We can definitely feel the crisp air coming our way; it’s already here if we’re being honest. At MetalFab, one of the questions we’ve been asked a lot lately is, “What’s the right way to winterize my fire truck?” The truth? The right approach depends on your needs.
Some departments prepare for winter early, taking every precaution long before the season changes. Others take it day by day and still make it through the season without any trouble. The best plan really depends on your location and weather challenges. For example, the process a fire department follows may differ slightly between Vancouver and Moncton.
Let’s break down the two most common methods, running your pump dry or wet, and what you should know about each.
If You Choose To Run A Dry Pump
If your department works in a cold climate and has the experience to fully drain pumps every year, running your pump dry may be a good option. That said, achieving a dry pump isn’t easy. Tiny amounts of water often remain trapped in gauges, pressure lines, and other small components. When temperatures drop, that leftover moisture can freeze, expand, and cause damage—even without showing visible signs—until a full disassembly.
If any of your truck’s valves are leaking, the pump won’t stay drained for long, and you may need to do some repairs sooner rather than later.
Some departments choose to run water through the system occasionally during the season. This helps clear particle buildup and keeps the system healthy. But since manually cycling water isn’t always practical, most teams rely on pump house heaters and underbody heaters to maintain a safe temperature inside the equipment.
The good news? Running a dry pump gives you a great excuse to inspect your system closely for small leaks before they turn into major problems.
Going The Wet Pump Route
For many modern trucks, going completely dry isn’t always realistic. With multiple gauges, drain lines, and pressure lines, small pockets of water can linger even after draining.
That’s where pump house heaters and underbody heaters come in. The heater core and fan work together to keep the space around your pump warm and to block cold air from reaching critical areas underneath. However, these heaters aren’t designed to protect the fire pump itself or the components below the heater area, so don’t rely on them alone.
The best protection for wet systems? Keep the water moving. Circulating water won’t freeze, which helps protect internal parts during cold spells.
Running a wet pump comes with some advantages:
- You won’t need to prime your pump before service, which means a faster response time.
- Continuous water flow helps prevent calcium and rust buildup.
- Seals and packing stay flexible, which makes for smoother startup and operation.
The downside? You’ll need to stay alert for freezing when water isn’t circulating. For example, while traveling long distances to a scene. Keep in mind that frozen valves or cracked components can lead to costly repairs or replacements.
Winterizing Tips For A Smooth Season
No matter which method your department chooses, we always like sharing some proactive steps that can make winter maintenance easier and safer:
- Install heating tape on smaller lines, use pump house heaters to keep the pump area warm, and add underbody heat shields to block cold air. These help prevent freeze-ups in key components. Tire chains are also worth having on hand for added traction and control in icy conditions.
- Schedule inspections before and during winter. Check for small leaks, aging seals, or hairline cracks because small issues can quickly worsen in freezing weather. Keeping up with this routine will extend your pump’s lifespan and prevent mid-season breakdowns.
- Make it a regular habit to check water tanks, drain lines, and pump valves, especially after extended use or after extreme temperature drops.
- Snow, salt, and road debris can erode metal surfaces. Apply corrosion protection to your truck’s undercarriage and rinse your apparatus regularly to remove salt buildup and moisture.
- A quick seasonal refresher goes a long way. Review cold-weather procedures, go over warm-up routines, and remind staff how to recognize early signs of freezing or equipment stress. Talk to your manufacturer if you have any questions. We’re always here to help.
Which Winterizing Approach Will You Take?
Understanding the local climate of the area you service, being up to date on your equipment specs, and listening to your team will set you up for success.
Whether you choose to go wet or dry, the experts at MetalFab are here to help. We’re happy to provide guidance based on your department’s unique setup and experience so you can head into winter with confidence.