How to Store a Pressure Washer Correctly
Proper storage is one of the easiest ways to keep your pressure washer in good working condition. Whether you use your pressure washer every week or only a few times a year, storing it correctly can help prevent leaks, damaged hoses, cracked components and unnecessary repairs.
Many common pressure washer faults are caused not by heavy use, but by poor storage. Kinked hoses, damaged connectors, frozen pumps and worn seals can often be avoided with a few simple steps.
In this guide, we'll explain how to store your pressure washer correctly throughout the year to keep it performing at its best.
Why Proper Storage Matters
Correct storage helps to:
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Protect the pump
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Prevent hose damage
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Reduce the risk of leaks
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Extend the life of seals and O-rings
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Keep accessories in good condition
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Prevent frost damage during winter
A few minutes spent storing your pressure washer correctly can save expensive repairs later.
Step 1 – Turn Off the Machine Safely
After finishing your cleaning:
Electric Pressure Washers
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Switch off the machine.
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Disconnect it from the mains supply.
Petrol Pressure Washers
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Stop the engine.
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Allow it to cool completely before storing.
Step 2 – Disconnect the Water Supply
Turn off the tap.
Disconnect the garden hose from the pressure washer.
Allow any remaining water to drain away.
Step 3 – Release the Pressure
Before disconnecting the high-pressure hose:
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Squeeze the trigger gun.
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Allow any remaining pressure to escape.
This reduces stress on the seals and makes the hose easier to remove.
Step 4 – Drain All Remaining Water
Water left inside the machine can cause corrosion and, during winter, frost damage.
Drain water from:
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High-pressure hose
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Trigger gun
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Spray lance
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Pump
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Connectors
Take a few moments to ensure everything is as dry as possible.
Step 5 – Coil the Hose Correctly
The high-pressure hose should never be wrapped tightly around the machine unless it has a purpose-built hose reel.
Instead:
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Coil it in large loops.
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Avoid tight bends.
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Do not twist the hose.
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Avoid placing heavy objects on top of it.
Correct storage helps prevent kinks and internal damage.
Step 6 – Clean the Accessories
Before putting everything away, wipe down:
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Spray lances
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Trigger gun
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Foam lance
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Brushes
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Surface cleaner
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Extension wands
Removing dirt now helps prevent build-up and corrosion.
Step 7 – Clean the Water Inlet Filter
The inlet filter should be checked regularly.
Remove any:
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Dirt
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Sand
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Leaves
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Small stones
A clean filter helps protect the pump the next time you use the machine.
Step 8 – Inspect for Wear
Storage time is a good opportunity to check for worn parts.
Inspect:
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Hose
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O-rings
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Spray lance
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Trigger gun
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Nozzles
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Connectors
Replacing worn parts before your next use helps avoid unexpected problems.
Step 9 – Store Indoors Where Possible
The ideal storage location is:
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Dry
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Clean
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Frost-free
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Well ventilated
Suitable locations include:
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Garage
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Shed
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Workshop
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Utility room
Avoid leaving the machine outside for long periods, even if covered.
Keep Accessories Together
Store accessories in one place so they are easy to find.
This includes:
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Nozzles
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Foam bottles
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Turbo lances
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Brushes
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Adaptors
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O-rings
Using a storage box or organiser helps prevent small parts from being lost.
Protect the Hose Connections
Before storage:
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Check the connectors are clean.
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Remove grit.
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Inspect the O-rings.
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Replace damaged seals.
Clean connectors are less likely to leak the next time the pressure washer is used.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
Long-term exposure to sunlight can gradually damage:
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Rubber seals
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Plastic fittings
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High-pressure hoses
Whenever possible, store your pressure washer away from direct sunlight.
Common Storage Mistakes
Leaving Water Inside
Water left inside the machine may freeze or encourage corrosion.
Always drain the machine before storing.
Wrapping the Hose Too Tightly
Sharp bends can weaken the hose and reduce its lifespan.
Store it in loose coils.
Storing Accessories Separately
Losing nozzles or adaptors often means buying replacements unnecessarily.
Keep everything together.
Ignoring Small Leaks
A small leak today can become a larger repair later.
Replace worn O-rings and seals before storing the machine.
Preparing for Your Next Use
Before using your pressure washer again:
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Inspect the hose.
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Check all connectors.
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Inspect the O-rings.
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Clean the nozzle.
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Check the inlet filter.
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Test the machine for leaks.
A quick inspection can help avoid interruptions while cleaning.
How This Relates to Other Pressure Washer Problems
Correct storage helps prevent many common faults.
For example:
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If your pressure washer is leaking water, see Pressure Washer Leaking Water? Causes and Fixes
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If pressure is low, read Pressure Washer Has Low Pressure? Causes and Fixes
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If the machine won't build pressure, see Pressure Washer Won't Build Pressure? Causes and Fixes
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If your machine won't start after storage, see Pressure Washer Won't Start? Causes and Fixes
Replacement Parts That May Be Needed
If poor storage has caused damage, common replacement parts include:
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High-pressure hoses
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Spray lances
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Trigger guns
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O-rings
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Seal kits
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Water inlet filters
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Hose connectors
Replacing worn or damaged components can help restore reliable performance.
You can find replacement pressure washer parts and accessories for many popular brands, including Kärcher, Nilfisk, Bosch, Makita and more, from Yourspares.
Final Thoughts
Storing your pressure washer correctly is one of the simplest ways to protect your investment.
By draining water, cleaning accessories, inspecting key components and keeping the machine in a dry, frost-free location, you can reduce wear, prevent common faults and ensure your pressure washer is ready whenever you need it.
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