Clogging, also known as jamming, is when foreign objects or particles get stuck inside the nozzle. It usually causes the water flow rate to reduce. It may also keep the nozzle from passing out water completely. Clogged nozzles can also cause changes in water pressure. For example, when the jam reduces the size of the nozzle, it simultaneously increases the water velocity. This increases the pressure. However, it can also cause exactly opposite results. For instance, when the nozzle gets jammed, it causes the motor to run extra hard. This causes the water pressure to reduce. According to expert recommendations, the best way to avoid clogged nozzles and their resulting challenges are to learn about their causes.

Causes of jammed nozzles

Below are some of the primary causes of clogged nozzles;

1. Debris

This is perhaps one of the primary culprits for clogged nozzles. When debris gets into the nozzles, it can cause jamming over time. If the debris is not cleaned up, it may build up to cause a significant obstruction. This mainly happens when the tiny particles get clammed together by water or detergent. It is worth mentioning that the debris usually gets into the pressure washer when tiny particles penetrate the water filters. Additionally, improper storage can cause debris to get into the nozzles.

2. Caking

Sometimes referred to as bearding, this is another common problem associated with clogged nozzles. Caking occurs when chemicals slowly build up on the surface of the nozzle. Bearding occurs because of evaporation. When evaporation happens, dried solids from the water mixed with detergents and soaps remain on the surface of the nozzle. This restricts water flow and prevents the proper operation and performance of the pressure washer. It can also cause mechanical damage to the nozzle and its surrounding components.

3. Dirty water

Running dirty water through the pressure washer is also one of the primary causes of clogged nozzles. When dirty water flows through the nozzle, it causes some dirt particles to get stuck on the nozzle. When the build-up continues, it obstructs the nozzle, called clogging.

4. Using the wrong detergent

Another cause of clogged nozzles is using the wrong detergents. For example, when cleaning surfaces with oils and greases, using plain water may not do the trick even with the pressure from the machine. For this reason, users add detergents and soaps to the water to tackle the oil and grease. However, using the wrong detergent causes damage to the components of your pressure washer. For example, the detergent may cause internal components to corrode. When this happens, the small particles from the corroding component may get to the nozzle, increasing the risk for corrosion.

Final Words

Besides clogging, the issues above can cause other challenges within your pressure washer. For instance, using the wrong detergent can damage other internal components of your machine, warrantying repairs and replacements. It is also worth mentioning that unclogging may not resolve some of the issues above. In some cases, you may have to replace the nozzle altogether and handle the underlying cause. Understanding the causes of common pressure washer problems will help you find the best and quickest resolutions.