Do you have batch ovens at your facility that are old enough and work inefficiently? Then a replacement is the best decision to make. But what if you have one that got broken down long before it’s due for a junk shop delivery? This is a scenario that most heat-treating facilities encounter with their industrial ovens which compel them to decide whether to seek for service or replace with a new unit. A repair or replace dilemma can be so hard to address, particularly if you are not equipped with the right knowledge. Before you finally decide, confirm first if your batch ovens are really broken. If they stop working, do not panic but rather ensure the following things first.
- It is plugged in.
- Circuit breakers did not trip or need resetting.
- Vents and filters are not clogged.
- The floor is not uneven as it can hinder operation of some appliances.
- It’s not so close to the end of its useful life yet.
Regarding the last consideration, each heat-treating unit has its own average useful lifespan. The closer it gets to its expected end life, the wiser to replace than call in a repair technician. You can do a quick research for the average lifespan of your specific appliance. If it is not even halfway to its past due date, then a repair will be a better option. Another great way that can help with your decision is the “50% Rule”. It means that if your batch ovens have been in service for over 50% through the average lifespan, and the cost of having one repaired at once is higher than the half of the price of a new unit, then buying a replacement is a wiser choice.
However, there are some instances where replacing old batch ovens will not be a better option than looking for repair service. This is when the cost of replacement includes more than just the price tag of the equipment or upgrading it. For example, upgrading to a high-tech industrial oven that rings or whistles may need additional electrical line and circuits. Or if you want to replace your old batch oven to a gas powered model but you don’t have an existing gas connections will definitely cost you thousands of having a new line into your factory.