If you own a Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro, you know how helpful it is for cleaning up after pets. But what happens if your Crosswave stops spraying water? Suddenly, your floors stay dirty, and your machine feels useless. This problem is more common than you might think, and it can be frustrating—especially when you need a quick clean after your pet makes a mess. Understanding why your Crosswave Pet Pro is not spraying water, and knowing how to fix it, can save you time, money, and stress.
Let’s explore the main reasons why your Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro may stop spraying water, how to fix it, and what you can do to prevent this issue in the future. By the end of this article, you’ll feel confident troubleshooting and maintaining your Crosswave for the best cleaning results.
How The Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro Spraying System Works
Before diving into possible problems, it helps to understand how the spraying system operates. The Crosswave Pet Pro uses a water tank to hold clean water (and cleaning solution). When you press the spray trigger, a pump pushes water through tubes and a spray nozzle onto the floor. The brush then scrubs, and the vacuum pulls dirty water into a separate tank.
Key components involved:
- Clean water tank: Holds water and solution
- Spray trigger: Activates the pump
- Pump: Moves water through the system
- Tubes/hoses: Carry water from tank to nozzle
- Spray nozzle: Releases water onto the floor
If any part fails or gets blocked, spraying stops.
Common Reasons The Crosswave Pet Pro Is Not Spraying Water
Several issues can cause the Crosswave to stop spraying. Here are the most frequent causes:
1. Empty Or Improperly Seated Clean Water Tank
The simplest reason is an empty water tank. Sometimes, the tank may look full but isn’t seated correctly, preventing water from flowing.
How to check:
- Remove and refill the tank with clean water and solution.
- Make sure the tank clicks firmly into place.
2. Clogged Spray Nozzle Or Tubing
Over time, mineral deposits or pet hair can block the spray nozzle or the water tubes. Hard water areas are especially prone to this problem.
How to check:
- Remove the brush roll window.
- Inspect the nozzle for debris.
- Use a thin pin or needle to clear any visible blockages.
3. Faulty Or Jammed Trigger
The spray trigger may get stuck or break, especially if the unit is used heavily.
How to check:
- Squeeze the trigger and see if it feels loose, stuck, or doesn’t “click.”
- If broken, you may need to contact Bissell for a replacement.
4. Airlock In The Pump Or Tubes
Air trapped in the tubes can prevent water from moving, a problem called airlock.
How to fix:
- Remove and reattach the water tank several times.
- Prime the pump by holding the spray trigger for 10–15 seconds with the unit on.
- You may hear a change in sound as water starts to flow.
5. Dirty Or Damaged Water Filter
Some Crosswave models include a water filter that can get clogged with debris.
How to check:
- Refer to your model’s manual to locate the filter.
- Remove and rinse it under warm water.
6. Mechanical Or Electrical Failure
If none of the above solve the issue, the pump or internal wiring may be faulty. This usually requires professional repair.
Signs of this issue:
- No sound from the pump when spraying.
- Water tank and nozzle are clear, but still no spray.
Step-by-step Troubleshooting Guide
If your Crosswave Pet Pro stops spraying, follow these steps to find the problem:
- Check the clean water tank. Is it full? Is it seated correctly?
- Inspect the spray nozzle and tubes. Remove blockages if you see any.
- Test the trigger. Does it move smoothly and spring back?
- Prime the pump. Hold the trigger for 10–15 seconds to remove airlocks.
- Look for leaks. Is water pooling under the machine? Leaks may mean a loose tank or damaged hose.
- Listen for pump noise. If silent, the pump or wiring may have failed.
If your Crosswave still isn’t spraying after these checks, you likely need professional help.
Comparison: Common Issues Vs. Rare Issues
Below is a comparison of how often certain problems cause spraying failure in the Crosswave Pet Pro:
| Problem | Frequency | Difficulty to Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Empty/misaligned tank | Very Common | Very Easy |
| Clogged nozzle/tube | Common | Easy |
| Airlock | Occasional | Moderate |
| Broken trigger | Uncommon | Hard |
| Pump/wiring failure | Rare | Professional Repair |
Preventing Spraying Problems
Regular care makes a big difference in how well your Crosswave works. Here’s how to keep the spraying system in top shape:
- Rinse the clean water tank after every use.
- Use distilled water if your tap water is hard. This prevents mineral buildup.
- Clean the spray nozzle and brush roll window weekly.
- Check for pet hair or debris after each cleaning session.
- Store the unit upright so water does not leak or sit in the tubes.
One insight many new users miss: even small amounts of hair or dust can block the nozzle. After every cleaning, hold the Crosswave over a sink and run clean water through the spray system for a few seconds.
Cleaning The Spray Nozzle And Tubes: A Closer Look
A blocked nozzle is a leading cause of spray failure. Here’s how to clean it properly:
- Turn off and unplug the Crosswave.
- Remove the brush window and brush roll.
- Look for the spray nozzle opening above the brush area.
- Use a soft brush or a straightened paperclip to gently clear the hole.
- Reinstall the brush roll and window.
- Run clean water through the system to test.
If you see white buildup around the nozzle, it’s likely mineral scale. Soak a cotton swab in vinegar and gently clean the area.
Crosswave Pet Pro Vs. Regular Crosswave: Are Spray Problems Different?
Many people wonder if the Pet Pro model is more likely to have spray issues compared to the standard Crosswave. In reality, both models use similar spraying systems, so the main causes and fixes are almost the same.
Here’s a quick comparison between the two:
| Feature | Crosswave Pet Pro | Regular Crosswave |
|---|---|---|
| Spray System | Identical | Identical |
| Special Pet Filter | Yes | No |
| Clogging Risk (Pet Hair) | Higher | Lower |
| Spray Failure Causes | Same | Same |
The main difference is that the Pet Pro is more likely to get clogged from pet hair. Regular cleaning and filter checks are even more important for pet owners.
When To Call For Professional Help
Sometimes, home troubleshooting is not enough. You should contact Bissell support or a repair center if:
- The pump is silent, even when you press the trigger.
- You see water leaking from inside the machine.
- Plastic parts or the trigger are broken.
- The machine is under warranty.
Attempting to open the motor or internal pump yourself can void your warranty and may cause more damage. Bissell’s customer support website has detailed guides and warranty information for further assistance (Bissell Support).
Real-world Example: Fixing A Stubborn Spray Issue
Samantha, a pet owner from Ohio, used her Crosswave Pet Pro daily for six months. One day, it stopped spraying water. She checked the tank, cleaned the nozzle, and tried to prime the pump—all with no luck. Finally, she noticed a small crack in the trigger mechanism.
After contacting Bissell, she received a replacement part under warranty, and her Crosswave worked perfectly again.
This example shows that sometimes, the issue is not obvious. Patience and a step-by-step approach are key.
Quick-reference Troubleshooting Table
Here’s a handy summary for quick troubleshooting:
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Action |
|---|---|---|
| No spray at all | Empty/misaligned tank, airlock | Refill and reseat tank, prime pump |
| Weak or uneven spray | Clogged nozzle/tube | Clean nozzle and tubes |
| Trigger feels loose | Broken trigger | Contact support |
| Pump silent, no spray | Pump/wiring failure | Professional repair |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Is My Crosswave Pet Pro Spraying Less Water Than Before?
Possible causes include a partially clogged nozzle, mineral buildup in tubes, or low water in the tank. Clean the nozzle with a pin, and always use the right water/solution mix.
Can I Use Vinegar To Clean The Spray System?
Yes, but only in small amounts and always rinse with fresh water afterward. Vinegar helps dissolve mineral deposits but can damage parts if left inside too long.
How Often Should I Clean The Nozzle And Brush Roll?
For homes with pets, clean them at least once per week. If you see reduced spray, check them immediately.
What Type Of Water Is Best For My Crosswave Pet Pro?
Distilled water is best, especially in areas with hard water. It prevents mineral buildup in the spray system.
What Do I Do If My Crosswave Is Still Under Warranty?
Do not open the machine. Contact Bissell support with your proof of purchase. They may offer a free repair or replacement.
Your Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro is a powerful tool for keeping pet messes under control, but like all machines, it needs care. When it stops spraying water, don’t panic. Most problems are simple to fix with basic cleaning and checks.
Regular maintenance prevents most issues, and knowing the right troubleshooting steps can save you a trip to the repair shop. Treat your Crosswave well, and it will keep your home clean and fresh—pets and all.
