Winter is coming
Like summer, the winter temperatures can cause harm to outdoor and indoor tools in extreme temperatures, which can become a costly expense to repair. Winterizing, which is the removal of water from lines and equipment to prevent them from freezing and corroding expensive equipment, is a crucial part of preparing for the winter months ahead. For tools that do not require winterizing, learn how to take the proper steps in ensuring they are stored properly during cold temperatures:
1. Pressure washer
A pressure washer is an expensive tool that comes in handy – especially during the spring and summer seasons. Like a lawn mower, a pressure washer uses an engine run by gasoline. Gasoline becomes stale after about 30 days and can lead to component failures. If you know you will not be using your pressure washer in the winter and are getting ready to store it follow these simply steps to keep your pressure washer in excellent shape the next time you decide to use it:
- Flush the system of any liquids
- Place the injection tube into a bucket of clean water and run the pressure washer on low pressure
- If you’re storing your pressure washer for the winter be sure to do an anti-freeze flush too. Then, turn off the engine and the main water supply
- Turn the spray gun and squeeze the trigger to release trapped pressure and water
- Then, lock the trigger on your spray gun. Once the unit cools down, disconnect any attached garden hoses
- Drain the water from the hose, spray gun, and nozzle extension
- Make sure to wipe off the hose. When finally storing pressure washer, pull the recoil handle about six times to empty the pump of all liquids
