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Hey everyone! It's another day of pressure washing, and today we've got an interesting issue to tackle. Matt's pump is pulsating while idle, so we're heading over to take a closer look. If you've ever faced this problem, stay tuned—we've got some simple solutions to share. Plus, don’t forget to check out SESW's Softwash 101 class for more in-depth training!
Identifying the Problem
Matt reported that his pump was pulsating even when idle. We’ve already checked the water filter, and it's clear. There are no visible leaks, which means the problem likely lies in the check valves.
Troubleshooting the Pump
Step 1: Inspect the Check Valves
We began by removing the check valves using a 30mm socket. Debris can often clog these valves, causing pulsation. Here’s how we inspected them:
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Remove the Check Valves: Use a breaker bar to loosen the valves and an impact wrench to take them off.
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Inspect for Debris: Look for any visible debris or damage. Blow through each valve to check for resistance—if there’s resistance, the valve is good.
Step 2: Check the O-Rings
The culprit in this case was bad O-rings. Surprisingly, all three check valves had missing O-rings.
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Replace the O-Rings: We replaced the missing O-rings with new ones from a spare kit.
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Reinstall the Valves: Make sure to clean any remnants from the pump head before reinstalling the valves. Press each valve in until it seats securely.
Reassembling and Testing
After replacing the O-rings, we reassembled the pump:
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Hand-Tighten the Valves: Avoid using an impact wrench for final tightening to prevent stripping the brass fittings.
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Test the Pump: We cranked the pump and, voila, no more pulsation! The hoses were stable, and the pump ran smoothly.
Conclusion
Fixing a pulsating pump can be straightforward with the right tools and knowledge. Always check the filter and inspect the check valves and O-rings. Having spare parts on hand can save you time and keep your equipment running efficiently.
Call to Action
If you found this guide helpful, leave a comment below and hit that subscribe button. For more detailed training, consider enrolling in SESW’s Softwash 101 class. Stay informed, stay efficient, and have a great day!
