BULLETIN FROM....

Spring 1994

"REMEMBER"

BOILERS
It is as important to check boiler operation and controls in the Spring and Fall as it is during the full heating season. With extended periods between cycles, problems could arise with extended down times and wider fluctuations in temperatures, pressures and circulation.

AIR CONDITIONING UNITS
On all air conditioning unit compressors, make sure crankcase heaters are working and turned on at least 24 hours, and preferably 48 hours prior to start-up to boil out any accumulated refrigerant in the crankcase thereby ensuring adequate lubrication on start-up and precluding damage from slugging.

MISCELLANEOUS ELECTRICAL APPARATUS
This may be a good time to plan on doing maintenance work on electrical switchgear this summer. Several items for consideration are:

i) Exercise all main switches and breakers. This tests the mechanical integrity of this equipment.
ii) Cable connections should be checked for tightness, discoloration or other signs of overheating. iii) Clean electrical rooms, paint floors and check filtration and door seals.

HOT WATER TANKS
Pressure and temperature relief valves should be removed and visually inspected at least every three years and examined for corrosion, scale accumulations and probe condition. The probe must be immersed in tank water and be located in the top six inches of the tank in order for it to accurately sense tank water temperature.

MOTORS
On higher horsepower units, especially after an extended shut-down, meager windings and run at no load until warm.
Check bearings (temperature/vibration) and alignment of couplings/belts.
Check adequacy of overload protection.

TRANSFORMERS
Keep air vents clear for proper ventilation.
Check all bolted connections for tightness.

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