It only takes one freezing night to turn a high-performance machine into a pile of scrap metal. Because water expands as it freezes, a system full of standing water risks severe damage, leading to busted plumbing fixtures, cracked pumps, and broken components. Even short trips between sites can cause freezing due to wind exposure and low temperatures.
Three Methods for Winterization
1. Heated Storage
Store the machine in a heated area when not in use.
- Note: If power is lost, the area can still reach freezing temperatures.
- Caution: Once the equipment is moved to a job site, it immediately becomes susceptible to freezing.
2. Air Blowout Procedure
Use compressed air to remove all residual water from the system.
- Method: Rig a setup to blow the water out of the pump, the hot water burner coil, hose reels, and all associated hoses.
- Pressure: 10 PSI is more than sufficient and helps prevent damage.
3. Winterizing Solution
Run a non-freezing solution through the system and leave it in the lines.
- Selection: Choose a product rated for the lowest temperatures expected in your region.
- Wind Chill Factor: During transport, wind chill makes exposed metal parts significantly colder than the ambient air temperature.
Critical System Components
Do not overlook the peripheral parts of your setup:
- Tanks and Inlet Plumbing: Drain your buffer/water tank and all plumbing leading to the machine's water inlet.
- Treatment: Either blow out the tanks and lines below bulkheads or treat them by running the same winterizing solution through them as you would the machine.
The Cost of Neglect
Even if you do not plan to use the machine during freezing weather, failure to winterize can lead to frozen and busted components. This results in costly, non-covered repairs and significant loss of income due to downtime, all for the sake of a 15-minute time investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best method for equipment winterization?
A: The "best" method depends on your setup. Heated storage is the easiest but risky if the power fails. The air blowout procedure is highly effective for removing standing water, while using a winterizing solution (antifreeze) provides the highest level of protection against extreme temperatures and wind chill during transport.
Q: Can I use automotive antifreeze for winterizing my pump?
A: It is generally recommended to use a non-toxic, biodegradable antifreeze specifically rated for your equipment type. Standard automotive antifreeze can be harsh on certain internal seals and is environmentally hazardous if discharged during the spring startup. Always check your manufacturer’s guidelines for approved winterizing solutions.
Q: How long does winterizing a pressure washer or pump take?
A: Most professional setups can be fully winterized in about 15 minutes. Whether you are blowing out the lines with compressed air or circulating an antifreeze solution, this small time investment prevents the costly downtime and expensive repairs caused by frozen and cracked components.