Maintaining your pressure washer is about ensuring it performs efficiently and has a long life. Too often, homeowners need to pay more attention to the maintenance aspect, leading to unnecessary repairs or replacements.
In this guide, we’ll break down what you should and shouldn’t do to keep your pressure washer in tip-top shape.
Why Regular Maintenance is More Than Just Routine
Regular maintenance prevents wear and tear. It shields the pressure washer from unexpected breakdowns.
When you regularly check the parts, you can catch potential issues early on. That means fewer surprises. You don’t want your machine failing when you’re halfway through cleaning an essential part of your home.
Performing regular maintenance also maximizes efficiency. Your machine runs smoother, uses less water, and exerts less effort when it’s well-maintained.
In the end, it saves you money on utility bills and potential repairs. And let’s be honest, nobody likes a stubborn machine that refuses to start.
How Often Should You Maintain Your Pressure Washer?
It depends on usage. If you use it frequently, consider a monthly check-up.
For occasional use, quarterly checks might suffice.
Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for specifics. But as a rule of thumb, do at least an annual check to catch any lurking problems.
What Are the Essential Dos for Pressure Washer Maintenance?
Do Regular Inspections
Check hoses for signs of wear or damage. Look over the nozzles to ensure they aren’t clogged or cracked. Inspect the engine and pump components if applicable. Clear any debris that may have lodged itself in awkward places.
Replace any damaged parts immediately. Even minor damage can lead to more significant problems if neglected. Always use original parts for replacements whenever possible to maintain warranty conditions.
Do Change Oil and Filters
For gas-powered models, oil changes are crucial. Old oil can negatively impact performance or even damage the engine. Refer to your manual for oil change frequency but generally after every 30-50 hours of use.
Air filters should also be checked regularly. Dirty filters impede airflow, causing the engine to overheat or run inefficiently. Clean them out if they’re reusable or replace them if they’re beyond salvation.
What Are the Crucial Don’ts to Avoid?
Don’t Ignore Pump Care
The pump is the heart of your pressure washer. Neglecting it is asking for trouble. Use pump saver products during storage periods. These help keep seals lubricated and prevent corrosion.
Avoid running the machine without water for more than a few minutes. This can cause overheating and serious damage to the pump components.
Consider using pressure washer attachments like spray tips or extension wands to make cleaning tasks easier and reduce strain on the pump.
Don’t Use the Wrong Detergents
Not all detergents are suitable for pressure washers. Using the wrong kind can damage internal parts or affect cleaning efficiency. Specially formulated pressure washer detergents are always recommended.
Corrosive cleaners can wear out seals and gaskets quicker than you think. Stick to manufacturer-recommended options to avoid voiding warranties or causing harmful build-ups inside your machine.
How Should You Store Your Pressure Washer When Not in Use?
Always clean the unit before storage. Remove any detergent residues by running clean water through the system for a few minutes. This helps prevent blockages.
Ensure hoses are rinsed out and dried properly before putting them away. Moisture left inside can cause mold growth or rust over time.
Then, store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Temperature fluctuations can lead to condensation, resulting in rust or mildew inside critical parts.
For long-term storage, remove any remaining fuel from gas-powered models to prevent gum deposits from forming in the fuel lines or carburetor.
In case you missed!
