Skip to main content

Why is My Pressure Washer Leaking?

A pressure washer is a convenient tool to have, creating higher level of cleanliness around your property. It can remove the toughest dirt you can think of, such as graffiti, thick moss and even grease off the BBQ wire shelves.

To ensure your pressure washer works at its full capacity, maintaining the appliance is very important. Common faults can develop if not taken care of and one such issue is a leaking pressure washer.

We have investigated the main causes as to why your pressure washer could be leaking and hopefully we have identified the fault you are being faced with.

Cause 1

Cylinder Head

The cylinder head in your pressure washer is where the motor pressurises the water and can often split and leak, it is essential that any hiccups are eliminated as soon as possible.

The main reason which may cause the pressure washer to leak from the inside is if the cylinder head - either cracked or failed. This is often caused by the pressure washer being stored in an area that can freeze during winter. Water left in the pump will expand and crack the body of the cylinder head, causing it to leak when next used.

To check that your cylinder head is ruptured, or failed follow these simple steps.

Safety First! Please make sure that you have disconnected the appliance from the mains before beginning any repair.

  • Remove the case of the pressure washer and connect the water supply and hoses only (not the electricity).
  • When the tap is turned on water will usually be forced out of the crack enabling you to identify the faulty component.

If the cylinder head is damaged then a replacement will be required. For a replacement see our range of pressure washer spares to get your appliance back up and running.

To see how to diagnose pressure washer pump problems, view our video guide to see how.

How To >

Cause 2


Over time pressure washer hoses can start to leak, which tend to be caused from either wear and tear to the hose or damages to the seals on the connectors.

The first thing to investigate is the area of the leak and if it happens to be from a connection, suspect the seals have worn out on the connector.

If the hose is damaged in any way or in poor condition it can be easily replaced, take a look at our extensive range of pressure washer spare hoses to help restore your appliance to its former glory.

See our easy to follow video guide on how to replace pressure washer hoses.

How To >