Issue link: https://read.uberflip.com/i/927264
48 / JANUARY.FEBRUARY.2018 USICERINKS.COM by DAVE WESCOTT, CIT, CPE ANYONE WHO OWNS A HOME knows how important filters can be to its full operation. Filters at your facility are no different. In fact, a filter that is functioning improperly can wreak havoc at your arena, especially during your in-season months. Filters that are commonly found at every facility include: MOBILE EQUIPMENT • Oil Filters • Air Filters • Hydraulic Filters • Fuel Filters HVAC EQUIPMENT • Moisture Filter/Dryers on Freon Systems • Air Filters • Compressor Oil Filters • Pump Strainers Looking at all of the filters being used around the facility, you can see their importance. There are a few simple things that you can do to ensure that your filters are functioning properly, and that the maintenance on them, and the equipment they are helping operate are up-to-date. DATE IT Whenever you change a filter on any piece of equipment, make note of the date. By marking the filter, you can keep an eye on when it needs to be changed or worked on again. The next time you go to check the filter you'll be able to easily see the date displayed at a glance and you will be able to tell if it needs to be changed or not. Simple, but quite the time-saver. ADDITIONAL MARKINGS If you have the space, anytime you can add more information such as hours or mileage helps in the determination of the need to be changed. MAKE NOTE OF WHERE THEY ARE TOO! Knowing where all the filters are on your piece of equipment or machine is also important. Equipment with filters in a noticeable spot, or an obvious location are easily remembered to be changed. Their visibility acts as the reminder. But equipment that has a filter in a hidden or unfamiliar spot tends to go unchecked, and a change isn't usually made until there is an equipment failure. Review all equipment documents to make sure you have the location and replacement frequency of all the filters on your equipment. Again, make a note somewhere (where you and your staff will be sure to see it) to remind yourselves to check and change the filter(s) in those tough to see spots accordingly. If you're forgetting to replace your filters until there is an equipment failure, that can be an expensive way to operate things. Be sure to check and change your filters as needed, and avoid any costly breakdowns. J Dave Wescott is the managing partner for All Star Arenas, LLC, a rink servies company out of Tampa, Fla. Filter Functions Ensure your filters are up to date and functioning properly HOW To Filter functions , Always mark up your equipment with appropriate information about their filter status. PHOTOS: DAVE WESCOTT BY MARKING THE FILTER, YOU CAN KEEP AN EYE ON WHEN IT NEEDS TO BE CHANGED OR WORKED ON AGAIN.