Get ready for Spring! It might be work, but it saves money and time in the long run.

By Barry Victor, owner and president of PROS Parts 

Spring cleaning isn’t just for homes! Dry cleaners and industrial/commercial laundry companies also need to perform equipment care and maintenance to ensure smooth operations throughout the warmer months. Here are some essential tips for spring equipment care and cleanup: 

Deep Clean the Machines 

• Washers: Run an empty cycle with hot water and an appropriate detergent to clean the drum, filters, and hoses. Pay extra attention to the detergent drawer and seals. 
• Dryers: Clean lint filters, vents, and ducts thoroughly. Check for any blockages that could reduce airflow or cause a fire hazard. 
• Pressing Equipment: Wipe down the presses, plates, and steam lines to remove any grease, dust, and debris. 

Inspect and Replace Worn Parts 

• Belts and Hoses: Check belts, hoses, and gaskets for signs of wear and tear. Replace any cracked or frayed parts before they cause further damage. 
• Filters and Screens: Ensure that all filters and screens are clear of debris and dirt. Replace if necessary, especially those in washing machines and dryers. 
• Steam Lines: Inspect for any leaks or cracks in the steam lines. Repair or replace any damaged areas to maintain optimal performance. 

Lubricate Moving Parts 

• Ensure that moving parts such as bearings, pulleys, and motors are properly lubricated to prevent excessive wear and tear. Regular lubrication helps extend the lifespan of machinery and ensures smooth operations. 

Check Water Quality and Softener Systems 

• Water Softener: Test and clean the water softener system to prevent mineral buildup, which could affect the quality of washes and potentially damage equipment. 
• Water Filtration Systems: If you have water filtration systems in place, clean or replace filters to ensure consistent water quality. 

Sanitize the Equipment 

• Sanitize the machines, including any surfaces that come into direct contact with laundry. Use appropriate sanitizing agents to kill germs, bacteria, and mildew. This is especially important for commercial laundries handling high volumes of bedding, uniforms, and towels. 

Check for Environmental Factors 

• Ventilation: Clean and inspect venting systems to ensure there’s no buildup of lint or dust. Proper airflow is crucial for both dryers and washers. 
• Temperature and Humidity: Check that the temperature and humidity levels are within recommended ranges to prevent mold growth or condensation that could affect laundry quality. 

Test Equipment and Run Diagnostics 

• Perform thorough tests of all equipment to ensure they are operating at full capacity. Many modern washers and dryers come with built-in diagnostic tools that can help identify potential issues. 
• Make sure that all buttons, switches, and controls are working as expected. 

Check for Chemical Storage and Safety 

• Ensure that all detergents, solvents, and other chemicals are stored properly, away from heat sources, and within their expiration dates. Spring is a great time to clean storage areas and review safety protocols. 
• Perform inventory checks on any chemicals and order replacements for anything that is running low or expired. 

Check Electrical and Gas Connections 

• Inspect all electrical wiring, connections, and gas lines (if applicable). Ensure that there are no exposed wires, frayed connections, or gas leaks. Schedule a professional inspection if necessary. 

 Train Staff on Maintenance Procedures 

• Ensure that all staff are trained in basic machine maintenance and safety procedures. Provide refresher training on how to properly use equipment and identify minor issues before they escalate. 

Spring Clean the Facility 

• While it’s all about equipment, don’t forget about the facility! Clean floors, walls, and ceilings to prevent dust and dirt buildup. A tidy and clean working environment helps with safety and efficiency. 

By following these spring maintenance tips, dry cleaners and industrial laundry companies can ensure their equipment runs smoothly, reduce the risk of costly repairs, and maintain high-quality service for customers. 

PROS is here for your for your parts and small equipment needs as you do your cleaning (or if you don’t!) Contact us or visit our website.     

About Barry Victor 
Barry founded PROS Parts in the spring of 1988. Before starting PROS, Barry worked in the sales and engineering departments of Vic Manufacturing, one of the largest manufacturers of dry cleaning equipment in the U.S. At Vic, Barry launched a parts sales division that supported dry cleaning equipment imported from Italy and Germany. In its early years, PROS manufactured dry cleaning machinery and then evolved into an industrial and commercial laundry equipment and drycleaning operations parts supplier. Barry lives in Plymouth, MN with his wife. He has two sons, a stepson, a stepdaughter and his dog, Sora.    

Barry can be reached at 763-231-7379 or barryv@prosparts.com