FAQ
Here you will find a list of frequently asked questions regarding your new pressure washer!
If you are unable to resolve your questions here, please feel free to reach out to us directly at 1-877-441-4430.
Does your machine need a battery? If your machine does not come with an attached cord and plug, you will need to install a fully charged 12v battery with a 165 CCA, 190 CA or better rating. The battery needs to be fully charged to 12.5-13 Volts.
If it is a gas unit, have you added gasoline to the engine? Is the choke at full throttle?
If it is an electric unit, is it plugged in?
Is your battery correctly attached/fully charged? The battery needs to be fully charged to 12.5-13 Volts. A faulty battery could cause the burner to not fire correctly.
Is your engine running at full throttle? Your machine will not be getting the full power it needs to power the burner if you are only running it at half capacity. Always run at full throttle.
110V machines come with a power cord and need to be plugged in. Ensure that your machine is fully plugged in, and to an outlet that supports 110v power. If it is not correctly plugged in or into an outlet with 110v Power, it will not have the power it needs to run correctly
Check the fuel filter. If the fuel filter is dirty, you will have to replace it. Check to ensure the on/off valve for the tank is on. Ensure your thermostat is on. You will need to have a minimum of 600 PSI for your burner to operate.
Ensure your water source is properly connected. Is the hose connected to the side of the machine, is the hose turned on, etc. If your water source is not properly connected/turned on, this will affect the amount of water and pressure that gets sent through the machine. You should also check the water filter for debris or any restrictions.
Is your machine leaking anywhere? Any water or fluid leakage could indicate a fault somewhere that is causing a significant drop in pressure.
Is your engine running at full throttle? Your machine may not be getting the full power it needs to power the burner if you are only running it at half capacity.
Is there any water coming out of the end of the wand? This would be a good indicator if something is blocking the water’s passage through the machine at all.
Check the pressure gauge and unloader. Is the pressure unloader adjusted correctly? Is it set to a very low pressure?
- Examine oil in the pump to see if there is metal in the oil.
- If you find traces or pieces of metal, your pump has damaged components.
- Verify if there is dirt in the nozzle tip or in valves in the pump.
- If the nozzle is clogged, clean or replace it.
- If the valves in the pump are clogged, clean the valves.
- If valves in the pump are damaged or pitted, replace valves.
- Make sure you have the right nozzle size. The black nozzle will drop pressure in order to use a chemical injector and is only for soap or chemicals. If you are not using soap, use a different color.
- Make sure you have the right nozzle size.
- Check the pressure of the pump with a pressure gauge and adjust to desired pressure.
- If you cannot reduce pressure, replace the unloader.
- Make sure the thermostat is working properly. Take the dial off the thermostat button. Turn the 2 screws about a quarter of a turn to the left (counterclockwise). Put the dial back on. Try to shut the thermostat off.
- If you don’t hear a click when you turn the dial completely over, replace the thermostat.
NOTE: The newer 12 volt models now have an on/off switch that is designed to cut the current off between the battery and burner in order to preserve the battery’s charge. If you have a model that does not have this switch, please call us for more info.
- Make sure your battery is fully charged.
- If the battery’s charge is not full, please replace or re-charge your battery.
- Make sure the thermostat is connected properly.
- If the burner fan does not come on when you turn the thermostat dial, replace the thermostat.
- Make sure the pressure switch is connected properly to the burner unit. Take the cover off the pressure switch by unscrewing the 4 screws on the front part of the switch (switch is located on pump). Without touching the contacts that conduct current, push on the little button found on the micro switch (button is located directly above the part that attaches directly into the pump).
- If the burner comes on, replace the pressure switch.
- If the burner does not come on, make sure there is current going through the switch (consult a professional for this if you do not know how to do this properly as you can get severely injured by the electrical current connected to your machine). If current properly flows through the pressure switch to the burner, check the ignitor.
- Please call a repair center for help to conduct tests on the ignitor.
- If you see vapor coming out the top of the coil when you try to turn the burner on while the machine is in use, fuel is passing through the system properly but the ignitor is unable to produce a spark. Replace the ignitor.
- If you don’t see vapor, check the fuel line.
- Make sure you have enough fuel in the tank.
- If you have fuel, make sure the filter and fuel line are not clogged or damaged.
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Perform pre-start maintenance inspection on all applicable systems prior to operating the machine. This is essential for safe, effective, and efficient operation. You will get optimal performance from your system ONLY IF these instructions and inspections are followed. Any indication that the pressure washing system was not operated and maintained in accordance with these instructions may void the manufacturers’ warranty.
Location – Be sure to install in an area that has sufficient air ventilation to support the combustion of the oil burner.
Controls – Make sure all controls are turned to the off position.
Pump - Oil level – Level the pressure washer. Be sure the oil level in the pump is correct on the dipstick. If the level is low, add the correct oil to the proper level. USE ONLY SAE 30 W NONDETERGENT OIL OR HYDRAULIC 68. DO NOT OVERFILL.
Gas Engine - Gasoline Level – The engine is 4 cycle and uses regular octane, unleaded fuel. DO NOT USE MIXED FUEL. Refer to the engine operation manual included with your pressure-washing unit.
Gas Engine - Oil level – The engine is 4 cycle and uses 10W30 detergent oil. Refer to Glossary or engine manual. Oil Fired Burner - Oil Tank Level – #2 Furnace oil is recommended fuel for Oil Fired Hot Water Pressure Washers. It burns cleaner and the burner requires less maintenance. Diesel fuel may be used as an alternative.
DO NOT OVERFILL BURNER TANK.
VISUALLY INSPECT ALL ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS TO ENSURE THEY ARE IN GOOD CONDITION, SHOWING NO SIGNS OF EXPOSURE, BREAKAGE, OR SPLICING. VISUALLY INSPECT ALL HOSES, NOZZLES, AND GUNS TO ENSURE THEY ARE IN GOOD CONDITION. IF REPLACEMENTS ARE NECESSARY, THEY MUST BE RATED TO WITHSTAND THE MACHINES OPERATING PRESSURE AND TEMPERATURES.
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Attach a high-pressure hose to the hot water outlet quick connector. Attach the other end of the high pressure hose (with a quick coupler) to the spray gun. Ensure that quick disconnect connections are tightly locked together. Apply a sharp pull on hose to confirm they are secured.
Attach wand nozzle specific to task requirements (i.e. chemical or pressure wash). [Quick Coupling Operation – Pull back sleeve end and insert male end into nozzle quick coupler, release sleeve, and confirm connection by pulling on the nozzle].
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Attach a water source to the water inlet located on the pump. The water source must be attached with a good quality standard garden type hose (1/2” minimum is required). Connect male fitting into the female pump inlet fitting. Make sure that the inlet screen/filter is intact and fitted correctly. Turn on the water source. WATER MUST BE IN SUFFICIENT SUPPLY AND PRESSURE MUST BE BETWEEN 20 – 60 PSI TO ENSURE PROPER AND SAFE OPERATION. Specific attention should be given if using a well water supply. Ensure water is flowing from the end nozzle with the trigger gun pulled. Deplete the system of all air.
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Start the gas engine/electric motor and switch on the burner. PUMP and BURNER switches are located on electrical box. For Manual Stop/Start: Turn BURNER switch to ‘PUMP’, adjust the burner thermostat to desired temperature, then turn BURNER switch to ‘BURNER’. For Auto Stop/Start: Turn PUMP switch to ‘ON’, adjust burner thermostat to desired temperature, then turn BURNER switch to ‘ON’. For Auto Stop/ Start: Turn PUMP switch to ‘ON’, adjust burner thermostat to desired temperature, then turn BURNER switch to ‘ON’.
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Burner operation Be sure water is flowing through the water heater coil before turning on the BURNER switch. Turn the thermostat to desired temperature. Burner will ignite and remain in operation as long as there is sufficient water flow to satisfy the pressure switch and temperature control.
IF YOU EXPERIENCE IGNITION FAILURE, DO NOT ATTEMPT TO RESTART BURNER! EXCESS FUEL AND VAPORS MAY HAVE ACCUMULATED AND THE CHAMBER MAY BE HOT. THE UNIT MUST COOL DOWN BEFORE RESTART CAN BE ATTEMPTED.
WARNING: CONDENSATION ON COIL
When cold water is being pumped through the heater coil and the burner is firing, condensation may form at times on the coil and drip down into the burner compartment.This can be particularly noticeable on cold, humid days giving the false appearance of a leaking coil. A leaking coil or system will be evident if the pump keeps cycling while the trigger is released. The pump head pressure should read ‘0’.
WARNING: ALL ELECTRICALLY POWERED UNITS MUST BE PROVIDED WITH SUITABLE OVERLOAD AND OVERCURRENT PROTECTION IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CANADIAN ELECTRICAL CODE PART 1. CONFIRM THE GFCI (GROUND FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER) IS IN GOOD WORKING ORDER.
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Pressure adjustment - The pressure regulator (unloader) is located on the pump (see diagram). It controls the pressure being generated by the pressure washer. This regulator may be adjusted to the desired pressure by turning the adjustment knob. Turning the adjustment knob clockwise will increase the pressure. NEVER OPERATE SYSTEM AT A HIGHER PSI THAN THE MAXIMUM RATING. This machine has been adjusted to operate at a specific maximum pressure as per the machine specifications. Pressure may be reduced for lighter use by turning the Pressure Regulator/Unloader counter clockwise. If continuing to turn the unloader clockwise does not increase the pressure, then this implies the maximum pressure has been reached for the system. Any further turning of the unloader will cause the pressure to spike when the wand trigger is released, resulting in possible damage to the machine. To avoid this effect, loosen the unloader (counter-clockwise) until the pressure just starts to drop (see pump head pressure gauge) and until it no longer exceeds the maximum pressure rating for the machine.
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You are now ready to start the cleaning operation - Pull trigger on the pressure wand assembly to start cleaning. To stop the pressurized water, release the trigger. DO NOT LEAVE UNIT RUNNING WHEN NOT IN USE.
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To stop burner operation – Turn BURNER switch to ‘PUMP’ (or to ‘OFF’ for Auto Stop/Start models) and run pump for two minutes with trigger gun pulled to allow coil to cool down. After the cooling period is complete, turn off main power to the motor by turning the BURNER switch to ‘OFF’ (turn PUMP switch to ‘OFF’ if equipped with Auto Stop/Start). Squeeze and release the trigger for the second time in order to relieve the pump system of pressure.
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Prior to storage – Inspect pressure washer for any damage or required maintenance. If your machine is to be exposed to cold weather, please refer to winter pump/coil instructions found in this manual. If possible, do not allow unit to remain outside in the elements.
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Battery Specifications for electric start systems only – Rating: 165 CCA, 190CA or better, dimensions: 8” x 5” x 6”.
WARNING – If a unit is left running while not in use, pump damage may occur. Do not leave the unit running while not in use!
NOTE: Do not remove the backflow preventer as chemicals may flow back into potable water sources. For standard chemical injection, ensure the black nozzle is properly fitted at the end of the wand. The chemical injector will not function if this nozzle is not fitted.
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Chemical Preparation - Select detergent/chemical that best suits your cleaning task. Prepare dilution according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The volume of chemical being used may be adjusted at the valve located on the chemical injector. NOTE: for PJ Pumps, the volume is preset and cannot be adjusted.
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Insert the intake hose, located on the chemical injector at the pump, into the chemical being used.
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Fit black nozzle on the standard wand, or for the dual wand, turn the adjustment knob on, and adjust for required flow rate.
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To apply chemicals, engage the trigger on pressure wand assembly. Turn the chemical injector’s nipple to adjust flow.
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Chemicals can now be applied through pressure wand assembly. It will take 5 – 15 seconds for the chemical to travel to the spray nozzle. The volume of chemical being used may be adjusted at the chemical injector.
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For the best results, apply chemicals from bottom to top, and allow for proper penetration time prior to rinsing. Do not allow chemicals to dry. Rinse from bottom to top and then top to bottom.
The following procedure MUST be used when the pressure washing unit is stored at temperatures below freezing.
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All water must be drained or blown (via compressed air) from the system. Connect a short piece of male fitted ½” garden type hose on to the female inlet on the pump.
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Place the open end of the hose into a wide mouthed container of full strength, winter rated, vehicle windshield washing fluid or Antifreeze, RATED FOR MINIMUM -40°C.
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Connect the pressure wand assembly.
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Start the motor and engage the trigger on the pressure gun. Operate the system until the fluid runs the same color as the windshield washing fluid. Your machine is now prepared for storage.
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Disconnect fluid supply, blow out with compressed air, and cap end.
NOTE: Repair of the burner is to be done by authorized and trained burner professionals only.
The oil filter cartridge should be replaced every year to prevent fuel contamination and plugging of the fuel pump and nozzle of oil burner. The nozzle should also be replaced at least once every year or twice if used daily and if poor combustion begins to occur. Ensure the correct fuel nozzle is being used (see machine label). See included burner manual for more information on burner.
Final adjustments to the burner include fuel pressure adjustment for controlling water temperature (tighten fuel pressure adjustment screw slightly to increase desired output temperature) and air band adjustment for combustion efficiency. A combustion test kit should be used for these final adjustments. Check SPECIFICATIONS chart for the burner oil pressure corresponding to your model and be sure not to exceed this pressure. See included burner manual for more information and a parts break down of the burner.
If the burner floods with oil: run the machine with heat on until all excess oil is burned off (this can take up to a couple of hours). If excess oil is not properly dealt with, the ceramic casing can absorb excess oil, causing a fire hazard. DO NOT LEAVE MACHINE UNATTENDED WHILE IT IS FLOODED.
General Maintenance and CareIf the water heater is likely to be exposed to freezing weather then it should be winterized according to the winter pump/coil protection procedure in the previous section. Alternate methods may not completely protect the components. Damage from freezing is not a warrantable claim.
Water ConditionUse a softener on your water system if local water is known to be high in mineral content. The advantages of soft water are very beneficial: prevents scale buildup in heater coil, cleans better with considerably less detergent, and prevents streaking on painted surfaces and glass when rinsing.
Descaling Heater Coil ProcedureNOTE: Descaling of the heater coil is to be done by authorized and trained burner professionals only. The best way to acidize the coil is with a circulation pump capable of handling acids.
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Fill a plastic container with a suitable acid diluted with water to desired strength.
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Connect discharge from the circulating pump to the hot water outlet on the water heater with a suitable hose. Connect the inlet of the circulating pump to the acid container with suction hose from the pump module and use it as a return hose to the acid container. As acid dissolves the scale it becomes neutralized, so about every five minutes add more acid to the container until all the scale has been removed from the coil. Flush out coil thoroughly with water after descaling.
MAINTENANCE CHECK
Maintenance for Pump
DAILY
Check oil for proper level and adjust accordingly.
Examine the quality of the oil.
Check the pump for oil and/or water leaks.
Inspect and clean inlet filters.
WEEKLY
Examine all fittings, components, hoses, connections, and nozzles for damages, loose parts, or leaks. Replace accordingly.
Recommendation for Oil Changes and Component Replacement
Change the oil in the pump after the first 50 hours and every 500 hours after the initial oil change. Use SAE 30 W Non-Detergent for GP Pumps and Hydraulic 68 for PJ Pumps.
Change all other components on the pump as needed.
Maintenance for Gasoline Engine
DAILY
Check oil for proper level and adjust accordingly.
Examine the quality of the oil
Examine the air cleaner element
WEEKLY
- Examine engine components for damages, loose parts, or leaks.
Recommended Schedule for Oil Changes and Component Replacements:
Change engine oil after the first 5 hours and every 100 hours after the initial oil change. Use 10w-30 engine oil.
Replace Spark Plug every 100 hours.
Change the air cleaner element every 100 hours.
Check fuel filters every 300 hours.
Change all other components on the engine as needed.