Complete Pressure Washer Maintenance Guide 2024

Keep Your Pressure Washer Running Like New

Regular maintenance is the key to extending the life of your pressure washer and ensuring peak performance. Whether you own a Kranzle, BOSS BOYS, or RealKleen machine, this comprehensive guide will help you maintain your investment.

Daily Maintenance (After Each Use)

1. Flush the System

Always flush clean water through your pressure washer after use, especially if you've been using detergents or chemicals. Run the machine for 2-3 minutes with just water to clear all chemical residue from the pump and hoses.

2. Release Pressure

Before storing, squeeze the trigger to release any built-up pressure in the system. This protects seals and extends pump life.

3. Inspect Hoses and Connections

Check for wear, cracks, or leaks in hoses and fittings. Replace damaged components immediately to prevent failures during operation.

Weekly Maintenance (For Regular Users)

Check and Clean Inlet Filter

The inlet filter prevents debris from entering your pump. Remove and clean it weekly if you're using your pressure washer regularly. A clogged filter reduces water flow and can damage your pump.

Inspect Nozzles

Check spray nozzles for wear or blockages. Clean with a small wire or nozzle cleaning tool. Worn nozzles reduce pressure and efficiency.

Check Oil Level (Petrol Models)

For petrol pressure washers like BOSS BOYS and RealKleen models with Honda engines, check the engine oil level weekly. Top up or change as needed following manufacturer specifications.

Monthly Maintenance

Pump Oil Check

Many professional pressure washers have oil-lubricated pumps (like Interpump models). Check the pump oil level monthly and change according to manufacturer recommendations - typically every 300 hours or annually.

Clean or Replace Air Filter

For petrol models, clean or replace the air filter monthly during heavy use. A clean air filter ensures proper engine performance and fuel efficiency.

Inspect Unloader Valve

The unloader valve diverts water flow when you release the trigger. Check for proper operation and clean if necessary.

Seasonal Maintenance

Winterization (Critical for UK Climate)

If storing your pressure washer over winter:

• Run antifreeze pump saver through the system
• Drain all water from pump, hoses, and spray gun
• Store in a frost-free location
• For petrol models, add fuel stabilizer or drain the fuel tank

Spring Start-Up

Before first use after winter storage:

• Check all hoses and connections
• Change engine oil and pump oil
• Inspect spark plug (petrol models)
• Test run before taking on jobs

Annual Professional Service

We recommend annual professional servicing for commercial pressure washers. At RealKleen, we offer comprehensive servicing including:

• Complete pump inspection and seal replacement
• Engine service (petrol models)
• Burner service (hot water models)
• Safety checks and pressure testing
• Performance optimization

Common Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Hot Water in Cold Water Machines

Never use hot water in a cold water pressure washer. The seals aren't designed for heat and will fail quickly.

2. Running Without Water

Never run your pressure washer without water flowing through it. This will destroy the pump seals in seconds.

3. Using Incorrect Detergents

Only use detergents specifically designed for pressure washers. Household cleaners can damage seals and leave residue.

4. Storing with Water Inside

Always drain water before storage, especially in winter. Frozen water will crack your pump.

Maintenance Schedule Quick Reference

After Every Use: Flush system, release pressure, visual inspection

Weekly: Clean inlet filter, check nozzles, check oil (petrol)

Monthly: Pump oil check, air filter, unloader valve

Seasonally: Winterize/spring start-up, deep clean

Annually: Professional service, seal replacement, complete inspection

When to Call a Professional

Contact RealKleen for professional service if you experience:

• Loss of pressure that cleaning doesn't fix
• Unusual noises from pump or engine
• Water leaks from pump
• Engine starting problems
• Burner issues (hot water models)

Conclusion

Regular maintenance is an investment that pays dividends in reliability, performance, and longevity. Follow this guide and your pressure washer will provide years of dependable service. For professional servicing or spare parts, contact RealKleen - your pressure washer specialists.