7 Tips For Construction & Manufacturing Equipment Maintenance

Any business in the construction, manufacturing or landscaping industries must worry about maintaining their equipment.

Equipment operating on a jobsite presents unique challenges to operators and maintenance personnel. If something goes wrong, breakdowns can be expensive. Not only that, but lost days on a job means possibly not meeting a construction deadline.

Establishing a carefully planned equipment maintenance program could mean fewer failures, less downtime and an improved timeline with lower costs.

And, a well-maintained machine can provide you with enhanced equity and borrowing power when it comes time to trade it in, or to use as collateral for a business or equipment loan.

Below are seven tips for establishing and managing an equipment maintenance program.

1. Check your warranty – The first thing you should do after purchasing new equipment is review the warranty. Does it contain specifics about how to keep your warranty going? Some warranty guidelines include clauses that require certified equipment maintenance and repair providers or parts. Make sure you’re using the proper certified repair shops and parts, so you don’t void a warranty.
2. Keep detailed records – Paper records work, but make sure your documentation is complete, accurate and accessible. This applies even when you purchase used equipment. Documentation is also important when it comes to equipment finance agreements or simple interest loans.
3. Follow recommended maintenance schedules – Every reputable equipment manufacturer publishes planned maintenance schedules that detail service operations that need to be performed. These schedules help keep equipment operating smoothly and keep everyone safe. One way to accomplish that is by ensuring maintenance procedures satisfy OSHA and Department of Labor heavy equipment and jobsite regulations.
4. Develop a preventive maintenance program – A great way to keep an eye on how a machine is performing is developing a maintenance program that prevents the need for costly repairs. The program can be based on the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. As you get to know the machine over time, incorporate more routine procedures that can be used to prevent part failures. Make sure the operators, or drivers, of the equipment are involved in the inspection. They are familiar with the machinery and can spot trouble points better than anyone.
5. Buy replacement parts ahead of time – Having replacement parts on hand allows you to make a repair and keep going. Parts can be replaced as needed without shutting down operations. If you don’t have a part on hand, and the machine breaks down, that could mean a few days without any production. This can have a severe impact on your bottom line.
6. Understand your costs – The cost of maintenance and repair for equipment will eventually surpass the value of your equipment. If you understand the costs of maintenance, you can make a smart decision on whether to repair, replace or buy new.
7. Inspect the space around the equipment – Sometimes slow fluid leaks you’re unaware of can mean something is wrong with the equipment. Look at the floor underneath the machine to find any wet spots. This is vital if the equipment remains in one spot over time. Otherwise, a wet spot on the floor might not be noticed.

The right equipment maintenance plan is important to keeping everything running safely and at a performance level that is satisfying to your bottom line.

Every construction, landscaping or manufacturing business will eventually need to purchase new equipment. When that time arrives, Stearns Bank can help finance the commercial equipment you need. To learn more about equipment financing with us, click below.