Summer weather can be very tough on your heavy equipment. The intense sun and excessive heat add extra strain on your machines, even during normal operation. This strain can potentially lead to performance issues and eventually to costly repairs and downtime. To help your business and your crew out on summer construction projects, we’ve put together a list of tips and best practices for heavy equipment maintenance and equipment operation during the hot months.
Check your cooling system
A crucial part of heavy equipment maintenance during summer construction is ensuring your cooling system is working properly. Prior to starting work each day, inspect the cooling fans and look for damaged or loose blades. We also suggest clearing excessive debris or dirt that is built up on your fans. Power washing your radiator and cooler during summer construction jobs is also a good idea to improve cooling system performance. Humidity and dust coat radiators, air coolers, and oil coolers, reducing airflow and making them less efficient. During especially hot or dusty weeks, we recommend cleaning the radiator and cooler every couple of days.
Operate your A/C properly
Your A/C system is critical for effective equipment operation in the heat of the summer months. A top cause of issues with machine air conditioners is running them with the windows down. This practice places extra strain on your A/C, causes it to work a lot harder than it needs to, and results in more wear and tear on components.
Store equipment in the shade, when possible
When you are not actively using your machines, we recommend keeping them out of direct sunlight, if possible. Constant sun exposure will take its toll on hydraulic hoses, paint, and especially your tires, causing cracking and premature wear and tear.
Stay within your machine’s limits
An important tip for heavy equipment maintenance and operation during summer construction projects is to not push your machines too hard. Overworking them can lead to overheating, damage to the engine, cooling system, and A/C components, and expensive breakdowns and service. Avoid lifting or carrying loads beyond what your machine is designed to handle and traveling up steep slopes in the extreme heat. Stay well within the limits of your equipment, as outlined in your owner’s manual, to ensure optimal performance. It’s also crucial to keep an eye on your equipment’s displays and watch for its warning signals for signs of overheating.
Use the right shutdown procedures
Critical for heavy equipment maintenance on summer construction projects is giving your machines enough time to cool down after finishing each shift. Prior to shutting down equipment completely, allow the engine time to idle for a couple minutes. If you happen to have access to shade, then perform this cool down out of direct sunlight. A phased shutdown gives the engine sufficient time to cool and turn off correctly, helping you prevent costly damage to engine parts.
Protect your crew
More than just handling heavy equipment maintenance properly, you also have to take the right steps to ensure your crew is cool, hydrated, and productive during summer construction jobs. They shouldn’t work in direct sunlight for too long, always put on sunscreen, wear breathable clothing, go on periodic breaks in the shade, and drink a lot of water. Each member of your crew should know and recognize the signs of heatstroke: dizziness, nausea, confusion, slurred speech, throbbing headaches, and immediately stopping sweating. If you see these symptoms in yourself or anyone else, stop working and seek immediate medical attention.
If you have any questions about equipment operation during summer construction or heavy equipment maintenance in general, contact our team today.
