Five Tips to Protect your Jetter in Freezing Conditions

The UK is currently experiencing extremely cold weather and your jetting equipment, particularly the pump, is vulnerable to damage from ice particles. Operating a jetter with frozen water in the lines means frozen droplets can make their way into the pump and result in expensive repair bills and operating downtime. There are a few simple steps to avoid this happening.

1. USE THE ANTIFREEZE VALVE

In freezing conditions, circulate antifreeze through the system after daily use. All Rioned machines are equipped with antifreeze valves. The video below is an easy-to-follow guide for undertaking the antifreeze process and applies to all Rioned machines. Many other makes on the market are fitted with an antifreeze valve, though we recommend that you refer to your operator’s manual before starting the process.

2. USE A HEATER OR HEATED STORAGE

Use a night heater in your jetting van to keep the median temperature above zero during the night. Alternatively, store your vehicle or jetting unit in a heated garage or at least cover the jetting equipment with a blanket when not in use.

3. BEWARE OF FREEZING BETWEEN JOBS

In extreme temperatures, the water in the lines can freeze when travelling between jobs. It’s unlikely that the water tank will freeze but water left in lines definitely will. A heater in the van will help alleviate this problem and some operators opt to keep their unit on with the water recirculating while travelling. This is only advisable on short runs between jobs.

4. KEEP YOUR BATTERY CHARGED

Ensure you have a full charge in your battery. Cold conditions can reduce the ability of the electrolyte solution in the battery to transfer full power and this is particularly true for older batteries.

5. LONG-TERM STORAGE

If your machine is going to be out of action for more than a few days during winter, it’s important to ensure that you drain the fuel and oil tanks and add new fuels before starting the jetter again.

THE ANTIFREEZE PROCEDURE

This step-by-step video guide demonstrates the antifreeze process on a Multijet trailer jetter. The process is very similar for all Rioned jetting equipment, but if you have any queries, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Taking the steps to prevent your jetting equipment freezing will add extra time to your day, but in the long run, it’s got to be better than incurring costly repairs or downtime.