The Latest

Top Five Tips for Winterizing Your Industrial Equipment

You may not want to accept this fact, but winter is coming. And even though industrial equipment seems like it can handle just about anything, it’s not indestructible. It will not operate well if it’s not prepared for the frigid, sub-zero temperatures Michigan likes to throw our way every winter.

As General Manager, Parts and Service, at Fraza, I have seen customers take care of their equipment, and they benefit from it in the long term. I have also seen customers who fail to make smaller investments in maintenance upkeep, and then pay for it in the long term. What category do you want to fall in this winter?

Your equipment is a big investment, and at Fraza, we want you to understand what it means to take care of it. You may not be an expert, but we are. So, I’m going to share with you my top five tips to make sure your industrial equipment is ready for winter.

1. Prepare your industrial equipment’s fluids

Engine coolant should be replaced yearly, as it not only lubricates the cooling system but protects the engine from damage that is caused by the cold winter weather freezing your unit.

Believe me, a damaged engine requires a lot more maintenance than making sure your engine’s fluid is in good shape. If your antifreeze is weak, it could freeze and cause catastrophic damage to your engine.

By replacing your antifreeze yearly, you know your unit is safe against the colder temperatures and, at the same time, lubricating your water pump, thermostat and the rest of your cooling system.

Batteries can be load tested to make sure they will perform properly under colder and more strenuous conditions. Making sure your battery is ready for the colder weather now will save you unscheduled down time this winter.

We can verify whether or not the Cold Cranking Amp rating on your battery is sufficient for your operation. If your battery is not maintenance free, the electrolyte level should be verified before winter to ensure proper operation.

3. Play it safe and get an inspection

A pre-winter inspection will make sure you’re good to go before winter hits. Don’t wait until something goes wrong with your equipment to get it checked out. You don’t want to be down and out while your equipment has to be fixed.

Bottom line: A thorough inspection by our trained technicians can give you piece of mind that your unit is functioning properly and is ready for whatever the Michigan winter throws at us this year. This is what we’re here for.

4. Be cautious of your IC units

Electric trucks typically outperform IC units in any condition. IC fuel systems of any kind (propane, gasoline or diesel) are affected negatively by the colder weather. Expect hard starting and poor performance until the engine is warmed up.

When it comes to your IC units, patience is everything.

5. Trust Fraza to prepare your business for winter

Although Fraza has over 600 rental units available at any time, if you have your own equipment, you should use it. And that means going through the steps to take care of it. Luckily for you, we have a team of trained technicians, who can keep your units running better for longer.

Contact us today to establish a planned maintenance program before winter decides to make an appearance. We’ll even make it customized for your needs. With Fraza, getting prepared for winter is easy!