winterizing a power washer

[Tom7227]

The instructions for mine suggest putting some winter RV antifreeze in the pump. I have been doing some repairs and the innards of the regulator valve had a lot of rust on them. Does the RV fluid prevent rust? Would putting some light oil in it make sense assuming that the water has been removed to prevent cracking from freezing?

[delcecchi]

I put automotive antifreeze in mine, after using a little compressed air to blow out the water. It only uses like half a cup, so I don't think I am destroying the environment. And I don't have a dog.

[Rockin Randy]

I just had my pump rebuilt. The Tech told me to use a product called "PUMP SAVER". It is made by Briggs & Stratton.The can says it has antifreeze and a lube in it.The Tech said a can would last about three years. At $8.00 a can thats not bad. I used to use RV antifreeze. thats why I need to rebuild. The corrosion that builds up over winter is like running sand thru it in the spring.

[highlife4me]

I just bring mine into the house and store in the basement. It is electric so no fumes. If it was gas I would run some anti-freeze in it or store in a heated shed out at the farm.

[Tom7227]

Randy, where did you find the pump saver? I did the google and got on-line places but the shipping is more than the product.

[Gus]

Menard's has pump saver. That's where I got mine. I haven't owned a pressure washer more than a year yet so I cannot comment on the longevity, but my manual recommended using the product.

[Tom7227]

One of you guys could have mentioned that the pump saver shoots out like shaving cream in about a half second!

[CAMAN]

LOL! Did you get sprayed?

[Tom7227]

Nope, missed by by inches. As is often claimed "I heard the bullet whiz past me."

[Rockin Randy]

I have not winterised the power washer yet, got to wash the truck and jeep yet. Thanks for the heads up, I would have had it all over me!

[LMITOUT]

Sears has Pump Saver as well. That's what I used in mine last year.

[Jeremy airjer W]

I've had mine for 10 years or so. Before I put it away for winter I give it a couple pulls to empty the pump and then stick it in the corner. Never had any issues with it in the spring.