Checklist for Maintaining Drying Equipment

Regular equipment checks and preventive maintenance ensure that your drying equipment is always ready for the next restoration job.

Good maintenance practices rely on company managers and leaders to make it a priority. To do so, you need to develop systems and allow time for the work to be done and tracked properly, so  restoration teams know which equipment is ready for action.

Why Equipment Maintenance Matters

When responding to a water damage call, there’s no time for last-minute troubleshooting. A blocked pump on a dehumidifier or a clogged filter in an air scrubber can delay response. Proactive maintenance helps identify wear and tear before failure occurs – making your restoration teams more effective and saving trips back to the shop to get a replacement.

Preventive maintenance also extends the lifespan of equipment and helps your company avoid costly repairs or premature replacement.

Best Practices for Key Tools

A structured preventive maintenance routine helps ensure all drying equipment is ready for deployment at a moment’s notice. While each piece of equipment has its own specific needs, some best practices apply across the board:

• Inspect electrical cords and plugs for signs of fraying or damage; replace as needed to reduce risk of electrical hazards.
• Clean exterior surfaces to remove dust and debris that can interfere with operation or airflow.
• Check wheels and casters for proper movement and wear – especially for mobile units used across multiple buildings or floors.
• Check power switches and control panels to confirm that all functions are working correctly.
• Label equipment clearly and log service dates to streamline inventory tracking and upkeep.

Equipment-specific checks:

Dehumidifiers:

• Check filters for dust and debris, and replace when dirty or clogged.
• Check for pump functionality and clear any kinks or obstructions in the drain line.
• Inspect coils for signs of freezing, corrosion, or dirt buildup (and clean as needed).

Airmovers:

• Clean grills and fan blades to remove dust and debris.
• Run airmover and listen for sounds that could indicate damaged fan blades.

Extractors:

• Check power cords, hose fittings, and float valves for wear, cracks, or obstructions.
• Ensure filters are clean and secure.
• Clean thoroughly after each use – filter basket, recovery tank, and interior parts.
• Vacuum or wipe fan grills, exhaust vents, and HEPA filters to avoid reduced efficiency.

Air Scrubbers:

• Replace HEPA filters and prefilters on schedule or sooner if used in dusty or high-particulate environments.
• Replace carbon filters immediately before odor removal projects, as carbon pellets’ effectiveness degrades with exposure to air.
• Test airflow output and listen for noises that might indicate motor issues.
• Check that seals and housings are tight to ensure that contaminated air won’t bypass them.

Establish a Reliable Equipment Check Cycle

Develop a maintenance cycle tailored to manufacturer recommendations and how often equipment is used. While quarterly checks are common, brief inspections before and after each use can help catch early signs of issues. Be sure to include:

• Visual inspections
• Functional testing
• Filter replacements
• Documentation of any repairs or replacements

Factor in seasonal risks as well – such as checking for rodent intrusion during colder months, dust and debris after construction projects, and moisture buildup in storage areas during humid seasons.

For more restoration-related guidance, search our Tips & Tricks for "dry" or other topics of interest.