Symptoms
- Water dripping from under the machine while running
- Puddle forms around the base after use
- Leak at the hose connection point
- Water spraying from a small crack rather than the nozzle
Likely causes
- CommonWorn O-ring at a hose or fitting connectionO-rings harden and crack with age, especially on quick-connect fittings.
- CommonWorn pump seal (water seal) inside the pump headA small drip from the pump body while running is a classic sign of a failing internal seal.
- PossibleCracked pump housing from freeze damageWater left in the pump over winter can freeze and crack plastic or aluminum components.
- PossibleLoose fitting or connectionVibration during use can loosen threaded connections over time.
- PossibleDamaged high-pressure hoseA pinhole or crack in the hose itself, often near the connectors, can spray water.
What to do
- Dry off the machine and run it briefly to watch exactly where the water is coming from.
- If it's at a hose connection, disconnect and inspect the O-ring for cracks or flattening; replace if damaged.
- Tighten any loose fittings by hand, then a quarter turn with a wrench if needed, without overtightening plastic parts.
- Inspect the length of the high-pressure hose for pinholes, bulges, or cracks, especially near the ends.
- If the leak is a steady drip from the pump body itself (not a fitting), this points to a worn internal pump seal.
- Check for visible cracks in the pump housing, which usually means the unit was stored with water inside during a freeze.
- A cracked pump housing generally means pump replacement is more practical than repair; a worn seal can often be replaced by a repair shop.
Tools and parts
- Adjustable wrench
- Replacement O-rings
Pressure washer O-ring kitSearch: “pressure washer hose fitting O-ring kit”
High-pressure hoseSearch: “pressure washer replacement high pressure hose”
When to call a pro
A cracked pump housing or a leak you can't trace to a fitting or hose should go to a small-engine or pressure washer repair shop.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.