Pressure Washer Motor Not Working [Proven Ways To Fix]

Your pressure washer is one of the most important tools in your home improvement arsenal. It can be used to clean everything from your driveway to your siding. But what happens when your pressure washer motor doesn’t work

This is a common problem, and it can be incredibly frustrating. Not only can it prevent you from completing important projects, but it can also be dangerous. If your pressure washer isn’t working properly, you could end up spraying yourself with hot water or damaging your property.

In this guide, I’ll show you how to troubleshoot a pressure washer motor that isn’t working. I’ll explain the most common causes of this problem and how to fix them. By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to get your pressure washer up and running again in no time.

Most Common Reasons Of Pressure Washer Motor Not Working

Most Common Reasons Of Pressure Washer Motor Not Working

1. No power

The pressure washer is not plugged in or the power cord is damaged.
The pressure washer’s circuit breaker is tripped.
The pressure washer’s thermal overload protector has tripped.

2. Bad motor

The motor is burned out.
The motor’s brushes are worn out.
The motor’s bearings are worn out.

3. Bad wiring

The wiring to the motor is damaged.
The wiring to the motor is connected incorrectly.

4. Bad switch

The pressure washer’s on/off switch is faulty.
The pressure washer’s pressure switch is faulty.

5. Clogged pump

The pump is clogged with dirt or debris.
The pump’s seals are damaged.

6. Low oil level

The pressure washer’s oil level is too low.

7. Bad capacitor

The pressure washer’s capacitor is bad.

How to Troubleshoot And Fix: Pressure Washer Motor Not Working

Check Power Supply

First and foremost
ensure that the pressure washer is plugged into a working power outlet. It may seem obvious
but a loose connection or a tripped circuit breaker could be the culprit behind the motor not working.

Inspect the Power Cord

Take a close look at the power cord for any signs of damage such as fraying or cuts. A damaged power cord can prevent the motor from receiving the necessary power to operate effectively.

Examine the On/Off Switch

The on/off switch is a critical component of the pressure washer motor. Make sure it is in the on position and functioning properly. If the switch is faulty
it may need to be replaced to restore motor functionality.

Check for Overheating

Overheating can cause the pressure washer motor to shut down. If the motor feels excessively hot to the touch
allow it to cool down before attempting to use it again. Additionally
ensure that the air vents are not blocked
as this can lead to overheating.

Inspect the Capacitor

The capacitor is responsible for starting the motor. If the capacitor is defective
the motor may not start. A multimeter can be used to test the capacitor for continuity. If it is found to be faulty
it should be replaced.

Examine the Pressure Switch

The pressure switch plays a crucial role in regulating the motor’s operation. If the pressure switch is malfunctioning
it can prevent the motor from running. Check the pressure switch for any signs of damage or wear and tear.

Test the Motor Brushes

The motor brushes transmit electrical current to the motor’s commutator. Over time
these brushes can wear down
leading to motor failure. Inspect the brushes for wear and replace them if necessary.

Inspect the Thermal Release Valve

The thermal release valve is designed to release water and pressure from the pump when the water inside the pump becomes too hot. If the valve is stuck open
it can prevent the motor from starting. Ensure that the thermal release valve is functioning correctly.

Conclusion

In conclusion
troubleshooting and fixing a pressure washer motor that is not working can be a straightforward process when following

FAQs: Pressure Washer Motor Not Working

Why is my pressure washer motor not working?

There are a few possible reasons why your pressure washer motor might not be working. Here are some of the most common causes:

The motor is not getting power: This could be due to a blown fuse, a tripped circuit breaker, or a problem with the power cord.

The motor is overheating: This could be due to a clogged air filter, a dirty pump, or a problem with the cooling fan.

The motor is seized: This could be due to a lack of lubrication, a foreign object in the pump, or a problem with the bearings.

The motor is worn out: This could be due to age, excessive use, or a lack of maintenance.

How do I fix a pressure washer motor that’s not working?

The first step is to identify the cause of the problem. Once you know what’s wrong, you can take the necessary steps to fix it. Here are some tips for troubleshooting a pressure washer motor:

Check the power cord: Make sure that the power cord is plugged in securely and that the fuse is not blown.

Check the air filter: If the air filter is clogged, it can restrict airflow to the motor and cause it to overheat. Clean the air filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Check the pump: If the pump is dirty, it can cause the motor to overheat. Clean the pump according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Check the bearings: If the bearings are worn out, they can cause the motor to seize up. Replace the bearings according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Replace the motor: If the motor is worn out, it will need to be replaced.

How can I prevent my pressure washer motor from breaking down?

There are a few things you can do to prevent your pressure washer motor from breaking down:

Use the pressure washer according to the manufacturer’s instructions: This includes using the correct type of detergent, not overloading the machine, and not running it for too long at a time.

Maintain the pressure washer regularly: This includes cleaning the air filter, checking the oil level, and replacing the spark plug as needed.

Store the pressure washer properly: When you’re not using the pressure washer, store it in a cool, dry place.

What are the signs of a bad pressure washer motor?

Here are some of the signs of a bad pressure washer motor:

The pressure washer won’t start.
The pressure washer starts but runs very slowly.
The pressure washer makes a loud noise.
The pressure washer leaks fluid.
The pressure washer loses power.

What should I do if my pressure washer motor is bad?

If you think your pressure washer motor is bad, you should stop using the machine immediately and have it repaired or replaced by a qualified technician. Attempting to repair the motor yourself could be dangerous.

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