Pressure Washer Unloader Valve Symptoms
A pressure washer provides a high-pressure stream of water for cleaning purposes. It is a complex tool and will need regular maintenance to work perfectly. Sometimes you might end up having a malfunctioning unit due to a damaged unloader valve. What are the pressure washer unloader valve symptoms?
A washer can start and stop uncontrollably; sometimes there might be no pressure at all even if the trigger is pressed. You might even encounter leaking tips. These are some common occurrences that can point out that there is an underlying issue.
Today will talk about some signs that should work as a heads-up that the washer needs to be serviced.
Why Does Pressure Washer Malfunction?
You have to realize that it is a motorized unit and it is not indestructible. Pressure washers consist of a pump, motor, inlet, pressure hose, nozzle, and gun. With so many things collaborating to work together, one can go wrong and the rest might end up underperforming.
This is one big reason why you must maintain the washer regularly and keep an eye on its components.
What’s With The Unloader Valve?
Apart from all the components of the washer, the unloader valve is the most critical of it all. It is the doorkeeper that keeps the pressure constant within the washer. It works by opening and shutting down to provide a constant flow.
When it deteriorates or gets stuck, the flow rate will be hampered and you might end up with no flow or erratic flow from the pressure washer.
In most pressure washer issues we have seen, it was the flawed unloader valve that was to blame.
Pressure Washer Unloader Valve Symptoms That May Indicate Possible Issues
As we said, these are mechanical devices and will malfunction one way or the other. If it does, don’t lose hope. You can always have it repaired. It’s ideal for you to know about the basic symptoms so that you can start treating the issues rather than keep using them.
You should look for indications such as:
No Pressure When The Trigger Is Pressed
If you have ever faced a situation where the power is on and the motor is functioning, but you are getting no pressure out of the extension wand. Then there might be an issue with the unloader valve.
There is no pressure on the wand, which means there might be some obstruction on the bypass valve. An open valve is to blame for the inadequate channeling of water to the hose line.
Water Leaking From Spray Tip
You’ve seen that the outflow might have no pressure, but what if the pressure is reversed and you get overflow? The overflowing tip is a symptom stating that the unloader valve is working improperly.
When the valve shuts close and gets stuck, the engine tends to go to stall mode. The pressure being built up in the compartment cannot escape and this eventually jams up the internal parts. With the pressure failing to exit through the valve, it overpowers the circulation and let’s overshoot water from the tip.
Engine Heating Up
This happens when the unloader gateway gets jammed. With no sensing capability, the valve draws back the water back to the pumping zone.
As the pressure is not being let off and the water gets trapped. The circulating won’t be there and the already remaining water will start to agitate. With such a problem, the chances are that you will feel the engine overheating.
What To Do When You See The Symptoms?
If you ever come across the three common signs we mentioned above, then you better understand that the unloader valve is done and dusted. It will need to be replaced to work efficiently once again.
Good thing is that the unloader valve can be serviced easily. Here is what you can do to remove the bypass valve:
- Step 1: Undo the power line from the pressure washer.
- Step 2: Track the unloader valve. You will find it connected to the line that draws back the water into the pumping chamber for circulation.
- Step 3: You will observe a protruding knob or spring-like joining.
- Step 4: Unwind the valve from the washer body and take it out
- Step 5: Set up the new one by screwing it into the position
- Step 6: Bring back the power and the pressure washer should work
Note: When you get a new unloader valve, make sure the mechanism and components match the one you plan to replace.
How Can I Make The Unloader Valve Last Longer?
You got to take care of the pressure washer to make it last longer, that counts for the unloader valve as well. It’s all about maintenance. We recommend you have it checked regularly.
See if any dust and debris is piling on it. If so, then remove them. Always store your pressure washer safely in a clean place when it’s not in use. If you live in extremely cold areas, you better winterize the washer.
If you feel the washer is not functioning properly and you cannot discover any problems, seek help from a professional mechanic.
Final Verdict
We have had people complaining about their pressure washers providing inconsistent pressure. Well, we have to say that this is just one of the pressure washer unloader valve symptoms highlighting that it needs to be looked after.
When the valve deteriorates, the pressurized flow can be obstructed; the washer can overheat and sometimes start overshooting water from the tip. In such cases, it’s wise to have the valve replaced with a new one to avoid further damage.
Whenever you observe the symptoms, start the fix immediately. If you can’t do it on your own, seek professional help. Save your washer before it wrecks permanently.
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