Ordered my first pressure washer and already bought some pump saver in the screw on bottle. I plan on using it after every use but seems that would get costly. I read somewhere you can mix 50 50 RV antifreeze and mineral oil. Not sure what mineral oil you would use though and if it’s even a cheeper way.
Sent from my iPhone using Pressure Washing Resource
I’ve used straight rv antifreeze or the old school green automotive antifreeze for years.
Sent from my iPhone using Pressure Washing Resource
how about windshield washing fluid…its rated to -20 deg and is only 2.00/gallon
Do you just gravity feed it until it runs out of the outlet, or do you pull the cord a time or 2 to circulate it in the pump?
Sent from my iPhone using Pressure Washing Resource
I have a tank that gravity feeds to my machines. I start them up and let it flow through everything. You can also use a 12v pump of just about any type to push it through your system.
Sent from my iPhone using Pressure Washing Resource
Thank you Jason, I appreciate the help!
Sent from my iPhone using Pressure Washing Resource
Ive seen a few guys post that they were using it. I’ve never tried it.
Sent from my iPhone using Pressure Washing Resource
Best to use is a 50/50 antifreeze mix. Buy It straight and just mix equal parts water to it. Best bang for the buck for antifreeze that way. You can also use Windshield wiper fluid. What we do is have a spare tank and quick connect the bypass line to it and ball valve the mix into the pump. This way we can keep reusing the 50/50 antifreeze mix through out the year.
Also blow out your hose lines, surface machines and guns/wands with an air compressor that way you have Zero concerns.
In 20yrs in business we haven’t lost a pump yet to freeze 
Thanks for the ideas. I’ll feel safe with just the RV antifreeze now.Put a 2 foot clear hose and funnel on there and pull it a few times till it comes out then I just leave that hooked up with a little left in the hose. The RV stuff supposedly has a lubricant for the seals also.
Sent from my iPhone using Pressure Washing Resource
Sorry to revive such an old thread, but it’s on my mind right now!
I’ve been gravity feeding the antifreeze into my pump so, obviously, it’s not getting worked through my unloader completely. Do you guys think that will open the unloader up to freeze damage, or should it be ok?
I’m trying to rig up a DIY pump saver, but finding a small 5-10 gallon tank is proving much harder than I expected!
Jesse
Atlas Services
Exterior Cleaning Specialists
North Carolina
We’ve been using the “air blow out” method for years with no problems. Of course it doesn’t get as cold here as in other areas.
Good to know! I don’t have a compressor yet, so I may rig up a fitting with a Schrader valve in it and just use the air at the gas station. I really want to go with an AODD pump soon, but I have to set up a different truck first.
To be a bit more clear on my last post: I gravity feed the antifreeze into the pump, pull the cord (with the switch off) until I get pure antifreeze out of the pressure outlet. That works great, and it’s convenient…My only concern is water staying in some spot in the unloader and freezing…Does that sound like a valid concern, or am I just worrying too much?
Jesse
Atlas Services
Exterior Cleaning Specialists
North Carolina
No, not at all…The bypass line would be the concern, but if you disconnect it and drain the water, you should be good to go.
Also doesn’t hurt to tarp and put a small heater under there for extra Insurance…again, something we do.
Great! Thanks for the help GuyB!
Jesse
Atlas Services
Exterior Cleaning Specialists
North Carolina
www.CallAtlas.com
