Winter’s harsh cold can take a toll on industrial equipment, making proper winterization a critical step for any operation. If left unprotected, machinery is more prone to breakdowns, reduced efficiency and costly repairs as temperatures drop. With the right industrial maintenance practices, you can safeguard your equipment from freezing temperatures and ensure smooth operation all winter long.

In this article, we’ll share six essential tips for winterizing your industrial equipment, helping you keep your operations running smoothly even in the most challenging cold conditions.

1. Inspect Engines and Change Engine Oil

Engines tend to run harder in colder conditions, so it’s a good idea to inspect the condition of each engine and its components. Make sure the engine starts and runs smoothly, and always let it run for a minute or two before operating it in the winter. Check the condition of belts and rollers and replace parts as needed. Inspect the conveyor and make sure the rubber doesn’t stick to the conveyor belt, as it can fail if it contracts during freezing temperatures.

Additionally, switch to synthetic base multi-grade oils to keep each engine running smoothly, especially if you work in temperatures below -22 degrees Fahrenheit.

3M™ offers a great citrus-based cleaner for helping to maintain your engines. This cleaner quickly dissolves and dilutes grease, tar, oil and ink with a non-corrosive formula, ensuring your equipment runs smoother and longer.

2. Clean and Replace Filters

During the winter, filters can get clogged more easily due to the buildup of ice and microbes. To prevent clogs, check and replace fuel filters regularly to ensure proper fuel flow and avoid freeze-ups. It’s a good idea to have replacement filters on hand during the winter if you need to make a quick change. You can also remove any water from fuel traps before winter sets in to prevent freezing.

If you’re having trouble placing a filter, you can always secure it with high-performance duct tape. The Performance Plus Duct Tape from 3M works on rough surfaces for both indoor and outdoor applications and sticks for up to one year without deterioration. It’s also UV-resistant and provides a tight, moisture-resistant seal.

3. Prevent Batteries From Getting Too Cold

Batteries are the most vulnerable engine components during freezing temperatures, and without proper care, they can lose a significant amount of cranking power. At 32°F, a battery loses 20% of its cranking capacity, while the strain on your engine increases by over 50%, making it harder to start.

To prevent these issues, store your battery in a warm, moisture-free environment and ensure it’s fully charged before cold weather hits. Regularly inspect for dirt, rust or moisture, as these can shorten the battery’s life. If storing for over 10 days, disconnect the ground cables and check its condition every four to six weeks.

When you are inspecting batteries in the cold, make sure your hands are protected with high-quality insulated gloves. Global Glove Ice Gripster^® gloves are seamless, low-temperature gloves designed to insulate against harsh conditions. These gloves are also designed with a highly visible, water-repellent shell and a back foam rubber coating for extra grip and added protection.

4. Regulate Coolant Levels

While your engine is running, inspect the coolant for bubbles and impurities. The coolant should be clean and filled to an inch above the radiator’s core. Make sure to use a coolant graded for the temperatures you work in. You can also prevent coolant from freezing using an even mix of water and antifreeze.

5. Inspect Hydraulic Systems

Before the colder months arrive, check and refill the hydraulic fluids. It’s crucial to use fluids that are specifically formulated for your working conditions.

You should also inspect the condition of the hydraulic hoses in each system. If the wrapper of the hoses swells, they can crack, leading to leakage and malfunction. To maintain the hoses in better condition, you can run the engine to bring the hydraulic oil up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit and keep it running at this temperature for 60 minutes.

Make sure to keep your hydraulic system components organized and easy to identify. The M410 Handheld Label Printer from Brady^® offers labels up to 1″ wide with edge-to-edge printing, ideal for labeling small parts, tubes and wires. It is available with 12+ purpose-built materials able to stick to a range of different surfaces.

6. Inspect and Update Tires

Tires are an important part of staying mobile during colder months. Make sure they are properly inflated, as tires tend to lose air when it gets colder. You can also fill your tires with nitrogen to prevent the formation of ice crystals. Switching to winter tires designed with deeper treads to increase traction is also smart when it comes to winterizing your industrial equipment.

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