Briggs and Stratton Electric Pressure Washer Wont Start: A Comprehensive Troubleshooting Guide

If your Briggs and Stratton electric pressure washer won’t start, there could be several underlying issues that need to be addressed. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the common causes, detailed troubleshooting steps, and technical specifications to help you diagnose and potentially fix the problem.

Common Causes for a Briggs and Stratton Electric Pressure Washer Not to Start

1. Clogged Carburetor

Old or stale fuel can cause the carburetor to become clogged, especially if the pressure washer has been sitting for an extended period.
Clogged carburetors can prevent the engine from receiving the proper fuel-air mixture, leading to starting issues.
Symptoms of a clogged carburetor include difficulty starting, rough idling, and loss of power.
To address a clogged carburetor, you’ll need to disassemble it, clean the main jet, nozzle, and other components, and potentially replace the entire carburetor if the issues persist.

2. Fuel Issues

Ensure the fuel in the tank is fresh and not stale. Old or contaminated fuel can cause various engine problems, including starting issues.
Check the fuel flow into the carburetor by removing the bowl and verifying that gas is filling the bowl.
If the fuel flow is restricted, you may need to clean the fuel line, filter, or replace the fuel pump.

3. Spark Plug Issues

A faulty or fouled spark plug can prevent the engine from starting.
Inspect the spark plug for signs of wear, damage, or carbon buildup. Clean the spark plug or replace it if necessary.
The recommended spark plug for Briggs and Stratton electric pressure washers is typically an NGK BPR6ES or a Champion RJ19LM.

4. Electrical Issues (for Electric Pressure Washers)

For electric pressure washers, ensure all electrical connections, including the power cord, switches, and motor, are secure and not damaged.
Check for any loose or corroded connections, and replace any damaged components as needed.
Verify that the power source is providing the correct voltage and amperage to the pressure washer.

Troubleshooting Steps

Clean the Carburetor:
Remove the carburetor and disassemble it completely.
Clean the main jet, nozzle, and other components using a carburetor cleaner or compressed air.
Reassemble the carburetor and reinstall it, ensuring a proper seal.
Check Fuel Flow:
Remove the carburetor bowl and verify that fuel is flowing into the carburetor.
Check the fuel line for any blockages or kinks, and replace the fuel filter if necessary.
Ensure the fuel pump (if equipped) is functioning correctly.
Check Spark Plug:
Remove the spark plug and inspect it for signs of wear, damage, or carbon buildup.
Clean the spark plug using a wire brush or replace it if necessary.
Ensure the spark plug gap is set to the manufacturer’s recommended specification, typically between 0.028 and 0.033 inches (0.7 to 0.8 mm).
Check Electrical Connections (for Electric Pressure Washers):
Inspect all electrical connections, including the power cord, switches, and motor, for any signs of damage or corrosion.
Ensure all connections are secure and tightened properly.
Test the power source to verify that it is providing the correct voltage and amperage to the pressure washer.

Technical Specifications

Model: Briggs and Stratton Electric Pressure Washer
Fuel Type: Gasoline (for gas-powered models)
Carburetor: Clean or replace if clogged
Main Jet Size: Typically 0.50 to 0.60 mm
Nozzle Size: Typically 0.80 to 1.00 mm
Spark Plug:
Recommended Spark Plug: NGK BPR6ES or Champion RJ19LM
Spark Plug Gap: 0.028 to 0.033 inches (0.7 to 0.8 mm)
Electrical Connections (for Electric Models):
Power Cord: Minimum 12 AWG, 3-prong grounded
Voltage: 120V, 60Hz
Amperage: Typically 15A or higher

References

By following the detailed troubleshooting steps and understanding the technical specifications of your Briggs and Stratton electric pressure washer, you’ll be better equipped to diagnose and potentially fix the issue if your pressure washer won’t start. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult the manufacturer’s instructions for any specific guidance or recommendations.