How to Store a Pressure Washer for Winter
A pressure washer is very good at one thing and very bad at surviving neglect. It handles dirt, grease, and mildew like a champ, but give it leftover water and freezing temperatures and it will quietly destroy itself. Most winter damage happens long before spring, usually because someone assumed draining the hose was enough and closed the garage door with confidence.
If you want to know how to store a pressure washer for winter without cracking the pump, splitting hoses, or turning a perfectly good machine into a very expensive paperweight, this guide covers exactly what needs to happen and why it matters.
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The TL;DR if you’re in a hurry
- Shut down the engine or motor correctly before storage
- Disconnect and fully drain all hoses
- Remove every bit of water from the pump
- Use pump saver or antifreeze designed for pressure washers
- Clean the machine before storing it
- Store it in a dry location above freezing when possible
- Keep hoses and accessories off the ground
- Check for leaks or damage before winter ends
Understand what winter actually damages
Pressure washers fail in winter for one reason. Water expands when it freezes. Any water left inside the pump, hoses, fittings, or spray gun will expand and crack whatever is holding it. These cracks are often invisible until you start the machine in spring and wonder why water is spraying in directions it never did before.
Electric and gas pressure washers are both vulnerable, though gas units tend to suffer more severe pump damage. Even a small amount of trapped water can split seals, damage valves, and destroy the pump housing. Preventing freeze damage means removing or displacing every drop of water inside the system.
Shut the machine down properly
Before anything else, the pressure washer needs to be fully shut down and depressurized. For gas units, turn off the engine and fuel supply, then allow the machine to cool completely. For electric units, unplug the power cord and ensure the motor has stopped entirely.
Once powered down, squeeze the trigger on the spray gun to release any remaining pressure. This step is often skipped and often regretted. Pressure trapped in the system makes draining incomplete and can cause fittings to loosen later.
If your gas pressure washer will sit all winter, either drain the fuel tank or add a fuel stabilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Old fuel can gum up the carburetor long before spring arrives.
Drain hoses, gun, and wand completely
All hoses need to be disconnected from the machine. Leaving them attached traps water in low points and fittings. Hold each hose vertically and allow gravity to do the work. Walk the length of the hose while lifting it to push out any remaining water.
The spray gun and wand also need attention. Disconnect them and squeeze the trigger while holding them upright to release trapped water. Rotate them to different angles to ensure internal chambers are empty.
Coiling hoses before draining them is a mistake. Drain first, coil second.
Remove water from the pump
The pump is the most expensive part of the pressure washer and the easiest to destroy in winter. Even after draining hoses, water remains inside the pump housing.
This is where pump saver or pressure washer antifreeze comes in. Pump saver is designed to displace water, lubricate seals, and protect internal components during freezing temperatures.
Attach the pump saver to the water inlet according to the product instructions and run it through the pump until it exits the outlet or spray gun connection. This ensures water has been pushed out and replaced with protective fluid.
Do not substitute automotive antifreeze unless the manufacturer specifically allows it. Many pumps are not designed for it.
Clean the machine before storing it
Storing a dirty pressure washer invites corrosion and pests. Dirt holds moisture. Detergent residue can harden and clog components.
Wipe down the exterior of the machine and remove any debris from vents, wheels, and fittings. Inspect hoses for cracks, kinks, or worn sections so you are not surprised in spring.
If detergent was used during the season, flush the system with clean water before draining and winterizing to prevent residue buildup.
Choose the right storage location
The best place to store a pressure washer for winter is indoors, in a dry area that stays above freezing. A garage, basement, or shed with temperature control is ideal.
If indoor storage is not an option, the pressure washer should be stored off the ground and covered with a breathable cover. Avoid airtight plastic covers, which trap moisture and encourage corrosion.
Never leave a pressure washer outside exposed to the elements during winter, even if it is winterized.
Store accessories properly
Hoses, spray guns, wands, and nozzles should be stored separately from the machine when possible. Keep them off concrete floors and away from areas where they can freeze.
Coil hoses loosely to avoid kinks and stress points. Store nozzles in a container so they do not get lost or damaged. A little organization now saves frustration later.
Check it once before spring
Before temperatures consistently rise, take a few minutes to inspect the pressure washer. Look for signs of leaks, cracked fittings, or rodent damage.
If pump saver was used, it will flush out naturally when water is run through the system in spring. Follow the manufacturer’s startup procedure before use.
A quick check prevents starting the season with preventable problems.
Storing your pressure washer? We can help!
Winter damage to pressure washers is almost always preventable. It happens when water is left behind and forgotten, not because the machine is fragile.
By draining thoroughly, protecting the pump, cleaning the machine, and choosing the right storage location, you ensure your pressure washer survives winter without surprise repairs.
Trusted Self Storage has several locations across:
Let us help you find the right storage for your needs.