Thermal Relief Valve On Pressure Washer Not Working [Try This Proven Fixes]

Your pressure washer is a powerful tool that can make quick work of cleaning your home, car, or yard. But when the thermal relief valve isn’t working properly, it can be a major inconvenience. Not only can it cause your pressure washer to overheat, but it can also be dangerous.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to troubleshoot a faulty thermal relief valve. We’ll cover the common causes of this problem, as well as the steps you can take to fix it. By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to get your pressure washer back up and running in no time.

Reasons Why Thermal Relief Valve On Pressure Washer Not Working

1. Clogged Thermal Relief Valve

The most common reason for a thermal relief valve not working is that it is clogged. This can happen if dirt or debris gets caught in the valve, preventing it from opening properly. To fix this, you will need to clean the valve.

2. Faulty Thermal Relief Valve

Another possible reason for a thermal relief valve not working is that it is faulty. This can happen if the valve is damaged or if the springs inside the valve are broken. If the valve is faulty, it will need to be replaced.

3. Improper Installation

In some cases, a thermal relief valve may not be working properly because it was not installed correctly. If the valve is not installed correctly, it may not be able to open properly when the pressure gets too high. To fix this, you will need to reinstall the valve correctly.

4. Low Water Pressure

Finally, a thermal relief valve may not be working properly if the water pressure is too low. This can happen if the water supply is not strong enough or if there is a blockage in the water line. To fix this, you will need to increase the water pressure or clear the blockage.

How to Troubleshoot And Fix: Thermal Relief Valve on Pressure Washer Not Working

Symptoms of a Bad Thermal Relief Valve

There are a few symptoms that can indicate that the thermal relief valve on your pressure washer is not working properly. These include:

The pressure washer is not producing as much pressure as it should.
The pressure washer is overheating.
The pressure washer is making a loud hissing or squealing noise.
The pressure washer is leaking fluid.

How to Test the Thermal Relief Valve

To test the thermal relief valve, you will need to:

1. Turn off the pressure washer and disconnect the hose from the gun.
2. Locate the thermal relief valve. It is typically located on the side of the pressure washer, near the pump.
3. Remove the cap from the thermal relief valve.
4. Insert a probe thermometer into the thermal relief valve.
5. Turn on the pressure washer and allow it to run for a few minutes.
6. The temperature of the fluid in the thermal relief valve should rise to around 212 degrees Fahrenheit.
7. If the temperature of the fluid does not rise to 212 degrees Fahrenheit, or if the thermal relief valve does not open, then the valve is bad and needs to be replaced.

How to Replace the Thermal Relief Valve

To replace the thermal relief valve, you will need to:

1. Turn off the pressure washer and disconnect the hose from the gun.
2. Locate the thermal relief valve. It is typically located on the side of the pressure washer, near the pump.
3. Remove the cap from the thermal relief valve.
4. Remove the old thermal relief valve.
5. Install the new thermal relief valve.
6. Replace the cap on the thermal relief valve.
7. Turn on the pressure washer and test it to make sure that the thermal relief valve is working properly.

Preventative Maintenance

To help prevent problems with the thermal relief valve, you can:

Keep the pressure washer clean and free of debris.
Inspect the thermal relief valve regularly for signs of damage or wear.
Replace the thermal relief valve as soon as it starts to malfunction.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your pressure washer running smoothly and prevent costly repairs.

Also Read: Troy Bilt 2700 Pressure Washer Soap Not Working

FAQs: Thermal Relief Valve on Pressure Washer Not Working

Why is my thermal relief valve not working?

There are a few possible reasons why your thermal relief valve may not be working.

The valve may be clogged: If the valve is clogged with dirt or debris, it will not be able to open properly and release the excess pressure.

The valve may be stuck: If the valve is stuck closed, it will not be able to release the excess pressure.

The valve may be damaged: If the valve is damaged, it will not be able to function properly.

How do I check if my thermal relief valve is working?

To check if your thermal relief valve is working, you can do the following:

1. Turn on the pressure washer and let it run for a few minutes.
2. Listen for the thermal relief valve to open. You should hear a loud pop or bang.
3. Look for a stream of water coming out of the thermal relief valve.

If you do not hear the valve open or see any water coming out, the valve may be clogged, stuck, or damaged.

How do I clean a clogged thermal relief valve?

To clean a clogged thermal relief valve, you can do the following:

1. Turn off the pressure washer and disconnect the hose from the gun.
2. Remove the thermal relief valve from the pressure washer.
3. Use a small brush or wire to clean out any dirt or debris that is blocking the valve.
4. Reinstall the thermal relief valve and reconnect the hose to the gun.

How do I fix a stuck thermal relief valve?

To fix a stuck thermal relief valve, you can do the following:

1. Turn off the pressure washer and disconnect the hose from the gun.
2. Remove the thermal relief valve from the pressure washer.
3. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the valve stem.
4. Use a small screwdriver or pliers to gently pry open the valve stem.
5. Reinstall the thermal relief valve and reconnect the hose to the gun.

How do I replace a damaged thermal relief valve?

To replace a damaged thermal relief valve, you can do the following:

1. Turn off the pressure washer and disconnect the hose from the gun.
2. Remove the thermal relief valve from the pressure washer.
3. Inspect the valve for damage. If the valve is cracked or broken, it will need to be replaced.
4. Purchase a new thermal relief valve that is the same size and type as the old valve.
5. Install the new thermal relief valve in the pressure washer.
6. Reconnect the hose to the gun and turn on the pressure washer.