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How to Troubleshoot a Generac Pressure Washer

Frank Whittemore

Using a pressure washer to clean your car, patio or house is much quicker and easier than using a garden hose. Pressure washers are also handy for preparation work for painting. They can remove the dirt and old paint from any surface.

They also use about one-fifth of the water that a garden hose uses, saving water in the process. While your Generac pressure washer will usually function well, sometimes it may not. Ensure that your pressure washer is in good working condition by following these simple troubleshooting steps.

Low-pressure Problems

  1. Ensure that you are using the correct pressure nozzle and that is not blocked or damaged. Clear any blockage or replace the nozzle if damaged.

  2. Check if the water inlet or inlet hose strainer are blocked and clear any blockage.

  3. Ensure that there is an adequate water supply and the temperature of the water does not exceed 100 degrees F.

  4. Check if the high pressure hose is blocked and clear any blockage or replace it if damaged.

  5. Check the gun for any leaks and tighten fittings to eliminate them.

  6. Contact a Generac service facility if the pump itself is faulty.

Detergent Will Not Mix Properly

  1. Ensure that the siphon tube is completely submerged in the detergent.

  2. Check the chemical filter to see if it is clogged. Clean the filter or replace it if necessary.

  3. Check the inline filter for dirt. Replace the filter if necessary.

Engine Will Not Start or Runs Rough

  1. Check to see if it is out of gas. The gas may also be stale or there may be water in the tank. If so, drain the tank and refill with fresh gas.

  2. Check the air filter for dirt or debris. Clean the filter or replace it.

  3. Check the spark plug for a proper connection and whether it is dirty or damaged. Remove the plug, clean it, re-gap the plug and, if necessary, and replace it. Ensure the spark plug wire is properly attached to the plug.

  4. Check that the engine is not being over-choked. Fully open the choke to start the engine.

  5. Ensure that the intake valve is not stuck open or that the engine has not lost compression. If it has, contact a service representative.

Other Problems

  1. Check the gas tank level if the engine shuts down during operation.

  2. Check the air filter if the engine lacks power. Clean or replace the air filter.

  3. Ensure that the choke is not being opened too soon to prevent engine falter.

  4. Ensure that the engine speed is not set too slow. If it is, it may bog down when a load is applied.

The Drip Cap

  • Using a pressure washer to clean your car, patio or house is much quicker and easier than using a garden hose.
  • Pressure washers are also handy for preparation work for painting.
  • Ensure that your pressure washer is in good working condition by following these simple troubleshooting steps.
  • Clean the filter or replace it if necessary.
  • Check the inline filter for dirt.
  • Check the air filter for dirt or debris.
  • Check the air filter if the engine lacks power.
  • Ensure that the choke is not being opened too soon to prevent engine falter.