Safety first! To prevent accidents, be sure to follow AVA's usage terms as described in the user manuals.
Learn how to use an AVA Suction Hose easily with this step-by-step guide. All you need is an AVA suction hose connected to a pressure washer. All AVA machines can utilize water from a bucket or barrel with a specially designed suction hose (11-110-422) from AVA.
1. Fill the suction hose with water before connecting it to the water filter.
The filter contains a check valve to prevent water from flowing out of the hose through the filter end.
2. Connect the suction hose to the machine.
Connect the suction hose to the machine's water inlet (a) and place the other end in the water source (b).
!Ensure that the level difference between the water inlet on the pressure washer and the water outlet in the source does not exceed 1.5 meters.
The maximum length of the suction hose is 3 meters.
The check valve ensures that the water in the hose does not flow back to the bucket when you release the trigger. This ensures quick access to water since the machine does not efficiently suck air.
A regular garden hose would collapse under vacuum and block the water flow.
Remove air from the pressure washer system.
a) If there is a nozzle on the gun, it must be removed.
b) When starting the pressure washer, hold down the trigger to allow the pump to expel air and water from the machine. This helps the pump draw water. It takes 30 to 90 seconds for the water to reach the pump, depending on the machine. Release the trigger when you hear the water reach the pump. Ensure the pump builds the correct pressure and stops; press the trigger 5-10 times if necessary to completely clear the air.
c) Now you're ready to begin your task. Connect the equipment and ensure the suction hose remains submerged.
Using Salt Water as a Water Source
All AVA machines can operate with saltwater. Make sure the water filter is clean at all times and stop and clean it if it gets clogged during use. After use, it's important to thoroughly rinse the machine with fresh water as soon as possible. We recommend using the same method as for long-term storage/winterization after using saltwater. See article below.
If the machine is used with saltwater, it can accelerate the need for service especially if you don't follow our tips above. All parts that can be damaged by saltwater can be replaced as part of your next service.
Troubleshooting:
If water does not reach the pressure washer:
- Check that the coarse filter at the end of the suction hose is not clogged.
- Remove the coarse filter and ensure that the check valve is functioning freely.
- Check that the water filter on the machine is not clogged.
- Look for any kinks in the suction hose.
- Try filling the suction hose with water, connect it to the pressure washer, and keep it above the water intake level so that water reaches the pump.
- Try disconnecting the gun from the hose before starting the machine. Turn off the machine when water comes out of the hose and reconnect the gun.
If you do not get enough pressure on the pressure washer:
- Ensure the end of the suction hose is submerged in water and not sucking air.
- Check that the suction hose is intact, without damage or kinks.
- Press the trigger on the gun 5-10 times at 2-second intervals to clear the pump of air.
- Check that the filter on the machine is properly screwed on, and that the rubber gasket between the machine and the filter is not damaged.
Important Information:
Do not allow the pump to run dry for more than 2 minutes, as this can cause significant wear on the pump seals.
Use both the coarse filter on the suction hose and the water filter on the machine to prevent foreign objects from entering the pump and damaging the valves.