Answers
Mar 08, 2023 - 03:56 PM
May 15, 2024 - 02:34 PM
Addressing a built-in soap function that does not work
This guide addresses built-in soap functions on machines that have either a QC (Quick Connect) Soap Nozzle or High-Low Variable Nozzle. Foam Cannons and Detergent Bottles, which are nozzle/tank combinations mounted at the end of a spray gun are not covered here.
Make sure you are properly equipped.
Quick-Connect (QC) Soap Nozzle + Built-in Detergent Tank
The most common cause is not using the proper nozzle. It should look like a black version of the red, green, yellow, or white QC nozzles. In some cases, it has a label “SOAP” on the side as well.
NOTE: This is different from the cone-shaped rotary or turbo nozzle.
Equipping the soap nozzle puts you in low-pressure mode. If you are still not getting soap, keep reading.
High-Low Variable Nozzle + Built-in Detergent Tank
Ensure its in low-pressure mode
The most common cause is not engaging the low-pressure mode.
There are two types:
Twist Type
There is a second twistable part, the collar, which can be twisted to change between high and low pressure.
Pull Type (These are only on 600 Series machines)
Just pull it out (expose the gap) to engage low pressure or in (close the gap) to engage high pressure.
It is in low-pressure mode, but still not working
If the soap function is still not working properly these are the steps to take in getting it to work again.
1. Try quickly squeezing repeatedly on the tube near the tank while squeezing the trigger with the soap nozzle on. Do this for about ten seconds.
2. Try the same thing but replace the detergent with hot tap water. The pressure difference may help the suction begin.
Check the detergent tube(s)
If neither of those two resolutions work, in rare cases the detergent tube(s) can become disconnected or clogged inside the machine.
NOTE: Some machines use a detergent tube that is connected externally near the water outlet pipe*.
1. If your detergent tube is not connected to a hose barb on the outside of the machine, open it up by removing the screws on the back panel and, if necessary, the nozzle tray too.
2. Check the tube connections.
3. If connected, check tube(s) for any clogs or debris.
a. Clear it by running warm water through the tube(s) before reinstalling them.
Clean the valve and hose barb
If there are no clogs and the tube(s) are not disconnected it is necessary to check the parts they connect to.
Single Tube Type
Most machines will have only one detergent tube that connects to the pump near the water outlet pipe*.
The hose fits onto the hose barb there. Under the hose barb are a ball and spring.
1. Remove the barb with a socket wrench.
2. Carefully remove the ball and spring, carefully noting the order you remove them.
3. Clean ball and spring
4. Soaking in hot water or vinegar is a good option.
5. Clean the hole.
a. Hot water or vinegar is a good option. Using a small squirt bottle to blast away debris can be effective.
6. Reinstall ball and spring in the reverse order from which you removed them.
7. Reinstall the barb.
8. Reconnect the detergent tube.
9. Test it.
Double Tube Type (has the Min-Max Dial)
Some machines have a dial for adjusting the dilution rate of the soap being drawn out of the tank. These types have one tube leading from the tank to the dial and another leading from the dial to the water outlet pipe*.
You will follow the same instructions for the hose barb as the Single Tube Type, and you will need to remove the valve behind the dial to soak it.
1. Remove the valve from the machine’s front case with Phillips head screwdriver.
a. Specifics vary by machine.
2. Soak it in hot water or vinegar for 20 minutes.
a. If you have any way to run water through the valve, try to do so as it may work better than soaking alone.
3. Reinstall the valve.
4. Test
*water outlet pipe: this is the pipe that your high-pressure hose connects to.
When all else fails…
If the repair guide did not work, there are still options available to you! A foam cannon is a better option you can use to replace the built-in soap function.
In-warranty Options
If you are under warranty, just send a copy of your receipt and mailing info back with a brief note about the issue.
Out-of-warranty Options
If you are passed the warranty, you can check the foam cannons out here: AR Blue Clean
Bonus Tips
Best practices
You should only use pressure washer detergents in a pressure washer. While there are some exceptions this is the best way to ensure a long and healthy life for your machine’s soap function.
Another fantastic way to prevent problems is to rinse the detergent tank and internal lines with water after you have finished your work.
What to avoid
Here are a few things you need to keep in mind and avoid while using your soap function.
· Ammonia, bleach, chlorine, other hard chemicals
· Laundry detergent
· Dish soap
· Any thick detergents
o If you have a pressure washer detergent that is thick or gel-like, that is ok, but you will need to thin it with water. Usually, the ratios for this are provided on the detergent bottle.
These types of liquids can cause damage inside the machine or easily clog its internal parts.
