Cleaning Honey Extractors Between Harvests

[PappyRick]

Hey, I was curious about the common practices among beekeepers regarding cleaning honey extractors between harvests.  Do most folks clean their extractors between harvests, or do they let them sit in a secure area until the next harvest.  I recently had an issue where I had harvested a couple of dozen frames, got 4 extracted, and then my motor quit working.  Since I don't have a backup, and I couldn't find anyone to work on it, I ordered a replacement.  Took about 2 weeks for the new one to come in and get set up to extract.  That was last week.  I have another batch that I expect to take off by the end of July/beginning of August, and I'm wondering what the downside of simply leaving the extractor as is (unwashed) until I can get the next batch going.  I would appreciate your thoughts on this issue.  Thanks.
PappyRick

[The15thMember]

In my climate, the issue would be that the honey that is left in the extractor would be exposed to humid air for several weeks and would probably begin to ferment, or at least be very colonized with yeast.  I would then be worried that the honey I ran through the extractor next would be seeded with the slightly fermented honey, which could cause the whole batch to ferment.     

[Bakersdozen]

I think I would wash the extractor.  My concern would be dust, crystallization, and ants. 

For what it's worth, my local bee club has an electric extractor for members to rent which I did a few years ago.  The rules state that the extractor is to be clean thoroughly before being returned, of course.  It is requested that renters not use dish soap to clean the extractor, just warm water.  Dish soap leaves a residue which probably effects the taste of your honey.

[iddee]

I would leave it in the yard and let the bees clean up the honey, then wash it with a water hose. That should have be sufficient.

[RAST]

I do what iddee said, I do lay it on its side with a stick in it for the bees to climb on.