Cold weather can be tough on professional cleaning equipment—especially motor-driven systems like SkyVac units. Proper winterization isn’t just about avoiding downtime; it’s about extending the life of your equipment and preventing costly repairs. Below is a practical guide to safely storing and operating SkyVac systems during cold and damp winter months. Why Winterization Matters Many SkyVac systems rely on powerful brushed motors and precision components. Exposure to extreme cold, moisture, or improper startup procedures can lead to motor degradation, brush wear, fuel system issues, and premature failure. A little preparation goes a long way. 1. Store Equipment Correctly Storage is the single most important factor in winter equipment care. Avoid cold and damp environments. Brushed motors are particularly vulnerable when stored in unheated garages, vans, or sheds where condensation can form. Use climate-controlled storage whenever possible. A dry, temperature-stable environment is ideal. If indoor storage isn’t an option, wrap or insulate the unit to protect it from extreme temperatures and moisture exposure. Rotate motor shafts periodically during long-term storage. This helps distribute lubrication evenly and prevents internal components from settling or seizing. Key takeaway: Cold storage + moisture = accelerated motor wear. 2. Allow Proper Acclimation Before Use Bringing cold equipment directly into a warm environment and powering it on immediately can create internal condensation—and that moisture is especially harmful to motor brushes and electrical components. Best practice: After moving equipment from cold storage into a warm area, allow several hours for acclimation before switching it on. This gives internal components time to reach ambient temperature and helps prevent moisture buildup inside the motor housing. Skipping this step can significantly shorten motor life. 3. Special Care for Petrol-Driven SkyVac Units For petrol-powered systems that will be unused for extended periods (several months or more), fuel management is critical. Drain fuel from the carburettor before long-term storage. Cold temperatures can cause fuel to thicken or congeal, leading to blocked fuel injectors, hard starts, or no-start conditions. If you’re mothballing equipment for winter, taking a few minutes to drain the fuel system can save hours of frustration later. 4. Quick Winter Storage Checklist Stored in a dry, insulated, or climate-controlled space Motor shafts rotated periodically during long storage Equipment acclimated before powering on after cold exposure Petrol units drained of fuel if unused for months Final Thoughts Winter conditions don’t have to mean downtime or damage. With proper storage, acclimation, and fuel management, your SkyVac equipment can stay protected, reliable, and ready to perform when you need it most. Treat winterization as preventative maintenance—and your equipment will reward you with longer service life and fewer repairs.