Your pressure washer is a hard working and useful tool, but it’s also a machine. Like any machine, it needs maintenance to keep it running smoothly. If your pressure washer is gas powered and you’re not planning to use it again until the spring, you need to consider appropriate storage ways. Your storage method should not tamper even with the paint on the surface of the machine.
Being an expensive investment and you want to make sure that it lasts as long as possible. The best way to do this is by winterizing it when the temperature drops below freezing.
What Is Winterizing a Pressure Washer?
Winterizing a pressure washer is the process of emptying the water from your machine, including the pump and hoses, and storing it in warm place. So as to prevent damage when not in use over a period of time.
This will prevent the water inside of the pump from freezing and cracking any parts on your machine. When spring rolls around again, just add fresh water and start up!
If a pressure washer isn't stored properly during the colder months, it can lead to costly repair expenses. Fortunately, there are some simple steps to follow that will ensure your pressure washer survives for years to come.
How to Winterize a Pressure Washer
For those living in colder climates, winterizing a pressure washer is a necessary part of owning that machine. It ensures the longevity of the equipment and minimizes potential downtime when you need it most. Follow these steps for proper winterization:
- Remove all water and debris from the pump and spray gun.
- • Pour from the pump and spray gun by connecting them to an outlet and pulling the trigger on the pressure washer until no water remains. When temperatures fall below freezing, this will help to reduce freezing problems.
- Replace all O-rings with new ones to prevent leaks in warmer weather. If you can't find any new O-rings at your local hardware store, you can use petroleum jelly instead.
- Disconnect power cord and remove fuel tank cap before storing away for winter months (this will help prevent damage due to freezing).
If you do not plan on using your pressure washer for a long period, it is recommended that you store it with antifreeze in the pump. This will help prevent any damage that may occur if freezing temperatures hit during storage.
Best Solution for Winterizing a Pressure washer
While it is important to winterize your pressure washer, you also need to make sure that you do it the right way. There are two techniques – using an air compressor and using the pressure washer itself.
Using an Air Compressor to Winterize
If you are going to use an air compressor to winterize your machine, you will need to have a few tools on hand. First of all, you will need a blow gun that has a nozzle with a tapered tip. This is what will help you get into the small spaces so that you can remove all of the water from the nooks and crannies of your pressure washer. Make sure that you purchase one that is designed to work with air compressors. In addition, you will need antifreeze and some kind of sealant.
After winterizing and storing your pressure washer, use this vinyl cover to protect it from dust, dirt and sun damage throughout the season!
Preparing the Air Compressor
You want to drain the oil in the air compressor before using it with your pressure washer. If there is any oil left in there, it can get all over your machine and cause problems once spring rolls around again. In case of problems following this guide, please contact the Giraffetools collections for further guidance.