Off-Season Sewer Jetter & Equipment Storage

When the busy season slows down and the temperatures start to drop, it’s tempting to park your gear and call it done. But if you’re running a sewer jetter or jetter machine, how you store your equipment in the off-season can make or break your next startup. Cold weather and long periods of inactivity take a toll on machines that aren’t properly prepared—and that includes everything from pumps and hoses to electrical systems and frames.

If you want to avoid busted pumps, frozen lines, or a dead engine come spring, a little prep now will save you time, money, and frustration later. Here’s what you need to know about storing sewer jetters and getting your equipment through winter in good shape.

1.     Drain Everything—No Exceptions

Water and freezing temperatures don’t mix. If there’s standing water left in your pump, hose, or tank, it will expand when it freezes—and that can crack fittings, destroy seals, or rupture hoses.

Start by fully draining the water tank, then run the pump with all lines open to push out any remaining water. Don’t forget the hose reel, bypass lines, and small valves—these areas often hold just enough water to cause problems if overlooked.

If your jetter machine includes a wash-down system or auxiliary connections, make sure those are flushed and drained as well.

2.     Antifreeze Isn’t Just for Engines

Once you’ve drained the system, run a non-toxic RV-style antifreeze through the pump, plumbing, and hose lines. This keeps seals lubricated and prevents any trace moisture from freezing.

To do this properly, disconnect the water supply, place the pickup line into a container of antifreeze, and run the pump until you see antifreeze come out of the nozzle. Make sure to cycle through every mode the machine has—bypass, recirculation, hose reel—so no section gets missed.

This step is the heart of how you winterize jetting equipment. It takes 10 minutes, but it can save you from cracked housings and springtime repair bills.

3.     Take Pressure Off Components

After you’ve cleared the water and cycled antifreeze, relieve all system pressure. Leaving the pump pressurized during storage puts unnecessary strain on valves, lines, and fittings.

Coil hoses loosely (never tight enough to kink), and store them out of the sun and off the ground if possible. UV exposure and moisture accelerate wear—storing them indoors or under cover adds life.

4.     Protect the Engine and Fuel System

Your sewer jetter likely runs on a gas or diesel engine. Long-term storage without proper prep can lead to gummed-up fuel systems, hard starts, or worse.

For gas engines, add a fuel stabilizer, run the engine to circulate it, and top off the tank to reduce condensation. Some operators choose to drain the fuel system entirely—either method works, but choose one and do it fully.

For diesel systems, it’s especially important to keep tanks full to avoid moisture buildup. Make sure filters are clean and fuel is treated with an anti-gel additive before storage.

Don’t forget to check the oil, clean air filters, and make sure battery terminals are clean and secure. Disconnecting the battery—or using a trickle charger—can help prevent power loss over the winter.

5. Clean It Like You Mean It

If there’s grease, grime, or buildup caked onto your frame, hose reel, or nozzles, now’s the time to deal with it. Dirt holds moisture. Moisture causes rust.

Scrub the frame, wash out the hose reel, and clean nozzles and quick-connects. Lubricate moving parts like reels and hinges with a silicone or lithium-based spray to prevent seizing.

Check for worn or damaged components while you’re at it. Off-season is the perfect time to repair what broke or replace what’s worn out. If you catch issues now, you’re not scrambling for parts in the middle of a job next spring

6. Where You Store It Matters

If you have the option, store your jetter indoors. Heated storage is ideal, but even a dry, sheltered space protects your investment far better than leaving it exposed to the elements.

If indoor storage isn’t possible, at least make sure your machine is covered, off the ground, and out of standing water. Use a breathable cover—something that sheds moisture but allows air to circulate. Trapping humidity under a tarp can cause as many problems as leaving it exposed.

Also consider pests. Rodents love making nests in warm engine compartments. Seal off air intakes and cover exhausts to prevent surprises when you fire up the machine in the spring.

Final Thoughts

Off-season maintenance doesn’t have to be complicated, but it needs to be thorough. A few hours spent draining, protecting, and inspecting your jetter now can save you days of downtime and expensive repairs later.

If you’re not sure where to start or need help sourcing replacement parts, Chandler VAC has you covered. Our team knows jetters inside and out, and we can help you get your equipment properly stored for the season. Whether you need a new seal kit, a weatherproof hose reel cover, or guidance on fuel treatment, we’re here to help.

Before you shut it down for the season, take a few simple steps to protect your investment. Storing sewer jetters the right way ensures you’ll be back up and running fast—no surprises, no stress, just a machine that’s ready when you are.