Lavorwash PWR4000 Mode D'emploi page 12

Pressure Washer Troubleshooting Continued
Failure of the pressure washer to operate properly is often blamed on
a pump failure. Actually only about 10 percent of pressure washer
problems are caused by pump failure.
Cavitation
If the water pressure falls below a certain point (called vapor pressure)
the water will begin to boil even though the temperatures are below
normal boiling point. Tiny bubbles of vapor will then form in the boiling
water. If the vapor bubbles are carried away to a higher pressure area
in the system the vapor will condense again and leave a cavity in the
midst of the flow. The surrounding water will then rush in to fill these
cavities. Extremely high local pressures are then created (up to
100,000 PSI). Such high pressures may result in erosion, turbulence,
noise, vibration, and excess wear and tear on the pump.
The pump inlet, where the pistons pull the water in, are very suscep-
tible to cavitation problems. Anything that obstructs the flow of water
into the pump can result in cavitation such as:
♦
A clogged water inlet filter
♦
Inlet piping or hoses that are too small
♦
Excessive numbers of restrictions in the water inlet (such as too
many valves, or too many bends).
♦
Excessive turbulence or heat
To prevent cavitation, pump inlets must be carefully maintained to avoid
restrictions to flow.
Some Pressure Washer Problems
Some of the problems that might occur in a pressure washer system
are as follows:
♦
Failure of the unit to produce pressure
♦
Erratic pressure
♦
Chattering
♦
Reduction in pressure
♦
Low water volume
If a Problem Occurs - Some Preliminary Checks
When a problem arises don't remove the pump immediately and start
replacing parts. First check the following possible causes of the
problem:
♦
Make sure the water supply is turned on and the water supply is
adequate
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Pressure Washer Operation Manual