Busy power washing cleaning professionals need reliable pressure washers. And, if you're working with a robust, industrial-grade pressure washer built by Unimanix, you know you’ve got the power to clean almost any job! We make a great team, but that doesn’t mean you should forgo taking care of your industrial or commercial pressure washer.

In this post, we’ll go over the six essential elements needed in a preventative maintenance program that will help you take good care of your pressure washers.

1. Review the Operator’s Manual

Commercial and industrial pressure washers manufactured by Unimanix are built to last and are more maintenance-friendly than some of the low-cost units on the market. However, as the owner/operator, you still have specific responsibilities to ensure the correct care for your machine.

A perfect example is pressure washing during extreme Canadian conditions, which will more than likely increase the frequency of maintenance of your unit. Check the maintenance schedule in your Operator’s Manual provided by Unimanix. We’re the people who built your pressure washers, and in the Operator’s Manual, you’ll find the optimum maintenance schedule for your equipment, such as when an oil or filter change is needed.

2. Get To Know Your Pressure Washer

The next important step for a successful preventative maintenance program is to get to know your pressure washer. While all pressure washers have the same components, not all, are built for durability. Some of the low-cost pressure washers will require more maintenance, and there are others not even designed for regular maintenance. Once these inexpensive pressure washers stop working, it usually means it’s time to put them in the recycle.

All pressure washers, including commercial, industrial and residential have the same essential components that make a pressure washer, which are:

• Pump
• Unloader
• Relief valve
• Hose
• Gun assembly

As most of you know, pressure washers have either an electric motor or an engine, and each type has its maintenance requirements. Hot pressure washers require additional maintenance because of the extra parts such as the heating coil and float tank. Again, review the Unimanix’s Operator’s Manual.

3. Use the Right Detergent

For long life of your professional pressure washer use only the detergents that are listed by the manufacturer specifically designed and safe for pressure washer use.

4. Experience Goes A Long Way

While there is nothing that can replace experience when it comes to maintenance service, you may want to troubleshoot common pressure washer problems on your own.

Many of the problems you may encounter will be from a clogged or dirty part, and you’ll need to either clean or replace the piece. Another familiar problem is excessive noise in the pump, which could mean a blocked water intake and you may need to replace the part. The best place to start is to refer to your Operator’s Manual for troubleshooting tips and safety guidelines.

5. Contact your Authorized Service Technician to schedule a maintenance

Even if your pressure washer by Unimanix is running just fine, your best practice is to establish a planned maintenance service. By doing so, you get maximum productivity with minimal operating costs. We offer different preventative maintenance packages, contact us today to find out more.

6. Develop A Preventative Maintenance Program

Now it’s time to develop a Preventative Maintenance Schedule. The few minutes you take every day to inspect the unit will go a long way in maintaining the pressure washer in good working order.

Daily & Weekly Maintenance Checks

Before starting up your unit, give it a quick look over. Here’s a daily checklist:

• Check the pump oil and adjust to the correct level if necessary
• Inspect the high-pressure hose and supply hose: Look for leaks, kinks, cuts, abrasions, or bulges
• Verify correct operating pressure and temperature
• Inspect pump for any water leaks
• Check the GFCI drop cord for noticeable damage, applicable if you have an electric pressure washer

Before you put away the pressure washer:

• Clean out the detergent by running clear water through the injector before storing the unit

Gas Pressure Washer

• Check the engine oil and fuel levels
• Flush the water system before installing the pressure tip; this will stop any existing materials from clogging the system

Monthly or Every 6 Months Maintenance Check

How often you use your pressure washer will affect the maintenance requirement for those longer lasting parts. The following parts may need a monthly or bi-yearly maintenance check:

• Change the fittings or hose if a leak exists. Remember, to shut the machine first before you fix the leak.
• Belt-Driven Pump: Belt-drive pump is built to last. However, we do recommend checking the belt for wear and proper tension.
• Direct-Driven Pump: Usually requires no special maintenance because it is coupled directly to the engine crankshaft.
• Tires: If you have a mobile pressure washer give the tired a good cleaning, check to see if they are properly inflated and have bearing lubrication.
• Engine Pressure Washer: Refer to the separate engine owner’s manual for further information as an Engine pressure washer has its specific maintenance requirements.

Winterizing

When storing the pressure washer when it still has water in the crankcase, rust and pitting can form on any area of the crankshaft bearings that are not protected by oil, thereby reducing the life of the pressure washer.

• Pay attention to fuel stabiliser, because the fuel stabiliser keeps the gas from deteriorating while the unit is in storage
• Change the oil and filter
• Detach the battery
• Stabilize fuel for burner and pump by running the antifreeze through the unit, for both cold and hot pressure washers. As soon as antifreeze comes out of the nozzle, the unit can be shut down. Leave the antifreeze in the system during storage.

Spring Prep

Before your power cleaning season begins is the best time to tune up your pressure washer. For your pressure washer to get its best gas and engine performance it needs clean air filters and spark plugs need to be in good condition. Once done, you should also pump out the antifreeze and flush out the system with clean water. These critical steps will help prevent motor damage.

At Unimanix, we understand that as a professional cleaning company you need the best pressure washers that are durable and long-lasting. At the same time, it’s important to know how to best maintain these pressure washers in top working order so you can do your job quickly and effectively. If you have any questions, contact us to discuss your pressure washer maintenance requirements.