A pressure washer that won’t pump water can bring any cleaning job to a sudden stop. If your Makita pressure washer is running but not delivering water, there are several possible reasons behind it. Fortunately, most of these issues are easy to troubleshoot and fix at home.
Why Your Makita Pressure Washer Might Not Pump Water
- The water supply is too low or the hose is kinked.
- Air is trapped inside the pump.
- The inlet filter is clogged with dirt or debris.
- Nozzle or spray gun is blocked.
- Pump seals or internal parts are worn out.
Check the Water Supply.
Your pressure washer needs a steady water flow to operate. If the water pressure from your tap is too weak, the pump won’t function correctly.
- Connect your hose to the water source, and then turn it on fully.
- Make sure the hose is not kinked, and then ensure it meets the required flow rate in the Makita manual.
Remove Air from the Pump.
Air pockets inside the pump can prevent water from moving through. Bleeding the system helps restore normal operation.
- Disconnect the spray gun, and then let the water run through the pump for about a minute.
- Reconnect the spray gun, and then test if the water starts pumping normally.
Clean the Inlet Filter.
The inlet filter keeps debris from entering the pump. When it gets clogged, the pump struggles to pull water.
- Turn off the pressure washer, and then disconnect the hose from the inlet.
- Remove the inlet filter, and then rinse it under running water to clear out any dirt.
Inspect the Nozzle and Spray Gun.
A blocked nozzle or spray gun restricts water flow and makes it look like the pump has failed.
- Detach the nozzle from the spray gun, and then check for dirt or mineral buildup.
- Use a nozzle cleaning tool or a thin piece of wire, and then flush it with clean water before reattaching.
Check Pump Seals and Components.
If none of the above works, the problem may lie inside the pump itself. Worn seals or damaged components can block water flow.
- Inspect the pump housing for visible leaks, and then listen for unusual sounds while the motor runs.
- If you suspect internal damage, and then contact a Makita service center for repair or replacement parts.
A Makita pressure washer that won’t pump water can often be fixed by addressing simple issues like airlocks, clogged filters, or blocked nozzles. If the problem is internal, professional servicing may be the best option to get your washer working again.
FAQs
Why is my Makita pressure washer running but not spraying water?
This usually happens when there is air trapped in the pump, the nozzle is clogged, or the water supply is too weak.
Can I run my Makita pressure washer without water to test it?
No. Running a pressure washer without water can damage the pump seals and other internal parts. Always make sure water is flowing before turning it on.
How often should I clean the inlet filter on my Makita pressure washer?
It’s best to check and clean the filter before every use, especially if you’re connecting it to an outdoor tap that might carry dirt or debris.
