builds up, making it harder for the engine to run the pump. The engine bogs down when it struggles to run the pump.

Why does my pressure washer keep stalling out?

The spray has a consistent pressure the next time you pull its trigger. The stalling of the engine of your electric pressure washer may be because of the bad unloader valve, which is due to the pressure inside the pump becoming greater than your engine's power to rotate your pump.

How do you fix a pressure washer that is surging?

Generally, the first step in fixing a surging pressure washer is to check that each hose is free of kinks or blockages. Ensure the faucet is fully open, and review and tighten all connectors. If your pressure washer is still pumping, check and remove air trapped in the pump and hose.

Why does my pressure washer keep losing power?

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.

Top Reasons Pressure Washer Starts, Then Stalls — Pressure Washer Troubleshooting

Why won't my pressure washer hold pressure?

If any of your pressure washer's parts are clogged, or if you're using the wrong size, you may notice an issue with the pressure. It's important to keep your inlet suction strainers clean, and make sure you're using the correct size. This is a part that should be checked often to ensure its proper function.

What is the average life of a pressure washer?

If you are a homeowner, you will probably use a pressure washer for less than 50 hours per year. In this case, getting a machine rated for 500 hours will last you up to 10 years if properly maintained.

Why does my pressure washer rev up and down?

To check for problems, a person needs to pull the trigger on the pressure washer. Surging occurs when the pressure is fine and then weakens. It is caused when the flow rate for the pump cannot be supported by the water supply.

Why does my pressure washer keep pulsing while?

Pressure washer surges or pulses can be caused by various issues. Here's a list of common causes: Kinks and blockages: These can restrict the flow of water, resulting in inconsistent pressure. Plugged nozzle: Over time, debris can build up inside the nozzle, causing it to become plugged and disrupt the water pressure.

Why does my pressure washer keep cycling on and off?

If your pressure washer pump cycles on and off repeatedly during use, it could indicate an underlying issue with the pump or its components. Pump cycling, also known as short cycling, may result from a faulty pressure switch, air leaks or insufficient water supply.

Why will my pressure washer not stay running?

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.

Why does my pressure washer keep stopping and starting?

If the pressure washer starts and then stalls during its use, first check if the nozzle is clogged and clean it if necessary. If the pressure washer turns off during prolonged use, the problem could be related to motor overheating or a power interruption.

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.

How do you get air out of a pressure washer?

  1. Step 1: Connect a hose. Connect your garden hose to the pressure washer's inlet cover. ...
  2. Step 2: Flush the System. Turn on the hose tap and run the water through the system for a minute or two. ...
  3. Step 3: Reconnect the pressure hose. After a couple of minutes, turn off the hose and disconnect it.

Why does my pressure washer hesitate?

You're experiencing low or undulating water pressure

Therefore, if the water stream from your pressure washer is weak, check the following: Ensure the spray gun is the correct size and installed properly. Make sure the nozzle isn't in the low PSI position. Check your spray gun, nozzle and hose for any leaks or clogs.

How do I know if the pump is bad on my pressure washer?

If you wiggle the plungers and they seem to be sloppy, it's time to replace your pump. You will typically first notice a pressure drop and can, in some cases, have no pressure or a pulsation effect. A broken or loose piston guide will mean complete pump replacement.

Why is my pressure washer not running smooth?

Dirty filter: the filter of your high-pressure cleaner may be dirty or clogged, preventing the smooth flow of water and thus affecting pressure. If you hear strange noises coming from the high-pressure cleaner when in operation, it may mean that the filter is dirty and is causing little water circulation in the system.

Why is my pressure washer engine sputtering?

If there are any blockages in the carburetor (usually caused by stale gasoline being left to sit in the engine and carburetor for too long), the engine will not receive sufficient fuel. This can cause the engine to sputter out, especially when idling.

Why does my pressure washer bog down?

A clogged nozzle is usually the main cause of low water pressure from pressure washers.

How do you fix a pulsating pressure washer?

Check that the water supply hose is not leaking, blocked, tangled or overly long. Make sure the water supply is adequate: the mains water tap may not be fully open, or the flow rate may be lower than the minimum required flow (consult the user and maintenance manual supplied with your high-pressure washer).

Why does my pressure washer run for a second then shut off?

The air filter may be clogged. If the air filter is clogged, the engine will get too much fuel and not enough air. As a result, the engine may stall. If the air filter is clogged, replace it.

How long can you continuously run a pressure washer?

Gas pressure washers can typically run for about 30 minutes before they need a break. Electric models can usually go for an hour or more. If you're using a hot water pressure washer, you'll need to give it breaks more frequently – about every 15 minutes.

Do pressure washers need maintenance?

Besides regular maintenance, there are other parts of your pressure washer that should be regularly inspected to make certain everything is working as it should. Be sure to follow these simple tips: Change your oil after every 50 hours of use. Clean or replace the air filter every 25 hours of use.

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