Iowa cold can turn a small maintenance issue into an expensive repair overnight. Water left inside a pressure washer can freeze, expand and damage pumps, coils, hoses, fittings and other components. The best time to think about winterization is before the forecast shows the first hard freeze.
“Winterization is one of those things that’s easy to put off until it’s too late. We see preventable freeze damage every year, and in a lot of cases, a little preparation ahead of that first cold snap could have saved the customer downtime and a costly repair. Our goal is to help customers stay ahead of those problems and keep their equipment working when they need it.” — Charlie Strutzenberg, Owner & CEO, Hotsy Cleaning Systems
Start with a thorough inspection. Look for leaking fittings, cracked hoses, worn seals and anything that has been easy to ignore during the busy season. Cold weather puts extra stress on equipment, so addressing those issues now can prevent a mid-winter service call later.
Next, make sure water is removed or properly protected anywhere it can collect. The exact winterization process depends on the machine, how it is installed and whether it will be stored or used throughout the winter. Portable units, stationary wash-bay systems and hot-water machines can each have different needs. If you are unsure, do not guess. A Hotsy technician can help winterize the system correctly.
Fuel and burner systems deserve attention too. For hot-water units, clean fuel, proper burner operation and routine maintenance are especially important when temperatures fall. Check filters and fluid levels and make sure the machine is operating normally before winter demand increases.
Storage matters. If a unit can be kept in a heated space, do it. If it must remain in an unheated area, protect the pump and water system according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Keep hoses drained, organized and protected from damage.
Finally, do not forget the people using the equipment. Review cold-weather operating procedures with your team and make sure everyone knows what needs to happen after each use. A few consistent habits can prevent a lot of damage.
Hotsy Cleaning Systems offers on-site and in-shop service across Iowa. Our technicians can inspect your equipment, identify maintenance needs and help prepare your pressure washer for winter. Schedule service before the first freeze — not after it.
Schedule a service call or talk to a Hotsy Customer Service Representative here.
