How To Winterize a Pressure Washer

Properly winterizing your pressure washer is key to keeping it in good working condition until spring. Learn how to winterize a pressure washer to prevent freezing, rusting and other damage. We provide tips on disconnecting hoses, treating and adding fuel stabilizer, cleaning filters and safely storing your pressure washer indoors over winter.

How To Winterize a Pressure Washer

Tools and supplies: 

• Pressure washer

• Hose

• Drain plug wrench

• Fuel stabilizer

• Lubricating oil

• Paper towels

• Rags

• Breathable cover (optional)

Draining the pressure washer

Disconnect the high-pressure hose from the washer outlet and place the end of the hose in a drain or on the ground. Use a wrench to remove the drain plug from the bottom of the pressure washer tank to drain all remaining water. Replace the drain plug when done and reconnect the high-pressure hose.

Removing filters and cleaning carburetor

Remove any foam filters, air filters or fuel filters from the pressure washer and clean or replace them. Also remove the carburetor burner and clean or rebuild it according to your washer's manual to prevent gum buildup. Place the cleaned/replaced parts back on the washer.

Treating the fuel system

Add fuel stabilizer to the fuel tank and carburetor according to the directions on the product bottle. This prevents the fuel from breaking down over time. Run the pressure washer for a few minutes after adding the stabilizer to circulate it through the system.

Lubricating moving parts

Apply lubricating oil or spray-on lubricant to pulleys, levers, triggers, cables and any other moving parts on the pressure washer. This prevents corrosion and allows parts to move freely when stored. Wipe off any excess lubricant with rags.

Deflating tires (if equipped)

Use an air compressor to release air from the pressure washer tires, especially if not on a level surface. The tires will hold shape better when re-inflated in the spring.

Covering and shielding

Cover all paint or surfaces on the pressure washer to prevent dust buildup. Cover or tarp the entire machine if possible for complete protection from the elements. Ensure the openings to air filters, exhaust, etc. remain clear under any covers.

Storing in a garage or shed

Keep the pressure washer in an upright position in an insulated garage or shed over winter. This keeps it out of harsh, freezing temperatures and other severe weather. Place on a level surface for easiest start up in the spring.

Other Tips

• Consider a UV-protective cover. Breathable covers made of material like canvas or mesh help shield the washer from snow and weather while still allowing moisture to escape underneath. Look for a UV-resistant cover for the best protection.

• Bring hoses inside if possible. If space allows, bringing high-pressure hoses and intake hoses inside for the winter can make them last longer before needing replacement.

• Winter storage prep. Prepare the space where the pressure washer will be stored for winter. Make sure the floor is level, clear of debris and rodents cannot access the equipment.

• Spring start-up. When removing covers and starting up the pressure washer in the spring, check that all parts are properly installed and look for any signs of damage or excessive wear before pressure washing anything of value.

Conclusion

That covers all the important steps for properly winterizing your pressure washer. Let us know if you have any other questions or need more details on the winterization process. Following these steps will ensure your pressure washer is ready to use again next season!