Can AVA machines self-prime? (Self-suction, running from a bucket, water butt, etc.)

All AVA machines can use water from a bucket or tank, as they capable of self-suction/self-priming. AVA offers a self-priming hose, which we of course recommend to better facilitate this function, however a standard hose can also be used.

All AVA V3 pump and motor units (i.e. the pumps in AVA GO, AVA EASY and AVA SMART) can suck water upwards without a significant loss in pressure. These can suck water up to the washer with the following limitations: 0.5 meter height difference (between the machine and the water source), and a maximum 3 meter hose length. These limits are set in order to ensure the efficiency of the washer remains at close to 100%. If you let the machine suck from a height difference of, for example one metre, this will still work perfectly well for most customers, but you may experience a small loss of pressure. At a height of 1.5 metres, the pressure loss will be more noticeable.

AVA V4 and V6 pumps can be found in AVA Master and AVA Evolution models, as well as the in the open frame model simply designated AVA V6, and are all capable of self priming. From 2023, these machines are still self-priming but have an absolute height change limit of 0.5 metres (which is about what we would recomend as a maximum height difference for previous machines with these motor-pump units). If the difference is higher, the pressure loss will be noticeable, but primarily the challenge may be in the start-up of the motor itself. We recommend that you fill the suction hose with water before connecting it to the water filter. If possible, start with the machine as close to or below the water source, and flush the machine through without a nozzle until all the air has been expelled, then move the machine to a suitable location.

If you find that the machine works however with uneven pressure, it may be taking in air through the coupling. Tighten the connection on the hose and try take the hose off and on again to see if this helps.

All AVA machines can be used with salt water. You must make sure that the water filter is clean at all times, and you may need to stop and clean the filter if it gets dirty along the way. After being used with salt water, it is important to rinse the machine through thoroughly with fresh water as soon as is reasonably possible. We recommend that after use with salt water, you use the same procedure as  we recommend for long-term storage/winter preparation. If the machine is used with salt water, the need for service may be accelerated, especially if you do not follow our tips above. All parts that can be damaged by salt water can be replaced as part of your next service.

The easiest way to suck water from a water source is to use an AVA suction hose. They have a check valve at the end which is necessary because the machine stops sucking every time you release the gun. Without such a valve, all water will flow back to the source and thus you will have to spend a long time before you can flush again. The machine sucks water very effectively, but not air. An ordinary garden hose is usually too soft, so that it is sucked flat by the vacuum and shuts off the water.