How to Use Pressure Washer Pump Guard

On this page (8 sections)

1. How do you use pressure washer pump guard?
2. What does pump guard protect against?
3. When should you apply Simpson pressure washer pump guard?
4. How is pump guard different from pump saver?
5. What should you do after applying pump guard?
6. How should you store a pressure washer after pump protection?
7. What mistakes should you avoid with pump guard?
8. What is the simplest storage routine?

To use pressure washer pump guard, turn off the washer, disconnect its water supply, and apply the protectant through the pump inlet before storage. Follow the product label and washer manual for the amount and exact steps.

Pump guard helps protect the pump from damage associated with water left inside during storage. It is a storage step, not a replacement for draining the washer or following model-specific winterizing instructions.

How do you use pressure washer pump guard?

Apply the protectant through the pump inlet with the machine off and its water supply disconnected. Use the product label and washer manual to confirm the fitting, amount, and steps for your model.

1. Turn off the pressure washer and disconnect it from power, if electric.
2. Shut off and disconnect the water supply.
3. Relieve pressure and remove hoses or fittings as directed by the manual.
4. Connect the pump guard container or its applicator to the inlet as instructed.
5. Apply the stated amount, then finish the storage steps in the manual.

Don't run the washer while applying pump guard unless its instructions specifically require it. Avoid forcing a fitting or guessing how much to use.

If the pump guard has an applicator, use it only as directed. Some products and washer designs call for different methods, so the label and model manual take priority over generic steps.

What does pump guard protect against?

Pump guard is meant to help protect the pump during storage, when water left inside can cause problems, particularly in freezing conditions. Use it as directed, but don't treat it as a substitute for the washer's storage procedure.

Drain water from the machine and hoses according to the manual before storing. Pump guard may help protect pump parts, while disconnected hoses and proper draining address water elsewhere in the system.

For a broader checklist, see how to winterize a pressure washer. A full winterizing routine can include steps beyond applying pump protectant.

When should you apply Simpson pressure washer pump guard?

Apply Simpson pressure washer pump guard only when its label and your washer manual support the same method. Check the product's directions for compatibility, connection, amount, and whether the machine should stay off during application.

For routine pump maintenance, see Simpson pressure washer pump oil.

The phrase “Simpson pump guard” doesn't identify every pump design or inlet fitting. If the instructions don't clearly cover your model, contact the manufacturer before connecting or applying the product.

If your Kärcher pump needs replacement, consult Kärcher pump replacement guidance.

Don't substitute another chemical or automotive antifreeze unless the washer and product instructions explicitly allow it. The wrong fluid or method can damage components.

Can you use pump guard on an electric pressure washer?

You can use pump guard on an electric washer only if its product label and manual allow it. Unplug the machine before disconnecting water or handling fittings, and keep electrical connections dry.

For indoor cleaning safety, see pressure washer bathroom safety.

The same care applies to gas washers, but their manuals may have additional storage steps for the engine. See how to winterize a gas pressure washer for that process.

How is pump guard different from pump saver?

Pump guard and pump saver are both used to prepare a pressure washer pump for storage, but follow the directions for the product you have. Their application methods and compatible machines may differ.

Check the label before using a product with an unfamiliar inlet, adapter, or applicator. Our step-by-step guide explains how to use pressure washer pump saver.

Don't combine products or assume that a method for one brand works for another. Use one protectant at a time, as its instructions specify.

What should you do after applying pump guard?

Finish storage by following the manual's directions for hoses, fittings, and the washer itself. Keep the unit in the location and condition recommended for your model.

A cover can help shield a stored washer from dirt, rain, and sun, but it doesn't replace pump protection or proper winterizing. Remove the cover before operating the machine.

For a fitted option, the Classic Accessories Pressure Washer Cover is made for vertical or horizontal washers measuring 48 x 18.5 x 13.5 in and covers attached hose reels.

Measure your machine and check that its shape and hose reel fit before choosing a cover. Compare more options in our guide to the best pressure washer cover.

The WEN PW31C cover fits pressure washers up to 23 x 20.5 x 39 in, with a vinyl exterior and cotton interior.

The WEN cover is specifically designed for the WEN PW31 3100-Watt Pressure Washer. Confirm your washer's dimensions and shape before choosing it.

The Giraffe Tools cover is designed for its Pressure Washer Basic, Plus, Plus+, and Pro models. It has mesh pockets on both sides for organizing small attachments.

Giraffe Tools says to remove the cover before using the washer. Check the model fit and keep attachments organized without leaving them connected during operation.

How should you store a pressure washer after pump protection?

Store the washer according to its manual, with water drained and the pump protectant applied as directed. Choose a protected, dry location when the manual calls for one, and keep the machine away from conditions that could damage it.

A cover can shield the washer from dust and outdoor elements, but select one that fits and follow its care instructions. If you need a washer for household jobs before storing it, our guide to the best electric pressure washer for home use covers common home-use choices.

Don't leave a cover on while the washer is running. Giraffe Tools specifically instructs users to remove its cover before use, and other covers should also be removed before operation.

What mistakes should you avoid with pump guard?

Avoid applying pump guard while the washer is running, guessing the amount, or forcing an inlet connection. Use the exact method on the product label and in your machine's manual.

Also avoid assuming pump guard removes the need to drain water from hoses, wand, or accessories. Prepare the full washer as its maker instructs, and check that all parts are stored safely.

When the washer is ready to use again, select the right nozzle and technique for the surface. Our guide to what cleaning power means on a pressure washer explains how pressure and flow relate to cleaning.

For vehicle washing, use a suitable soap and follow the machine and soap directions; see what soap you can use in a pressure washer and our guide to the best pressure washers for cars.

What is the simplest storage routine?

For anyone learning how to use pressure washer pump guard, the key is to follow the product label and washer manual, apply it through the inlet as directed, and complete the rest of the storage steps. Drain hoses and other parts as instructed.

Use Simpson pump guard only when its directions fit your washer. Add a cover if you need protection from dirt or weather, and choose one sized for your model.

Remove the cover before use, and review your manual again if the washer has been stored through freezing weather.

Frequently asked questions

How do you use pressure washer pump guard?

Turn off the pressure washer, disconnect its water supply, and apply pump guard through the pump inlet as its label directs. Follow the washer manual for disconnecting hoses and handling the pump, then cap or reconnect parts as instructed before storage.

Can you use Simpson pump guard on any pressure washer?

Check the Simpson pump guard label and your washer manual to confirm compatibility and the application steps. Pump designs and inlet fittings can differ, so don't force an adapter or use a protectant unless both sets of instructions allow it.

When should you apply pressure washer pump guard?

Apply pump guard when preparing the washer for storage, especially before a period when leftover water could freeze. The product label and washer manual determine the right timing, amount, and storage steps for your model.

Is pump guard the same as winterizing a pressure washer?

Pump guard is one part of preparing a washer for storage, while winterizing can also involve draining water and handling fuel on gas models. Follow your washer manual for the full process, and see a winterizing guide if cold weather is expected.