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DIY Pressure Cleaning: Do’s and Don’ts

If you are going to be using a pressure cleaner for the first time, you need to make sure that you are doing so in the proper manner. The last thing that you want is for things to go wrong and to end up breaking something or getting injured. Down below, we’re going to be looking at some do’s and don’ts for DIY pressure cleaning.

Don’t Underestimate It, Do Prepare Accordingly

One of the things that you should never do is underestimate a pressure cleaner. While you might not think they can be dangerous, even those on the weaker side can still slice through human skin if you aren’t careful. As such, you need to ensure that you are taking the correct precautions and wearing safety goggles, while ensuring your grip on the cleaner is tight. Ensure that the nozzle of the cleaner is always aimed away from any other person, and any pets that may be around. Also, make sure that you get some practice and controlling the washer before you start pointing it at the things that you own to clean them.

We also recommend that you don’t try to use your pressure washer while standing on a ladder or anywhere high up. You may underestimate the power of a pressure washer, with the kickback causing you to fall off and hurt yourself due to lack of balance.

Don’t Use A High PSI For Small Jobs, Do Understand Your Needs

If you’re completing a small, at home job, then there is no need to use a super high PSI. In some cases, you aren’t even going to need a pressure cleaner to complete the job that you are doing, so make sure that it is an appropriate time to be using before you start. The greater the PSI, the greater the power, and you don’t want to be damaging things like your car or the siding of your home simply because you didn’t think about the implications of the PSI you were using.

Don’t Get Too Close To What You Are Cleaning, Do Think Carefully About Safety

You should never have your pressure cleaner less than 1-2 foot away from the thing that you are cleaning. Due to the pressure, in some cases it may well just slice through and cause damage to your items. For example, windows are an excellent example of this. While it is not a common occurrence, pressure cleaners can shatter windows, so you need to be careful about how close you are standing. It’s important to be wearing protective gear though, just in case as you never know what is going to happen.

Now, you should know some of the do’s and don’ts of DIY pressure cleaning. The most important takeaway from this article is that you need to be careful and exercise caution when using a pressure cleaner to avoid yourself or others getting hurt.

Quick Questions

Why is my pressure washer not building pressure?

Check the nozzle first, then inspect the water supply, pump oil and unloader valve. Clogged or worn parts are usually to blame.

Why is the pump leaking water?

Seals or O-rings have probably worn out. Replace them before the leak gets worse and damages the pump internals.

Can I fix it myself?

If it’s basic, yes. You’ll need some tools, patience, and the right parts. For bigger problems or cracked housings, call a pro.

What’s the most common pressure washer pump issue?

Low pressure wins by a mile, often from something simple like a dirty nozzle, restricted water flow or a clogged filter. It’s easy to fix if you know what to look for.

When should I replace the pump?

If the repairs cost as much as a new one, or it has cracks or bad internal damage, replace it. We’ll help you pick the right one.

Why is it pulsing or surging?

It is usually caused by a blocked nozzle, air leaks or worn pump valves. Clean, tighten and inspect the parts before running it again.

Why is my pressure washer not building pressure?

It is most likely a clogged nozzle, air in the system, or a worn-out unloader valve. Start by cleaning the nozzle and checking your water flow. If that doesn’t solve the problem, inspect the pump and unloader.

Why is my pressure washer leaking water from the pump?

Usually, it’s worn seals, cracked pump casing, or loose fittings. Check for visible drips while the unit is off and replace any seals or damaged parts. If it’s leaking from behind the pump, the oil seals might be the culprit.

Can I fix a pressure washer pump myself?

Yes, if it’s a minor issue, like replacing O-rings, unblocking a nozzle, or swapping a valve. But for internal pump problems, like damaged pistons or crankshafts, it’s often cheaper and faster to take the pump to a pro.

How often should I check or change the pump oil?

Check the oil every 20 hours of use or before each big job. Change it every 50–100 hours, depending on the type of pump. Always use pump-specific oil (not motor oil).

When should I replace the pump instead of repairing it?

If the cost of parts and labour is close to the price of a new pump, or if there’s cracking in the pump housing, replacement is the better call. We can assess it for you and give you an honest recommendation.

Why does my pump keep overheating?

It’s likely running dry, has poor ventilation, or is using the wrong type of oil. Before starting the machine, make sure water is always flowing, clean the air vents, and keep the oil fresh and topped up.

Talk to us at Melbourne Jetter Centre