Don’t Let Repairs Prolong Problems

Seven things to consider before making a repair

Dec. 15, 2020

Motor Repair Dreamstime Xl 76055809 5fd8d06f619ef

Sometimes, it doesn’t make sense to repair equipment. While doing so may be the normal and expected response, it could be the wrong one. Unfortunately, this decision is often delayed until a piece of equipment fails, and the responding tech is under pressure to get it running again. The tech achieves this, but what is the result?

In many cases, the equipment is well past its “expiration date.” Problems may not only include another unscheduled shutdown waiting to happen, but also operating and maintenance inefficiencies that a replacement or upgrade would eliminate. The solution is to plan and schedule a replacement.

How can you determine when it makes sense to schedule a total replacement rather than just repair as needed? Consider the following factors:

Equipment age.
Characteristics of current product offerings vs. what you are using.
Problem frequency history.
Problem cost history, including lost revenue.
Operator complaints.
Parts availability.
Ease of maintenance/repair.

About the Author

Mark Lamendola

Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.

Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.

Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.