Pressure Washing Equipment Maintenance Guide

Your pressure washing equipment will only be as good as the care you put into it. Routine maintenance will keep your unit performing at its highest levels, save you money on operational costs, and keep it in excellent shape for as long as possible. All pressure washing machines require a degree of care and maintenance, whether you are a homeowner using the equipment to power wash your deck or you are using commercial pressure washing equipment in your line of work.

Check and Rinse Filters

Checking and rinsing your filters is one of the most simple yet most commonly neglected pieces of maintenance. Filters can collect debris and grime, which will lower the pressure and volume of your machine. Check the water inlet filter and, if your machine has one, the fuel filter before every use. Rinse or replace the filter if it has any visible signs of blockage. This will ensure that clean water is running through your machine and the fuel is properly combusted, preventing undue stress on your pump and engine.

Choose a Pressure Washer Cleaner Wisely

A pressure washer cleaner may seem like a no-brainer, but certain detergents can be corrosive to your unit or less than effective on some jobs. Make sure to research what cleaner will be most effective and least harmful to the surface you are washing. The manufacturer will also list any recommended cleaning agents in the user manual. No matter which cleaner you choose, it is vital that the detergent is completely flushed from the system at the end of every use. Failure to do so can result in reduced effectiveness and nozzles becoming clogged with residue. Cleaning attachments for your pressure washer should also be regularly rinsed and wiped down to prevent the buildup of bacteria or harmful chemicals.

Lubricate and Maintain Moving Parts

Pressure washing machines have moving parts just like any other motorized device. The user manual will provide lubrication schedules for parts that require it. These are often the pump and engine. For gas-powered commercial pressure washing equipment, oil changes should be regularly scheduled for optimal operation. Lubrication minimizes friction, wear and tear, and overheating on your pressure washer.

Keep Pressure Washer Accessories and Attachments Safe

The job isn’t finished until the pressure washer accessories and attachments have been cared for. Your pressure washer hoses, nozzles, and pressure washer surface cleaners should be kept in a clean and dry location, free from any possible debris and checked for any signs of wear, damage, or leaks. Even a small split or crack can reduce performance and be a safety hazard. Checking that all fittings are tight and free of corrosion will help to maintain your pressure washer at the correct levels.

Store Your Pressure Washing Equipment Properly

Storing your machine is an important step for keeping your pressure washer safe, particularly if you live in a cold area. Water inside the system will freeze and expand, breaking seals and hoses and possibly cracking the pump or the engine. Drain the water from the machine, the pump, and hoses after each use. During cold weather months, or when long term storage is necessary, you can put pump antifreeze into the pump system. Storing your pressure cleaning equipment in a cool, dry, and covered location will also prevent rust, corrosion, and UV damage.

Professional Pressure Washing Equipment Maintenance and Support

Pressure washer maintenance isn’t only about keeping your system clean, it’s about providing the best power washing possible, protecting your investment, and ensuring your and your customer’s safety on the job. Whether you are in the market for reliable maintenance support or new power washers and accessories, a high quality parts supplier is your best bet. At Pressure Cleaning Equipment (PCE), we are dedicated to providing our customers with the best support available.

Looking for help from a professional or in the market for a new power washer? Check out our pressure washing equipment and accessories today at our website.