Hi Neil
Forgive me if this is a stupid question but, you mention that you managed to suck the filter off when emptying the solution tank. Is it possible that some muck got in and has blocked the jet/jets on your wand. Also, when starting the machine up do you prime the pump with an open ended hose before starting work?
Thats probably what did happen. I did'nt realise the filter had ben sucked off and was in the process of trying to extract. The hose was still giving some suction but obviously no where near as good. I took out the filter and replaced it. It worked ok for a while but but then the stair tool went dead i.e pressure was lost. The 2 issues are linked. That filter being sucked off - the machine being filled - Alltecs 'ultimate master powder added to the water - then the filter being replaced through/ on top of the water - and then the suction pumps or pressure being lost. Its not an electrical fault, thats still on, its a relatively new kit.
When using ultimate master I always diluted the powder in a jug then added it to the solution tank. Whilst it does dissolve better than a lot of powders adding it direct to tank it may not dissolve completely. I think the pipe from the solution tank to the pump could be bunged up with powder, maybe more so as you removed the filter whilst there was solution in the tank, this will obviously starve the pump. I would check the inlet side of the pump, disconnect the pipe and take the filter off inside the tank. Connect a garden hose to your hot tap and fix it to the pipe and see if you can run the water through the pipe. You will soon know if it's blocked.