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Don’t Let Grime Win: Pressure Washer Tips For Simple Spring Cleanup

May 1, 2023

The sun is shining, the birds are chirping, and spring has sprung! But, as you head outside for a breath of fresh air, you can’t help but notice the layer of pollen, mold, mildew, and dirt coating everything. Fear not. With a pressure washer in hand, you can tackle spring cleaning with ease.

a man using a pressure washer on a driveway.
Here are some ways to make your spring outdoor cleanup a breeze.

Choose the Right Nozzle

First, after you’ve read your owner’s manual, choose the right nozzle. Different nozzles create different spray patterns, so select one that suits the task at hand. A 0-degree nozzle is great for a deep clean on concrete or metal surfaces, while a 25-degree nozzle is ideal for general cleaning like washing your car or patio furniture. Be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damaging surfaces and save time by doing things right the first time. 

Be Safe

Next, safety first! Wear closed-toe shoes, safety glasses, and ear protection. You’ll also want to protect any electronics, outdoor furniture, and delicate landscaping from the water stream. Plastic sheeting and tape can help protect anything you don’t want to come into contact with your pressure washer.

Select Safe Soap

You don’t have to use detergents with your pressure washer, but sometimes it might be necessary. Remember to rinse from the top down and consider using environmentally friendly soaps to help clear away the grime. Choosing the right detergent also means you need to read the label and make sure the detergent you choose is biodegradable and the ingredients are environmentally friendly. You’ll also want to check the toxicity levels of the product to make sure it won’t cause harm to people, animals, or plants.

Walkways and Patios

Once you’re geared up and ready to go, start with the toughest cleaning jobs first. This allows you to get them out of the way and makes tackling everything else seem like a breeze. Concrete patios, driveways, or sidewalks are great places to start. Use a 0-degree nozzle to blast away dirt and grime, following up with a 25-degree nozzle to remove any debris left behind.

The Outside of Your Home

Now you can move on to the exterior of your home. Start at the highest point and work your way down, so you don’t wash debris onto already clean areas. A 25-degree nozzle is perfect for washing away all of the winter dirt from your siding, doorways, and windows.

Decks and Fences

If you have a deck or fence, be sure to give them some TLC too. Use a wood-safe cleanser and a 40-degree nozzle to gently clean away mold and mildew. Tackling these surfaces with lower pressure will prevent damage to wood and staining.

Vehicles

Don’t forget about your vehicles! Pressure washing your car, truck, or SUV is an easy way to get rid of grime, dirt, and salt buildup from winter roads. When washing your car, it’s best to use a 25-degree nozzle, working from the top down to avoid pushing dirt into crevices.

Bye, Grime 

After you’ve finished spraying everything down, turn off your pressure washer and disconnect it from the power supply. Always drain the water out of the pressure washer’s hoses and spray gun before storing it. 

Remember, don’t let grime win! Select the proper nozzle, gear up for safety, and work your way through your to-do list starting with the toughest jobs first. With a little effort, and a Champion pressure washer by your side, you’ll have your property looking fresh and clean and ready for spring. 



Ready, Set, Winch

April 17, 2023

Stuck, fallen in a ravine, or just need an extra boost? No matter what your situation is, having the right winch can come in handy. Let’s talk about why you need a winch, how to select and install the right one for your vehicle, plus a few helpful tips. 

Why a Winch?

A winch is a small but mighty machine that functions as an anchor point between a powered vehicle like an ATV or UTV and another object, such as a tree stump. Winches are often used when a motorized vehicle becomes stuck on uneven terrain, allowing the driver to pull themselves out of a tight spot. But winches can also be used to move large objects, help someone else who has become stuck, or even hoist something up high.

If you enjoy off-roading activities, with a winch, you can go farther and further, knowing you can get yourself out of any situation.

What’s Best for Your Outings – Galvanized Steel or Synthetic Rope?

The two types of rope material used in winches are galvanized steel and synthetic rope. 

  • Galvanized Steel: This kind of rope is tougher and sturdier than synthetic rope, making it better suited for heavy-duty applications. It’s less affected by abrasion, making it more durable. Plus, it may last longer overall compared to synthetic rope.
  • Synthetic Rope: Synthetic ropes are lighter and easier to handle due to their smaller diameter. They also require less energy to operate since there’s less weight involved, making them ideal for installations where space is limited. Plus, synthetic ropes won’t corrode and are often safer than traditional steel wire rope since the risk of injury is lower due to its softer surface.

When selecting a rope for your winching needs, consider factors such as the kind of environment you’re likely to encounter, the size of the load you’ll be hauling, and the length of the rope needed. 

What Size Winch Will Fit My Vehicle?

Before purchasing your winch, you must determine what size will work best for your vehicle.

 Here are some key points to keep in mind:

  • Consider the power of your engine — if your vehicle has low torque and power output, a larger winch isn’t necessarily the best choice. Instead, opt for a lighter model that’s specifically designed for your make and model.
  • Look at the drawbar rating on your vehicle — this number indicates the maximum pulling power of your vehicle in pounds per square inch (psi). Make sure you find a winch with a drawbar rating that matches or exceeds this number.
  • Measure the mounting area of your vehicle — you want to make sure the winch you choose fits snugly in the designated area. If it’s too big or too small, it won’t work properly.

By matching the specs of your vehicle to the ones listed on the winch product page, you’ll ensure that you find a model that’s suitable for your application.

Accessorizing 

Once you’ve selected the correct winch for your vehicle, you may need to purchase additional accessories to facilitate installation. These include mounting kits and cable extensions which increase flexibility during open-road operations. At Champion Power Equipment, we offer complete winch kits so you have everything you need, plus we offer accessories like wireless remote kits, mini-rocker switch kits, and rigging kits. Make sure you check for compatibility before buying accessories to prevent damage and voiding warranties. 

How to – First-Time Installation

When installing a winch onto your vehicle, it’s important to take time and follow the instructions correctly—the stakes are higher than simply messing up a few screws here and there. To ensure everything goes smoothly, remember to:

  • Tighten bolts evenly and securely.
  • Apply appropriate lubricant to ensure parts are moving freely.
  • Test the system once installed and inspect it regularly to identify potential issues.

If all of these steps sound like a lot to manage, fear not — we offer how-to videos if you feel the need for extra guidance. 

Ready to Winch? Do’s and Don’ts

Now it’s time to brush up on safety regulations. Here are some “do’s and don’ts” when working with a winch:

  • Do: Wear protective gear, including gloves, glasses, and long sleeves.
  • Don’t: Stand directly behind the winch when operating it.
  • Do: Use multiple anchoring points, such as trees and solid rocks, rather than attaching directly to the ground.
  • Don’t: Overload the winch, as doing so could result in serious injury or death.
  • Do: Monitor the tension continuously while using it and adjust as necessary.
  • Don’t: Pull sharp objects toward the winch, as they may cut through the rope.

Following these rules can help keep you safe while using a winch, while also preventing damage to property and the environment.

Whether you’re looking to get yourself or others out of a sticky situation, or just want to make sure you’re covered no matter what happens, investing in a Champion winch can be a great way to prepare for whatever you expect to face on your next ride. By taking the time to understand the different types of rope and sizes available, you’ll be able to pick the perfect Champion winch and accessories for your vehicle. And by following simple safety tips, you’ll get all the benefits of winching while minimizing the risks. Have fun and stay safe out there!



Is Your Generator Ready for Thunderstorm Season? 

March 16, 2023

Spring is just around the corner. Spring brings sunshine and flowers, but it also brings thunderstorms. Severe thunderstorms often bring power outages. 

It can be tough when the power goes out unexpectedly, but with a little preparation, you can handle it like a pro. One essential tool to have on hand is a portable generator, but don’t wait until the storm hits to check if it’s ready to go. Here’s how to be sure your generator is ready for action just in case that spring shower turns into a thunderstorm. 

First things first, if you haven’t used your generator in a while, it’s important to make sure it was stored properly. Check your owner’s manual for the correct way to store it during periods of disuse. If you stored it correctly, great! You’re one step ahead. If not, don’t worry. Take some time now to drain all the fuel and clean the carburetor before using it safely. Your owner’s manual will give you all the details you need to do this the right way. 

Once your generator is ready for action, take it outside and add fresh fuel. Make sure not to overfill the tank to allow for fuel expansion. 

Next, check for any fuel leaks by turning off the engine switch, turning on the fuel valve, waiting five minutes, and checking for leaks around the carburetor and air filter. If you find a leak, disassemble and clean or replace the carburetor. Again – check your handy owner’s manual for the how-to’s. 

Now that you’ve dealt with any pesky leaks, here’s what to do next. 

  1. Turn the fuel valve off and check the oil level using a dipstick. 
  2. Add fresh oil if necessary. 
  3. Finally, inspect the air filter for any obstructions like bugs or cobwebs. Remove any obstructions and clean or replace the air filter according to the owner’s manual.

Whatever weather is headed your way, you’re ready now! Fresh fuel, no leaks, fresh oil, clean air filter, and your generator is ready to go. With your portable generator prepared, you can rest easy knowing that if a thunderstorm or power outage hits, you’ll have backup power to rely on. 

So be prepared and enjoy peace of mind during any emergency!