Winter Maintenance Tips for Earthmoving Equipment Rentals
Winter brings unique challenges to construction and earthmoving projects, especially when it comes to maintaining heavy equipment. At Arvada Rent-Alls, we understand how critical it is to keep your earthmoving equipment in peak condition, even in harsh winter weather.
In this blog, we’ll share practical winter maintenance tips to help you protect your rented machinery and maintain optimal performance throughout the season. Let’s dive in!
1. Pre-Heat Your Machinery
Cold temperatures can cause oils and fluids to thicken, leading to difficulty in starting engines and operating hydraulics.
Pro Tip: Before operating your equipment, allow the engine to warm up for 10–15 minutes to ensure proper oil circulation and reduce wear on engine components. If you’re renting from Arvada Rent-Alls, ask our team for machine-specific pre-heating recommendations.
2. Choose the Right Hydraulic Fluids
Standard hydraulic fluids may thicken in cold weather, causing sluggish operation or equipment failure.
Pro Tip: Use winter-grade hydraulic fluids designed for low temperatures. Check the owner’s manual or consult with Arvada Rent-Alls to find the best option for your equipment.
3. Check Battery Health Regularly
Batteries are especially vulnerable to the cold, often losing charge faster in freezing conditions.
Pro Tip: Inspect your battery’s charge and clean terminal corrosion frequently. Replace weak batteries before winter fully sets in, and always have jumper cables handy for emergencies.
4. Maintain Tire Pressure and Traction
Cold weather can lower tire pressure, while icy surfaces may compromise traction and safety.
Pro Tip: Regularly check tire pressure and adjust it to the manufacturer’s specifications. Inspect treads for wear, and consider using chains or winter tires to improve grip on icy or snowy terrain.
5. Keep Your Equipment Clean
Snow, ice, and mud buildup can damage equipment and reduce performance.
Pro Tip: After each use, remove snow, ice, and mud from the undercarriage and moving parts. A clean machine not only looks better but also lasts longer.
6. Avoid Overexertion on Frozen Ground
Working on frozen soil can lead to excessive wear and tear on your equipment.
Pro Tip: Monitor soil conditions closely. If the ground is too frozen to work efficiently, wait for a thaw or use specialized machinery designed for frozen terrain to reduce strain on your equipment.
7. Perform Regular Maintenance Checks
Winter conditions amplify wear and tear, making maintenance checks more critical than ever.
Pro Tip: Use a winter maintenance checklist to monitor fluid levels, belts, hoses, and safety features. Schedule routine inspections and consult with Arvada Rent-Alls for expert advice/
8. Store Equipment Properly
Improper storage can expose your equipment to snow, ice, and corrosion.
Pro Tip: Store machinery in a heated garage or shed whenever possible. If indoor storage isn’t available, use weather-resistant tarps to shield your equipment from the elements. Fuel stabilizers can also protect your fuel system during inactivity.
9. Monitor Fluid Levels
Cold weather impacts the performance of engine oil, hydraulic fluid, and coolant.
Pro Tip: Regularly check fluid levels and top them off as needed. Switch to winter-grade fluids for improved performance during freezing conditions.
Proper winter maintenance ensures your earthmoving equipment stays in top shape, minimizing downtime and maximizing efficiency. By following these tips, you’ll keep your projects on track, even in extreme cold.
At Arvada Rent-Alls, we’re here to help you succeed in any season. From top-notch equipment rentals to expert advice, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today with any questions about winter maintenance or to rent the equipment you need.
Stay warm, stay safe, and keep moving this winter!