When the warranty runs out, many industrial electronics users worry that expensive failures are right around the corner. But with the right approach, you can easily extend your industrial equipment lifespan by five years—or more. It all comes down to one thing: preventive maintenance. By taking a few smart, consistent steps, you’ll not only avoid costly repairs but also keep your operations running smoothly and safely long after the manufacturer’s support ends.
Here’s how to make your electronics last for the long haul.
1. Stick to a Preventive Maintenance Schedule
The biggest mistake industrial equipment owners make is waiting until something breaks. That’s a recipe for downtime. Instead, build a preventive maintenance schedule based on your equipment’s unique usage, environment, and manufacturer guidelines. This includes:
- Cleaning filters, fans, and enclosures to prevent dust buildup
- Inspecting connections and components for signs of wear or corrosion
- Running system diagnostics to catch subtle failures before they escalate
Just a few minutes of regular maintenance can add years to your electronics’ lifespan.
2. Control the Big Three: Dust, Heat, and Moisture
Electronics fail early for three main reasons: dirt, overheating, and water exposure. This trifecta can destroy circuit boards, shorten capacitor life, and lead to erratic or failed equipment.
Practical tips:
- Keep equipment in clean, well-ventilated enclosures
- Use dehumidifiers in high-moisture environments
- Clean with compressed air—regularly, not just when something looks bad
A clean machine is a long-living machine.
3. Use High-Quality Components for Repairs
When a repair is needed, don’t cut corners. Cheap replacement parts can lead to early failure, compatibility issues, or worse. Insist on using manufacturer-grade or better components. A few extra dollars spent now could mean years of trouble-free service later.
4. Watch for Early Warning Signs
Most industrial electronics give off signs before failing completely. These might include:
- Unusual noises from motors or drives
- Erratic outputs from encoders or sensors
- Intermittent shutdowns or spikes in temperature
Logging these symptoms and addressing them early is key to electronics longevity. Waiting for a full failure can mean longer downtime and bigger repair costs.
5. Partner with a Trusted Repair Expert
Not every issue can be solved in-house. For out-of-warranty equipment, independent industrial repair services can offer fast, cost-effective solutions without the OEM price tag. Look for a provider that offers:
- Free evaluations and quotes
- No bench fees
- Warranties that cover both parts and labor
ACS Industrial Services, for example, can often save customers a bundle over buying new—and delivers repairs in as little as 3–5 days with Rush Service.
Final Thoughts
OEM (or Manufacturer’s) warranties might expire, but that doesn’t mean your equipment’s usefulness should. With a focus on preventive maintenance, environmental control, and proactive troubleshooting, you can dramatically extend the industrial equipment lifespan and get the most out of your investment.
Call ACS Industrial for Repairs and Service to Help Extend the Life of Your Industrial Electronic Equipment!
Knowing how to keep industrial electronics in operation can be tough, but you don’t have to do it alone. At ACS Industrial Services, we specialize in preventative maintenance and repair services for industrial electronic equipment.
With over 20 years of experience, ACS is a leading industrial repair service provider when things break. We repair many different components of machinery across various makes and models. We provide a rapid turnaround time. Most repairs are back in your hands within 7-15 business days, with our Rush Repair Service typically shipping in just 3-5 business days.
Contact us for a FREE evaluation and a no-obligation quote, or call (800) 605-6419.