Your electric pressure washer just helped you transform your home’s exterior. Now, it’s time to return the favor. Proper maintenance and storage aren’t just about longevity; they’re about safety, performance, and ensuring your machine is ready to go when you need it next season. A little care goes a long way in preventing clogs, hose damage, and pump failure. Follow this simple end-of-session and long-term storage routine.
After Every Use: The 5-Minute Ritual
Making these steps a habit will prevent most common issues.
Power Down & Unplug: Always turn the machine off and disconnect it from the electrical outlet before any maintenance.
Relieve Pressure: Trigger the gun to release any remaining pressure in the pump and hose.
Disconnect Hoses: Remove the high-pressure hose and water inlet hose.
Drain Water: Let all water drain out of both hoses, the pump, and the detergent tank. Never leave water in the pump, as it can freeze or cause corrosion.
Rinse Detergent Tank: If you used soap, run clean water through the detergent siphon tube for a minute to flush out residue.
Monthly/Seasonal Deep Maintenance
Before storing for the winter or after intensive projects, give it a little extra TLC.
Inspect & Clean Filters: Check the water inlet filter (where the garden hose connects). Rinse it clean or replace it if it's damaged. A clean filter protects the pump from sediment.
Check Hoses & Connections: Look for cracks, bulges, or leaks in the high-pressure hose. Ensure all quick-connect fittings are clean and undamaged.
Examine Nozzles: Soak spray tips in vinegar to dissolve mineral deposits. Use a fine pin to clear any clogged orifices—never use metal objects that can alter the nozzle shape.
Wipe Down: Clean the machine’s exterior with a damp cloth. Keep it free of dirt and grime.
The Golden Rule: Never Let the Pump Freeze
The #1 cause of catastrophic pressure washer failure is water left in the pump freezing and cracking the housing.
Solution: Store your unit in a climate-controlled environment like a garage or basement that stays above freezing.
For Cold Climates: If you must store in an unheated space, you must use pump saver antifreeze. This is non-toxic, propylene glycol antifreeze made specifically for pressure washers. Run a bit through the pump according to your manual's instructions to displace all water.
Preparing for Long-Term Storage
When putting your washer away for more than a few months:
Perform the full cleaning routine above.
Use Pump Protector: After draining, running pump saver is the best practice for any long-term storage, not just winter.
Store Properly: Coil the hoses loosely—don't create sharp kinks. Store the gun, wand, and nozzles in a bag or bucket to keep the set together. Wrap the power cord separately.
Cover It: Use the manufacturer’s cover or a simple cloth to keep dust off the unit.
The Spring Start-Up Check
When it’s time to use your machine again, don’t just plug and go.
Reconnect all hoses and accessories.
Before connecting to power, turn on the water supply and trigger the gun to let water flow through the system for 30 seconds. This purges air and any leftover antifreeze from the lines.
Then, connect to power and you’re ready to test.
Conclusion:
Treating your electric pressure washer with care is a simple, rewarding investment. By following these maintenance and storage steps, you’ll avoid 90% of common problems, ensure peak performance for every job, and extend the life of your machine for many years—making every cleaning project quicker and more satisfying.
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