7 Best Pressure Washer Pumps – (Reviews & Guide 2021)

If you’re out looking for the best pressure washer pump replacement, chances are that you ran into trouble with your washer. Perhaps everything was working as it should last time – but today your washer couldn’t even reach the pressure of a garden hose. It’s a terrible situation, but one that you have to experience sooner or later.

Don’t worry! Replacing your pressure washer pump is no big feat if you get the right model. Here, you can learn everything you need to know about different types of pressure washer pumps, how they work, and how you can replace one.

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When Do I Need to Replace My Pressure Washer Pump?

It’s not every day that you need to replace such an integral part of your pressure washer like a pump. If the pump has failed, you’ll know what’s up instantly – if water runs out of your pressure washer at all, it won’t be pressurized, or it won’t be able to reach higher pressures.

Why Do Pressure Washer Pumps Fail?

Generally, all pressure washer pumps have a pre-defined life expectancy. Cheaper models come with a pump rated at about 200 hours, while some commercial grade pressure washers can put out as much as 5000 hours of work. You might find this number in your model’s user manual, though the manufacturer may not specify it.

However, the reason why your pressure washer pump failed doesn’t have to be natural wear and tear. There are some other common reasons for pump failure: cavitation, and overheating due to running with no pressure relief.

1. Cavitation

Whether it’s rapid changes in pressure or insufficient flow of supplied water, cavitation is a common problem for pressure washer pumps. Cavitation is a descriptive name for a formation of bubbles, or air or vapor-filled cavities inside the pump. If your pressure washer wand feels unstable and vibrates when you’re spraying, and you feel surges of pressure, cavitation is a likely culprit.

The most common reason why cavitation happens to pumps is insufficient water supply. When you attach your pressure washer to water supply, the incoming water must be sufficient for the washer’s GPM (gallons per minute) rating at all times. Fluctuations in water intake or overall insufficient incoming water can cause your pressure washer pump to fail. Even if the difference in the water volume is only slightly lower, for example, 2.8 for a 3 GPM pressure washer, the discrepancy is big enough for trouble to appear. If you’d like to check whether your faucet produces enough water for your pressure washer, check the time it takes to fill a 5-gallon bucket from the faucet directly. The water supply per minute must be higher than the rating on your pressure washer.

2. Bypass water overheating

Your pressure washer pump builds pressure whether you’re currently spraying or not. But you may receive a phone call, or you might need to rearrange some of your tools every once in a while. So what happens once you stop squeezing the nozzle trigger? The pressure is no longer being relieved. And there’s only so much pressure build-up your pressure washer can handle.

However, the non-relieved pressure is not what damages your machine once you stop squeezing the trigger. After enough pressure is built-up, the unloader valve (also called thermal release valve) activates and opens a bypass for the water to flow through. This water is then depressurized in the bypass inlet and sent through the pump again, and it circulates until it’s eventually released.

This bypass mechanism is designed to protect your pump. However, you shouldn’t let it go on for too long. Along the way, the crankcase generates heat, which is usually mitigated by the constant flow of fresh, cold water. However, as the same water is cycled through the pump, this same water gets warmer.

If the water going through the bypass cycle overheats, it can damage your pump. Remember that the maximum safe temperature of water in a pressure washer is only a bit above 60 degrees Fahrenheit, which really isn’t that much. Most manufacturers allow up to 2 minutes for the water in bypass. However, we’d recommend never letting your pressure washer work without squeezing the nozzle for longer than 45 seconds. Instead, you should turn off your unit – simply restarting it after you’re done with your phone call will help prolong the lifespan of your pump.

Best Pressure Washer Pumps Comparison Chart

Best Pressure Washer Pump Reviews (Updated List)

1. AR Annovi Reverberi 2400 PSI Triplex Pump

Annovi Reverberi is a well-known name in the pressure washer industry. This time, we have a durable, consumer-grade triplex pump.

This triplex model is designed to be mounted vertically. Its flange has a three-bolt pattern on long legs. It is created for pressure washers with a 7/8 inch shafts, which is among the most common shaft sizes in domestic models, especially in gas pressure washers.

The pump can output 2400 PSI of water, and it reaches a maximum water flow of 2.2 GPM. The body of the pump is made out of die-cast aluminum alloy, and its pistons are modeled out of hardened and tempered steel, so you can rest assured that this pump will serve you well for many years.

2. OEM Technologies Horizontal Axial Cam Pump Kit 3100 PSI

Next up, we have an axial cam pump made and distributed by OEM Technologies.

This powerful axial pump is created for pressure washers that output 2.5 gallons of water (GPM) at 3100 PSI – which is quite powerful for an axial model.

The pump is designed for horizontal mounting, and it will fit any engine with a 3/4 inch shaft.  When it comes to the flange, it should be mounted with 4 bolts in a square pattern.

This model is made out of high-quality materials, including a sealed anodized die-cast aluminum crankcase, and stainless steel pistons. Both of these are designed for total protection against corrosion. The pump does come with a built-in thermal relief valve, so you don’t need to worry about overheating.

3. Universal 3000 PSI Power Pressure Washer Water Pump

Here we have a universal Himore pump distributed by Homelite.

This axial pump is designed for horizontal mounting, and it’s perfect for Honda, Generac, Husky, and similar pressure washers. It is also known as Honda pressure washer pump or at least, one of the pressure washer pumps for Honda engines. Actually, it will fit perfectly on any engine with a 3/4 inch shaft, for as long as your flange connection also fits. The flange needs four bolts organized in a square pattern.

The pump is created for powerful pressure washers which put out a flow between 2.4 and 2.5 gallons per minute (GPM). When it comes to pressure, it can handle up to 3000 PSI. The entire body of the pump is made out of high-quality metal and it has a brass head, so you can expect this pump to last for a long time.

4. Homelite Vertical Pressure Washer Pump Replacement

If you’re looking for a vertical axial pump, Homelite has got you covered. This model is compatible with many pressure washer brands, among which are Husky, Ryobi, Briggs and Stratton, and many more.

Designed as a vertically mounted pump, this model is created to fit a 7/8 inch engine shaft. It’s mounted on a three-point flange which follows a triangular pattern that is common in vertical pumps.

This axial pump will fit any pressure washer which uses up to 2.4 gallons of water per minute. It can put out as much as 2700 PSI, creating a powerful flow that will clean anything you point it at. The pump is made out of high-quality metals, so it’s very sturdy and durable. However, it doesn’t come with a thermal release valve, so you should get one separately or reuse the one from your old pump.

5. Ezzy Pump OEM HIMORE Pressure Washer Pump 3000 PSI New

Himore is one of the most popular pressure washer pumps, and this time we have an axial model distributed by Ezzy Pump.

This horizontally mounted axial pump is great if your pressure washer engine comes with a 3/4 inch shaft. The flange is designed so it mounts on the unit with 4 bolts which are in a square pattern, each 2 5/8 inches away from one another.

You don’t need to worry about getting a new thermal relief valve since it comes with a brand new one. This pump will fit many pressure washers, especially those that put out between 2800 and 3000 PSI and use up to 2.5 GPM of water. The pump comes with a brass head and a metal body, so you can be sure it’s sturdy and will last for a while.

6. CANPUMP Triplex High Pressure Power Washer Pump 3000 PSI

If your pressure washer requires a powerful triplex pump, Canpump has got just the thing for you.

Even though it comes at a somewhat higher price, this triplex pump gives you the most bang for your buck. It’s made for powerful washing since it can put out 3.1 gallons of water per minute (GPM). When it comes to pressure, it’s ideal for 3000 PSI washers.

When it comes to engine connection, this triplex pump is perfect for 6.5 HP engines, and it connects to any 3/4 inch crankshaft, and it has a 4.78-millimeter keyway. The flange requires 4 bolts in a square pattern, each 65.1 millimeters away from each other (from the center of the hole).

The pistons within the pump come with a coat of Plasma Thermal ceramic coating, while the manifold is brass forged. It comes with a thermal relief valve and an easy start valve.

7. Troy Bilt Power Pressure Washer Water Pump

If you’re looking for an affordable axial pump for vertical installation, look no further than this Troy Bilt model.

This pump is designed specifically for Troy-Bilt 020344 and 020344-0 models, but it can fit many other pressure washers with similar specifications.

If your pressure washer runs between 2500 and 2800 PSI and has a water flow of 2.3 GPM, this pump will be a good replacement. It’s designed for a 7/8 inch engine crankshaft. It’s mounted vertically, on its three-point triangular flange.

This axial model is made out of heavy-duty metal, both body and head, so you can rest assured it will last for a long time. However, if it fails within the first year, it’s covered with a warranty. The pump comes together with a thermal relief bypass valve.

What Is a Pressure Washer Pump?

A pressure washer has one, very simple job: Taking water from your regular water faucet, and pressurizing it so that it blasts out with a lot of power. The main component in this process of pressurization is your pressure washer pump. It’s an essential part that makes your pressure washer what it is. Whether it’s washing your car, removing gum off your patio, or sandblasting rust off of your old wheelbarrow – the pump of the pressure washer is what makes it all possible.

Unlike many other types of pumps, for example, the sump pump, the pumps in pressure washers are designed to take a low flow of water and produce high pressure. However, not all pressure washer pumps are made equal, so there are many types and different models out there. Some of them are driven by pistons run by an angled (wobble) plate, while others are moved by a crankshaft. Choosing the right replacement pump for your particular model of pressure washer will make the difference between returning your pressure washer to life and having to return the pump to the seller.

Types of Pumps for Pressure Washers

Pressure washers come in many shapes and sizes – from hefty, powerful commercial units, to the weaker but compact portable models. Because of the massive differences between their pressurizing power and water flow, they are different from the inside, starting with the pump. There are three types of commonly used pressure washer pumps: wobble plate, axial, and triplex pumps. Let’s go through its main properties.

1. Wobble Plate

These entry level pumps utilize a wobbling plate that pushes fixed pistons to create suction and pressurize water.

Wobble plate pumps are basic pumps that are often used in pressure washers with PSI under 2500 PSI, and flow rates lower than 2 GPM. They have a lifespan between 200 and 400 hours of work time, which meets the needs of most households. This work time translates to approximately 3 hours per week for more than 2 years.

They are sealed shut and don’t require maintenance. Given that these pumps come at a lower cost, most people prefer to replace them without attempting to repair them.

2. Axial Cam Pump

An axial cam pump works on a similar principle as a wobble plate pump, but the pistons rotate around the plate as the pump works. That small modification allows a bigger oil reservoir, which dramatically increases the life expectancy and power output of this type of pump.

Axial pumps have an improved life span which falls between 500 and 800 hours of work. They’re also more powerful, and they’re commonly used in pressure washers of up to 3500 PSI.

Some variable models allow you to adjust the angle of the plate, adjusting the water flow. However, it’s usually not worth the price to try and repair them, so most people prefer to replace them as soon as they fail.

3. Triplex Pump

The most powerful among pressure washers use a triplex pump. These apply three pistons to pump out water at a much higher pressure and consistent flow than the less powerful types of pumps.

Triplex pumps come at the highest price initially, but they have a virtually unlimited life span. However, they do require some maintenance, manly an oil change every now and then to keep them in great shape. A triplex pump is used in most pressure washers which can output 3000 PSI or more.

Apart from occasional maintenance, you can also replace specific parts of a triplex pump if it fails before other parts and pieces. That makes a triplex pump a higher initial investment, but also one that really pays off the more you use your pressure washer.

Pressure Washer Pump Buying Guide

Getting the right pressure washer pump can be difficult. You want the pump to fit into your pressure washer right out of the box, without the need for any modifications. To do this, you should pay attention to a couple of important factors.

1. Suitable Pump Type

The most important thing you should check before making your pick is what kind of a pump is compatible with your pressure washer. Most domestic use models utilize either a wobble or an axial pump, while the more powerful ones require a triplex pump. Due to the massive differences between the construction and the size of these types, it’s important to know the exact type you need.

If you can’t find the user manual of your pressure washer, you’ll have to open the casing and take a look at how the pump is attached to the motor. In an axial pump, the driveshaft spins the cylinders directly, so it will be turned towards the brass valves. In a triplex pump, the driveshaft runs next to the brass valves and connects to a crankshaft. Make sure to also measure the shaft diameter.

2. Flange and Shaft Connection

Next up, you should figure out how the pump is mounted to the rest of the pressure washer components. To do this, you should take a look at the flange. First off, you should figure out how the pump is attached – vertically or horizontally, and how it’s attached to the motor.

Determine the number of bolts, and their dimensions and distances. It’d be best if you can find the model that can be attached to your pressure washer right out of the box, without the need for any modifications to make it fit.

Finally, some pressure washer engines are made with a 3/4″, while others utilize a 7/8” crankshaft. Make sure to measure your shaft so the new pump can fit properly.

3. Matching PSI and GPM

Finally, you should match the PSI (pounds per square inch) and GPM (gallons per minute) ratings of the replacement pressure washer pump to your pressure washer. Getting a new pump is NOT the time to try and upgrade the PSI/GPM rating of your pressure washer. Even though you could, technically, install a more powerful pump, chances are that the rest of the pressure washer construction wouldn’t be able to handle the additional power. If you install a higher-rated replacement pump, the most likely scenarios are your hose or nozzle bursting, or the engine not being able to keep up with the new requirements. So – match the PSI and GPM ratings with the current specifications of your machine.

How to Replace a Pressure Washer Pump?

Replacing the pump of your pressure washer is not as difficult as it may sound at first. Let’s go through the basic steps you should take once your replacement pressure washer pump arrives.

1. Consult Your User Manual

In this guide, we’ll give you a general overview of the steps you should take to install your new pump. However, make sure to thoroughly read the instruction manual that comes with your new pump, and consult your pressure washer’s instruction manual as well.

If you can’t find your pressure washer user manual, you should try your luck online. The search query is simple – try searching with this formula:

• Pressure washer manufacturer and model + “user manual”

So, if you own a Sun Joe SPX3001, your search query should look like this: “Sun Joe SPX3001 user manual”. You will find the manual among the first couple of results.

2. Disconnect the Old Pump

You don’t need a lot of tools to replace your pressure washer pump. In most cases, you will only need:

• Wrench and Allen key
• Anti-seize

First off, you should remove any components connected to your pressure washer. This includes the water supply and the outlet hose, and the chemical injection tube. If you own a pressure washer in a plastic casing, you should gently disassemble the casing to expose the inner components of the machine.

Once you have access to the inner part of the unit, you should remove the old pump from your pressure washer.

Loosen the bolts that attach the pump to the engine with a suitably sized wrench or Allen key. When you remove the bolts, your pump will stay mounted on the crankshaft. You should be able to slide it off. If it doesn’t come off easily, make sure that there isn’t an additional bolt-on the shaft itself. If your shaft is rusty, you may need to pull a bit harder to get it off. A rectangular key will likely fall out of the shaft with your pump. Get it and place it back into the shaft.

Once your old pump is off, apply anti-seize on the exposed engine shaft so that mounting and dismounting are easy in the future and to avoid corrosion. This is important because the metal parts are in constant contact with water.

3. Mounting the New Pump

Before you start mounting your engine, make sure that it has a thermal relief valve (the bypass valve) installed. Some pumps don’t come with this valve installed, so you may have to reuse the one from your old pump, or get a new one.

Once you’re ready to install, simply slide the pump on the crankshaft, and tighten the bolts well.

Now, you can go on and mount the plastic casing and the removed parts.

FAQ About Pressure Washer Pumps

1. Who makes the best pressure washer pumps?

A pressure washer pump is not a very complex device, so chances are that if you pick a suitable type, any pump will do just fine. Of course, you should get one that’s made out of good materials.

When it comes to brands, we’d recommend always to go with the same brand that your manufacturer used. Original parts are always the safest choice because they’re 100% compatible with your machine. However, that’s not always possible. If the manufacturer of your pressure washer doesn’t offer replacement parts, you can go with a universal pump. The brands that offer such parts are, among others, Annovi Reverberi, OEM Technologies, and Himore.

2. How long should a pressure washer pump last?

The longevity of your pressure washer pump mainly depends on the type of pump. Along with the output pressure, the durability of pumps is reflected in their price. So, a triplex pump will last the longest, and an axial pump will last longer than a wobble plate one. When it comes to particular numbers of work hours, you should look for specifications provided by the manufacturer in the user manual for your particular model. However, to give you a general picture, a wobble plate pump should last at most 500, an axial model up to 900 hours, while a triplex pump has a virtually unlimited work time though it requires regular maintenance after each 1000-1500 work hours.

3. Can I repair my pressure washer pump instead of replacing it?

If your pressure washer uses a wobble pump or an axial pump, then sadly, there’s no alternative to replacing the pump – once it goes, it goes. That’s why you should make sure that the pump truly is the problem, and not the motor or some other smaller part of your pressure washer.

However, if you invested in a triplex pump, chances are that you can open it and get it repaired. In fact, you can purchase each part of a triplex pump and replace it separately, without the need to get an entirely new pump. That is why triplex pumps cost so much more upfront.

4. How can I prolong the lifespan of my new pressure washer pump?

Replacing your pressure washer pump can make your unit work as good as new. So, how can you make sure that it keeps working properly for a long time?

Apart from good overall maintenance, there are two things you should pay attention to:

• Make sure that the water supply that you connect to has constant and sufficient water flow. If your pressure washer is rated for 3 gallons per minute (GPM), the water faucet you use must have a flow 3 or more gallons per minute at all times. Insufficient or unstable water supply can result in excess vapor or air in your water, causing bubbling. When bubbles burst, they create bits of shock which can easily damage your pump. This process is called cavitation.
• If you need to take a break from spraying with your pressure washer, even if it’s just for a minute, it’s safer to turn off the machine than to simply stop squeezing the nozzle trigger. Even though every pressure washer has a built-in safety bypass, leaving your machine in the bypass mode can quickly lead to overheating and subsequent damage to the pump.
• Make sure you read your pressure washer’s user manual to make sure you’re using your machine correctly and to find more ways to prolong the lifespan of your unit.

Wrap Up

The pump is the heart of your pressure washer. It is what makes the machine what it is – the piece that pressurizes water and makes it blast out, helping you keep your house, front yard, car, and many other parts of your household clean and shiny like new. However, a pump can fail, and once it does, you don’t need to buy a new pressure washer altogether. With the best pressure washer pump to replace the failed part, you can continue to use your faithful washer without the need to spend hundreds of dollars on a new machine.

Hopefully, you found that perfect model in our pressure washer pump reviews. We hope our buying guide helped you learn everything you need to know about picking and installing a new model in your pressure washer. If you have any questions left, don’t hesitate to send us a message!

See also: best pressure washer pump oils