For a pressure washer, use SAE 10W-30 for engines and SAE 30 non-detergent oil for pumps, as recommended by the manufacturer’s manual.
What Kind Of Oil For Pressure Washer?
Choosing the right kind of oil for your pressure washer is as important as picking the right fuel for your car. It keeps your pressure washer running smoothly and helps it last longer. So, what’s the best type? There’s no single answer – it depends on your specific pressure washer model. However, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know!
The Importance of Oil in Pressure Washers
Pressure washers have two main parts that need lubrication:
- The Engine: Like all gas-powered tools, the engine needs oil to reduce friction and keep everything moving without overheating.
- The Pump: This is the heart of the pressure washer, and it needs special oil to prevent wear and corrosion.
Types of Pressure Washer Oil
Let’s break down the two main categories of oil you’ll encounter:
1. Engine Oil
- Conventional Motor Oil: This is the standard stuff you put in your car. For pressure washers, SAE 10W-30 is a common choice, good for a range of temperatures.
- Synthetic Motor Oil: A lab-made oil, it often provides better protection and lasts longer, especially in extreme temperatures.
2. Pump Oil
- Non-Detergent Oil: This is formulated specifically for pressure washer pumps and doesn’t contain the cleaning additives found in car oil. SAE 30 is a typical grade.
- Pump Manufacturer Oils: Some pump brands offer their own oil blends; they’re usually a safe bet.
Understanding Viscosity
Oil bottles have numbers like “10W-30.” This is the viscosity, meaning how thick the oil is. It changes with temperature:
- The first number (with the “W”) is for cold weather. Lower numbers flow better when it’s chilly.
- The second number is for hot weather. Higher numbers stay thicker in the heat.
Checking Your Pressure Washer Manual
Always, always, always refer to your pressure washer’s owner’s manual! This is your best source of information. It will tell you:
- The specific type of engine oil needed
- The specific type of pump oil needed
- How often to change the oil
Table 1: Common Pressure Washer Oil Types
| Oil Type | Typical Viscosity | Usage |
| Conventional Motor Oil | SAE 10W-30 | Pressure washer engines |
| Synthetic Motor Oil | SAE 5W-30, 10W-30 | Pressure washer engines (better for extreme temps) |
| Non-Detergent Oil | SAE 30 | Pressure washer pumps |
| Pump Manufacturer Oil | Varies | Check your specific pump brand |
Where to Buy Pressure Washer Oil
You can find pressure washer oil at:
- Home improvement stores
- Auto parts stores
- Online retailers
- Directly from the pressure washer or pump manufacturer
Tips for Choosing Pressure Washer Oil
- Stick to the manual: Use what the manufacturer recommends.
- Don’t mix and match: Never mix different types of oil in the engine or pump.
- Quality matters: Cheap oil may not protect your pressure washer as well.
How to Change Oil in a Pressure Washer
Oil changes are part of essential pressure washer maintenance. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Important! Before you start, consult your owner’s manual. It might have specific instructions for your model.
1. Gather your Supplies
- Fresh engine and pump oil (the correct types!)
- Oil filter (if your engine has one)
- Oil drain pan
- Wrenches
- Funnel
- Rags
2. Prepare Your Pressure Washer
- Turn it off and let it cool: Hot oil can burn you.
- Disconnect the spark plug wire: This keeps the engine from accidentally starting.
- Place on a level surface: Makes draining easier.
3. Change the Engine Oil
- Locate the drain plug It’s usually on the bottom of the engine.
- Place pan under the plug, remove plug: Have your rags handy!
- Let the oil drain completely.
- Reinstall the plug: Tighten it snugly.
- Locate the oil fill: Refer to your manual.
- Use a funnel, add fresh oil: Fill to the recommended level.
- Check the oil level with the dipstick.
4. Change the Pump Oil
- Locate the pump oil drain plug. It’s often near the bottom.
- Place pan, remove plug: Let it drain.
- Reinstall the plug.
- Find the pump oil fill plug, usually higher up.
- Use a funnel, slowly add fresh pump oil. Watch the sight glass (if your pump has one) for the fill level.
- Replace the fill plug.
Table 2: Typical Oil Change Intervals
| Component | Change Interval |
| Engine Oil | Every 50 hours or annually (whichever comes first) |
| Pump Oil | Every 3 months or 500 hours (whichever comes first) |
How to Dispose of Old Oil Responsibly
Never pour used oil down the drain! It can harm the environment. Here’s what to do:
- Check local recycling: Many auto parts stores or recycling centers accept used oil.
- Household hazardous waste: Your community might offer specific disposal options.
Additional Pressure Washer Maintenance Tips
- Clean or replace the air filter: This helps your engine run at its best.
- Check the spark plug: Replace it if it looks fouled or worn.
- Inspect hoses and connections: Look for leaks or damage.
- Store properly: Drain fuel or add stabilizer if storing for a long period.
When in Doubt, Consult a Pro
If you’re uncomfortable with DIY maintenance, many small engine repair shops can service pressure washers. This is especially smart if the machine is still under warranty.
Table 3: Troubleshooting Oil-Related Issues
| Problem | Possible Causes | Solutions |
| Engine won’t start | Low oil level, wrong oil type, old oil | Check oil level, add correct oil, change oil |
| Engine smokes | Too much oil, worn engine parts | Drain excess oil, consult a mechanic |
| Pump leaks | Worn seals, wrong oil type | Replace seals, use the correct pump oil |
| Pump makes noise | Low/dirty oil, damaged pump components | Change oil, consult a mechanic |
Conclusion- What Kind Of Oil For Pressure Washer?
By selecting the right pressure washer oil and maintaining it properly, you’ll ensure a healthy machine that delivers powerful cleaning for years to come. Remember, your owner’s manual is your best guide, and quality oil is a small investment for a long-lasting pressure washer.