Hey everyone, I'm having some issues with my garden sprayer and could really use your advice. The pump isn't pulling up any liquid despite the fact that the black rubber piece on the end is a one-way valve. I've made sure everything's lubed up with silicone grease, and it works fine until I put it in the half-filled tank. At that point, the pump gets jammed with pressure. I even cleaned the tiny filter on the intake which was partially blocked, but no luck! I think the rubber seal is working since it's stopping the fluid from being sucked up, but I'm baffled as to why the handle is completely stuck. Any ideas or suggestions would be greatly appreciated! Also, I owe you a beer if you help me out!
2 Answers
It sounds like your pump plunger might be hydro-locked. Maybe the rubber ring seal on the plunger has swelled up because it's tough to squeeze back even after lubrication. These sprayers usually work by pulling air in from outside the tank and compressing it, which builds pressure. Might want to check that seal for any issues!
What type of pump sprayer are you using? If it’s one of those cheap, small (~1 gallon) ones from the big box stores, I usually find they don’t last more than a couple of seasons. If it breaks, I just replace it instead of fixing it. But if you’re keen to fix it, good on you!
Haha, I get it! It’s about the satisfaction of fixing things. It’s a small 3-liter tank if that helps.
What are you trying to spray, by the way? Some substances like weed killer can crystallize in cooler temperatures, which might clog the sprayer. It could help to leave it out in the sun or wait for a warm day.