Power washer freezeup

[JDgreen227]

We have been getting below 30 degree temps at night here, I keep my Karcher electric PW out in the garage for cleanups this late in the year, but when done for the day I use compressed air to blow the water from pump and hose while holding down the gun trigger. When there is nothing coming out of the nozzle but mist, I figure it is safe to leave out. Can power washers still suffer from freezing damage when purged of water using this method? I will bring it in after a few more days, however.

 

[charlz]

Even with water in there it may not be getting cold enough, long enough to freeze it solid and cause damage. By blowing it out you should definitely be good to go.

 

[MF 1532]

That should work . I give mine a shot of rv antifreeze and / or pump protector and lube . The protector and lube is supposed to keep internal parts good in between uses . The last I bought is made by Karcher .

 

[DanD78]

I would be afraid the recycle line would not be empty. I always take all the hoses off the pump and fill the lines with wind shield washer fluid while turning the pump by hand.

Dan

 

[jinman]

I like to use RV anti-freeze or propylene glycol in my pressure washer. The propylene glycol is probably the best on the pump and seals and you don't have to worry about animals in the spring when you pump it out. I just think leaving fluid in the washer is better on it than some moisture and air. If you could dry it like it was the day you bought it, that would be fine, but I don't think you'll easily get it that dry.

 

[charlz]

Well the OP is talking about an electric PW so, in my experience, they are full of plastic parts and a little moisture isn't going to hurt anything long term.

 

[grsthegreat]

Home depot and lowes both sell these little bottles that screw on the hose inlet and purge the washer with antifreeze. One bottle lasts me 3 seasons and cost about $6.00 or so.

Ive been using this for 6 years now, and nop issues. It also lubes the internal junk.

 

[Dan Hunter]

Home depot and lowes both sell these little bottles that screw on the hose inlet and purge the washer with antifreeze. One bottle lasts me 3 seasons and cost about $6.00 or so.

Ive been using this for 6 years now, and nop issues. It also lubes the internal junk.

Funny, I've always used bourbon to lube my internal junk. That said, I'm on my way to buy some; didn't even know it existed. Thanks!

 

[grsthegreat]

Funny, I've always used bourbon to lube my internal junk. That said, I'm on my way to buy some; didn't even know it existed. Thanks!

Bourbon will work in the pressure washer also.......some nice 30 year old only though

 

[slowzuki]

On my gas one I always just take both hoses off and pull it over a few times. First year with an electric so I might try so windshield washer fluid.

 

[JDgreen227]

Home depot and lowes both sell these little bottles that screw on the hose inlet and purge the washer with antifreeze. One bottle lasts me 3 seasons and cost about $6.00 or so.

Ive been using this for 6 years now, and nop issues. It also lubes the internal junk.

Did not know such a product existed....hmmmm....think I will still do the compressed air blowout for my PW, store it indoors, and save the $6 for a pint of Jack Daniels....at my age I need antifreeze more than my $100 PW.