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Prevention is better than cure. And when it comes to your beloved home cleaning equipment, it is no secret that you need preventive maintenance to keep them in good shape. You may not use your pressure washer every day, but the last thing you want is for it to fail the moment you need to use it.

As they said, if you take care of things, your things will take care of you. So how do you take care of your precious pressure washer? Here are the most important preventative maintenance tips from the top pressure washing Colorado Springs companies.

*Preventive maintenance tips on pressure washers. *

Preventative Maintenance Program Tips

Here’s a common preventative maintenance program used by professional pressure washing Colorado Springs companies.

First thing’s first, read the manual

Different pressure washers require different care and maintenance. Generally, though, electric models require less maintenance than their gasoline-powered counterparts. Some require washers to be running.

The best way to know what to do with your pressure washer is to check the operator’s manual. This includes detailed step-by-step instructions and maintenance schedule, which includes oil and/or filter change.

Know your machine

It’s crucial to be familiar with your machine. While most washers are made up of the same components, not all are built with the same durability.

Many low-cost pressure washers require more preventative maintenance. Others, however, can go for a long time without requiring regular maintenance. The basic components of pressure washers include:

• Unloader
• Pump
• Hose
• Relief Valve
• Gun assembly

Electric motor washers require different cleaning and maintenance than engine type. Also, hot pressure washers need extra maintenance for their extra parts, such as their float tank and heating coil.

Only use the right detergent

One of the most common reasons why pressure washers fail is due to the use of wrong detergents. If you want your machine to last for a long time, make sure you only use detergents listed by the manufacturer. These detergents are specially designed and safe for your machine to use.

Daily and weekly checks

*Cleaning your pressure washer. *

These may seem minor, but doing daily checks can go a long way for your machine. What you do is look for signs of problems before they become an issue. These steps take just a few minutes of your time.

Before you start your machine up, check it over. Here’s your checklist:

• Check the oil pump. Adjust (add or remove if necessary). Again, refer to your manual for the right level of oil.
• Check both the supply hose and high-pressure hose. Look for signs of damage such as abrasion, bulges, cuts, leaks, kinks, etc.
• Check the right operating pressure and temperature.
• Check the pump. Make sure there are no water leaks.
• For electric pressure washers, inspect the drop cord for any signs of damage.

Post Use Maintenance Tips: Before putting away your washer

After using your machine and before putting it away, make sure you clean it out completely. Run clean water through your machine’s injector to clean out the excess detergent.

For gas pressure washers

• Always check the fuel and engine oil levels.
• Flush your machine’s water system before you install the pressure tip. This is to prevent any existing materials from accumulating and clogging the system.

For preventative maintenance, most pressure washing Colorado Springs companies recommend checking your machine thoroughly every 3 to 6 months. Here is the usual checklist:

• Driver belt for signs of wear and tension - for belt-driven pumps, this component usually lasts longer. However, it is recommended to check them for proper tension and signs of wear and tear.

The direct-driven pump doesn’t usually need special maintenance, as it is paired directly to the engine’s crankshaft.

• Hoses for leaks and damages - If you see a leak in your hoses or fittings, make sure you shut the machine first before fixing it.
• Pump oil level
• Pressure and temperature levels
• Proper operation of the burner
• Coil for lime deposits and soot
• Fuel filter for dirt and/or soil deposits
• Nozzles for damages
• Pump’s proper operation
• Couplers for the O-rings for signs of wear and damage
• Tires - For mobile pressure washers, tires must be properly inflated, and bearings must be well lubricated.
• Engine – for the engine of the pressure washer, there is a separate owner’s manual for further information on its specific maintenance requirements.

Storing for winter

The changing seasons require different maintenance for your machine. When storing your machine for the cold season, make sure there is no water left on its crankcase. This can cause rust to your machine.

Pitting can also form on any area of the crankshaft’s bearings, which are not protected by oil. This can significantly reduce the lifespan of your machine.

Here is your winter checklist:

• Pay close attention to the stabilizer. Fuel stabilizer keeps gas inside the machine from deteriorating as you store the unit.
• Always detach the battery
• Change both oil and filter
• Use ‘antifreeze’ – this will stabilize fuel for the burner and pump throughout your machine when the antifreeze comes out of the nozzle. Leave antifreeze in your machine as you store it during winter.

Preparing your machine on spring

Spring is the best time for cleaning. It is also the most popular time of the year to use your machine. However, before you take out your pressure washer from storage, make sure you tune it up first.

Gas-powered washers need spark plugs that are in good condition and clean air filter. Also, pump out the antifreeze and flush it out using clean water. These steps are extremely important to keep your engine safe from damage.

Pressure Washing in Colorado Springs: Parting Tips

It is always advisable to take time to examine and clean your machine and all accessories both before and after use to keep it in top condition and avoid problems. As always, preventative maintenance is always cheaper than repair and replacements.

Again, refer to your operator’s manual for the specific steps and guidelines for your washer’s make and model. Not sure what to do? Don’t have the energy and/or luxury of time to do the scheduled preventative maintenance on your pressure washer yourself?

Let the professionals take care of your machine for you. PSI Systems Inc. is right here to help with our pre-scheduled maintenance services. You can save yourself from the hassle of worrying about maintenance when you rent pressure washers instead.

You can also find a wide range of reputable brands to choose from to ensure quality. If you have questions about our pressure washers, feel free to contact us and we’d be happy to assist you.