Efficiency is paramount to running any successful business – especially one as complex as a warehouse operation. When you have invested in quality equipment and products, maximum-uptime is key and there are many things you can do to ensure peak performance of day to day business. Doors are particularly important when it comes to running an efficient operation because we rely on them for so many different uses, not least of all security and vermin protection.
Properly working doors in your warehouse allow for efficient movement and keep areas separated and sealed off. They also provide security for your employees and your product. Any downtime where the doors aren’t functioning properly affects productivity, energy consumption and ultimately revenue.
From industrial roll-up doors, sliding doors, sectional doors and even cold storage doors, investing in a regular, scheduled maintenance program – like Ulti’s Planned Maintenance Program (PMP) – can help ensure that you avoid significant downtime at your facility.
However, if your facility relies on an in-house maintenance team, here are some things to look for when your doors are in need of repair or maintenance.
1. Check Overall Operating Condition
Check the general operation of the door for wear or damage. If your doors make any unusual noises on opening or closing, such as squeaks, clicks or a stiff, juddering motion these are sure signs that your doors need attention. This is especially true of automatic doors if they are not operating smoothly or if they are being temperamental.
2. Check for Visual Imperfections
Check for any visual signs of damage or dents. Depending on the type of door and damage, a fix can consist of replacing a door panel or part, or requiring additional mechanical or electrical attention.
3. Check all Door Safety Devices
Test the operation of any safety devices, such as photo eyes and breakaway features, if present. In addition, all activation devices or control switches should be tested for proper functionality. Any signs of damage or delayed response can have detrimental safety implications for your facility and could indicate a fault in your doors and should be addressed right away.
4. Clean and Lubricate
Clean and lubricate any tracks, sliders, rollers, pulleys, etc as required. The key to a well-operating door is to maintain those key parts. Proper lubrication protects components from corrosion, premature wear, and moisture, and will extend the lifetime of your doors.
5. Log the Service Check
All service checks should be logged in a system with dates and issues identified, and cycle counts clearly stated. With this information listed, you can easily identify the most commonly used doors, the trouble-maker doors, and common issues across your facility. This history of services is invaluable when it comes to making replacement or upgrade decisions. If you engage Ulti Group in a PMP programme this is automatically recorded by our techs, and is provided to you in a report after each service.
If you are in any doubt about the condition of your industrial or roll-up doors, contact us and we can provide onsite service or recommend a planned maintenance plan for your warehouse doors, any make or model.
Like your business, you want your warehouse doors to be as efficient as possible while performing at the highest level. You’ve invested heavily in these doors, and as the access and entry/exit points to your warehouse, you can’t afford to leave their performance to chance.
Reach out and chat with us today for a FREE Site Survey, or expert advice.