How to Winterize a Pressure Washer (Gas, Electric and Cordless)
Researched by Moses Washika · Updated 8 November 2026
A pressure washer pump that freezes with water inside can crack in a single cold night. Winterizing takes about 20 minutes and a can of pump saver.
This guide covers gas, electric and cordless models. Use the checklist to tick off each step as you go.
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- Drain every drop of water from the pump, hoses and gun. Ice in the pump is what causes the damage.
- Run pump saver or a pump protector through the inlet. It prevents freezing and keeps the seals soft.
- On gas models, stabilize or drain the fuel. Old fuel is why most engines refuse to start in spring.
Winterizing Checklist
Winterizing Checklist
Pick your pressure washer type. Tick each step as you go.
What You Need
Pump saver
Briggs and Stratton Pump Saver is an antifreeze and lubricant that screws onto the garden hose inlet. One can treats several pumps.
Pump protector (alternative)
STA-BIL Pump Protector does the same job and works with most brands.
Fuel stabilizer (gas models)
STA-BIL Storage keeps fuel fresh for months. Add it, then run the engine so it reaches the carburetor.
A cover
A cover keeps dust and mice out of the engine and pump while it is stored.
How to Winterize a Pressure Washer, Step by Step
- Flush out detergent. Run clean water through the soap system for a minute.
- Turn off the water and release pressure. Squeeze the trigger until the water stops.
- Disconnect everything. Remove the garden hose, high pressure hose, gun, wand and nozzles. Hang the hoses to drain.
- Push the last water out of the pump. On gas models, pull the starter cord a few times with the switch off. Do not run the pump dry with the motor on.
- Add pump saver. Attach the can to the water inlet and press until foam or liquid comes out of the outlet.
- Clean the inlet screen and nozzles. Debris left in them dries hard over winter.
- Store the hoses and gun coiled loosely in a dry place.
These steps follow the advice from pump maker Pumptec and pressure washer maker Mi-T-M. Always check your own manual, as some brands specify their own products.
Extra Steps for Gas Pressure Washers
- Fuel: add stabilizer and run the engine for 5 minutes, or run the tank dry.
- Oil: change it if it is dark or due. Old oil contains acids that harm the engine in storage.
- Spark plug: pull the wire off so it cannot start by accident.
- Air filter: tap it clean or replace it if it is clogged.
Pump Saver vs RV Antifreeze
| Pump saver | RV antifreeze | |
|---|---|---|
| How you add it | Screws onto the inlet, one press | Needs a funnel or a short hose and some patience |
| Protects from freezing | Yes | Yes, if mixed as the label says |
| Lubricates the seals | Yes | Some brands, check the label |
| Best for | Most homeowners | People who already keep RV antifreeze for a camper or cabin |
Never use car antifreeze. It is toxic and ends up on your driveway and lawn the first time you use the washer in spring.
5 Winterizing Mistakes That Kill Pumps
- Leaving the hoses attached. Water trapped in the high pressure hose freezes and splits it.
- Running the pump dry with the motor on. A pump without water overheats in seconds. Pull the cord with the switch off instead.
- Skipping the fuel. Ethanol fuel goes stale in about a month and gums up the carburetor.
- Storing it on a wet concrete floor. Moisture rusts the frame and fittings. Use a pallet or a shelf.
- Forgetting the spray gun. The trigger valve holds water too. Squeeze it while it drains.
Where to Store Your Pressure Washer
The best place is somewhere that stays above freezing, like a heated garage, basement or shed with a heater. A treated pump can survive cold, but it is never the ideal.
Keep cordless batteries indoors at room temperature. Our guide on storing lithium tool batteries in winter explains why.
Starting It Again in Spring
- Reconnect the spark plug wire and check the oil.
- Fill with fresh fuel if you drained it.
- Connect the garden hose and turn on the water.
- Squeeze the trigger to purge air and pump saver before starting.
- Start the engine or switch on, then test at low pressure first.
If yours did not survive the winter, start with what PSI pressure washer you need, then compare our best pressure washers for home and driveway and best cordless pressure washers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to winterize an electric pressure washer?
Yes, if it will sit anywhere that freezes. The pump holds water just like a gas model, and ice can crack the pump housing or damage the seals.
Can I use RV antifreeze in a pressure washer?
Many owners do, using a non toxic RV antifreeze mixed as the label says. A pump saver product is easier because it screws onto the inlet and also lubricates the seals. Check your manual first.
What happens if a pressure washer pump freezes?
Water expands as it freezes and can crack the pump manifold, split hoses and damage seals and valves. A cracked pump usually costs more to fix than a winterizing kit.
Can I leave my pressure washer in a cold garage?
Only after it is fully drained and protected with pump saver. Even then, keep batteries indoors and store the machine off a damp floor.
How do I start my pressure washer after winter?
Reconnect the spark plug, check the oil, fill with fresh fuel, connect the hoses and run water through the pump before you start the engine. The pump saver flushes out on the first run.
How long does winterizing take?
About 20 to 30 minutes for a gas model and 10 minutes for an electric one.
Sources: Pumptec; Mi-T-M; product details from Amazon listings checked 8 November 2026.
