Canadian winters are tough — we all know that. The kind of cold that freezes your coffee before you hit the jobsite and has your welder struggling to start before sunrise.
At Kristian Electric, we’ve spent over 60 winters helping welders prepare for that reality. So as the frost creeps in and the temperatures dip, it’s time to get your machine ready for another round with the Canadian cold.
Because one thing’s for sure: winter is coming, and it can be brutal on your equipment if you’re not ready.
1. Start with the Basics — Your Owner’s Manual
Before you make any changes, always start with your welder’s owner’s manual. It’s packed with specific maintenance recommendations from the manufacturer.
Brands like Miller often include cold-weather operation tips right inside the machine. If you’ve misplaced your manual, our team can help you find a digital copy so you have the right info on hand.
2. Switch to the Right Oil
When the temperature drops below -20°C, your engine oil thickens and makes it harder for your welder to start.
Switching to a lighter-weight or synthetic oil keeps everything flowing smoothly, even in freezing weather.
Synthetic oil offers better protection during cold starts and reduces wear — a small step that makes a big difference when the mercury plunges.
3. Check Your Coolant and Antifreeze
Cold weather is hard on cooling systems. Check your coolant levels and make sure your antifreeze can handle sub-zero temperatures.
A quick hydrometer test will tell you if you’re ready for the cold. If you’re not sure, our service teams in Calgary, Edmonton, and Saskatoon can test and top off your system before problems hit.
4. Keep Your Fuel Flowing
Fuel can thicken or separate in the cold — and that’s never good news.
If your welder runs on gasoline, add a fuel stabilizer to prevent phase separation and moisture damage.
If it’s diesel-powered, use an anti-gel additive to stop your fuel from turning to slush.
A little prep now can save you from frozen lines and mid-winter frustration later.
5. Watch Out for Carburetor Icing
Cold, humid air can lead to carburetor icing — which can cause rough starts or engine stalling.
Adding isopropyl alcohol to your fuel can prevent icing.
If you weld regularly in extreme cold, consider a cold-weather kit to help your welder start faster. We can install one for you or provide a DIY kit.
6. Add Heaters for Easier Starts
Cold starts cause the most wear on your engine. Adding a block heater, oil pan heater, or Webasto heater keeps your welder warm and ready to run.
We install and supply heaters for both diesel and gasoline welders, giving your machine a much easier start when the cold sets in.
7. Cover Up
Even the toughest welder deserves a little protection from the elements.
A welder cover keeps snow, moisture, and debris off your machine and extends its life.
We stock covers from Miller and Lincoln Electric, plus custom Alberta-made covers designed to fit your specific model perfectly.
8. Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Winter in Canada is no joke, but with a little preparation, your welder will keep running strong through every blizzard and cold snap.
If you need oil, fuel additives, heaters, or a full service inspection, our certified techs can help.
Book your winter service check-up today:
Because when it comes to the cold, it’s always better to be ready — before it hits.