Helpful pressure washer tips

Pro Tips for Using and Maintaining Your Pressure Washer

We talked to a few pressure washer enthusiasts and manufacturers to gather the best tips for using and maintaining a pressure washer. Here’s how to avoid common DIY mistakes and keep your machine in top condition.

Make Your Pressure Washer Pump Last Longer

Use a Pump Protector Product:
Leaving water in the pump can result in mineral buildup and corrosion, which wear out the pump seals and pistons, leading to expensive repairs (up to $200). To prevent this, flush the pump after every use. Follow these steps:

1. Pick up a can of pump lube/antifreeze solution.
2. Screw the garden hose adapter onto the pump inlet.
3. Press the trigger until you see foamy liquid shoot out the other port, indicating the pump is fully lubed and protected against freeze damage.

Flush After Every Use:

1. Attach the lubricant can to the garden hose port.
2. Press the trigger for about two seconds, until water and lube shoot out the other port.

Prep a Pressure Washer Engine for Storage

The small engines on residential pressure washers have a limited lifespan (sometimes less than 200 hours). Extend the life of the engine with these pre-storage tips:

1. Change the Oil: Even with only a few hours' use, drain the crankcase oil and refill with fresh oil (follow the manufacturer’s recommendations).
2. Run the Engine: Run the engine for a few minutes to coat all internal parts with clean oil and anti-corrosion additives.
3. Use Fresh Gas: Treat fresh gas with a fuel stabilizer. Run the engine for a few minutes to ensure the treated gas fills the carburetor. Then, either drain the tank and run it dry or fill the tank to the brim.
4. Flush the Pump: Before storing your pressure washer for the winter, flush out the pump to prevent freeze damage.

Lube Pressure Washer Hose Connectors

Dry O-rings in a pressure washer hose connector can twist and tear, causing them to fail. Here’s how to keep them in good shape:

1. Use Silicone Plumber’s Grease: Unlike regular oil, it doesn’t wash off and is compatible with all types of O-ring materials.
2. Keep It Handy: Tape the container of grease to your machine.
3. Reapply Regularly: Apply a new coating every five uses or whenever the O-rings look dry.

Pressure Washer Safety Tips

• Maintain Safe Distance: Don’t park the pressure washer unit too close to structures. Hot exhaust can melt vinyl siding and start fires in less than two minutes.
• Avoid Indoor Use: Never run a gas-powered pressure washer in the garage while cleaning the floor. Move it at least 5 feet away from the house to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Protect Caulked Areas: Never use a strong spray to remove caulk around windows. The stream can force water behind the siding, causing extensive water damage.