How do I winterize my pressure washer?

Winterizing your pressure washer is an important maintenance task that will help protect it from damage during the cold winter months. By following a few simple steps, you can get your pressure washer ready for storage and help ensure it lasts for years to come.

Why Winterize a Pressure Washer?

Pressure washers contain water and other liquids that can freeze and expand during cold temperatures. This can damage pumps, hoses, nozzles, and other important components. Properly winterizing your pressure washer removes water and protects internal parts from wear and tear.

Additional benefits of winterizing a pressure washer include:

• Preventing corrosion from sitting water
• Avoiding moisture buildup
• Extending the life of the equipment
• Allowing for easy start up next season

Taking the time to winterize can save you money and frustration down the road. Your pressure washer will also be ready to go when you need it again next year.

When to Winterize

The ideal time to winterize your pressure washer is at the end of the season when you won’t be using it for an extended period of time. For most people, this is in late fall before the first freeze.

Plan to winterize your pressure washer when daytime temperatures consistently drop below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Leaving it much later runs the risk of pumps and hoses freezing.

If you live in a warmer climate where temperatures don’t get quite so cold, you may be able to delay winterizing until early winter. Just keep an eye on weather forecasts to know when freezing temps are on the way.

Supplies Needed

Winterizing your pressure washer doesn’t require a lot of specialty tools. Here are the basic supplies you’ll need:

• Pump saver/winterizing kit
• High-quality fuel stabilizer
• Funnel
• Clear plastic sheeting
• Water hose
• Adjustable wrench
• Screwdrivers
• Storage container approved for gasoline (if needed)

You may also need engine oil and spark plugs if you haven’t changed them recently. Check your pressure washer’s maintenance schedule.

Let’s look at how to use these supplies to properly winterize your equipment.

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to safely and effectively get your pressure washer winter-ready:

1. Run the pressure washer to remove water: Connect your pressure washer to a hose and turn it on for 1-2 minutes. This flushes any remaining water from the pump and hoses.
2. Disconnect hoses: Unscrew hoses from the pressure washer. Drain any excess water and dry hoses thoroughly before storing.
3. Empty soap reservoir: If your pressure washer has a soap reservoir, drain any remaining cleaner and rinse.
4. Use pump saver: Add RV antifreeze or pump saver to the inlet using a funnel. This coats internal parts to prevent freeze damage.
5. Fog the engine: Remove the spark plug and spray fogging oil into the cylinder opening. Replace the spark plug.
6. Stabilize the fuel: If your pressure washer has a gas tank, add fuel stabilizer and run the engine briefly to circulate it.
7. Drain extra gas: Remove any excess gasoline so the tank is only 1/4 full. Safely store extra gas in approved container.
8. Disassemble and clean: Use a wrench to remove nozzles. Clean them thoroughly before storing.
9. Wipe down: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the pressure washer frame and hose reel.
10. Cover it up: Place a fitted cover or plastic sheeting over your pressure washer for protection.

Make sure to refer to your owner’s manual for model-specific steps. For example, instructions may vary slightly for gas vs. electric pressure washers.

Where to Store

Picking the right storage spot will help shield your pressure washer from the elements:

• Choose a dry location like a shed, garage or basement.
• Avoid storing near external doors or windows where cold can still penetrate.
• Place on a shelf or block to protect from moisture on concrete floors.
• Cover with plastic sheeting to create a moisture barrier.

Storing your pressure washer in a cold, damp location can lead to corrosion and other problems. Take time to choose a protected inside spot.

Tips for Spring Start-Up

Your pressure washer will be ready for action again next season with a few simple start-up steps:

• Inspect hoses, nozzles and connections for wear or cracks.
• Reattach hoses and tighten fittings.
• Check oil and coolant levels.
• Add fresh gas with fuel stabilizer to dilute any old gas.
• Connect water supply and check for leaks.
• Turn on and test sprayer.

Taking care of basic maintenance in spring will have your pressure washer running smoothly. Refer to the owner’s manual if you encounter any issues starting it up.

Extra Winterizing Tips

Keep these additional tips in mind for foolproof winterization:

• Write down any winterizing steps you take to make spring start-up easier.
• Check owner’s manuals for specific winterizing and storage guidance.
• Only use pump saver meant for pressure washers, not RV antifreeze.
• Remove detergent tanks and hoses if they don’t fully drain.
• Consider using fuel stabilizer season-long to keep gas fresh.
• Clean the exterior with pressure washer cleaner before winterizing.
• Replace worn parts like valves, caps and filters.

Warning Signs of Freeze Damage

If you suspect your pressure washer didn’t get properly winterized, look for these signs of potential freeze damage before using it:

• Visible cracks in hoses or fittings
• Leaking water when connected
• Loose or damaged valves/connections
• Seized up or stiff pump
• Weak spray pattern

Catching damage early can save you money on repairs. Thoroughly inspect your equipment at start-up after winter storage.

Professional Winterization

For hands-off winterizing, consider hiring a professional:

• Mobile pressure washing businesses sometimes offer winterizing services.
• Local power equipment shops may winterize units for a fee.
• Repair technicians can properly winterize and service your model.

Proper winterization is crucial to avoiding expensive repairs. If you’re unsure about doing it yourself, the cost of professional winterization may be worth it for peace of mind.

Conclusion

Taking the time to winterize your pressure washer will pay off with years of reliable performance. Just remember these key tips:

• Flush out all water from the system.
• Use pump saver fluid to prevent freeze damage.
• Stabilize or drain excess fuel before storage.
• Clean and protect the pressure washer frame.
• Choose a dry, indoor storage location.
• Inspect for leaks or damage at spring start-up.

Following the steps in this article will keep your pressure washer in top shape season after season. With proper winter care, your equipment will be ready to tackle any outdoor cleaning job when warmer weather returns.