Do you own or operate a custom pressure washer for work or personal use? If so, you have probably heard of a pressure washer unloader valve. The valve is important to both the safety of the machine and the quality of the work you can do.
It is important to take care of this valve or serious safety issues or damage to your pressure washer can arise. Read on to learn more about what a pressure washer unloader valve does, types of unloader valves, and how to care for them.
What is a Pressure Washer Unloader Valve
A pressure washer unloader valve is the attachment on your pressure washer that controls both the direction of the water flow and the volume of your spray. You should be able to adjust the valve on your washer to fit the project you are doing. The ability to control the pressure of the water is vital to pressure washing.
If you are power washing a trailer with a soft top, you will need to use less pressure than when washing metal or concrete surfaces. Otherwise, you will break or damage the surface you are cleaning. On the contrary, if you do not use enough pressure, you will not be able to get the surface clean.
The valve is also an important safety feature on your pressure washer. The valve allows the water to be cycled back through the machine without building too much pressure. If the valve becomes damaged and you leave the machine running, the pressure would build up in the machine and damage your pressure washer.
Types of Pressure Washer Unloader Valves
There are several common types of pressure washer valves. Two of the more common types are a trapped pressure unloader valve and a flow actuated unloader valve. The trapped pressure unloader valve works by giving water access to the back of the pistons. When you release the trigger, the pressure increases and pushes the spring open. This allows water to pass into the bypass.
A flow actuated unloader valve works by detecting an interruption of water to the nozzle. When the water flow decreases the valves initiate a bypass loop. Even though the valves are different, they both provide safety and pressure control to your pressure washer.
Caring for Your Pressure Washer Unloader Valve
If you believe your unloader valve is starting to fail, you might want to try cleaning it first. Cleaning the valve is simple. First, you need to use a screwdriver to lift the retaining pin on your pressure washer and remove the valve.
Once the valve has been released, try to move the pin at the top. If it is not easy to move, it is probably dirty and the likely cause of your problems. You will want to clean it out very thoroughly.
There is also a small port on the side of the loader valve that can get caked with dirt or other debris. You will want to clean this as well. To do this, you will need a small pick to remove the grime from the inside.
When you are done cleaning the valve, put a little bit of grease on the rings of the valve and slide it back into the pressure washer. Tap it lightly to make sure it is secured. Once you have secured the valve, your pressure washer is ready for use.
Signs You Need to Replace Your Pressure Washer Unloader Valve
If your pressure washer has not been working up to full speed, it is not always easy to tell what is wrong with it. If there is a lot of pressure at the nozzle of your washer, it is usually a sign that the valve is failing.
If the engine stalls when you try to start the machine, the valve might be damaged too. If you are not sure exactly what is wrong with your pressure washer, it is best to take it to a store that specifically deals with pressure washers and similar equipment. These stores have trained professionals who can tell you exactly what is wrong with your machine.
Once you are sure what is wrong, it is possible to change parts on your own. However, if you do not have experience doing so, it is best to leave it to the experts. It is always tempting to do it yourself, but if you make a mistake changing the valve, it can cause more problems in the long run.
Once you find the right company, ask for a quote. They should be able to tell you what is wrong with your pressure washer, how long it will take to fix it, and exactly how much it will cost. This is especially important if you are a commercial pressure washer.
Commercial pressure washers need a company that understands how much of an impact damaged equipment has on their business. Often times a company that services commercial pressure washers also sells power washing chemicals, including soft wash roof cleaning chemicals, industrial cleaning supplies, and other things you will need for your power washing business.
In addition to basis repairs, these companies give advice on everything you you need to know about power washing, including tips on how to best use your downstream injector and which chemicals to mix with it. They can even help you get setup for difficult jobs like power washing a trailer with a soft top.
Benefits of TChem Industrial Services
Now that you have learned a little bit more about your pressure washer unloader valve and caring for your machine, it is time to check out all of the benefits that TChem Industrial Services has to offer. They have a large inventory in their store, so you do not have to waste time waiting for parts to arrive.
If you are local, you can bring your pressure washer directly to their store. They can advise you on which pressure washer unloader valve is right for you or whether it is time for an upgrade.
TChem Industrial Services is not just a parts store – they also offer advice on growing and caring for your business. You will not be disappointed with their knowledge or service.
