How to Winterize and Store a Pressure Washer

Winterizing your pressure washer is necessary to prevent water from freezing in the pump, as frozen water could permanently damage it. If your pressure washer is to be stored for two months or more, some precautions need to be taken.

Man spraying a muddy truck with the RB 400 Pressure Washer.

Winterizing the Pump:

First, disconnect all the hoses and the gun and wand assembly from the pressure washer, draining as much water as possible.
For optimal results, use the STIHL Pump Conditioner and Winterizer. Attach the pump winterizer directly to the water inlet.
Turn the knob on the bottle to the open position.
Pull on the cord several times with switch/lever in OFF position until the liquid coming out is 100 percent solution.

Winterizing the Engine:

Add a quality fuel stabilizer to fresh gasoline.
Run the engine for 2-3 minutes to get stabilized fuel into the fuel system.
Store the unit in a clean, dry place.

Woman folding the RMA 460 Mower to store in a garage.

Where to store

Now your winterizing is complete and it is safe to store your pressure washer in a garage or building that does not freeze.