How to Maintain a Hotsy Pressure washer

Even if you performed maintenance after the last time you used your system, there are things you should doas a habit before you use it again. If several people use the unit, a checklist can help keep track of the pressure washer's condition. This checklist is also an excellent place to keep your pressure washer maintenance schedule.

 

Do a Walk-Around

Before getting started, a little bit of attention can protect you, your pressure washer, and your projects. Take a close look at all parts of your unit.

 

Do you notice any water, fuel, or oil leakage? If so, there may be an issue that needs attention. Check it further, or bring it to our repair facility before use.

 

Is the spark plug corroded? A bad spark plug could cause trouble starting or slow you down on the job. If you see corrosion, replace the spark plug before use.

 

Determine Water Levels

Make sure you have enough water available in your pressure washer. The pressure can increase too much if you don't have enough water.

 

Check Your Fuel

Have you ever run out of gas in your car? Run out of oil? One is an inconvenience that costs you time; the other can completely ruin the engine and cost you repairs or replacement. A gas pressure washer needs gas and oil to run correctly. You lose time if you're working on a job and run out of fuel, and if you run out of oil, the unit could overheat and potentially damage the motor.

 

If the pressure washer has been sitting for a while, especially since last season, drain any old gas and oil and fill it with fresh products.

 

Check Seals and Nozzles

• Are the O-rings at the ends of the high-pressure hose in good shape? If they appear worn or torn, replace them before use.

• Is the nozzle properly affixed and free of dirt or any other blockages? Move the nozzle around to make sure it's locked into place.

 

Evaluate the Pressure Washer After Every Use

Just as there are things you can do before use to protect your pressure washer and yourself, there are actions you can take afterward that will prepare you for the subsequent use of the system and avoid downtime before your next project.

 

Relieve the Pressure

As its name implies, a pressure washer pressurizes the liquids passing through it. Leaving the pressure on the system can cause unnecessary wear and tear. Turn off the unit and remove the water supply when you finish a job. To depressurize the system, point the nozzle somewhere safe and squeeze the trigger until it no longer emits water.

 

Inspect Hoses and Nozzles for Damage and Wear

Because the water or detergent passing through the pressure washer is under such high pressure, nozzles and hoses are vulnerable to degradation over time. When you finish with your system for the day, check for damage to hoses and nozzles. If you see wear and tear, address the issues before using it again.

• When a high-pressure hose shows signs of wear, replace the hose. We do not advise trying to repair a high-pressure hose.

• Nozzles may just be blocked with debris, or they may be damaged. Take care to unblock or replace the nozzle if it is damaged.

 

Clean and Empty the Unit

Instead of wasting water or product, why not empty the unit by cleaning your work area? When it is empty, clean the detergent intake with water. Clean any visible dirt or grime from inside and outside of the system. Drain all water to avoid the growth of bacteria and mold that can cause offensive smells or block the system.

 

Designate a Safe Storage Location

A safe, protected location is essential for overnight storage to avoid damage from weather or vandalism. It is critical if you are storing the unit for a long time or until the following season. Months of exposure to the elements can erode plastic and rubber elements that will need replacing when you are ready to use the unit again.

 

Preventive Maintenance

You wouldn't go months without changing your car's oil and air filter, and you shouldn't with your pressure washer either. You may want to do some of these things yourself, but if you don't have the time, schedule maintenance with Hotsy Carlson.

 

Checking and Changing the Oil

We recommend changing the oil after you've used your new pressure washer for five hours. After the first change, we recommend changing it after every 50 hours you use the unit or yearly, whichever comes first.

 

Maintaining the Spark Plug, Muffler, and Spark Arrestor

Check your spark plugs routinely after every 100 hours of use or yearly. Inspect the muffler and spark arrestors every 75 hours or once a year for damage, looking for residue, cracks, or anything else that doesn't look right.

 

CleaningorReplacing the Air Filter

Just like in a car, the air filter in your pressure washer needs cleaning or changing regularly. A dirty air filter could overheat your pressure washer, harm the unit, let dirt and debris into the motor, and cause damage.

 

Use common sense and consider whether your work environment is excessively debris-filled. If it is, clean or change the air filter more often. The basic recommendation is to clean or replace the air filter every 25 hours or once a year. Change it out every 200 hours of use or every two years.

 

Replacing the Fuel Filter

No matter how good a job you've done with keeping your unit clean, change out the fuel filter at least every 200 hours of use or after two years.

 

Storing Your Pressure Washer

Preparing the unit for storage is essential if you don't plan to use your pressure washer for 30 days or more, especially over the winter. Properly storing your pressure washer goes a long way toward optimal function when you're ready to use it again.

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Proper winter preparation protects internal seals and the pipe system, so your pressure washer is operable when you're ready to use it.

Seasonal Storage

Water Tank

Empty the water tank and pump system of detergent and chemicals. Fill the tank with clear water or connect it to a clear water supply and hold the trigger until the water is gone or until it runs clear. Turn off the water supply, remove the nozzle, and squeeze the trigger to clear it.

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Exterior

Clean the outside of any debris, chemicals, or detergent residue.

 

Storage Location

Store your pressure washer out of the elements and with some airflow. Secure it from vandals or curious children who could hurt themselves. 

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Fuel System

The ethanol in the fuel system can corrode the pipes and cause other issues. Add a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank and run the unit for about two minutes to move the additive through the unit.

 

Antifreeze

If the system will be exposed to freezing temperatures, consider adding pressure washer pump saver and follow the label directions.

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Professional Maintenance from Hotsy Carlson

Hotsy Carlson is available in Austin, Bryan, and Killeen when it's time for pressure washer maintenance. The cost is minimal, and it keeps your system in top condition. Breakdowns not only cost time, but they cost money in delayed or lost projects.

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Contact us to schedule an appointment, or bring your pressure washer by to talk with our service department. We consider you part of the family and will be glad to see you!