Running Your Engine-Driven Pumps Smoothly This Winter

As winter sets in, slurry management can quickly become more demanding. Freezing temperatures, thicker slurry, and sluggish machinery all add pressure to your setup. For farms using engine-driven slurry pumps, preparation and maintenance are essential to keeping things running reliably when the weather turns cold.

At Spreadwise, we’ve supported farmers across the UK for over three decades, helping them get the most from their slurry systems in every season. Here are our practical tips for keeping your pump performing efficiently through the winter months.

Cold Starts – Helping Your Engine Cope

Starting an engine on a frosty morning can test anyone’s patience. Diesel engines are particularly sensitive to cold weather, as fuel thickens and oil becomes sluggish. Switching to a winter-grade diesel helps prevent fuel waxing, while keeping the pump under cover or using an engine jacket protects against frost and moisture.

Battery performance also drops sharply in cold weather, so a quick test or the use of a trickle charger can save wasted time when you need to get going. Always allow the engine to warm up before applying a load; this gives oil time to circulate properly and reduces wear. In particularly harsh conditions, a block heater or pre-heater can make cold starts smoother and easier on the engine.

Avoiding Frozen Hoses and Lines

Frozen hoses are one of the most common winter problems. Even a small amount of residual slurry or water can freeze solid overnight, leading to cracked fittings and delays. After each job, drain hoses thoroughly and, when possible, store them in a frost-free space.

Flushing the system with clean water at the end of the day helps prevent residue buildup and makes the next start-up easier. For those working across multiple sites, fitting quick-release couplings can speed up draining and connection. Spending a few minutes on end-of-day care can prevent hours of downtime when temperatures drop below zero.

Managing Slurry Consistency in the Cold

Slurry naturally thickens in cold weather, making it harder to pump efficiently. Stirring the tank before pumping keeps solids in suspension and ensures a smoother flow through the system.

Trying to move slurry that’s too thick or partially frozen can overload the pump, leading to blockages or even mechanical damage.

Spreadwise pumps are built to handle challenging conditions, but good management makes all the difference. Keeping the slurry well-mixed protects your equipment and ensures more accurate, consistent spreading, saving both time and fuel.

Maintenance Matters More in Winter

Winter is when preventive maintenance really pays off. Cold, damp air accelerates corrosion and puts seals, filters, and fittings to the test. Regular greasing and oil checks are essential, along with inspecting impellers, bearings, and hoses for wear.

If you haven’t already, it’s worth booking a pre-winter service to ensure everything is ready for the months ahead. Spreadwise engineers can carry out detailed checks on your pump, from oil pressure systems to temperature sensors, ensuring everything is operating safely and efficiently. A short visit before winter can prevent an untimely breakdown later on.

Safety on Cold, Slippery Days

While it’s easy to focus on machinery, personal safety is just as important. Cold, wet yards can be hazardous, so always set up your pump on firm, level ground. Avoid working alone in freezing or dark conditions, and check that lighting is adequate if you’re operating early or late in the day.

Before starting any job, take a moment to ensure guards, belts, and covers are all securely fitted. A quick visual inspection can make a big difference — both for safety and for the smooth running of your equipment.

Keeping slurry moving through winter doesn’t have to be difficult. With a few small adjustments and a bit of regular maintenance, your engine-driven slurry pump can perform just as reliably in January as it does in July.

At Spreadwise, we build our engine-driven pumps with British conditions in mind. They are robust, efficient, and proven across farms up and down the country. Whether you’re tackling cold starts, thick slurry, or routine servicing, taking a little extra care this season will keep your system in top condition and ready for spring.

For tailored advice or to book your winter service check, get in touch with our team today. We’re here to help you keep things flowing smoothly this winter.