Whether you're storing your pump for an extended period of time, or storing your spray equipment for the winter, our friends at Pentair recommend the following procedures for storing Hypro or Shurflo brand pumps. In this post, we're providing Pentair's guidelines, broken down by pump type, along with everything you need to know to ensure your pump is ready for the next year.
Centrifugal Pumps:
Flush the pump and entire system with a solution that will chemically neutralize the liquid that was used. By doing this, the residue from the chemicals sprayed
Diaphragm Pumps:
All diaphragm pumps are susceptible to freezing, so extra care is needed to prevent the pump from freeze damage during the off season. Flushing the pump out with a chemical neutralizer prior to
Roller Pumps:
Roller pumps have a tight tolerance inside and chemical buildup will greatly affect the performance and wear factors of the internal components, so flushing with a neutralizer prior to storage is critical. After neutralizing, flush the pump out with an automotive antifreeze (ethylene glycol) that contains a rust inhibitor (Prestone®, Zerex®,etc) mixed at 50/50 with water. This will both protect the pump from freezing and from rusting. Removing the pump from the sprayer and storing it in a heated area will also prevent costly damage to the pump. This should be done AFTER the pump has been neutralized and flushed out with antifreeze. Add an ounce of rust inhibitor or light oil to the inlet of the pump and then turn the pump shaft to allow the inhibitor to coat all the internal surfaces. Plug both the inlet and outlet of the pump so that air will not be able to enter the pump. Reusing the original shipping plugs is the best way to ensure that the pump is air tight during storage.