Replacing an O Ring in pressure washer wands is probably one of the most common replacements you’ll find when working with seals.
Unfortunately, O Rings don’t last forever, and over time they do deteriorate, and you will require an O Ring replacement.
It’s important to replace o rings as soon as they begin to erode or deteriorate in any form as a worn o ring will start to cause leaks within appliances.
Knowing how to replace an o ring before you get started can help save you a considerable amount of time and energy – and the good news is that it is relatively quick and easy – once your know-how!
In this post, we take a look at the necessary steps to replacing an o ring, the tools you’ll need, and some of the most common problems you may face when replacing an o ring.
Tools of the trade
It’s important for time-saving that you have all of the right tools to hand. Ideally, you will require:
- A tabletop vice/Grip
- Screwdriver
- Silicone Lubricant
- Small pick
- Pliers/Wrench
- New o ring! Ideally, from an experienced o ring supplier.
Replacing an o ring in a pressure washer wand
Stayin safe
No one wants to hurt themselves, replacing an o ring in a washer. Safety should always be your top priority.
Wearing heavy-duty gloves, or gloves with a grip can help to protect your hands.
Taking your time is also key.
Removing the old o ring
To get started, you need to remove the pressure washer from the pump.
Once removed, the wand/nozzle should be placed into the vice, tightened, and secured into position, also, in a position where you can see and reach the o ring with ease.
Next, and as basic as this may sound, you need to push the screwdriver or pick into the o ring.
Ultimately, driving one of these tools into the o ring so you can then slowly and carefully pull the o ring from the recess where it is situated—pulling the o ring until it is in the middle of the pressure washer valve.
Ideally, you’ll be able to pull the o ring out in its entirety, fully intact rather than in pieces.
However, if this isn’t the case, you will need to use the pliers to help reach the o ring and get a better grip, pulling it out from the pressure washer wand completely.
If the o ring has eroded, you must remove all parts of the o ring, even if this is piece by piece!
Inserted the new o ring
Once everything has been removed, you can then place the new o ring into the washer.
Before you do this, make sure to check over the new o ring, ensuring there’s no damage or cracks on the ring. O rings should be purchased from specialist o ring suppliers UK.
If you’re happy with the o ring replacement, it should then be inserted one half at a time (due to the washer nozzle’s circumference, the o ring will not fit directly in so needs to be manoeuvred into position).
Silicone lubricants can make the process of putting the new o ring in place much easier.
Work the o ring into the area slowly and again carefully, using the screwdriver and pick if required.
Once the o ring has been properly inserted, you need to check that it is properly seated in the recess that it is intended for.
The best way to check is to rub your finger around the o ring, checking its fit and sealability.
When you’re confident the new o ring is seated in the right place, you can then connect the pressure wand back to the pump.
Note: On some pressure washers, o rings can be located on the outside of the wand. In these instances, you simply need to roll the old o ring out of its recess and off the plug, rolling the new o ring back into position.
Using a professional
While yes, replacing o rings can seem pretty straight forward, it is still recommended that you use a professional.
Mainly because if there are any additional problems during replacement, a professional will be able to sort these much more effectively and efficiently and have further tools and equipment to finish the job.
The most common problems associated with replacing o rings include:
- Wrong tools used
- Takes too much time
- New o ring breaks during installation
- Damage incurred to the pressure washer wants during replacement.
The key to replacing o rings is to replace them as soon as you’re made aware of any damage or erosion.
Taking your time and making sure you have everything you need to hand is vital.
If you’re looking for an o ring supplier based in Leeds, look no further than the specialists at Specialist Sealing Products to help you with all your sealing product needs!
