Read the manual thoroughly and understand all of the instructions, cautions, and warnings before using this equipment. If any section of the manual is not understood, contact your nearest authorized dealer, or contact Generac Customer Service at 1-888-436-3722 (1-888-GENERAC), or www.generac.com with any questions or concerns. 

Why won't my pressure washer start or stay running?

If a pressure washer will not start or stay running, follow a troubleshooting approach similar to that used for portable generator engines. This article offers common causes and basic troubleshooting steps, with links to more in-depth engine troubleshooting resources.

Issue

• The pressure washer engine will not power on.
• The pressure washer engine starts but does not stay running.

Environment

This article applies to all Generac gas-powered pressure washers.

Refer to your owner's manual

It is strongly recommended that owners consult their pressure washer's owner's manual for exact operational steps, maintenance requirements, and procedures specific to their model. For more information, see the How Do I Find the Spec Sheet and User Manual for My Pressure Washer on Generac.com? article.

Causes

A pressure washer may not start for the following reasons:

• Incorrect or out-of-order operational procedure
• Old, stale, or dirty fuel
• Lack of maintenance
• Contaminated air filter — if a pressure washer is tipped during shipping, oil can contaminate the air filter. If contamination is suspected, remove and inspect the air filter. Replace if needed.

Troubleshooting

If a pressure washer will not start or stay running, follow these troubleshooting steps:

1. Review the starting procedure.
   • Refer to the owner's manual for detailed instructions. See How Do I Find the Spec Sheet and User Manual for My Pressure Washer on Generac.com?
2. Check the fuel supply. Ensure the tank contains fresh, clean gasoline and that the fuel valve is ON.
   • If the gas is old, drain it and refill with fresh fuel. See How Do I Drain the Remaining Fuel from My Pressure Washer?
3. Inspect the spark plug for signs of wear or damage.
4. Verify that the air filter is clean and unobstructed.
5. Ensure oil levels are adequate.
6. Check the carburetor for clogs or residue and clean as needed.

By addressing these common issues step-by-step, most pressure washer starting problems can be resolved. For detailed guidance troubleshooting small engines, see the Portable generator troubleshooting guide.