Life is easier when you replace things before they break, fail, or become worn out and unusable. Although, if you’re working with a small budget, you might not think about spending the money ahead of time.
However, if you wait until something fully breaks, you might end up facing some harsh consequences. For example, the downtime can cost you money, you’ll be less efficient, and you might be tempted to buy a poor quality replacement just to get back to normal.
Here are 6 things that should be replaced before they fail.
1. An electrical transformer
If you own an electrical transformer, don’t wait until it fails to get a replacement. Most transformers will show signs of failure long before they stop working. Although they can catch fire or explode seemingly out of nowhere, there are usually warning signs.
Since there’s a transformer shortage currently, and the lead time is about two years out, consider getting a refurbished transformer as a temporary replacement until you can get a new unit.
Signs that a transformer is failing can include an unusual humming sound, higher vibrations, and strange smells.
2. Generators
If you rely on a generator to get through power outages, don’t wait until yours dies to get a replacement. You don’t get a warning before the power goes out; when it does, you need your generator to be functional and ready to use.
If your generator is harder to start than it was when you bought it, has an inconsistent power output, leaks, or smells funny, it could be on its way out.
3. Space heaters
Space heaters don’t always show signs of failure before they die, but sometimes they do for a couple of days. For example, the air might come out cold or it may turn off on its own. If it’s digitally-controlled, you might lose the ability to change the temperature or fan speed. When these types of issues begin, you can almost bet your space heater will stop working soon.
To avoid being left in the cold, replace your space heaters when they start acting wonky. They’re cheap enough that it shouldn’t impact your budget too much.
4. Yard work equipment, like chainsaws
If you do yard work regularly, you’ll be inconvenienced if you don’t replace failing equipment fast, like chainsaws and weed eaters. All it takes is a few days of rain for your yard to be covered in weeds, and if you can’t take care of it, you’ll have to look at it and possibly walk through it all.
Where chainsaws are concerned, if you live in an area that experiences downed trees, and you keep a chainsaw in your car at all times, you definitely don’t want to wait to replace a failing chainsaw.
If you’re out driving and come across a fallen tree that you can’t go around, if you can’t cut it, you’ll have to wait for someone else to show up with a chainsaw or turn around and go back home.
Signs to watch out for are not being able to start your equipment, which can indicate a flooded engine or bad spark plugs.
You may not need to replace it if it’s a high-quality piece of equipment, but if it’s battery-operated and newer, there’s a good chance it will need to be replaced. Tools just aren’t made to last anymore.
5. Copy machines
Whether you have a copy machine for personal or business use, don’t let it die before you get a replacement. In the moment, you might buy a cheap replacement that turns out to be a poor investment.
Some of the most common signs that a copy machine is on the fritz includes:
- Poor quality copies
- Frequent problems
- Broken parts
- Slow printing
- Employee complaints
If you’re experiencing any of these issues, have your copy machine inspected, and if it can’t be fixed, get a replacement.
6. A computer server
If you’re managing your own company server, don’t let it die before you get a replacement. A server failure can cause your website to go down, as well as your entire company network, and if you don’t have a proper backup, it could be weeks or months before you can start operating again.
Preventive action will save you time and money
Taking preventive action will help you avoid dealing with costly, frustrating breakdowns that will leave you stranded. This is just a small list of equipment that should be replaced before it fails, but as a general rule, you should replace anything you rely on before it has a chance to break down.