FAQS

In short, yes. There are ways to mitigate the issues that arise. Leaving the machine running without a constant flow of water into and out of the machine can lead to problems with overheating. Overheating can damage the internal components and/or warp the construction of the pump leading to decreased pressure and flow or leaking. The use of a Thermal Relief Valve an help extend the period of time that it can sit by released hot water to let cold water flush into the pump.

It is best to store your pressure washer in a dry, protected area. It's recommended to run the engine until it stops. This ensures any fuel left in the carburetor is burned up. Clean the machine and flush water through any parts used with chemical detergents to remove any residue. Disconnect the hose, gun, and wand from the machine. Leaving it on can make it a massive hassle to remove later! Be sure to store it in it's upright or operational orientation. This will prevent oil from leaking out unnecessarily. Finally, it is recommended to use a thermal protectant, such as Pump Saver, to prevent damage from weather changes.

PSI (pounds per square inch) is the unit of measurement for the pressure exerted over one square inch of surface area. The PSI rating of your machine indicates how much pressure the water is being forced out of the nozzle.

GPM (gallons per minute) is the measurement of water volume flowing through your pump every minute of operation.

As a general rule, you'll want to use an Industrial Pump Oil or 30W Non-Detergent oil. This isn't always the case, as some pumps will specify on the label what type of oil should be used. Some brands formulate oil specific to their pumps. If you are unsure, give us a call at (888) 279-9274 or reach out to support@apw-inc.com with the model of your pump and we will find that information for you.

Unforunately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this, as every pump is different and not by a small amount. There are some pumps that require as little as 2oz of oil and some that exceed 20oz. The best option if you don't know for sure is to give us a call at (888) 279-9274 or reach out to support@apw-inc.com with the model of your pump and we will find that information for you.

It's not advised. Gas, especially that with ethanol, can "gum-up" in internals of a fuel pump or carburetor if left sitting for too long. As well, without some type of fuel stabilizer, the fuel will deteriorate over time and gasoline in particular contains a small amount of water that can separate and cause rust and corosion when left undisturbed.

It's always best to follow the recommendation of your owner's manual, but as a general rule, gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher is best. Additionally, while it is not required, it is highly recommended to use "clear" gasoline. That is, gasoline that does not contain ethanol.

You will find your pressure washer model number on the cart or the frame of the unit. Not on the engine, not on the pump, but rather on the assembly that everything else sits on. It is often on a sticker or metal plate roughly the size of a credit card to a postcard. On occasion, it may be on the billboard, but that is less common. Some Craftsman units will put the sticker on the bottom of the front frame, between the front feet.

Your pressure washer model number is typically found on the cart or the frame of the unit. The most obvious information is the engine, usually looking like GC190, GX200, or GV180. This is the engine model. The pressure washer model number will be on the assembly that everything else sits on. On occasion, some Craftsman model numbers will be between the front feet, facing the ground. If you're having trouble, call our technicians and we can help you locate or identify the model.

Having the model number of the pressure washer, pump, or engine is the first step to finding the associated parts. While there is a very large degree of certainty associated with this information, there are instances where the manufacturer has changed a detail on the machine without always documenting it on breakdowns and parts lists before shipping the machine for retail sale. If there's any doubt or uncertainty, contact the manufacturer of your machine with your serial number and model number for the most precise information.

Check out this basic troubleshooting guide! If it's more in-depth than what's provided, checking with a small engine repair shop may be best. Our technicians can help guide over the phone, but there are many reasons why a particular symptom may be presenting and diagnosing remotely is not something we can do, but we can direct you on things to look into.