Greenworks Pressure Washer Troubleshooting: Common Problems and Solutions

Greenworks is one of the more popular pressure washer brands. They are known to build reliable electric pressure washers. But like all machines, they require proper maintenance to work efficiently.

Poor maintenance or wear and tear may lead to various problems over time. To solve these problems, troubleshooting the machine and finding the root of the problem is the first step.

Greenworks Pressure Washer Troubleshooting:

To troubleshoot your Greenworks pressure washer, the first step is to identify the type of problem. Is the pressure washer not producing the correct pressure? Is the output pulsing high and low? Is there a motor or pump problem? Or is the pressure washer pump or another part of the machine leaking? Knowing the type of problem, you can use our diagnose table to find the cause and solution.

This article will provide you a complete guide to troubleshoot your Greenworks pressure washer. It will give you information about the reasons that cause the electric pressure washer not to work correctly and provide solutions to these problems.

PROBLEM	POSSIBLE CAUSE	SOLUTION
Motor will not start.	On/Off switch is in the “OFF” position.	Turn switch to the “ON”
	Power cord is not plugged in.	Plug in power cord.
	Electrical outlet does not sup- ply adequate power.	Try a different outlet.
	Tripped pressure washer temperature breaker	Allow to cool, and restart unit.
	Tripped circuit breaker	Switch off pressure washer, squeeze trigger gun waiting for a steady flow of water emerge from spray nozzle, then turn on the unit. ( ensure when you turn on the unit, trigger gun is at “on” position).
	Tripped CFCI plug	Press “RESET” button on GFCL plug.
Unit does not reach high pressure.	Diameter of garden hose is too small.	Replace with a 1” (25 mm) or 5/8” (16 mm) garden hose.
	Water supply is restricted.	Check garden hose for kinks, leaks and blockage.
	Not enough water supply.	Open water source fully.
	Water inlet filter is clogged.	Remove filter and rinse in warm water.
	Power nozzle is in low- pressure position.	Turn power nozzle to high- pressure position.
	Pump is sucking air.	Check that hoses and fittings are airtight. Turn “OFF” machine, and purge pump by squeezing trigger gun until a steady flow of water emerges through the nozzle.
Output pressure varies high and low.	Not enough inlet water supply.	Turn water on fully. Check garden hose for kinks, leaks or blockage
	Pump is sucking air.	Check that hoses and fittings are airtight. Turn “OFF” machine, and purge pump by squeezing trigger gun until a steady flow of water emerges through the nozzle.
	Water inlet filter is clogged.	Remove filter and rinse with warm water.
Unit does not reach high pressure.	Diameter of garden hose is too small.	Add more detergent.
	Detergent bottle or suction tube not properly connected.	Check connections.
	Detergent is too thick.	Dilute detergent.
	Filter on detergent suction tube is clogged.	Run warm water through filter to remove build-up.
	Damaged or clogged deter- gent suction tube.	Remove obstruction or replace detergent suction tube.
	Nozzle is in high-pressure position.	Turn nozzle tip to low-pressure position.
	Discharge nozzle is obstructed.	Blow out or remove debris with a fine needle.
Garden hose connection leaks.	Loose fittings.	Tighten fittings.
	Missing/worn rubber washer.	Insert new washer.
Spray wand, extension, or nozzle leaks.	Broken o-ring or plastic insert.	Call the Toll-Free Customer Help Line.
Pump is noisy	Pump is sucking air	Check that hoses and fittings are airtight. Turn off machine and purge pump by squeezing trigger gun until a steady flow of water emerges through the nozzle.
	Water filter is clogged.	Remove water filter and rinse in warm water.
Water leaks from pump (up to 10 drops per minute is permissible).	Loose fittings.	Check that all fittings are tight.
	Water seals are damaged or worn.	Call the Toll-Free Customer Help Line.
Oil is dripping	Oil seals are damaged or worn.
Motor buzzes but fails to run.	Supply voltage below mini- mum.	Verify that only the pressure washer is running on this circuit.
	System has residual pres- sure.	Turn unit “OFF”, squeeze trigger on spray wand to release pressure, then turn unit “ON”.
	Voltage loss due to extension cord.	Unplug any extension cords attached and plug the unit directly into the outlet.
	Pressure washer not used for long periods.	Call the Toll-Free Customer Help Line.
	Residual friction among components. Unit might hum.	Disconnect water supply and power ON for 2 to 3 seconds, repeat couple times or until the motor starts.
	Tripped circuit breaker	Switch off pressure washer, squeeze trigger gun waiting for a steady flow of water emerge from spray nozzle, then turn on the unit. ( ensure when you turn on the unit , trigger gun is at “on” position).
No Water	Quick connect assembly is attached in reverse.	Verify that Inlet adapter is attached to machine’s water inlet and that the quick connect coupler is attached to garden hose.
	Water supply is OFF.	Turn ON water supply.
	Kink in the garden hose.	Remove kink in garden hose.

Why Does My Greenworks Pressure Washer Keep Shutting Off?

An Greenworks pressure washer is constantly closing because of a malfunction in the valve for unloading. The unloader valve isn’t working properly and does not divert water to the inlet, which raises pressure inside the pump and the pump shuts down.

The valve for unloading diverts the water flow to the inlet. If the valve is not enough water supply unable to accomplish this and pressure is built up inside the pressure washer’s electric. The motor is in a great deal of stress and requires lots of power to drive the pump until it eventually will shut off.

To resolve this issue take a close look at the springs of the valve as well as other components. Reset the valve or replace the damaged components of the valve, or the whole valve, if totally damaged. This is a step-by-step procedure to follow in the event that you’re experiencing problems with your Greenworks pressure washer is constantly stopping:

Step 1: Check the unloader valve

The easiest way to check the unloader valve is by adjusting the spring of the unloader valve. Mark the setting before changing it. That way, you can easily set it back after changing it. When you move the spring, you should see the output pressure of the pressure washer change. You should be able to lower it and set it higher. If this is the case, the unloader valve is working fine. Ensure that you set it to the correct level.

Step 2: Unplug the pressure washer

For security reasons, take out the power cord from the wall socket.

Step 3: Remove the top and take off the nob

Take off the nut on at the base of the valve and remove the knob for adjusting pressure. Remove the washer as well as the spring. There will be a threaded rod and piston and two locks, if you’ve successfully removed the two locking nuts.

Step 4: Lock the nuts, clip the pressure gauge and start tightening the spring

The two nuts appear on the rod with the wrench. Place the spring washer as well as the the black adjusting knob on. If you own an instrument for measuring pressure, connect it to the pump as well as the pressure hose. It is possible to monitor the pressure output when you trigger. If you don’t have an instrument to measure pressure it is necessary to perform this via sight. Make sure to spray similar distances to the same location to make comparisons of the various settings more easily.

Switch on the water and push the trigger. Make sure that all air from the pump has been removed and only water comes out from the nozzle.

The trigger is now pressed. Check the pressure gauge. Begin to tighten the spring. The pressure should rise. Release the trigger. It will be apparent that the pressure increases. The aim is to find the level at which the pressure spikes are between five to 10 percent. This is where you must stop turning the knob. It is not recommended to experience more than 10 percent of an increase when you let the trigger go. If the spike is greater than this, it may harm the pump over the course of time.

For instance, if you set the pressure at 3000 PSI. The pressure spike should not exceed 3240 PSI after you pull the trigger.

Step 5: Adjust the knob until you find the spot where pressure is maximal and the spike is minimal

Continue to run the machine and adjust the knob. If the nuts aren’t high enough they can be moved up. You should find the point that has the pressure at its highest, and the spike should be as small as you can. As mentioned previously the spike shouldn’t exceed 10 percent. If it is feasible it should be lower in the event that you let the trigger go. When you have found the area that you are looking for, remove the adjuster knob washer, spring, and adjusting knob then tighten them using wrenches.

Turn the spring until you lower it down on 2 nuts. Verify the pressure, and then the spike. Assume that the spike and pressure are both fine. Attach the nut to the top of the rod, and then pop the cap over the adjuster knob.

Why is My Electric Pressure Washer Not Working?

The main reasons behind the electric pressure washer to fail working properly is a damaged cord, a burnt capacitor, or blowing fuse. They could stop the machine from working in any way. The unloader and pump valve could be in trouble. This could result in a hot motor or an unbalanced output pressure.

Broken Cord or Damaged Plug:

If the electric pressure washer isn’t functioning, the first thing to determine is whether the power outlet is functioning. I have found that in most cases, the issue originates from either the outlet or the cable. Utilize a flashlight or an gadget to see whether power is present. The possibility is that because of some moisture the circuit breaker for earth leakage only the pressure washer is tripped. However, if the fuse gone out, it may be a bigger issue.

It is recommended that you also checked the cable when you are troubleshooting an electric pressure washer. If you observe that when you shift the power cord upwards or down it occasionally appears to be working. This is an obvious sign that the power cable is damaged. Remove the pressure washer from the water and then replace the power cord and plug.

Burned Capacitor:

A pressure washer that is electric may be unable to start when the capacitor in the motor has been burned. For a closer look at the capacitor, pull off the case that covers the motor by using the screwdriver. A bulging or blackening capacitor indicates damage. It is time to replace it. In some motors it is possible to replace them with a separate replacement. Other motors you will need to replace the entire motor.

Blown Fuse:

A fuse that is blown inside an electric or pressure washing or cleaner will not allow the machine to operate in any way. In the event that, for any reason the pressure washer is using greater power than it normally uses, the fuse could be blown. If you are replacing the fuse, or setting it back for electronic versions It is crucial to know what caused the malfunction. Fuses do not blow for no reason. Take care when you turn on the pressure washer following changing the fuse.

If you’re using an extension cord with a low gauge, the fuse could be blown. The best option is to choose 12 gauge wire when the cord’s length is greater that 25 feet. Extension cords of smaller gauges won’t supply enough force for the pressure washer and cause a fire. This means that the pressure washer won’t begin.

If your primary supply voltage is too low, the pressure washer’s motor is likely to draw greater current and then create a spark. Check the fuse in the pressure washer using the aid of a multimeter. Remove the fuse and then place the probes from the multimeter on the end of the fuse. A good fuse will have the resistance reading to be close to the same as. If your multimeter displays the resistance is high, this indicates that the fuse is damaged and must be replaced.

Damaged Unloader Valve

If your pressure washer’s electric motor doesn’t produce pressure, it could be due to a malfunction with the valve that unloads. The valve that unloads water flowing through the pressure washer into a loop that returns towards the pump if the trigger isn’t pressed.

If the valve that unloads is damaged and the pressure washer is not working properly, it will produce less pressure or not even in certain situations. In order to fix the issue examine the springs as well as seals on the valve, and repair the valve if damaged, or attempt to adjust the screw that unloads.

To follow a step-by-step procedure, read the article on the valve for unloading on the previous blog.

Clogged Hose or Inlet Filter

This issue is often because of a lack of water supply. For a solution make sure that the faucet is completely open. Check the hose for kinks or obstructions. The hose that connects with the washer needs to be of sufficient size to allow the required GPM. Inspect the water filter, and clean out any obstructions or deposits of mineral.

Faulty Pump

The electric pressure washers can produce an ebb and flow. The pressure is constantly fluctuating between low and high. The issue could lie with water inlet filter the valve that unloads. If you’ve examined it, and it’s fine. It could also be an issue due to a malfunctioning manifold, water inlet filter or valve, which causes an increase in pressure. For this issue to be resolved remove the washer from the pump and scrub its components.

It has also been observed trapped air may cause strange behaviour. It is possible to release the air within the pump simply by pulling on the trigger. Then allow the pump to run until the air is removed. If you are still having trouble then you might need to change the pump, or consult a technician for assistance.

Water Leaking From the Pump

The water can get leaking if the pump casing hasn’t been seals properly. This could be because of the inactivation of the thermo valve. For a better seal in the casing To begin, ensure that seals aren’t cracked or damaged. If that’s not the casing then tighten the bolts that are on the pump. If this doesn’t work then replace the seals, or even the entire pump.

It is possible that the leak is caused by the activation of the valve that regulates temperature. Switch off your pressure washer, and allow it to cool for a few minutes. After that, try it another time. If the issue is occurring often, you should discover the cause of why your pump is heating up.

How to Fix A Greenworks Electric Pressure Washer That Isn’t Starting

These are the steps you can take to identify and repair the issue with your Greenworks electronic pressure washer, which won’t work:

Step 1: Check the cord and AC outlet

Examine the outlet for damage and be sure all connections are in good order. Verify that the outlet is functioning with another appliance such as the lamp. If it’s not operating, test the circuit breaker for leakage to earth. The presence of moisture can trigger a tripping. If you’re using a cord that has an unsatisfactory power rating then replace it with one with a larger quality. It is recommended to choose 12 gauge extension cords if the length exceeds 25 feet.

If you’re using an extension cord, be sure that it’s not being turned off. Make sure to unwind the extension cord completely because they could get very hot.

Step 2: Check the fuse and replace it

Take the fuse out of the pressure washer. Check whether it’s blowing. It is possible to use an instrument like a multimeter. Set the probes of the multimeter in each corner of the fuse, and then check the resistance readings using the multimeter. A good fuse will have no resistance. If you see a higher rating, this means that the fuse is damaged and requires replacement. If the model you have is an electronic fuse then reset the fuse.

Step 3: Replace the capacitor

Take off the cover that protects the motor. Check the capacitor. The capacitor that is black indicates it’s been damaged. Remove the legs of the capacitor that burned from the wires connected to the motor, and then install an alternative capacitor. On certain models, you cannot swap the capacitor separately. In this scenario, you must take the entire engine apart and replace it.

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