Read the manual thoroughly and understand all of the instructions, cautions, and warnings before using this equipment. If any section of the manual is not understood, contact your nearest authorized dealer, or contact Generac Customer Service at 1-888-436-3722 (1-888-GENERAC), or www.generac.com with any questions or concerns. 

How to prepare your pressure washer for storage

Following proper long-term storage procedures is important, especially in the winter. It is highly recommended to use Generac Pump Shield to winterize the pump, which prevents damage internally due to freezing water. General storage instructions are provided below. This article provides a guide to the procedures required as well as general information and tips for storing your pressure washer.
 

Environment

This article covers storage procedures for both gas and electric-powered pressure washers.  

 

This article contains

• Storage procedures for gas pressure washers
• Storge procedures for electric pressure washers

 

Gas pressure washers

General notes for gas-powered pressure washer storage. 

• DO NOT place a storage cover on a hot pressure washer. Allow the unit to cool to room temperature before storage. 

• DO NOT store fuel from one season to another. 

• Replace the fuel container if rust is present. Rust in fuel will cause fuel system problems. 

• Cover the unit with a suitable protective moisture-resistant cover. 

• Store the unit in a clean and dry area. 

• Always store power washers and fuel away from heat and ignition sources. 

 

How to prepare the fuel system for storage

Fuel stored over 30 days can go bad and damage fuel system components. To keep fuel fresh, use a fuel stabilizer. If a fuel stabilizer is added to the fuel system, prepare and run the engine according to the start-up procedure in the owner's manual. Adequately prepared fuel can be stored for up to 24 months. 
 

Note: If fuel has not been treated with a fuel stabilizer, it must be drained into an approved container. See: How Do I Drain the Remaining Fuel from My Pressure Washer?
 

Prepare the engine for storage

1. Change engine oil.  
2. Remove the spark plug. 
3. Pour a tablespoon (5-10cc) of clean engine oil or spray a suitable fogging agent into the cylinder. 
4. Pull the starter recoil several times to distribute oil in the cylinder. 
5. Install spark plug. 
6. Pull the recoil slowly until resistance is felt. 

This will close valves so moisture cannot enter the engine cylinder. Gently release recoil. 

 

How to prepare the pressure washer's pump for storage (gas units)

Note: If not using the power washer for more than 30 days, prepare the engine and pump for storage. 

1. Shut the engine OFF. 
2. Turn the fuel valve to OFF.
3. Turn water supply OFF.
4. Point the spray gun in a safe direction and squeeze the trigger to relieve trapped pressure. 
5. Let the engine cool.
6. Disconnect the hoses from the spray gun and the pump's high-pressure outlet. Drain the water from the hoses, spray gun, and lance. Wipe off the components with a rag. 
7. Empty the pump of all remaining liquids. 
8. Pull the recoil handle approximately six times to remove the remaining liquid from the pump. 
9. Winterize the pump with Generac Pump Shield (P/N 0L2414). This minimizes freeze damage and lubricates pistons and seals. 

Note: If Generac Pump Shield is not available, connect a 3 ft (1 m) section of garden hose to the water inlet adapter. Pour RV antifreeze (alcohol-free antifreeze) into the hose. Pull the recoil handle twice. Disconnect the hose. Store the unit in a clean and dry area. 

Electric power washers 

• DO NOT place a storage cover on a hot pressure washer. Allow the unit to cool to room temperature before storage. 
• Cover the unit with a suitable protective moisture-resistant cover. 
• Store the unit in a clean and dry area. 

Note: It is highly recommended that you use Generac Pump Shield to winterize the pump, which prevents internal damage due to freezing water. The unit's manual includes full long-term storage instructions. To find your manual online, visit our Product Support page and enter your serial number or model number. 

 

Preparing Pump for storage (electric units)

Note: If you have not used a pressure washer for more than 30 days, prepare the pump for storage to protect the unit from freezing temperatures. Failure to do so will permanently damage the pump and render the unit inoperable. Freeze damage is not covered under warranty. 
 

1. Turn the unit OFF.
2. Turn the water supply OFF. 
3. Point the spray gun in a safe direction and squeeze the trigger to relieve trapped pressure. 
4. Let the unit cool. 
5. Disconnect the hose from the spray gun and the high-pressure outlet on the pump. Drain the water from the hose, spray gun, and lance. Use a rag to wipe off the components. 
6. Empty the pump of all remaining liquids. 
7. Winterize the pump with Generac Pump Shield or RV antifreeze (alcohol-free antifreeze). This minimizes freeze damage and lubricates pistons and seals. 
8. Store the unit in a clean and dry area. 

 

See also

• How to clean the pressure washers detergent siphoning tube
• How Do I Safely Shut Down a Pressure Washer?