preparing your equipment for long term storage
As a business owner, you know that sometimes you need to store your equipment for an extended period. This can be due to seasonal changes, economic downturns, or simply because you have more equipment than you currently need. Whatever the reason, it’s essential to prepare your equipment for long-term storage to ensure it remains in good condition and is ready to use when you need it again. I’ve seen clients who stored their equipment without proper preparation, only to find that it didn’t start or function properly when they took it out of storage. In one case, a client had to replace the fuel system in their generator because they didn’t use a fuel stabilizer, which ended up costing them around $500.
When storing equipment with engines, such as generators, pumps, or vehicles, one of the most critical steps is to stabilize the fuel. Gasoline can break down over time, which can cause problems when you try to start the engine again. Using a product like sta bil storage fuel can help prevent this breakdown and keep your fuel fresh for up to 24 months. This is especially important if you have a large number of equipment to store, as the cost of replacing fuel systems or repairs can add up quickly. For example, if you have 10 generators to store, the cost of replacing the fuel system in each one could be $5,000, which could be avoided by using a fuel stabilizer.
why proper storage preparation is key
Proper storage preparation is key to ensuring your equipment remains in good condition. This includes not only stabilizing the fuel but also cleaning and lubricating moving parts, protecting electrical components, and storing the equipment in a dry, secure location. By taking these steps, you can help prevent damage and extend the life of your equipment. In fact, a study by the Equipment Maintenance Association found that proper storage preparation can increase the lifespan of equipment by up to 30%. This can result in significant cost savings over time, as you won’t need to replace equipment as frequently.
best practices for storing equipment
There are several best practices to keep in mind when storing equipment. These include:
- cleaning and lubricating moving parts to prevent rust and corrosion
- protecting electrical components from moisture and damage
- storing equipment in a dry, secure location to prevent theft and damage
- using a fuel stabilizer to keep fuel fresh and prevent breakdown
- documenting the storage location and condition of each piece of equipment, so you can easily find and check on it when you need to
By following these best practices, you can help ensure that your equipment remains in good condition and is ready to use when you need it again. This can result in significant cost savings and reduced downtime, which can be critical for businesses that rely on their equipment to operate.
