Your Shark HydroVac won't spray water or cleaning solution. Learn how to unclog the nozzle, prime the pump, and fix common wet vacuum issues.
The Shark HydroVac is a wet/dry vacuum that vacuums and washes hard floors simultaneously. It dispenses water or cleaning solution while vacuuming up dirty water.
Your Shark HydroVac won’t spray water or cleaning solution. Learn how to unclog the nozzle, prime the pump, and fix common wet vacuum issues.
- Symptoms: HydroVac not dispensing water, Spray nozzle clogged, Pump makes noise but no water, Dry cleaning only
- Tools: Clean Water, White Vinegar, Thin Wire
- Difficulty: Medium
When the water dispensing system fails, here is how to fix it.
1. Check the Clean Water Tank
Is It Empty?
The most common cause is simply an empty tank. Remove the clean water tank and refill it.
Is It Properly Seated?
The tank must click into place. If loose, the valve won’t open.
Is the Valve Stuck?
- Remove the tank and look at the bottom valve.
- Press it gently to ensure it moves freely.
- Rinse with warm water to clear debris.
2. Prime the Pump System
Air bubbles can block water flow.
How to Prime
- Fill the tank completely.
- Attach the tank securely.
- Turn on the HydroVac.
- Press and hold the spray trigger for 30 seconds.
- Water should begin flowing. It may take several attempts.
3. Unclog the Spray Nozzle
Mineral deposits from hard water can clog the nozzle.
How to Unclog
- Turn off and unplug the HydroVac.
- Locate the spray nozzle on the floor head.
- Use a thin wire, paperclip, or toothpick to clear the opening.
- Flush with a tank full of 50% white vinegar, 50% water.
- Run the machine until the tank is empty.
- Refill with plain water and run again to rinse.
4. Check for Internal Blockages
If the tank and nozzle are clear, the internal tubing may be blocked.
- Look for kinks in the water line.
- Check if the line is disconnected inside the handle.
Prevention Tips
| Habit | Why |
|---|---|
| Use distilled water | Prevents mineral buildup |
| Empty after every use | Prevents stagnant water and mold |
| Run vinegar rinse monthly | Clears buildup before it blocks flow |
| Store with empty tanks | Prevents vacuum from sitting in moisture |
TIP: If you use Shark’s cleaning solution, dilute it even more than the instructions suggest. Concentrated solution can leave sticky residue that clogs the system over time.