Five years is a decent run. What brand and model is your pressure washer? Some pumps are known to be easier to rebuild than others, and the quality of the kit matters a lot.

Seriously though, patp79, is a stray cart really "more work for everyone"?

Know exactly what you mean. I see that all the time with people who think they know better than a pro. Watched a guy argue about a cracked heat exchanger last month while his carbon monoxide alarm was beeping in the next room. They just dig their heels in even when you show them the danger. Good on you for getting that plug out, no matter what he said.

I used to think it was just bad luck, lee627. Then I spent three weekends trying to have a quiet picnic. Got rained out twice and the third time a whole army of ants showed up. It really does feel personal.

Light pollution from all the streetlights and security lights messes with their mating signals. The males flash to find females, but if there's too much background light, the females can't see them. It's like trying to have a quiet conversation at a loud concert. They just give up trying to connect, so you get fewer bugs each year.