Why does my pressure washer keep pulsing?
When the pressure washer pulsates, these fluctuations in the pressure system are caused either by insufficient water supply, air in the pipes or dirt. In the rarest cases it is a real defect. However, pulsing can be an indicator of other and further malfunctions.
Rarely a defect, but almost always a result of water flow
In almost all cases, pulsing in the pressure washer is caused by a harmless reason. Irregularity in the circulation system is caused by fluctuating and insufficient water supply. Of course, a technical defect in the high-pressure cleaner is also possible. However, experience shows that in the majority of cases it is due to an easily remedied irregularity in the inflow, compression and discharge of the water.
The following factors cause pulsation:
Water supply
There are several reasons why the water supply may fluctuate or reduce too temporarily. Pulsation cannot always be clearly distinguished from the stuttering of the pressure washer. If too little water is flowing, the pressure build-up also gets confused. The following mostly simple reasons can cause pulsing:
- Water tap not turned on completely
- Water inlet hose kinked or squeezed
- Fluctuations in the tap water pressure (pressure limiter of the building defective)
- Water inlet hose too thin (after extension or replacement)
Also of interest: Why does the pressure washer stutter?
Air in the pipe
Another typical trigger for a pulsating pressure washer is air in the pipe system. The simplest remedy is to remove the high-pressure hose and then put the unit into operation. If only water comes out of the connection pipe, the air has been “pumped out”. Sometimes it is enough to activate and pause the gun several times.
Also of interest: Pressure Washer Troubleshooting
Dirt
Blocking dirt or dirt that obstructs the entry and exit of the water can trigger the fluctuations in the flow behaviour and the resulting pulsation. The following components should be cleaned:
- Nozzle
- Filter at the water inlet
- Gun
- Lance
Valves
The direction of a technical defect is when a pressure, non-return or suction valve is dirty or broken. If the pulsation continues after disassembly, cleaning and reinsertion and all other causes have been ruled out, a replacement must be carried out.
