Ironton 1500 PSI Electric Pressure Washer

Introduction

Thank you for choosing an Ironton® product! For future reference, please complete the owner's record below:

Serial Number/Lot Date Code: ________________________________

Purchase Date: ____________________________________________

Save the receipt, warranty, and this manual. It is important that you read the entire manual to become familiar with this product before you begin using it.

This pressure washer is designed for certain applications only. Northern Tool and Equipment is not responsible for issues arising from modification or improper use of this product such as an application for which it was not designed. We strongly recommend that this product not be modified and/or used for any application other than that for which it was designed.

For technical questions, please call 1-866-902-9690.

Product Overview

Intended Use

The Ironton 1500 PSI Electric Pressure Washer is intended for cleaning the walls of buildings, facades, terraces, footpaths, garden equipment, machinery, vehicles, and tools using a pressure water nozzle. It can also be used with added household cleaning agents. Use of this pressure washer for any purpose other than its prescribed use is considered misuse, and the user/operator assumes liability for any resulting damage or injuries.

This equipment is not designed for use in commercial, trade, or industrial applications. Use in such settings will void the warranty.

Packaging Contents

• Handle (1)
• Gun Holder (1)
• Power Cord Bracket (1)
• Water Filter Screen (1)*
• Adjustable Wand (1)
• Trigger Handle (1)
• High-pressure Hose (1)
• Detergent Tank (1)
• Tip Cleaning Needle (1)
• Owner's Manual (1)
• Screws (4)

*The water filter screen comes pre-attached on the water inlet, located on the front of the pressure washer.

Technical Specifications

Important Safety Information

AWARNING

Read and understand all instructions. Failure to follow all instructions may result in serious injury or property damage.

The warnings, cautions, and instructions in this manual cannot cover all possible conditions or situations that could occur. Exercise common sense and caution when using this tool. Always be aware of the environment and ensure that the tool is used in a safe and responsible manner.

• Do not allow persons to operate or assemble the product until they have read this manual and have developed a thorough understanding of how it works.
• Do not modify this product in any way. Unauthorized modification may impair the function and/or safety and could affect the life of the product. There are specific applications for which the product was designed.
• Use the right tool for the job. DO NOT attempt to force small equipment to do the work of larger industrial equipment. This product will be safer and do a better job at the capacity for which it was intended. DO NOT use this equipment for a purpose for which it was not intended.
• Industrial or commercial applications must follow OSHA requirements.

Work Area Safety

AWARNING

• Inspect the work area before each use. Keep work area clean, dry, free of clutter, and well-lit. Cluttered, wet, or dark work areas can result in injury. Using the product in confined work areas may put you dangerously close to cutting tools and rotating parts.
• Do not use the product where there is a risk of causing a fire or an explosion; e.g., in the presence of flammable liquids, gases, or dust. The product can create sparks, which may ignite the flammable liquids, gases, or dust.
• Do not allow the product to come into contact with an electrical source. The pressure washer is not insulated and contact will cause electrical shock.
• Keep children and bystanders away from the work area while operating the tool. Do not allow children to handle the product.
• Be aware of all power lines, electrical circuits, water pipes, and other mechanical hazards in your work area. Some of these hazards may be hidden from your view and may cause personal injury and/or property damage if contacted.

Personal Safety

AWARNING

• Stay alert, watch what you are doing, and use common sense when operating the pressure washer. Do not use the tool while you are tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or medication. A moment of inattention while operating the tool may result in serious personal injury.
• Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing, dangling objects, or jewelry. Keep your hair, clothing, and gloves away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewelry, or long hair can be caught in moving parts. Air vents on the tool often cover moving parts and should be avoided.
• Wear the proper personal protective equipment when necessary. Use ANSI Z87.1 compliant safety goggles (not safety glasses) with side shields, or when needed, a face shield. Use a dust mask in dusty work conditions. Also use non-skid safety shoes, hardhat, gloves, dust collection systems, and hearing protection when appropriate. This applies to all persons in the work area.
• Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times.
• Do not use the pressure washer when tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication.

Pressure Washer Use and Care

ACAUTION

• Do not force the pressure washer. Products are safer and do a better job when used in the manner for which they are designed. Plan your work, and use the correct product for the job.
• Check for damaged parts before each use. Carefully check that the product will operate properly and perform its intended function. Replace damaged or worn parts immediately. Never operate the product with a damaged part.
• Do not use a product with a malfunctioning switch. Any power tool that cannot be controlled with the power switch is dangerous and must be repaired by an authorized service representative before using.
• Disconnect the power/air supply from the product and place the switch in the locked or off position before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing the tool. Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the tool accidentally.
• Store the pressure washer when it is not in use. Store it in a dry, secure place out of the reach of children. Inspect the tool for good working condition prior to storage and before re-use.
• Use only accessories that are recommended by the manufacturer for use with your product. Accessories that may be suitable for one product may create a risk of injury when used with another tool. Never use an accessory that has a lower operating speed or operating pressure than the tool itself.
• Keep guards in place and in working order. Never operate the product without the guards in place.
• Do not leave the pressure washer running unattended.

Specific Operation Warnings

AWARNING

• Wear ANSI Z87.1 compliant safety goggles during use.
• Before servicing, cleaning, or removing parts, unplug pressure washer from power source and relieve the pressure.
• Risk of Explosion. Do not use pressure washer to spray flammable liquids.
• Arching electrical parts. Keep the motor at least 18ft. (6m) from explosive vapors.
• High-pressure spray can cause flying debris and possible surface damage.
• Cleaning chemical vapors or contact with skin may be hazardous.
• Never operate the pressure washer with broken or missing parts. Check the product regularly and repair or replace worn or damaged parts immediately.
• Never spray flammable liquids or use the pressure washer in areas containing combustible dust, liquids, or vapors. An electric spark could cause an explosion.
• Never leave the wand unattended while the product is running or switched on.
• Never cover the pressure washer during operation to allow free air cooling.
• Always turn water supply on before turning the pressure washer on unless draining for storage. Running the pump dry causes serious damage.
• Not for use by or around children.

Injection Hazard

Spray gun can kick back causing personal injury or loss of control of spray gun, causing injury to other persons. Hold spray gun with two hands while operating.

Equipment can cause serious injury if the spray penetrates the skin. Never point spray gun or direct spray at people, animals, or pressure washer.

When unit is switched to the OFF position, pressure will still remain in unit. Point the spray gun in a safe direction and engage trigger to release pressure. Do not direct discharge at persons or animals.

Never operate the pressure washer without all components properly connected to the product (handle, gun/wand assembly, nozzle, etc.).

Never put hand or fingers over the nozzle or spray tip while operating the pressure washer.

Electric Shock Hazard

• Inspect cord before using. Do not use if cord is damaged, frayed or split.
• Keep all connections dry and off of the ground.
• Do not plug in power cord when wet or while standing on damp/wet ground.
• Always move switch on product to “Off” position before connecting or disconnecting power cord to electrical outlets.
• Do not use an extension cord with this product.
• Connect only to a grounded outlet equipped with a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI).
• Do not attempt to service or open this product while it is connected to an electrical source. Service should only be completed by a qualified technician.
• When servicing, use only original equipment manufacturer (OEM) replacement parts.
• This product is provided with a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) built into the power cord plug. If replacement of the plug or cord is needed, ensure the GFCI is included with the new cord.
• Connect to individual branch circuit only.

Grounding

AWARNING

This device provides additional protection from the risk of electrical shock. Plug the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) into a power outlet. Indicator should turn red. TEST BEFORE EACH USE. Press the TEST button. The red indicator should disappear. Press the RESET button again for use. Do not use if the above test fails.

Should replacement of the plug or cord become necessary, use only manufacturer replacement parts that include GFCI protection. All services must be done by an Authorized Service Technician. Unauthorized service will void warranty.

Connect directly to an outlet. Do not use product with an extension cord. The use of an extension cord could override the GFCI built into the plug of the power supply cord resulting in the risk of electrical shock.

CHECK with a qualified electrician or service person if you do not completely understand the grounding instructions, or if you are not sure the tool is properly grounded.

Grounded Tools: Tools with 3-Prong Plugs

Tools marked with Grounding Required have a 3-wire cord and 3-prong grounding plug. The plug must be connected to a properly grounded outlet. If the tool should electrically malfunction or break down, grounding provides a low resistance path to carry electricity away from the user, reducing the risk of electric shock. (See Figure A.) Your tool must be plugged into an appropriate outlet, properly installed and grounded in accordance with all codes and ordinances. The plug and outlet should look like those in the following illustration.

Double Insulated Tools: Tools with Two-Prong Plugs

Tools marked Double Insulated do not require grounding. They have a special double insulation system which satisfies OSHA requirements and complies with the applicable standards of Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., the Canadian Standard Association, and the National Electrical Code. (See Figure B.) Double insulated tools may be used in either of the 120 volt outlets shown in the following illustration.

Assembly Instructions

AWARNING

• Remove power cord from power source before carrying out any work on the equipment, and use only original parts.
• Before starting any cleaning task, it is important to inspect the area for objects that could create a hazard.
• Remove any objects from the work area that could be tripped over, such as toys or outdoor furniture. Ensure that all doors and windows are closed tightly.

Main Parts of Pressure Washer

*Water filter screen comes pre-attached on the water inlet, located on the front of the pressure washer.

Assembly Steps

1. Attach gun holder and power cord bracket.
2. Assemble handle onto pressure washer. Tighten all screws.
3. Attach high-pressure hose to the washer's water outlet (hand tighten only).
4. Attach high-pressure hose to the trigger handle (hand-tighten only).
5. Insert adjustable wand to the trigger handle and twist 1/4 turn to lock in position.
6. Attach the garden hose to the water inlet (hand-tighten only).
7. Attach garden hose to water supply and turn water valve on to the full ON position.
8. Make sure the On/Off switch is in the OFF position.
9. Completely unwind power cord and plug the GFCI into an outlet, ensuring there are no other items using the circuit. The GFCI plug light will turn red if the outlet has power.
10. To allow air to escape from the hose, depress the trigger on the trigger handle until there is a steady stream of water.
11. Turn switch to the ON position. Note: If no sound is heard, this is normal.

Operation

Before Each Use

AWARNING

• Never use the pressure washer to draw in water contaminated with solvents (e.g., paint thinners, gasoline, oil, etc.).
• Dirt in the water inlet will damage the pressure washer. To avoid this risk, we recommend inspecting and cleaning the water inlet regularly.
• Always prevent debris from being drawn into the washer by using a clean water source and an additional accessory water filter if required.
• To prolong the life of the washer, rest the washer for 5 minutes after every 30 minutes of use.

Surface Preparation

Before starting any cleaning task, it is important to inspect the area for objects that could create a hazard. Remove any objects from the work area that could be tripped over, such as toys or outdoor furniture. Ensure that all doors and windows are closed tightly.

Water Supply (Cold Water Only)

Only draw cold water through the washer. The water hose must be at least a 1/2" (13 mm) in diameter. The flow rate of the water supply must not fall below 2 GPM (gallons per minute). The flow rate can be determined by running the water for one minute into an empty 5-gallon container and measuring the volume. The water supply temperature must not exceed 104°F (40°C).

Operating Instructions

AWARNING

• Before starting any cleaning task, it is important to inspect the area for objects that could create a hazard.
• Remove any objects from the work area that could be tripped over, such as toys or outdoor furniture. Ensure that all doors and windows are closed tightly.
• Damage may occur to painted surfaces if chemical is allowed to dry on the surface. Wash and rinse a small section at a time. Avoid working on hot surfaces or in direct sunlight.
• Never use: Bleach, chlorine products and other corrosive chemicals, liquids containing solvents (i.e., paint thinners, gasoline, oils), tri-sodium phosphate products, ammonia products, or acid-based products. These chemicals will harm the pressure washer and will damage the surface being cleaned.

Adjustable Spray Nozzle

The adjustable spray nozzle can be adjusted from fan to jet by turning the nozzle.

Working with Detergents

Working with detergent ensures a quick soaking of the dirt, and allows the high-pressure water to penetrate and remove the dirt more effectively.

To apply detergents, you must be operating at low-pressure, equivalent to a garden hose. The high-pressure setting is used for cleaning. You cannot apply detergents when working at high-pressure.

Always test detergent in an inconspicuous area before use. Do not use bleach. Only use cleaning detergents recommended for pressure washers.

1. Engage the trigger handle's safety lock.
2. Insert the male end of the tank wand into the trigger handle firmly. While pushing in the tank firmly, turn clockwise until tabs lock into place to ensure a leak-free connection. Fill tank with approved pressure washer detergents / soaps only.
3. Turn on the pressure washer. Pull the trigger to operate the washer. The liquid detergent will automatically mix with water and be discharged through the nozzle at low-pressure.
4. Allow detergent to remain on the surface for a short time before rinsing. Do not allow detergent to dry on the surface.
5. When you have finished using the detergent injection system, fill the detergent tank with clean water. Siphon water at low-pressure for one minute, so that all detergent is flushed through the system. Remove detergent tank, and rinse it thoroughly.

Taking a Break

• Never leave a pressure washer unattended when under pressure and plugged in to a power source.
• 1. Engage trigger handle safety lock.
• 2. Turn pressure washer to the Off (O) position.
• 3. Unplug the power cord from the outlet.

After Each Use

AWARNING

• Turn off water supply and squeeze trigger to depressurize the washer. Failure to do so could result in personal injury due to discharge of high-pressure water.
• Failure to clean properly will cause the detergent injection system to become clogged and inoperable.
• Drain pressure washer after each use.
• For storage, remove water connection, turn on the washer for a few seconds, and press the trigger handle to purge the remaining water in the pump. Turn off immediately.

Shutting Down and Cleaning Up

• Turn the switch to the Off (O) position.
• Unplug the power cord from the outlet.
• Turn off the water supply.
• Press the trigger to release any remaining water pressure.
• Disconnect the garden hose from the water inlet on the washer.
• Engage the trigger handle's safety lock.

Maintenance

AWARNING

• Disconnect the pressure washer from the power source before conducting any maintenance.
• Drain trigger handle assembly of any remaining water. Aim trigger handle downwards and squeeze trigger.

Optimum Winterizing Procedure

Winterizing your pressure washer will help protect and prolong its life. We strongly recommend you follow these steps using the *Pressure Washer Pump Guard. This will keep the internal parts lubricated, protected from rust, and prevent the pump from freezing.

• Connect the Pressure Washer Pump Guard hose onto the water inlet.
• Depress the button on top of Pressure Washer Pump Guard container.
• Continue until fluid exits the pressure hose.
• Remove the hose from pump inlet (water inlet).

*Note: The Pressure Washer Pump Guard is not supplied with your pressure washer. It can be purchased where you purchased this pressure washer and at most home center stores. For more information call: 1-800-556-7885 and ask for item #1579000.

Quick Winterizing Procedure

If you cannot do the optimum winterizing procedure, you can still protect your pressure washer from winter damage by doing the following:

1. Disconnect all water connections.
2. Turn on the washer for a few seconds, until the remaining water in the pump exits. Turn off immediately.
3. Do not allow high-pressure hose to become kinked.
4. Store the washer and accessories in a room that does not reach freezing temperatures. Do not store near a furnace or other sources of heat as it may dry out the pump seals.

Connections

Connections on pressure washer hose trigger handles and adjustable wands should be cleaned regularly and lubricated with non-water soluble grease.

Tip of the Wand Only

A clogged tip can cause pressure build-up, so please clean immediately. You can clean the wand tip by carefully inserting the tip cleaning needle, or a thin, sharp instrument (i.e., sewing needle) into the tip to remove debris.

Water Filter Screen

The pressure washer is equipped with a water filter screen to protect the pump. If the screen is not kept clean, the flow of water to the pressure washer will be restricted and the pump may be damaged.

• To clean the water filter screen, push the connector inside and remove the filter screen from the water inlet.
• Rinse the screen until it is free of debris and blockage.
• Replace the screen immediately to prevent any foreign matter from entering the pump.

Troubleshooting

AWARNING

Disconnect the pressure washer from the power source before making any repairs. Drain the trigger handle assembly of any remaining water. Aim the trigger handle downwards and squeeze the trigger.

Parts Information

Parts Diagram

Parts List

Replacement Parts

For replacement parts and technical questions, please call Customer Service at 1-866-902-9690.

Not all product components are available for replacement. The illustrations provided are a convenient reference to the location and position of parts in the assembly sequence.

When ordering parts, the following information will be required: item description, item model number, item serial number/item lot date code, and the replacement part reference number.

The distributor reserves the rights to make design changes and improvements to product lines and manuals without notice.

Limited Warranty

Northern Tool and Equipment Company, Inc. ("We" or "Us") warrants to the original purchaser only ("You" or "Your") that the Ironton product purchased will be free from material defects in both materials and workmanship, normal wear and tear excepted, for a period of one year from date of purchase. The foregoing warranty is valid only if the installation and use of the product is strictly in accordance with product instructions. There are no other warranties, express or implied, including the warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. If the product does not comply with this limited warranty, Your sole and exclusive remedy is that We will, at our sole option and within a commercially reasonable time, either replace the product or product component without charge to You or refund the purchase price (less shipping). This limited warranty is not transferable.

Limitations on the Warranty

This limited warranty does not cover: (a) normal wear and tear; (b) damage through abuse, neglect, misuse, or as a result of any accident or in any other manner; (c) damage from misapplication, overloading, or improper installation; (d) improper maintenance and repair; and (e) product alteration in any manner by anyone other than Us, with the sole exception of alterations made pursuant to product instructions and in a workmanlike manner.

Obligations of Purchaser

You must retain Your product purchase receipt to verify date of purchase and that You are the original purchaser. To make a warranty claim, contact Us at 1-866-902-9690, identify the product by make and model number, and follow the claim instructions that will be provided. The product and the purchase receipt must be provided to Us in order to process Your warranty claim. Any returned product that is replaced or refunded by Us becomes our property. You will be responsible for return shipping costs or costs related to Your return visit to a retail store.

Remedy Limits

Product replacement or a refund of the purchase price is Your sole remedy under this limited warranty or any other warranty related to the product. We shall not be liable for: service or labor charges or damage to Your property incurred in removing or replacing the product; any damages, including, without limitation, damages to tangible personal property or personal injury, related to Your improper use, installation, or maintenance of the product or product component; or any indirect, incidental or consequential damages of any kind for any reason.

Assumption of Risk

You acknowledge and agree that any use of the product for any purpose other than the specified use(s) stated in the product instructions is at Your own risk.

Governing Law

This limited warranty gives You specific legal rights, and You also may have other rights which vary from state to state. Some states do not allow limitations or exclusions on implied warranties or incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations may not apply to You. This limited warranty is governed by the laws of the State of Minnesota, without regard to rules pertaining to conflicts of law. The state courts located in Dakota County, Minnesota shall have exclusive jurisdiction for any disputes relating to this warranty.