There are two types of oil needed for a power washer: motor oil for the engine and non-detergent pump oil for the pump.
Types of Oil for Power Washer: Keeping Your Machine Running Smooth
Power washers are incredible tools, but like any machine, they need proper care. Using the right kind of oil is crucial for keeping your power washer running at its best. So, what types of oil do you need, and how do you choose the right ones? Let’s dive in!
Two Main Parts, Two Main Oils
Your power washer has two main components that need lubrication:
- The Engine: Your power washer’s engine is like the one in your car, and it needs a high-quality motor oil to keep it running smoothly.
- The Pump: This is the heart of your power washer, responsible for generating that high-pressure cleaning power. The pump needs a specialized pump oil to protect its gears and plungers.
Understanding Oil Viscosity
Viscosity refers to the thickness of the oil. Oil grades like 10W-30 or SAE 30 tell you how the oil performs at different temperatures. Here’s the breakdown:
- The first number (e.g., 10W): This refers to how the oil flows when it’s cold. (‘W’ stands for winter). A lower number means it flows more easily in cold weather, making starting the engine easier.
- The second number (e.g., 30): This tells you how well the oil protects at high temperatures. A higher number means better protection in hot weather.
Choosing the Right Engine Oil
Here’s a quick guide to selecting the best motor oil for your power washer:
- Climate: Consider the temperatures where you’ll be using your power washer.
- Manufacturer Recommendations: Always check your owner’s manual for specific oil recommendations.
- Oil Type: Synthetic oils generally offer better protection and longer lifespan, but conventional motor oils work too.
Table 1: Common Engine Oil Recommendations
| Temperature Range | Recommended Oil Grades |
| Colder Climates (Below 40°F) | SAE 5W-30, SAE 10W-30 |
| All-Season Use | SAE 10W-30, SAE 30 |
| Hotter Climates | SAE 30 |
Pump Oil – The Key to Longevity
Pump oil is designed specifically for the high-pressure environment inside your power washer’s pump. Don’t use motor oil for your pump – it could damage it. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
- Non-Detergent: Pump oils should be non-detergent since pumps don’t have oil filters like engines do.
- Viscosity: Follow your manufacturer’s recommended oil grade. Using the wrong viscosity can reduce performance or even cause pump failure.
Types of Pump Oil
- Conventional Pump Oil: The most common and affordable option.
- Synthetic Pump Oil: Generally offer better performance and longer intervals between oil changes.
Oil Change Intervals
How often you need to change your power washer’s oils depends on several factors:
- Usage: More frequent use means more frequent oil changes.
- Manufacturer Recommendations: Always follow the guidelines in your owner’s manual.
- Operating Conditions: Extreme temperatures or dusty environments can put extra strain on your oils.
Table 2: General Oil Change Recommendations
| Oil Type | Recommended Change Interval |
| Engine Oil | Every 25-50 hours of use or annually |
| Pump Oil | Every 50-200 hours of use or annually |
Important Note: Even if you haven’t reached the recommended hours of use, it’s always a good idea to change your oils at least once a year.
Tips for Maintaining Your Power Washer’s Oil
Aside from using the right oils and changing them regularly, here are some additional tips for keeping your power washer’s lubrication in tip-top shape:
- Check Oil Levels: Before every use, check both your engine and pump oil levels. Low oil levels can cause serious damage.
- Proper Oil Handling: Store your oils in a cool, dry place. Old or contaminated oil can harm your power washer.
- Don’t Mix Oil Types: Stick to the types of oil recommended by your manufacturer. Mixing oils can lead to problems.
- Oil Changes After Storage: If you store your power washer for an extended period, change the oils before starting it up again.
Troubleshooting Oil-Related Issues
Even with careful maintenance, you might occasionally encounter oil-related problems with your power washer. Here are some common issues and how to troubleshoot them:
Engine Won’t Start or Runs Poorly
- Check oil level: Low oil will trigger the engine’s low-oil shutdown feature or cause lubrication issues.
- Check oil condition: If the oil is dirty or contaminated, change it.
Pump Leaks or Doesn’t Build Pressure
- Check pump oil level: Low pump oil is a common culprit.
- Look for signs of leaks: Check the pump’s seals for damage and replace if needed.
- Check oil grade: Make sure you’re using the correct viscosity for your pump.
Table 3: Troubleshooting Oil Issues
| Problem | Possible Causes | Solutions |
| Engine won’t start | Low oil level, dirty or contaminated oil, incorrect oil type | Check oil level and condition, change oil if necessary, use correct oil type |
| Engine runs poorly | Low oil level, incorrect oil viscosity, other engine issues | Check oil level, ensure correct oil viscosity, consult mechanic for further engine diagnosis |
| Pump leaks | Damaged seals, worn pump components, loose connections | Replace seals as needed, inspect and replace worn parts, tighten connections |
| Pump doesn’t build pressure | Low pump oil level, incorrect oil grade, air trapped in the system | Check oil level, use correct pump oil, bleed air according to manufacturer instructions |
Additional Oil Considerations
- Biodegradable Oils: If you’re environmentally conscious, consider choosing biodegradable oils designed for power washers.
- Oil Disposal: Always dispose of used oil responsibly. Never pour it down the drain or in the garbage. Many auto parts stores and recycling centers accept used oil for disposal.
Conclusion- Types of Oil for Power Washer
Choosing the right types of oil for your power washer and staying on top of maintenance is vital for ensuring its long life and optimal performance. Remember, your engine needs quality motor oil, and your pump requires specialized non-detergent pump oil. By following the guidelines in this article, you’ll keep your power washer cleaning powerfully for years to come.