Developers design pressure washer machines with wear and tear in mind. It’s the reason why your purchase comes with a warranty. But how the user handles it goes a long way in defining durability. You must inspect your tool before and after use. That way, you can fix errors before they get out of hand.
Minor defects may look harmless in the short run, but if you ignore them, they compound and account for your machine’s ineffectiveness. Often, many problems point to the failure to maintain critical parts such as the pump engine and the inability to use the proper lubricant.
Reputable brands have easy-to-follow manuals, and you can rely on them to check critical aspects of your machine. You’ll be surprised to realize that they are super simple tasks instrumental in propelling your washer’s effectiveness. If you’re keen to practice these simple yet powerful routines, you’ll benefit from years of quality cleaning without incurring repair costs.
In this article, you’ll find essential tips to incorporate into your routine maintenance and help extend the durability of your pressure washer.
Check the engine of your pressure washer periodically
The pressure washer’s engine is the heart of your machine. As such, you should check it regularly to ensure it is operating within the optimal range. Some of the critical aspects to pay attention to include:
Build up of dirt
The engine receives a significant amount of pounding from dirt, adding friction, and you should wash your machine to remove the build-up of grease. You can use your garden hose to agitate the dirt and flush it out eventually.
Check the oil
Oil helps maximize the pressure washer’s performance. Even so, its strength deteriorates over time, and you should check to keep your machine running smoothly. Dip a stick into the engine oil to check if it’s time to add more or discard it altogether. If the test returns a dark color, it’s a good sign to change it.
On some occasions, oil presents a milky color. It means that your oil got mixed with water at some point, or there is a leakage that needs fixing. Generally, it is not safe to work with dirty oil as it increases the risk of corrosion. So, you must change your oil immediately to avert further damage.
Protect the Pressure washer pump from corrosion
The pressure washer pump is susceptible to corrosion. And because water is loaded with minerals that trigger rusting, you should make it a habit to flush out all drops of water after use. That way, you can rid the pistons of wear and save you the trouble of replacing the seals frequently.
Often, detailers employ antifreeze to pump out all drops of water. Antifreeze benefits your pump because; it effectively drains all the water while leaving a protective lubricant behind.
Use the suitable liquids on your pressure washer
Using suitable cleaning liquids protects the pump and helps to curb leakages. Some fluids carry corrosive chemicals with the potential to damage rings. And when that happens, you are set to experience frequent bouts of leakages that sap pressure from your washing unit.
Manufacturers recommend using suitable washing liquid to avoid damaging the pump and ensure optimum cleaning. Also, it’s easier to rinse off and prevents chances of crystallization when your equipment is not in use.
Final sentiments
You have the power to add life span to your equipment. It starts with lubricating your machine frequently and checking that the pump works correctly. You can’t underestimate the power of detergents when it comes to durability. Regular cleaning agents can work against your pressure washer’s efficiency. Therefore, use suitable liquids at all times to protect your pump against irreparable damage.