Preparing for the Deep Freeze: How to Winterize a Garbage Can Cleaning Trailer

Living and working in Westchester County, NY, has taught our team at Advanced Can Cleaners a lot about the importance of proper winterization. With temperatures in the Northeast consistently dropping below freezing from November through March, we have to be extremely proactive. If our specialized cleaning trailer freezes while water is still trapped inside, it can cause major damage to the pumps and plumbing. To ensure we are ready to hit the ground running as soon as the spring thaw arrives, we follow a rigorous multi-step process to protect our equipment.

Clearing the Tanks

The first step in our winterization routine is to completely empty the dirty water tank and leave the valve open to prevent any pressure buildup. We then drain whatever remains in the freshwater tank. Because gravity alone isn't enough to get every drop out, we use a portable submersible pump to remove any residual moisture left behind in the corners of the tanks.

The Power of High-Pressure Air

Once the tanks are empty, we move on to the internal lines. We use an air compressor to push high-pressure air through the entire system. This isn't a one-and-done task; we repeat the process carefully, opening only one valve at a time to ensure the maximum air force is concentrated enough to clear each specific line.

We pay the most attention to the rotating cleaning head. It is a delicate and expensive component of our trailer, and it is absolutely critical to remove 100% of the water from it to prevent it from cracking under the expansion of ice.

Protecting the Details

Even the smaller parts of our rig require attention. We always remove the pressure washing wand from its hose before storage. We've learned the hard way that no matter how much air pressure you use, water often gets stuck in the wand's valve and freezes, which can ruin the tool before next season.

By taking these extra steps during the quiet winter months, we ensure that our Advanced Can Cleaners trailer stays in peak condition. Proper maintenance is just one of the ways we remain committed to providing a reliable, top-quality service for our Westchester neighbors year after year.

👉 Ready to see it for yourself? Schedule your first cleaning. Cleaner cans, a safer household, and a service that saves you time—it's all possible with Advanced Can Cleaners.