It’s cold out there! Make sure your equipment is protected and properly prepared

By Barry Victor, owner and president of PROS Parts

PROS Parts is located in Minnesota where we are used to cold weather in our winters. As we see cold spells moving across parts of the country and world that may not be used to the chilly temperatures, we wanted to share some tips on how to maintain your laundry equipment.

Preparing industrial laundry and dry cleaning equipment for cold weather is essential, especially in regions that are not accustomed to cold temperatures. Freezing temperatures can cause damage to machines, affect operations, and reduce the efficiency of your equipment. Here are some important steps to ensure your equipment is ready for cold weather:

Insulate Water Pipes and Hoses
Why: Water freezing in pipes or hoses can lead to ruptures and leaks.
How: Insulate all water lines, hoses, and valves with foam pipe insulation or heat tape. For outdoor pipes or equipment exposed to cold, consider using heated enclosures or insulating blankets. 

Maintain Proper Temperature in Equipment Rooms
Why: Equipment rooms and laundry areas need to be kept at a minimum temperature to prevent freezing.
How: Ensure that heating systems are functioning properly in rooms housing industrial laundry machines or dry cleaners. Maintain indoor temperatures above freezing (usually around 50°F or 10°C) in storage and operation areas.

Drain Water from Equipment
Why: If the equipment is not in use during the coldest months, water inside machines (such as washing machines, dryers, and boilers) could freeze and cause damage.
How: Drain all water from washing machines, dryers, and other machines when they are not in use. For dry cleaning systems, ensure solvent tanks are adequately emptied if the system is not operating frequently. 

Check Heating Elements and Boilers
Why: Boilers and heating elements are critical to maintaining proper temperatures during laundry cycles and drying. Cold weather can cause malfunctions.
How: Inspect heating elements, boilers, and hot water tanks for wear or potential freezing risks. Check that they are clean, functional, and properly insulated for cold temperatures. 

Lubricate Moving Parts
Why: Cold weather can cause lubricants to thicken, which can impair the function of moving parts.
How: Ensure that all parts requiring lubrication (such as motors, bearings, and drum mechanisms) are properly lubricated with cold-resistant grease or oil. 

Inspect Ventilation Systems
Why: Proper ventilation is essential for both drying and air quality in the laundry room. Cold weather can lead to condensation and moisture buildup, which can harm equipment.
How: Inspect and clean ventilation ducts to prevent any blockages. Ensure that exhaust systems are working correctly to prevent freezing or moisture accumulation inside the machines. 

Adjust Detergent Use
Why: Cold water can affect the efficiency of detergents, leading to less effective cleaning.
How: In colder climates, consider using detergents that are designed for cold-water washing or increasing the water temperature where possible. You might also adjust the detergent load depending on the washing machine’s capacity. 

Maintain Outdoor Equipment
Why: If any laundry or dry cleaning equipment is used outdoors, freezing conditions can cause significant damage.
How: Outdoor equipment should be stored in a protected area or covered with a weather-resistant tarp. If the equipment must be used outside, ensure it is properly insulated and protected from direct exposure to freezing conditions. 

Monitor Electrical Components
Why: Cold temperatures can affect the performance of electrical components and connections.
How: Inspect electrical panels, connections, and power supplies to ensure they are protected from moisture and freezing. Keep power sources in warm areas, if possible, and check that all wiring is in good condition. 

Provide Staff Training
Why: Workers need to be aware of the potential risks and procedures for operating equipment in cold weather.
How: Train employees on how to detect early signs of cold-related equipment issues and emphasize the importance of monitoring machine performance during the winter months. 

Regular Maintenance Checks
Why: Regular inspections can help identify and address any issues before they result in costly repairs or downtime.
How: Schedule more frequent maintenance checks during the colder months, ensuring that the equipment is running smoothly and there are no signs of damage from the cold. 

By implementing these precautions, industrial laundry and dry cleaning operations in areas unfamiliar with cold weather can minimize downtime, avoid costly repairs, and maintain smooth operations during the winter season. 

Let PROS Parts know how we can help! 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.