Page 1
PRESSURE WASHER
OWNER'S MANUAL
Model VPW44H
120V., 60 Hz., 12 Amps.
FANTOM
94 Main Mill Street, Door 16
Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Tel.: 1 (800) 275-9251
Page 2
SAFETY & WARNING INSTRUCTIONS
For safety reasons, it is recommended that you read this manual before attempting to
operate this appliance. Failure to follow these instructions can result in personal injury or
equipment problems. To help recognize note the following symbols:
DANGER
Danger indicates an imminently hazardous
situation, which, if not avoided, WILL result in
death or serious injury.
WARNING
Warning indicates a potentially hazardous
situation, which, if not avoided, COULD result
in death or serious injury.
CAUTION
Caution indicates a potentially hazardous
situation, which, if not avoided, MAY result in
death or serious injury.
NOTE: Information that requires special
attention.
Important Safety Instructions SAVE THESE
INSTRUCTIONS
When using this product, basic precautions
should always be followed, including the
following:
DANGER
1. Read all instructions before using the
product.
2. To reduce the risk of injury, close
supervision is necessary when this
product is used near children.
3. Always disconnect power (electric units)
before disassembling, repairing or
changing attachments on the unit.
4. Follow all safety codes as well as the
Occupational Safety and Health Act
(OSHA).
5. Ensure safety devices are operating
properly before each use. DO NOT
remove or modify any part of the gun or
unit.
6. Know how to stop this unit and relieve
pressure quickly. Be thoroughly familiar
with the controls.
7. Stay alert - Watch what you are doing.
8. Do not operate this unit when fatigued or
under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
9. Keep operation area clear of all persons.
10. Do not overreach or stand on unstable
support. Keep good footing and balance
at all times.
11. Follow maintenance instructions
specified in this manual.
12. This product shall be connected to a
power supply receptacle protected by a
ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)
(electric power washers only).
13. If product is provided with a GFCI, be
sure to inspect the cord and GFCI prior
to use. Any repair or replacement of the
power cord must be performed by a
qualified (licensed or certified) electrical
technician.
WARNING
Risk of injection or severe injury. Keep clear
of nozzle. Do not discharge streams at
persons. This product is to be used only by
trained operators. Always remove lance
from gun before cleaning debris from tip.
• Keep clear of nozzle. NEVER direct high
pressure spray at any person, animal or
self.
• Always wear safety goggles or glasses
and protective clothing when operating,
performing maintenance or changing
accessories.
• Never put hands or fingers over the spray
tip while operating the unit.
• Never try to stop or deflect leaks with any
body part.
• Always engage the trigger safety latch in
the safe position when spraying is
stopped even if only for a few minutes.
• Always follow detergent manufacturer's
label recommendations for proper use of
detergents. Always protect eyes, skin and
respiratory system from detergent use.
WARNING
SERVICING OF A DOUBLE-INSULATED
APPLIANCE.
In a double-insulated product, two systems
of insulation are provided instead of
grounding. No grounding means are
provided for a double-insulated product, nor
should grounding means be added to the
product. Servicing a double-insulated
product requires extreme care and
knowledge of the system and should be
done only by qualified service personnel.
Replacement parts for a double-insulated
product must be identical to the
original parts. A double-insulated
product is marked with the words
" double Insulation" or "Double
Insulated". Product may also be
marked with symbol shown.
Rev. 04/051 10
Model VPW44H
THREE (3) YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY
FANTOM warrants this product to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of
three (3) years from the date of the original purchase, when utilized for normal household use, subject
to the following conditions, exclusions and exceptions.
If your appliance fails to operate properly while in use under normal household conditions within the
warranty period, return the complete appliance and accessories, freight prepaid to FANTOM, 94 Main
Mill Street, Door 16, Plattsburgh, NY 12901. If the appliance is found by FANTOM to be defective in
material or workmanship, FANTOM will repair or replace it free of charge. Proof of purchase date
and $ 18.95 to cover the cost of return shipping and handling must be included. *
Non-durable parts including, without limitation, hoses, lances, brushes and electrical parts which
normally require replacement are specifically excluded from warranty.
The liability of FANTOM is limited solely to the cost of the repair or replacement of the unit at our
option. This warranty does not cover normal wear of parts and does not apply to any unit that has
been tampered with or used for commercial purposes. This limited warranty does not cover damage
caused by misuse, abuse, negligent handling or damage due to faulty packaging or mishandling in
transit. This warranty does not cover damage or defects caused by or resulting from damages from
shipping or repairs, service or alterations to the product or any of its parts, which have been
performed by a repair person not authorized by FANTOM.
This warranty is extended to the original purchaser of the unit and excludes all other legal and/or
conventional warranties. The responsibility of FANTOM if any, is limited to the specific obligations
expressly assumed by it under the terms of the limited warranty. In no event is FANTOM liable for
incidental or consequential damages of any nature whatsoever. Some states do not permit the
exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above may not apply to you
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from
state to state.
*Important: Carefully pack item to avoid damage in shipping. Be sure to include proof of
purchase date and to attach tag to item before packing with your name, complete address and
phone number with a note giving purchase information, model number and what you believe is
the problem with item. We recommend you insure the package (as damage in shipping is not
covered by your warranty). Mark the outside of your package “ATTENTION CUSTOMER
SERVICE”. We are constantly striving to improve our products, therefore the specifications
contained herein are subject to change without notice.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Please fill out and mail the product registration card within ten (10) days of purchase. The registration
will enable us to contact you in the unlikely event of a product safety notification. By returning this
card you acknowledge to have read and understood the instructions for use, and warnings set forth in
the accompanying instructions.
RETURN TO FANTOM: 94 Main Mill Street, Door 16, Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Model VPW44H
_______________________________________________________________________
Appliance model
_______________________________________________________________________________
Date purchased Name of store
_______________________________________________________________________________
Owner’s name
_______________________________________________________________________________
Address City State Zip Code
Printed in China
OWNERSHIP REGISTRATION CARD
.
Page 3
TROUBLE SHOOTING
PROBLEM POSSIBLE REASON POSSIBLE SOLUTION
PRESSURE
WASHER WILL
NOT START WHEN
THE ON/OFF
SWITCH IS IN THE
"ON" POSITION
PUMP DOESN'T
REACH
ADEQUATE
PRESSURE OR
CAVITATES
PRESSURE
WASHER HAS OR
WILL NOT
MAINTAIN
PRESSURE
PRESSURE
WASHER MAKES
EXCESSIVE NOISE
MOTOR DOES
NOT RUN
CONTINUOUSLY
WHEN TRIGGER IS
SQUEEZED/
MOTOR BUZZES
WHEN TURNED
ON BUT DOES
NOT
START/MOTOR
STOPS RUNNING
WHILE UNIT IS IN
USE
1. Electrical socket is faulty or
breaker has tripped.
2. Voltage is inadequate.
3. GFCI has tripped.
4. Power cord is not plugged in.
1. Water intake filter is clogged.
2. Pump is drawing air.
3. Diameter of garden hose is
too small.
4. Water supply is restricted.
1. Excessive air in waterline and
pump.
2. Water supply is restricted.
1. Air intake is blocked.
2. Water intake filter is dirty.
1. Net voltage is lower than
suggested.
1. Check plug, socket, fuses,
breaker.
2. Check that the voltage is
adequate.
3. Reset/Try another electrical
outlet.
4. Plug in power cord.
1. Remove and clean water
intake filter.
2. Tighten connections/bleed
system.
3. Replace with 3/4 inch
garden hose.
4. Check hose for kinks or
leaks, open tap fully.
1. Turn unit and water supply
off/Bleed system/Hold
trigger down. Allow water to
flow through the pump for
30 seconds.
2. Check hose for kinks or
leaks, open tap fully.
1. Clean the air intake vents.
2. Check & clean filter.
1. Check that the voltage is
adequate.
SAFETY & WARNING INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING
Do not use pressure that exceeds the
operating pressure of any of the parts
(hoses, fittings, etc.) in the pressurized
system. Ensure that all equipment and
accessories are rated to withstand the
maximum working pressure of the unit.
WARNING
Explosion hazard.
• NEVER spray flammable liquids or use
pressure washer in areas containing
combustible dust, liquids or vapors.
• NEVER operate this machine in a closed
building or in or near an explosive
environment.
WARNING
Do not spray electrical apparatus or wiring.
• NEVER disconnect the high pressure
discharge hose from the machine while
the system is pressurized. To depressurize
the machine, turn the power and water
supply off, then press the gun trigger 2-3
times.
• NEVER permanently engage the trigger
mechanism on the gun.
• NEVER operate the machine without all
the components properly connected to
the unit (handle, gun/lance assembly,
nozzle, etc.).
WARNING
Equipment damage.
• ALWAYS turn water supply "ON" before
turning the pressure washer "ON".
Running pump dry causes serious
damage.
• Do not operate the pressure washer with
the inlet water screen removed. Keep
screen clear of debris and sediment.
• NEVER operate pressure washer with
broken or missing parts. Check
equipment regularly and repair or replace
worn or damaged parts immediately.
• Use only the nozzle supplied with this
machine.
• Never leave the lance unattended while
the machine is running.
• Never attempt to alter factory settings.
Altering factory settings could damage the
unit and will void the warranty.
• Always hold gun and lance firmly when
starting and operating the machine.
• NEVER allow the unit to run with the
trigger released (OFF) for more than one
minute. Resulting heat buildup will
damage pump.
• NEVER store the pressure washer outdoors
or where it could freeze. The pump will be
seriously damaged.
• Release trigger when changing from high to
low pressure modes. Failure to do so could
result to damage to the nozzle.
• This unit must always be used in the
horizontal position.
CAUTION
Keep hose away from sharp objects. Bursting
hose may cause injury. Examine hoses
regularly and replace if damaged. Do not
attempt to mend a damaged hose.
EXTENSION CORDS
DANGER
If using an extension cord, use only grounded,
three wire extension cords that are in good
condition. Use only extension cords that are
intended for outdoor use. These extension
cords are identified by a marking "Acceptable
for use with outdoor appliances; store indoors
while not in use." use only extension cords
having an electrical rating not less than the
product. Do not use damages extension
cords. Examine extension cord before using
and replace if damaged. Do not abuse
extension cord and do not pull on the cord to
disconnect. Keep cord away from heat and
sharp edges. Always disconnect from the
receptacle before disconnecting the product
from the extension cord.
Note: Do not use 16 or 18 AWG extension
cords on this product.
DANGER
Failure to follow these instructions can result
in serious injury, including death.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of electrocution, keep all
connections dry and off the ground. Do not
touch the plug with wet hands.
Extension Cord
14 AWG YES NO
Allowable Length
25 ' 50 ’
9 2
12 AWG YES YES
Page 4
SAFETY & WARNING INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING
When an extension cable is required,
you must ensure that it has the right
ampere rating for your pressure cleaner
and is in safe electrical condition.
WARNING
When using the pressure cleaner, use
safety equipment including protective
clothing and safety goggles.
WARNING
Do not use acids, solvents, or any other
flammable material in this product. These
products can cause physical injuries to the
operator and irreversible damage to the
machine.
• Never use the pressure cleaner to draw
in water contaminated with solvents, e.g.
paint thinners, gasoline, oil, etc.
Always prevent debris from being
•
drawn into the unit by suing a clean
water source.
•
Always grip the gun firmly before
pressing the trigger, to counteract the
recoil when starting.
•
Always discharge residual pressure
before disconnecting the hose.
• To ensure the appliance safety, use
only original spare parts from the
manufacturer, or approved by the
manufacturer.
•
Always hold the trigger and lance
with two hands and keep a tight grip.
• Always keep the filter clean. If you
are in a high mineral area, check with
the water supply company whether
you should use additional filters
before using the pressure cleaner.
3 8
WARNING
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Maintenance & Cleaning Winterizing & Long Term Storage
Lubrication: The pressure washer is
supplied with a closed lubrication system,
so no addition of oil is needed.
Checking the Water Intake Filter: The
water intake filter is located inside the water
intake connector. (Fig. 10). Remove
periodically and inspect for any deposits
that might accumulate there.
Hose Connector
Water Intake
Fig. 10
Cleaning the Nozzles: If you notice that the
output pressure fluctuates, you may have to
clean the nozzles. Turn the unit "Off". Unplug
from electric outlet and disconnect the water
supply. Remove the lances, trigger gun and
hose from unit. Take the small metal pin
provided and insert into the nozzle end to
remove any obstructions. (Fig. 11)
Fig. 11
This will occur more frequently if your
water supply is very hard.
Storing Your Pressure Washer
When you have finished using your
pressure washer, follow these steps for safe
storage:
1. Turn the pressure washer to the "Off"
position.
2. Turn off the water supply.
3. Before disconnecting the high pressure
hose connection, point the trigger gun in
a safe direction away from you and
discharge the high pressure water.
Disconnect the high pressure hose from
the pressure washer and trigger gun.
4. Disconnect garden hose from pressure
washer.
5. Remove excess water from the pump by
tipping the unit on both sides to drain
any remaining water from the water
intake and outlet fittings.
6. Drain detergent tank and flush with clean
water.
7. Wipe away any remaining water on all
parts and fittings.
8. Engage the trigger gun safety lock.
9. Store the unit and accessories in a room
above 32°F.
1. Disconnect all water connections.
2. Turn the pressure washer on for a
few seconds, until any remaining
water in the pump exits.
3. Turn the unit off immediately.
4. Store the pressure washer, parts and
accessories in an area with a
temperature above 32°F.
Motor Thermostat
Important: This pressure washer is
equipped with a motor thermostat. The
motor will stop if it is overheating. Wait
20-30 minutes before starting the unit
again. If it stops again, please call
customer service at 1 (800) 275-9251.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter
(GFCI)
This unit is equipped with a Ground
Fault Circuit Interrupter (
the plug. This device provides additional
protection from the risk of electrical
shock. When connecting the GFCI to the
electrical outlet, the indicator should
appear red. If the indicator is not red,
depress the RESET button on the GFCI
until the indicator appears red.
GFCI) built into
Cleaning Tips
Wood Decks: Rinse deck and
surrounding area with fresh water. If
using detergent, fill the detergent
applicator bottle and apply to the area
being cleaned. For optimal results,
reduce your work area to small sections
and clean each section one at a time.
Allow the detergent to rest on the surface
for a few minutes and then rinse at high
pressure. Do not let the detergent dry on
the deck. Always clean from left to right
and top to bottom for best results. Rinse
at high pressure using the fan jet keeping
the tip of the spray nozzle 8-12 inches
from the surface.
woods, increase the distance from the
cleaning surface.
Cars, Boats, & Motorcycles:
area to be cleaned before applying
detergent with clean water. Fill the
detergent applicator bottle and apply to
the area being cleaned. To achieve best
results, clean one side at a time. Allow
the detergent to rest on the surface for a
few minutes but do not let it dry. Rinse at
high pressure using the fan jet in a
sweeping motion keeping the tip of the
spray nozzle at least 8-10 inches away
from the surface. Maintain a further
distance when using a direct spray. Wipe
surface for a polished finish.
Caution: For soft
Wet down
Page 5
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS GETTING TO KNOW YOUR PRESSURE WASHER
CAUTION
When you wish to stop using the
pressure washer temporarily, make sure
that the safety lock has been engaged to
avoid any accidental operation. (Fig. 5)
Safety
Fig. 5
Lock
Using the Adjustable Fan Jet lance
The angle of the water on the fan jet
lance may be adjusted between 0° and
60° by turning the nozzle adjuster
counter-clockwise for a wider angle or
clockwise for a narrower angle. (Fig. 7)
Always make sure that the "On/Off'
switch is in the "Off" position before
changing the angle of the water jet. It is
also recommended that the trigger gun
safety lock be engaged as well. The
adjustable fan jet lance allows you to use
any variety of spray pattern from a full fan
spray to a direct stream spray. When
using the pressure washer to clean wood
decks, siding, vehicles, etc., always start
using the fan spray and begin spraying
from a minimum 36" away to avoid
damaging the surface of the material that
you are cleaning. Always clear the area
that you will be cleaning of people, pets
and objects.
Fig. 7
Using the Rotary Brush
The rotary brush is used with the trigger
gun. Push the brush onto the trigger
gun nozzle and turn clockwise to lock
as you would for the lance. (Fig. 6) The
brush may be used for washing cars,
boats, windows and other similar items.
The rotary brush operates at open
orifice pressure so that it will not direct
a stream of water. (Fig. 8)
Fig. 8
Using Detergent with the Pressure
Washer
The soap dispenser may only be used
with the trigger gun.
Add detergent to the bottle and then
attach the detergent applicator bottle to
the high pressure lance, just push it
firmly onto the end of the trigger gun
and turn clockwise to lock in place.
(Fig. 9) To remove the detergent
applicator bottle, lift the tab on the top
of the connector and pull off.
Fig. 9
WARNING
Do not use acids, solvents, or any other
flammable material in this product. These
products can cause physical injuries to the
operator and irreversible damage to the
machine.
Rear View
3
15
1. Water Output
2. Water Inlet
3. Accessory Storage
4. Handle
5. On/Off Switch
6. Rotary Brush
7. High Pressure Hose
8. Trigger Gun
9. Safety Trigger Lock
10. High Pressure
Hose Connector
11. Trigger
12. Adjustable Lance
13. Garden Hose Coupling
14. Soap Dispenser
15. Power Cord Storage
Illustrations may differ somewhat from actual product.
Technical Specifications
Voltage: 120V., 60Hz.
Power: 12 Amps
Pressure: 1600 psi. (max)
Flow Rate: 1.65 gpm
7 4
Page 6
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONSOPERATING INSTRUCTIONS OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Suitable Use of Your Pressure
Washer
This high pressure washer is suitable for
non-professional use. The working
temperature must range between 40°F
and 120 °F. The machine is supplied with
a trigger gun, equipped with a trigger
handle to offer a comfortable working
position.
The high pressure washer is suitable for
washing with cold water only. The water
that you use for the pressure washer
must not be dirty, sandy or contain any
corrosive chemical products.
The pressure washer may be used to
wash shutters, doors, tiles, cars, decks,
campers, etc., where high water pressure
is necessary to remove dirt.
With the detergent tank, the pressure
washer can be used to apply a thick
coating of aerated detergent to the areas
being cleaned .
When using the pressure washer we
recommend the use of personal safety
items to reduce the risk of accidental
injury.
Unpacking Your Pressure Washer Attaching High Pressure Hose to
After you open the package, check to
make sure that all the parts are in the box
as per parts that are illustrated on page 3
of this guide. Due to transport and
packing restraints, some accessories
may be supplied unassembled; in this
case follow the assembly instructions in
this manual. If you have any questions,
call customer service at 1 (800) 275-
9251. Keep all small and potentially
harmful parts of the packaging (plastic
bags, foamed polystyrene, nails, etc.) out
of the reach of children.
Correct Use of the Pressure
Pressure Washer Once all the desired attachments and
1. While facing the front of the unit
attach the high pressure hose to the
high pressure output connector on
the front side of the unit. Twist on
securely to avoid leakage. (Fig. 2)
High Pressure
Output
Fig. 2
(Lower Connector)
Washer
• Place the pressure washer in a safe
area and on a horizontal surface.
• When using the pressure washer,
hold the trigger gun firmly with one
hand on the handle and the other on
the lance. (Fig. 1)
Fig. 1
• NEVER point the water jet at electric
wiring, at the pump unit, or at any
person or animal.
2. Then ensure that the other end of the
high pressure hose is fastened
securely to the trigger gun. (Fig. 3)
Fig. 3
3. Once the high pressure hose is
connected to the trigger gun, you can
attach the lance, rotary brush or soap
dispenser accessories. To attach
either the lance or the brush to the
trigger gun, hold the trigger gun in
your left hand insert the desired
accessory and push it in all the way
into the connector on the trigger gun
and turn it clockwise 60° until it locks
in place. To remove the attachment,
push down on the attachment and
turn counter-clockwise 60° and then
pull out.
Make sure that the attachments are
securely locked in place before use.
(Fig. 4)
Fig. 4
Garden Hose Connection
the high pressure hose are attached to
the pressure washer, you can connect
the garden hose to the unit.
1. Make sure that the water intake filter
is inside the water intake inlet.
(Fig. 5)
2. Attach the male adapter (supplied)
to the water intake connector on the
front side of the unit. (Fig. 5)
3. Attach the female hose coupling to
the garden hose. (Fig. 5)
4. Connect the female hose coupling
to the male adapter making sure
that it is secured in place.
(Fig. 5)
Water inlet
Garden hose
(not supplied)
Fig. 5
Hose
connector
4. After all the connections have been
made and
BEFORE you plug the
pressure washer into an electrical
outlet, open the water supply and
press on the trigger switch in order to
remove any air which may be in the
hose or pump. Continue to press on
the trigger switch until you get a
constant flow of water coming out of
the trigger gun. Allow water to flow
for 30 seconds.
5. Once this is accomplished, release
the trigger switch. Engage the safety
lock on the trigger
6. Ensure that the "On/Off" switch, at
the side of the unit, is on the "Off"
position, then plug the unit into an
electrical outlet and turn the unit to
the "On" position.
7. Now you are ready to use the
pressure washer. Disengage the
safety lock and depress the trigger on
the trigger gun.
Garden hose
coupling
5 6
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