Winter Storage Tips for Your Pressure Washer

In Australia, "winter storage" might seem like an odd concept—after all, our winters are mild compared to the northern hemisphere. But even in our climate, there are months when the pressure washer sits unused. And in alpine regions, Tasmania, and parts of Victoria and New South Wales, temperatures can definitely drop low enough to cause damage to improperly stored equipment.

Beyond freeze protection, proper storage prevents the more common Australian problems: pump seal deterioration from standing mineral-laden water, fuel system issues in petrol models, and pest damage to hoses and components. Taking an hour to properly store your machine now can prevent hundreds of dollars in repairs later.

Why Proper Storage Matters

Pressure washer pumps are precision components. Inside, pistons and seals work in tight tolerances to build and maintain pressure. When a pump sits idle with stagnant water inside:

• Mineral deposits from hard water can build up, causing corrosion and seal damage
• In freezing conditions, water expands and can crack pump housings, rupture seals, and damage check valves
• Seals can dry out and crack without the lubricating effect of regular use
• Stale water can develop bacterial growth and odours

For petrol models, the engine faces additional challenges. Fuel degrades over time, leaving gummy deposits that clog carburettors. Oil becomes less protective when sitting. Spark plugs can corrode.

Storage Preparation: Electric Models

Step 1: Flush the System

Run clean, fresh water through the entire system for 2-3 minutes. This flushes out any detergent residue, debris, and dirty water. Pay particular attention if you've recently used any cleaning chemicals—residue left in the pump is a leading cause of seal failure.

Step 2: Drain Completely

Disconnect all hoses and allow the pump and hoses to drain completely. Tip the machine to expel water from the pump housing. For thorough drainage, you can briefly run the pump (motor on, trigger pulled) to purge remaining water—just ensure it doesn't run more than a few seconds without water flowing.

Step 3: Apply Pump Protector

Pump protector (also called pump saver or antifreeze) is an inexpensive product that lubricates seals, prevents mineral buildup, and provides freeze protection. To apply:

1. Attach the pump protector bottle to the garden hose inlet
2. Pull the trigger while pressing the pump protector to inject solution into the pump
3. Continue until protector exits from the pump outlet
4. Release trigger and disconnect

Step 4: Inspect and Clean

• Check the power cord for any damage
• Clean the inlet filter and inspect for damage
• Examine hoses for kinks, cracks, or wear
• Ensure nozzles are clear and store them safely

Step 5: Coil Hoses Properly

Never hang high-pressure hoses over a single hook or sharp edge—this creates weak spots that can fail under pressure. Coil hoses loosely in large loops and store flat or on a wide hose reel.

Storage Preparation: Petrol Models

Petrol models require everything above plus engine preparation:

Fuel System Options

You have two choices for fuel storage:

Option A: Drain the fuel system

1. Run the engine until it stops from fuel starvation
2. Drain any remaining fuel from the tank
3. Store fuel in an approved container away from the machine

Option B: Use fuel stabiliser

1. Add fuel stabiliser to a full tank of fresh fuel
2. Run the engine for 5-10 minutes to circulate stabilised fuel through the system
3. Store with the stabilised fuel in place

Engine Oil

Check the engine oil level and condition. If it's due for a change (based on hours or your annual schedule), do it before storage. Fresh oil provides better protection during storage than used oil containing combustion byproducts.

Air Filter

Clean or replace the air filter before storage. A clean filter ensures proper engine ventilation during storage and prepares the machine for immediate use when you need it.

Spark Plug

Remove the spark plug and add a small amount of engine oil (just a few drops) into the cylinder. Pull the starter cord slowly a few times to distribute the oil, protecting the cylinder walls during storage. Reinstall the plug but leave the plug lead disconnected for safety.

Choosing the Right Storage Location

Where you store your pressure washer matters almost as much as how you prepare it:

• Temperature: Choose a location that won't freeze. Even with pump protector, extreme cold can damage components
• Moisture: Avoid damp areas that promote rust and corrosion
• Sunlight: UV exposure degrades hoses and plastic components. Store in shade or cover the machine
• Pests: Rodents love nesting in stored equipment and will chew through hoses and wiring. Store in a sealed area or use rodent deterrents

Spring Startup: Bringing It Back to Life

When you're ready to use your pressure washer again:

Electric Models

1. Inspect all hoses and connections
2. Connect water supply and flush the system before starting the motor
3. Check for leaks at all connections
4. Start the motor and run for a minute before applying load

Petrol Models

1. Check engine oil level
2. If fuel was drained, add fresh fuel
3. Reconnect the spark plug lead
4. Prime the fuel system according to manufacturer instructions
5. Start the engine and let it warm up before pressure washing
6. Flush the pump system with fresh water

Mid-Season Storage

Even if you're not storing for months, quick preparation helps if you won't use the machine for several weeks:

• Always flush out detergent after use
• Drain hoses and allow pump to drain
• Store out of direct sun
• For petrol models, run until fuel is low or add stabiliser if leaving for more than a month

A few minutes of care after each use makes seasonal storage simpler and keeps your machine ready for action whenever you need it.