Monthly Archives: June 2018

Properties of Long-Lasting Hydraulic Oil

hydraulic fluidNo business owner wants to spend more money on equipment and resources than they have to, and this doesn’t exclude owners of hydraulic systems and equipment. This begs the question: how can you make your hydraulic oil go further and last longer? The following are three things that efficient hydraulic oil supplies have in common.

Clean
Having clean oil means keeping particle contamination in the fluid at an acceptable level. Hard particles will accelerate wear of hydraulic components, while soft particles can cause reliability problems, such as filter clogging. Thus, it is important to understand oil cleanliness levels for different types of hydraulic systems, as well as the minimum level of filtration that is needed to achieve them. If you’re not sure how to determine this, contact the leading hydraulic filter suppliers in VA for assistance.

Cool
The hotter the oil is, the faster the rate of chemical reactions, such as oxidation and hydrolysis. You can extend the life of your hydraulic oil by ensuring it stays at the appropriate temperature.

Dry
Water poses a number of unwanted effects on hydraulic oil. When oil is hydrolyzed, lubrication is reduced, thus leaving critical surfaces open to corrosion and wear. It also depletes some additives and reacts with others, forming corrosive by-products that are harmful to some metals.

Mistakes That Can Hurt the Efficiency of Your HVAC System

HVAC system floor ventEvery home or business owner wants an HVAC unit that operates properly and keeps their home or office at the right temperature. However, most people also want a system that can do the job properly without burning a hole in their pocket. To ensure a system that works efficiently, here are some things to look out for that could be bad for your heating and cooling unit.

Leaky air ducts
Leaky air ducts have been found to be the biggest fault when it comes to wasting energy. They can be especially damaging in hot or humid weather, as occupants will usually lower the thermostat and waste even more money. Luckily, leaky air ducts can easily be tested and fixed.

Using the wrong air filter
Some people assume that the higher the number listed on an air filter package, the better it will perform. Others will reach for whichever HVAC air filters in Richmond are the least expensive. Rather than going by the manufacturer’s marketing or price tag, check your HVAC manual for recommendations or speak with a professional.

Blocking air return vents
While vents aren’t the most attractive element in a home, attempting to hide them beneath furniture will prevent your HVAC system from running efficiently. Keep vents uncovered and dust them often for a healthier and more efficient HVAC system.