How to solve the most common minor issues with high-pressure cleaners

How to use a high-pressure cleaner correctly

When using a high-pressure cleaner for the first time, it is essential to read the instruction manual carefully. Lavor provides a digital copy of the manual for each product on its website, allowing you to familiarize yourself with the various operating indicator lights and actions to avoid, ensuring the equipment operates correctly. The instruction manual is an excellent resource for understanding how to use a high-pressure cleaner effectively and minimizing wasted time during startup.

Carrying out routine maintenance of your high-pressure cleaner

Whether you use your high-pressure cleaner frequently, seasonally, or sporadically, it's essential to perform routine and specific maintenance. This approach helps to ensure that any issues indicated by the operating lights or visible damage are managed effectively. 

 Each time you use the pressure cleaner, inspect the hose, pistol, filter, lances, and cables to confirm they are undamaged and free from leaks. 

For frequent use, conduct monthly maintenance. This includes cleaning the filters with detergent and limescale remover, checking the accessories you use most often, and monitoring the oil level in the motor for models equipped with petrol engines.

In addition to a monthly inspection, a LAVOR technician should be called in every 3 months or 200 hours of use, to check the hydraulic circuit, oil level, pump fastening and condition of filters and nozzles.

Every 6 months or 500 hours of use, however, a LAVOR technician should be consulted for the following:

• Monitoring of suction and delivery valve operation;

• Examination of the condition of the control valve;

• Replacement of pump oil, filters and nozzles.

What are the most common issues, and how to solve them?

Despite careful monitoring and routine maintenance, malfunctions or issues may occasionally arise that can often be resolved without requiring specialised outside support. Below are some of the most common problems that may occur with hydro-pressure cleaners:

1. **The pressure washer does not start**: In most cases, this issue can be traced back to either the plug or the electrical outlet it is connected to.

2. **Excessive noise from the high-pressure cleaner**: This problem can be caused by several factors, including a clogged water inlet filter, an obstruction in the ventilation circuit that restricts airflow, or inadequate water supply due to the internal tap not being fully opened or shut off. It is essential to check all three scenarios and perform routine maintenance as needed.

3. **The high-pressure cleaner shuts down unexpectedly**: This may indicate a motor fault. Please follow the intervention instructions provided in the instruction manual.

4. **The motor produces an unusual buzzing sound**: This issue might be related to the use of an extension cord or an unsuitable power socket. Consulting the instruction manual is recommended.

5. **Water in the high-pressure cleaner is not hot** (for models with this feature): First, ensure that the filter has been cleaned properly. If the problem persists, check the boiler safety thermostat after the pressure washer has cooled down.

6. **Insufficient detergent drawn into the high-pressure cleaner** (for models with a detergent tank): Ensure that the knob is fully open and that the nozzle head is properly positioned. Clean any blockages from the filter and avoid using detergents that are too thick.

7. **No water is coming from the high-pressure cleaner nozzle**: Check that the tap is fully open and that there are no obstructions in the water flow. Inspect the nozzle and, if it is clogged or damaged, clean or replace it. Often, impurities in the inlet water can clog the water inlet filter, preventing proper water flow to the pump.

8. **Low water jet pressure**: In this case, consider the following:

- Ensure the pressure regulator is not set too low.

- Check that the nozzle is positioned correctly to facilitate water flow.

- Inspect the nozzle for clogs or damage, and clean or replace it if necessary.

- Confirm that the tap is fully open and that the water flow rate meets the specifications outlined in the manual.

By performing routine maintenance and following the instructions in the manual, your high-pressure cleaner can consistently operate efficiently, making it a reliable aid in your cleaning efforts—even for the toughest jobs.