
If the operator leaves the pressure washer running for an extended period of time without activating the trigger, a thermal release valve will open and discharge the heated water so cooler water can enter the pump. Over time, the water circulating inside the pump gets hot. Why is my pressure washer releasing hot water when not in use? This feature allows the engine to run while the pressure washer is not in use. The unloader will then detect the increase in pressure and a spring-loaded valve will open a passage in the pump so the water can circulate back to the inlet pipe. When the trigger is released, the high-pressure water stream should stop. When the spray gun trigger is depressed, the pressurized water will exit through the trigger handle assembly itself or through a separate spray wand and nozzle. The water then flows through an unloader and output pipe on the pump, and, finally, through a hose to the spray gun.

As the plunger or piston travels downward, the water is forced through an output check valve.

As each plunger or piston travels upward, it draws water from an attached garden hose through an input check valve.

Although these two pumps look different, both use three plungers or pistons that operate in a similar manner to a piston in an engine. The pump may be an axial pump or a tri-plex pump. For electric pressure washers, the power source is an electric motor whereas the power source on most gas-powered washers will be a 4-cycle engine. Pressure washers use this principle to create a high-pressure stream of water that can be controlled by the operator.Ī pressure washer consists of two main components: a power source and a water pump. When pressure is applied to it, the water will push out in every direction equally.
