Cold weather is hard on wet and wet/dry blasting systems. A quick winterization routine protects pumps, lines, collars and valves from freeze damage. Below is a clear, field-tested walkthrough for ClearBlast CB units and ECO-Flex ECO-100/ECO-200, plus what to use, what to avoid and how to store or transport gear in freezing conditions.
Why winterize?
• Prevent cracked pumps, split hoses and seized valves
• Avoid costly repairs and downtime when a cold snap hits
• Keep systems ready for fast de-winterizing when work resumes
What you’ll need
• Automotive windshield washer fluid rated below your lowest expected temperature
• Basic hand tools for valves and fittings
• PPE appropriate for your site and chemical handling
Do Not Use
Automotive engine antifreeze or orange RV antifreeze. Both can corrode components or leave residue that causes issues if left in the system for long periods. Windshield washer fluid has proven most reliable for these systems.
ClearBlast Winterization
We recommend following the visual walkthroughs for each model, then using the checklist below to confirm you didn’t miss a step.
- CB150/CB150HV video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7QACyiAovdw
- CB450 video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B-N9SaybfL4
ClearBlast Checklist:
1. Drain residual water from low points & collars and disconnect water supply.
2. Place the washer fluid intake line into a fresh jug of winter-grade fluid
3. Run the water pump so fluid replaces water throughout the water-end components
4. Open each downstream valve in turn so fluid reaches every path that normally carries water
5. Close valves, power down the pump, verify there is visible fluid at all key outlets
6. Tag the machine “winterized” and note the fluid type used
ECO-Flex Winterization (ECO-100 and ECO-200)
The ECO-Flex process is straightforward. Use the siphon port and draw tube with a jug of winter-grade windshield washer fluid, then move the fluid through the full water circuit and blast hose water feed.
ECO-Flex Checklist:
- Confirm air is connected and on, blast hose attached, siphon tube connected to the siphon port
- Place the siphon tube in a jug of winter-grade windshield washer fluid
- Turn the water pump on so it primes from the jug
- Crack open the garden hose connection valve until you see washer fluid discharge, then close it
- Pressurize the ECO-100/200
- Open the water adjustment valve fully
- Activate the deadman until washer fluid exits at the nozzle, which confirms the blast hose water line is protected
- Close the water adjustment valve fully and turn the water pump off
- Pull the deadman briefly to blow out any residual moisture from the blast hose
- For storage, leave the garden hose connection valve and the water adjustment valve in the fully open position
These steps align with our official ECO-Flex winterizing instructions.
Don’t Forget the Direct Water Port
If your system has a direct water hose port, open that valve momentarily after winterizing to release any water that might be trapped there. This prevents a hidden freeze point later.
Storage and transport tips
- Before shipping or hauling in freezing weather: confirm winterization tags are present and current
- During storage: keep machines under cover with valves positioned per the instructions, avoid partial drains that leave pooled water in low spots
- Incoming equipment: ESCA winterizes all new units leaving our Hatfield, PA facility during the freezing season, and we continue until temperatures across the country are consistently above 32°F
De-winterizing in spring
- Move the unit to a suitable area and connect clean water
- Run the pump on water to purge washer fluid until discharge runs clear and odor free
- Cycle each valve and the deadman so fresh water replaces fluid in every path
- Inspect collars, hoses and valves, then return your water settings to normal for blasting
Need help?
If you want us to walk your team through a first-time winterization, or you need service after a freeze event, contact ESCA Blast. We’ll help you protect your equipment and keep your season on track.
Protect your crew. Protect your project.
Explore our PPE lineup or contact us for help choosing the right gear: www.escablast.com/store
