Pressure Washer Winter Care

How to prepare your pressure washer for winter

As the temperature drops it’s useful to prepare your pressure washer for the colder months to ensure its longevity and optimal performance when you need it again.

The main problem for a pressure washer in winter is freezing temperatures. When water freezes it increases in volume by something like 9% which means that any pipe or hose containing water will probably crack meaning new parts will be required, or in the worst case it could mean a new machine. It is worth noting that a warranty on a new machine will probably not cover winter damage, so it is worth following a few simple steps to ensure that your pressure washer emerges in the spring ready for action!

With rocketing fuel prices insurance claims for burst pipes went up by 75% last year (Zurich Insurance Analysis) and our engineers saw similar trends with pressure washer repairs after winter. As with preventing burst pipes in your home some simple pressure washer winter care can save you time and money.

Steps to prepare your pressure washer for winter

• Remove High-Pressure Hoses and Store Indoors: Start by disconnecting and removing the high-pressure hoses, lances and attachments from your pressure washer. Store them in a warm environment, such as a shed or garage. This will prevent them from becoming brittle in the cold. This simple step can significantly extend the life of your hoses and save you from the hassle of dealing with cracked or damaged components. Better still, where possible, move the entire pressure washer into a building or under insulated covers to avoid freezing temperatures.

• Ensure the Machine is Empty of Water: If you plan to store your pressure washer outdoors during winter, it’s important to empty it of water completely. For machines equipped with a header tank, remove the inlet water supply and run the machine until the water ceases. This prevents any remaining water from freezing inside the system, which could lead to costly repairs. Proper drainage is key to safeguarding your pressure washer from the harmful effects of freezing temperatures. For additional protection, running an anti-freeze solution through the washer which can be collected in a suitable receptacle and reused will make sure there is better protection against freezing.

• Check Frost Heaters for Static Machines: For static pressure washers that remain in the same location throughout the winter, ensure that the frost heaters are fully operational. These heaters are designed to prevent freezing by maintaining a consistent temperature within the machine. Regularly check and test your frost heaters to guarantee they are in good working condition, providing an extra layer of protection against the cold – don’t forget to keep it plugged in!

• Clean the Machine: Before storing your pressure washer, give it a thorough inspection. Clean any dirt, grime, or debris that may have accumulated during use. Pay special attention to the nozzles, filters, and other components. A clean machine is less prone to corrosion and will function more efficiently when brought back into service.

• Check user manual: Finally, it is always a good move to refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines and user manual for specific instructions tailored to your pressure washer model. Different machines may have unique requirements, and following these recommendations will help you optimise the winterisation process.

By following these simple yet effective steps, you can safeguard your pressure washer from winter-related damage and ensure it’s ready to tackle your cleaning needs when the warmer weather returns. This way you protect your pressure washer and prolong its lifespan, allowing you to enjoy reliable performance for years to come. Don’t let the cold weather catch you off guard – take the time to protect your equipment now.

Here at B & G Cleaning systems we are experts in pressure washers so why not get in touch for any advice. We offer pressure washer service & repair and sell a range of spare parts. Thinking of upgrading your pressure washer? We can advise you on which is most suitable for your needs. Contact us or check out our current special offers.