PowerWash VPW1 - Pressure washer VAX - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	Pressure Washer
Model	PowerWash VPW1
Power	1700 W
Voltage	220-240 V ~ 50 Hz
Max Pressure	130 bar
Rated Pressure	90 bar
Max Flow Rate	370 L/hr
Sound Pressure Level	74 dB(A)
Sound Power Level	93 dB(A)
Vibration Level	0.5 m/s² (K=1.5 m/s²)
Intended Use	Outdoor household cleaning only
Safety Features	RCD adaptor required, trigger safety lock, automatic shut-off (5 min inactivity)
Included Accessories	Pressure hose, trigger handle, lance, jet nozzle, turbo nozzle, detergent bottle, nozzle cleaning tool, water inlet connector, rotary brush (selected models)
Water Inlet	Standard garden hose with non-return valve, minimum 7.5m supply hose
Detergent System	Detergent bottle attachment, compatible with Vax detergents only
Working Distance	30 cm from surface
Maintenance	Clean water filter regularly; flush with fresh water for 1 min after detergent use
Storage	Drain water completely, store above 0°C, wrap hoses on clips, keep out of reach of children
Warranty	2 years (free registration required at vax.co.uk/registration)

Frequently Asked Questions - PowerWash VPW1 VAX

Why won't the pressure washer turn on?

Check that the on/off switch is set to 'I'. Ensure the plug is fully inserted into the socket and the fuse is a 13A BS1362. Reset the RCD if tripped. If the power cord is damaged, do not use.

How do I use detergent with the pressure washer?

Fill the detergent bottle with diluted Vax detergent and lock it onto the lance fitted with the jet nozzle. Squeeze the trigger to dispense. Always rinse fresh water through the system for 1 minute after use to prevent blockages.

What is the recommended working distance from the surface?

The recommended working distance between the nozzle and the surface being cleaned is 30 cm.

How do I clean a clogged nozzle?

Turn off and unplug the machine. Remove the nozzle from the lance using the release button. Insert the nozzle cleaning tool into the end of the nozzle and lance to remove debris. Rinse with water.

Can I use the turbo nozzle on cars?

No, the turbo nozzle is not suitable for delicate or painted surfaces. Never use it on cars, tyres, or engines. Use the jet nozzle for vehicles.

How should I store the pressure washer?

After use, drain all water from the machine and hoses. Store in a dry place above 0°C. Wrap the pressure hose and power cord around the storage clips. Keep out of reach of children.

Why is the pressure low?

Check for kinks or blockages in the hose. Clean the water inlet filter. Ensure the nozzle is not clogged. Verify water supply flow rate is adequate. The pump may have overheated due to poor water supply; allow it to cool.

How do I connect the pressure washer to the water supply?

Attach a suitable hose connector to the water inlet. Connect the supply hose to a tap with a non-return valve. Ensure the hose is fully unwound (minimum 7.5m). Turn water on before switching the machine on.

What safety precautions should I take?

Always wear eye protection and suitable clothing. Use an RCD adaptor. Never point the spray at people, animals, or electrical components. Keep the trigger safety lock engaged when not in use. Do not leave the machine unattended for more than 5 minutes.

How do I register for the warranty?

Register online at vax.co.uk/registration within 28 days of purchase for a free 2-year guarantee. Keep your original receipt as proof of purchase.

USER MANUAL PowerWash VPW1 VAX

Black Vax air purifier device with attached hose and control panel (no visible text or symbols)

LET'S GET STARTED.

Basic safety precautions

This pressure washer is intended for household use only and NOT for commercial or industrial use.

• This pressure washer is for outdoor use only.
• It is your responsibility to check the suitability of the surface to be cleaned. Vax cannot be held responsible for damage caused.
• Keep fingers, hair and loose clothing from moving parts and openings whilst using the pressure washer.
• When using your pressure washer the recommended working distance between the nozzle and surface area or object to be cleaned is 30cm.

Don'ts

• Don't leave the pressure washer unattended or running when not in use for more than 5 minutes without depressing the trigger.
• Don't use the pressure washer if it has been dropped, damaged or immersed in water.
• Don't use the pressure washer if the power cord or plug is damaged.
• Don't handle the plug of the pressure washer with wet hands.
• Don't use the pressure washer without supply hose (minimum length 7.5m) in place and unwind the hose fully from reel.
• Don't use the pressure washer without the water filter in place.

Do's

• Always wear suitable clothing, footwear and eye protection whilst using the pressure washer.
• Always connect the water supply, remove the lance and squeeze the trigger to run water through the machine before switching the power on.
• Always use a suitable hose connector to match the coupling on the pressure washer with a non-return valve at the tap end of the supply hose.
• Always unplug the pressure washer before cleaning or carrying out any maintenance.

• Always turn off and unplug the pressure washer before disconnecting or connecting the hose. After use always wrap the pressure hose and power cord around the storage clips provided.

• This appliance can only be used by children aged from 8 years and above and persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities or lack of experience and knowledge if they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance in a safe way and understand the hazards involved. Children should not play with the appliance. Cleaning and user maintenance shall not be made by children without supervision.

• Vax only recommend the use of Vax genuine accessories and detergent to be used with this pressure washer. The use of non-branded Vax accessories and detergent will invalidate your warranty.

• For safe transportation, ensure that the pressure washer is unplugged and secure.

• Don't pull or carry this pressure washer by the power cord.

• Don't use the power cord as a handle, pull the power cord around corners or sharp edges, or close a door over the power cord.
• Don't unplug pressure washer by pulling on the power cord.
• Don't aim the pressure washer at people, animals, plants, electrical components, wires, or the pressure washer itself.
• Don't use the pressure washer on electrical components, damaged/delicate paint surfaces, tyres, engines/motors.

• Don't use the pressure washer with incorrect voltage as this may result in damage or injury to the user. The correct voltage is listed on the rating label.

• Always release any built up pressure in the handle prior to disconnecting the hose and ensure water inlet filter is clean prior to storage in a cool dry place.

• Use only CE approved 13amp extension cords with RCD, non-approved extension cords may overheat. Care should be taken to arrange the extension cord as it could be a trip hazard.
• Always make sure the power/extension cord is fully unwound and prevent the power/extension cord from getting wet during use.
• Always replace the fuse in the plug with a British 13amp fuse.
  • Always protect the power cable from heated surfaces or near open flames.
  • Always carry the pressure washer by the handle.
• Always check water hose and accessories are not damaged, broken or worn before use.

Thank you for buying this Pressure Washer.

Taking care of your outdoor cleaning

This pressure washer is designed to make outdoor cleaning tasks as effective and efficient as possible and this user guide will help you get the most out of your machine.

Completing outdoor cleaning tasks using a Vax pressure washer will keep your outdoor items and surfaces cleaner for longer.

Taking care of your Pressure Washer

Also inside this guide are instructions on maintaining your new machine, so that it's always ready when you are to tackle your outdoor cleaning tasks.

We're here if you need us

Instead of taking me back to the shop, simply visit our online support:

vax.co.uk/support

vax™

Still need to get in touch?

Our UK based Customer Care Team are here to support you. For help with assembly, operational or performance problems, or buying and fitting new accessories, you can find all our contact details at vax.co.uk/contact

This user guide can be found online at: vax.co.uk/support

Contents

Let's talk safety

Getting to know your machine

Getting started

Using your machine

Taking care of your machine

Let's talk technical

Notes

What to do if it goes wrong

Getting in touch

Accessories

Power Wash

Included with your machine

Illustration of a coiled hose and mechanical device (no text or symbols)

Pressure Hose

Trigger Handle

Lance

Jet Nozzle

Turbo Nozzle

Detergent Application Bottle

Nozzle Cleaning Tool

Water Inlet Connector

Rotary Brush

Getting to know your machine

Technical Specification

Name PowerWash 1700W Car

Model P86-P1-C

Voltage 220-240V\~50Hz

Wattage 1700W

Max Pressure 130 bar

Rated Pressure 90 bar

Max Flow Rate 370L/Hr

Sound pressure level:

LpA dB(A) 74

Sound power level:

LwA dB(A) 93

LwA dB(A) K (uncertainty) 92

Vibration (m/s²) K (uncertainty) 0,5 m/s² 1,5

Subject to technical change without notice.

Accessories & Consumables

Universal Detergent

1-9-133398-00

Patio & Decking Detergent

1-9-133401-00

Wash & Protect Vehicle Detergent

1-9-133400-00

To purchase consumables and accessories, please visit vax.co.uk

PLEASE READ 'LET'S TALK SAFETY' AT THE BEGINNING BEFORE USE.

Assembling your pressure washer

Mechanical component diagram showing two orange circular parts with arrows indicating assembly or motion (no text or symbols present)

Attach both wheels and push until they click into place.

Technical line drawing of a mechanical device with labeled components (no text or symbols)

Attach the hose connector to water inlet by turning clockwise until tight.

After connecting pressure hose, lance and accessories check they are securely fitted and locked in place before turning on.

Always make sure the pressure washer and water supply is off before connecting or disconnecting the hose and accessories.

IMPORTANT: Always make sure the trigger safety lock is in the LOCKED position when not in use or connecting/disconnecting the pressure hose.

Always check water hose, pressure hose, lance and accessories are not damaged, broken or worn before use.

Preparing your pressure washer for use

Illustration of a portable air conditioner unit with a probe inserted, connected to a coiled cable (no text or symbols visible)

Push the pressure hose firmly to the water outlet and turn the pressure hose collar clockwise until tight.

A trigger safety lock is located underneath the handle. The safety lock should always be in LOCKED position before connecting/disconnecting the pressure hose to the trigger handle.

Illustration of a handheld electric shock absorber with hose and cable (no text or symbols)

To connect the pressure hose to the trigger handle, press the pressure hose release button and push the pressure hose to lock into position. Gently pull the pressure hose to make sure it is locked securely.

Illustration of a syringe with an orange handle and orange motion arrows indicating rotation (no text or symbols)

Whilst firmly pushing the lance into the trigger handle turn clockwise to lock into position.

Illustration of a syringe with an orange handle and gray handle, showing motion arrows (no text or symbols)

To remove the lance from the trigger handle firmly push and twist the lance anti-clockwise. When unlocked pull to remove.

Using your machine

IMPORTANT: Always use an RCD (Residual Current Device) adaptor when using this pressure washer.

Make sure the water supply is not connected. Firmly push the water hose pipe with suitable connector onto the water inlet to lock into position.

Connect the water hose pipe to a suitable water supply and turn water on.

Illustration of a hand holding a tool with an orange handle and a magnified view of the handle (no text or symbols)

Before plugging the machine in, press the unlock safety button on the trigger handle and squeeze the trigger until water starts to flow through the nozzle.

Simple line drawing of a toilet with handle and vent (no text or symbols)

Connect the power cord to the mains supply via an RCD adaptor.

Push switch to 'I' position to turn on. The machine will run for a few seconds then stop but no water will be released.

Illustration of a handheld tool emitting blue smoke trails (no text or symbols)

Squeeze the trigger on the trigger handle to release a high pressured water jet, and start cleaning.

Push switch to 'O' position to turn off.

Don't aim the pressure washer directly at people, animals, plants, electrical components, wires or the pressure washer itself.

CAUTION

IMPORTANT: Always make sure the machine is switched off and the safety button on the trigger handle is LOCKED before connecting/disconnecting the lance, nozzle or accessories.

Using your accessories

The jet nozzle has a wider spray and is ideal for use on surfaces such as cars, garden furniture, decking and boats.

Illustration of three different spray gun designs: a lever, a hose, and a water gun, with no text or symbols present.

To attach the jet nozzle, fit the lance with a firm push and twist clockwise to lock into place.

Hold down the release button on the lance, push the jet nozzle and lance firmly together until you hear an audible CLICK. Release the button and gently pull the jet nozzle to make sure it is locked securely before use.

Squeeze the trigger on the trigger handle to release a high pressured water jet, and start cleaning.

The turbo nozzle has a more concentrated spray and is ideal for use on very dirty surfaces, patios or masonry. As it is not fitted with a pressure regulator it is not suitable for use on delicate or painted surfaces.

Illustration of two mechanical tools with orange arrows indicating motion (no text or symbols)

To attach the turbo nozzle, fit the lance with a firm push and twist clockwise to lock into place.

Hold down the release button on the lance, push the turbo nozzle and lance firmly together until you hear an audible CLICK. Release the button and gently pull the turbo nozzle to make sure it is locked securely before use.

Never use the turbo nozzle on cars, tyres and engines.

CAUTION

Illustration of a medical or laboratory brush with blue spray lines, no text or symbols present

Squeeze the trigger on the trigger handle to release a high pressured water jet, and start cleaning.

Using your machine

IMPORTANT: When using detergent make sure you follow the dilution instructions and use Vax detergent only. Detergent can only be used with the jet nozzle.

Using detergent with your pressure washer

Illustration of a syringe connected to a cylindrical container with an orange circular arrow above (no text or symbols)

Fill the detergent application bottle with the diluted detergent mix. Turn the lid clockwise to lock.

Illustration of a medical or laboratory tool with a syringe and a connector, showing no text or symbols.

Push the detergent application bottle onto the lance fitted with the jet nozzle until you hear an audible CLICK. Release the button and gently pull the turbo nozzle to make sure it is locked securely before use.

Illustration of a hand using a tool to lift a cylindrical orange object (no text or symbols)

To remove or refill, lift the locking tab to release the detergent application bottle from the jet nozzle.

Always rinse fresh water through your pressure washer for 1 minute after using solution to prevent blockages.

Using your machine

IMPORTANT: When using your pressure washer the recommended working distance between the nozzle and surface area or object to be cleaned is 30cm.

After connecting the pressure hose, lance and accessories check they are securely fitted and locked in place before switching on.

Always release any pressure build up in the handle prior to disconnecting the hose and accessories.

Don't use if the lance and accessories are damaged, broken or worn.

Always check brushes are clean and free from grit/hard debris before use.

Using the patio brush (included in selected models only, see 'Included with your machine')

Diagram of a mechanical device with a lever and rotating arm, showing motion (no text or symbols)

Push the extension tube onto the patio brush head and turn clockwise to secure. Twist and push the patio head collar to lock the extension tube into position.

Illustration of a handheld device with a handle and lever mechanism (no text or symbols)

Attach the extension tube onto the trigger handle, push firmly and twist clockwise to lock into place.

Illustration of a long-handled tool with a textured handle and orange handle (no text or symbols)

Switch on the pressure washer and squeeze the trigger to release water spray.

Illustration of a ladle with a handle and lever mechanism, showing rotational motion (no text or symbols)

To remove the extension tube from the trigger handle, firmly push and twist the extension tube anti-clockwise to unlock. Pull to remove.

Diagram of a mechanical tool with rotating arm and base, showing motion direction (no text or symbols)

To remove the patio brush from the extension tube, twist the patio head collar anti-clockwise. Push and twist the patio brush anti-clockwise to unlock, pull to remove.

The extension tube can be used to extend all accessories and ideal for hard to reach areas and surfaces.

The outdoor brush is a soft bristled brush ideal for making easy work of cleaning garden furniture.

The car brush is a soft bristled brush and perfect for tackling tough dirt on delicate surfaces ideal for wheels and car mirrors.

Using your machine

Using the car brush (included in selected models only, see 'Included with your machine')

Illustration of a hairdryer tool being inserted into a brush (no text or symbols)

Attach the car brush to the trigger handle. Firmly push the car brush and trigger handle together, turn clockwise to lock into position.

Illustration of a cleaning brush with a handle and lever (no text or symbols)

Switch on the pressure washer and squeeze the trigger to release water spray or water and detergent mix.

Illustration of a tool emitting a hose to a surface, showing motion with no text or symbols

To remove the brush from the trigger handle firmly push and twist the lance anti-clockwise to unlock. Pull to remove.

Using the outdoor brush (included in selected models only, see 'Included with your machine')

Illustration of a cleaning brush and a tool being inserted into a pipe (no text or symbols)

Attach the outdoor brush to the trigger handle. Firmly push the outdoor brush and trigger handle together, turn clockwise to lock into position.

Illustration of a cleaning brush with a black bristles and orange handle (no text or symbols)

Switch on pressure washer and squeeze trigger to release water spray or water and detergent mix.

Illustration of a cleaning brush and tool with motion arrows indicating rotation (no text or symbols)

To remove the outdoor brush from the trigger handle firmly push and twist the lance anti-clockwise to unlock. Pull to remove.

Using the rotary brush (included in selected models only, see 'Included with your machine')

Illustration of a cleaning brush with a tool and handle, showing a curved arrow indicating rotation (no text or symbols)

Whilst firmly pushing the rotary brush into the trigger handle turn clockwise to lock into position.

Illustration of a cleaning brush with a circular motion indicator (no text or symbols)

Switch on pressure washer and squeeze trigger to release water spray or water and detergent mix.

Illustration of a cleaning brush with a tool and brush tip, showing a circular motion arrow (no text or symbols)

To remove the rotary brush from the trigger handle firmly push and twist the lance anti-clockwise to unlock. Pull to remove.

Taking care of your machine

IMPORTANT: Always rinse fresh water through your pressure washer and accessories for 1 minute after using detergent to prevent blockages.

Maintenance

Simple line drawing of a person climbing a chair with legs, no text or symbols present

To access the water filter, unscrew water inlet connector and remove.

Simple line drawing of a toilet with a bulb inserted into the cup (no text or symbols)

To remove the water filter, pinch the inner water filter tab with pliers and gently pull.

Illustration of a mechanical component with a handle and base (no text or symbols)

The water filter can be rinsed under running water periodically.

IMPORTANT: Before storing your machine always make sure no water remains in the pressure washer or hose/accessories to prevent frost damage. Keep in a dry place above zero degrees and out of the reach of children.

Storage

Illustration of a mechanical device with orange components and a handle (no text or symbols)

Illustration of a mechanical device with orange hoses and a coiled cable (no text or symbols)

Always store tools/cable/detergent tank into allocated slots.

Let's talk technical

Removing a blockage in the lance and nozzles

Illustration of a tool emitting motion with arrows indicating rotation (no text or symbols)

To remove the lance from the trigger handle firmly push and twist the lance anti-clockwise, when unlocked pull to remove.

Illustration of a medical or laboratory tool with an orange arrow pointing to a small orange object (no text or symbols present)

To remove the nozzle press the nozzle release button and pull.

Illustration of a soldering iron with a curved tip and orange directional arrow (no text or symbols)

Insert the nozzle cleaning tool into the end of the lance and nozzles to remove any dirt or debris.

Before carrying out any maintenance make sure the machine is switched off and unplugged.

CAUTION

Notes

What to do if it goes wrong

SolutionProblem

There is an accessory missing

- Check the contents panel on the box to make sure the part is included with your machine.

Why won't the pressure washer turn on?

• Make sure the on/off switch is set to the 'I' position.
• The plug may not be fully pushed into the electrical socket.
• Check the fuse in the plug if this needs replacing, always replace with a British 13amp fuse.
• Check if your RCD has been tripped, if it has tripped, reset it.
  • The power cord may be damaged.

Why won't the water/ detergent dispense?

• The pump may have stopped, make sure the on/off switch is set to the 'I' position and check the plug fuse.
• The pump may have stopped. This may be because of overheating due to poor water supply. Check the water flow rate to your water supply.
• Hose may be blocked or kinked, check for leaks in the hose and clear any blockages. Straighten out the hose to ensure no kinks and check the hose pipe connections to the tap and water inlet.
• There may be an air lock. To remove, unlock the trigger safety lock and squeeze the trigger to release water before the machine is switched on.
• Check assembly of detergent application bottle. Go to 'Using your machine.' Nozzle/accessory may be blocked, clear any blockages and clean nozzle. Go to 'Lets talk technical.'

Why won't the pressure washer reach operating pressure?

• Hose may be blocked or kinked, check for leaks in the hose and clear any blockages. Straighten out the hose to ensure no kinks and check the hose pipe connections to the tap and water inlet.
• Nozzle may be blocked, clear any blockages and clean nozzle. Go to 'Lets talk technical.'
• Remove and clean the water inlet filter. Go to 'Taking care of your machine.'
• Check the water flow rate to your water supply.

It's quick and easy to register for your FREE

2 year guarantee ^+

Online at: vax.co.uk/registration

Please retain your original receipt for proof of purchase.

we're here if you need us

vax.co.uk/support

Accessories

Don't forget your accessories!

Order at: www.vax.co.uk/spares-and-solutions

Universal detergent 1-9-133398-00

Universal detergent to aid the break down and removal of stubborn dirt, moss, and grime.

Patio & Decking detergent 1-9-133401-00

Patio & decking detergent to aid the break down and removal of stubborn dirt from patio and decked areas.

Wash & Protect vehicle detergent 1-9-133400-00

Wash & protect vehicle detergent to aid the removal of road dirt, oil and grease from vehicles, and provide short term protection against weathering conditions.

Standard lance 1-9-133749-00

Standard lance connection between your trigger handle and attachments.

Black ornamental object with a pointed tip and elongated body, isolated on white background (no text or symbols)

Detergent nozzle 1-9-133759-00

A detergent nozzle to directly apply detergent to surfaces to help loosen dirt, moss, and grime.

Attachable detergent bottle 1-2-133752-00

A detergent nozzle to directly apply detergent to surfaces to help loosen dirt, moss, and grime.

Trigger handle 1-2-133750-00

A smooth shape hand handle with an easy squeeze trigger and a built in safety lock for easy on/off trigger release.

Black handheld medical or cosmetic device with a red mark on the handle (no visible text or symbols)

Jet nozzle 1-9-133754-00

Jet nozzle to apply concentrated pressure to dislodge dirt and grime on all surface types.

Turbo nozzle 1-9-133753-00

A high pressure turbo nozzle to blast away tough embedded dirt from high traffic areas.

Patio cleaning set 1-9-133767-00

A large circular cased brush, supplied with an extension tube for cleaning concentrated areas quickly and efficiently. Ideal for: Patios, Decking, Driveways, Garage doors.

Two small cleaning tools, one with a brush and orange base, the other with a black handle (no text or symbols visible)

Rotary brush 1-9-133766-00

A firm bristled brush with 360 degree rotation, providing extra scrub power for an extra clean. Ideal for: Car alloy wheels, Car grills.

Car brush 1-9-133765-00

A soft bristled brush, perfect for agitating tough dirt from sensitive surfaces. Ideal for: Car mirrors, Car body.

Outdoor brush 1-9-133769-00

A handy outdoor brush, perfect for gently removing dirt from various outdoor surfaces. Ideal for: Garden furniture, Conservatories.

Extension tube 1-9-133768-00

An additional connection tube providing you extra reach.

Replacement hose (10m) 1-9-133751-00

An additional high pressure hose, highly durable and resistant to weather conditions.

Close-up of a black cable wrapped in coiled wire, attached to an orange box (no text or symbols visible)

Notes

Notes

Notes

Vax EU Declaration of Conformity (DoC)
Date of Issue: 01.01.2017
Directives:	2006/95/EC, 2006/42/EC, 2004/108/EC, 2000/14/EC (2005/88/EC), 2014/30/EU, 2011/65/EU
Conforming Apparatus: P86-P1-C
Manufacturer: Vax Ltd
Harmonised Standards Referenced or Applied:	EN60335-1; EN60335-2-79:2012; EN62233:2008; EN55014-1:2006+A1:2009+A2:2011 EN55014-2:1997+A1:2001+A2:2008; EN61000-3-2:2006+A1:2009+A2:2009; EN61000-3-3:2008;
2000/14/CE (2005/88): The appliance is defined at n°27 of the annex I.Conformity evaluation procedure according to annex V.Measured acoustic power level LwA: 92 dB(A)Guaranteed acoustic power level LwA: 93 dB(A)
Vax Ltd hereby declare that the equipment name has been designed (alternative:) tested and found to comply with the relevant sections of the above referenced specifications.The unit complies with all essential requirements of the Directives.This Declaration is issued under sole legal responsibility of Vax Ltd.
Signed:
Name: Rob Atkins
Position: Vice President of Operations

GET IN TOUCH

[e-mail] vax.co.uk

EU Statement of Compliance: Manufacturer/EU importer: Vax Limited, hereby on our own responsibility, declare that the P86-P1-C is manufactured in compliance with the following Directives: Safety: 2006/42/EC Machinery Directive.

EMC: 2014/30/EU Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive.

Waste electrical products should not be disposed of with household waste. Please recycle where facilities exist. Check with your Local Authority or retailer for recycling advice.

© 2017 Vax Limited. All rights reserved. The VAX trade mark and Vax lozenge are the property of Techtronic Floor Care Technology Ltd and are registered in the EU and may be pending or registered in other countries.