When it comes to repairing my tools, I like to stay cautious about not spending hundreds of dollars on a new tool. If you actually can repair a thing yourself just for a fraction of the cost then why spend more!!
The same rule applies to your pressure washer hose.
Since the pressure washer speeds-up, the cleaning process and the hose discharges or expels water at high-pressures. These pressures could be as high as 4000 PSI when commercial models are being used.
Henceforth, wear and tear are inevitable.
Do not confuse a pressure washer hose repair with a normal garden hose. Both of these hose types are supposed to be fixed in different ways when damaged. Just a simple repair patch on a pressure washer hose won’t work out and will force the patch loose and you may get soaked in water as the water hits with pressure.
Not only this the cleaning chore you were up to will also get ruined. So, fixing it in an appropriate manner is the call.
In a pressure washer hose, there are layers of wire mesh with plastic that are responsible for the even distribution of water throughout the hose. Do remember that every layer is supposed to be shaped and repaired in a perfect way.
If the hose repair process is done properly by you then there will be no need for buying a new hose for a longer time. If your pressure washer hose is completely kaput or has got a noticeable leak, still the good thing is that you can repair it.
Note:
- Just a bit of elbow grease with apt know-how will help you fix a pressure washer hose.
- One thing to remember here is that if your power washer hose has developed even a slight damage, then the repair should not be ignored.
Prior to a successful repair job of a hose, you will require certain supplies and tools. Before you head towards buying a hose repair kit just ensure that the following items sit in your toolbox:
Note: Normal safety glasses won’t be of use.
If you do not have the above items then do get a hose repair kit.
Inspect the hose carefully before you repair it.
Also, ensure that the machine is kept off and stays unplugged before you start working on the hose repairs.
Now start this way….
Some security precautions should be taken while you are repairing your pressure washer hose.
Not only the leaks, but there could be some more issues that could lead to pressure washer hose damage. Let us take a quick look at them one-by-one.
Inlet Seal
The inlet seal completely seals the intake outlet of a pressure washer. Ensure that this is screwed tightly in the inlet coupling.
This seal may wear or damage with time and use and even the coupling on the inlet can be damaged. Your pressure washer hose seal will need to be replaced and if you change the couplings they will automatically be replaced.
Piston Seals
There may be a chance that your pump’s inlet seal is broken and the hose is not the real culprit. As the required pressure is created by the pistons to pull the water from the source. Replacing these seals is a must to do.
Outlet Seal
Just check the outlet seal too, and if it is broken then the water will certainly leak from the main connection near to the pump.
Replacing the whole coupling is a great idea if it is cracked or broken completely. But if the outlet seal is intact then you should consider replacing the O-ring.
Thermal Release Valve
It is the function of the thermal release valve to keep the machine pump at a safe temperature range. If this balance is not proper then the machine may start overheating.
If this valve becomes compromised or weak then the result may be water leaks and thereby the machine losing pressure. Though, not a very expensive component you can surely replace this if it is beyond repair.
Lastly,
DIY method of repairing is probably the best you can do. But if repairs are huge and occurring again and again then replacing and getting a new one is a welcome idea rather than just fixing it.
Do follow the manufacturer’s instructions before you handle any repairs by yourself as most of the tools will come with a guide to give you a clearer picture.
Just relax, take your own time and you could save a lot of dollars by repairing things in the beginning only.
Stay safe, and use safety gear with safety precautions too!!