Cold temperatures are some of the most challenging for construction equipment. Winter is getting more brutal in some regions of the world. This can be a tough time for you to be outdoors, but remember that everything will eventually freeze if it’s exposed to the freezing temperature. The same happens to your equipment when used without protection or proper ventilation. Temperatures are low, you are not using your machine as much, and eventually, it will succumb to the elements. But remember, don’t be caught unprepared for the long, cold nights and days where snow, ice, and cold weather can make your equipment vulnerable to damage.
In this article, we are giving you some tips on how to protect your equipment from harsh winter weather.
- Keep the equipment covered
The first thing to do is to cover your equipment with a tarp or plastic sheeting. This will keep the snow and ice out of your machinery and allow it to operate with minimal interruption. The sheet should completely cover the equipment, including all of the parts, and even down to the ground if possible. It should be at least three feet deep so that it can trap all of the snow and ice that is on top of it.
Covering your equipment like used backhoes is not only important for preventing damage from the cold, but it also prevents rust and corrosion from forming on the outside of your equipment.
- Clean the equipment after every use
The best way to protect your equipment from the harsh winter weather is by cleaning it after every use. If you do not clean your equipment regularly, moisture will accumulate inside it and eventually cause damage to its components. This can result in poor performance or even complete failure of an item that was expensive to purchase. This can also lead to HVAC system failure, which can be very expensive.
- Change the oil often
It’s time to change the oil in your equipment. The harsh winter weather can cause damage to any machine and it’s important that you protect your investment from wear and tear. By doing this, you will be able to get rid of any dirt and debris that had been collecting inside the engine.
- Top up the fuel tank
During the winter months, we tend to run our vehicles less often and for longer periods. This can lead to a build-up of ice, which will eventually damage the engine if it is not dealt with. The best way to prevent this is by topping up your fuel tank every month or so. You can do this yourself using an air compressor or just filling up at a local garage.
If you have a diesel engine, then make sure that you check the oil level regularly and always keep it topped up in case of any leaks or damage caused by freezing conditions.
- Check the battery
Check the battery of your machine to make sure that it has enough capacity to overcome adverse conditions. If you have an electric drill, then check its battery periodically so that it does not go dead during cold weather.
Make sure the battery of your equipment is fully charged and functioning properly. A dead battery can cause severe damage to your machine like used backhoes and could even lead to an electrical fire if left unattended for too long. You should also check for corrosion on the battery terminals and make sure that they are clean and free of any dirt or debris.
Concluding note
The harsh winter season is a time for us to be more cautious and alert, especially when it comes to protecting our heavy equipment. This is because the harsh winter weather often leads to freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall, which can damage our equipment. In this article, we have listed some tips to keep your equipment safe from the harsh winter weather.