Maintenance Tips for Sanding Equipment

Sanding equipment is a big investment for wood flooring installers. Protect that investment by following these tips for properly maintaining your equipment.

Owner’s manual

The very best thing that you can do, for any of your equipment, is to read and follow the proper way to operate the equipment and the recommended service schedule that is outlined in your owner’s manual. Knowing how your equipment works and how to care for it is valuable information that can save you from costly mistakes and repairs.

Listen to your machine

I know it sounds crazy, but anyone who runs equipment every day knows what it sounds like when you are running it. Any change in sound, such as a high pitched squealing, a thumping sound, or even the sound of the motor bogging down, can mean that your machine is in need of repair. The sooner you take your equipment in to get checked can save you money by keeping something minor from turning into something major. Make sure to use a certified service center to have your equipment worked on; otherwise it may void your warranty.

Electrical

It is critical to know the voltage you are getting before you run your sander. Th e easiest way to determine voltage is to use a volt meter. Using your voltage meter, test the plug end that you will be plugging your machine into. In the United States, the electrical grid varies to such a degree that on a 220v outlet, you can have anywhere from 200v to 260v. Improper voltage can lead to deterioration of all electrical parts and the motor.

Brushes, plug ends, and cords

You also need to make sure you are checking your brushes, brush springs, plug ends, and cords regularly.

Lubrication

Refer to your owner’s manual or ask your certified service center for the right amount and type of lubricant to use.

Drums

Every time you change the belt, you should inspect and clean the drum. Any dust, dirt, or debris can cause chatter marks. If the drum surface is damaged, it should be replaced. Make sure you check the top roller too. You also want to clean and grease the paper tensioner and feather handle.

Edger Pads

Before each job, you should inspect the pad for damage, dirt, debris, or wood filler, all of which can damage the floor during sanding. Any damaged pads should be replaced.

Wheels

Before each job, you also should inspect the wheels for damage, dirt, debris, wood filler, or finish, all of which can damage the floor during sanding.

Bearings

To properly maintain the machine bearings, refer to the owner’s manual for service intervals. Again, listen to your equipment. Any change in sound could mean a bearing is going bad and you should get your equipment looked at by a certified service center. Bad bearings up the amps and can make it get hot, causing electrical damage and/ or chatter.

Belts

You should inspect your belts periodically. Any rough, worn, grooved, or damaged belts should be replaced. Make sure you use belts that are recommended by the manufacturer.

Loosen belts every time you are not using your equipment. Th e belts become very warm as the machine is running, and leaving them tight on the pulleys will make your belts set to the shape of the pulleys, causing vibration or chatter the next time you run your equipment.

Dust filters, tubes, & chambers

Be sure to clean out filters, tubes, and chambers regularly. Keeping them clean of dust and debris will keep your dust control system working better. Remember, blowing off your machine is not the same as blowing out the machine. Replace your filter regularly. And remember, a vacuum only works as well as you maintain the filter/bags.

Storing your sander

Any time your sander is not going to be used for any extended period of time, you need to loosen the belts and set the machine up on blocks to protect the wheels. Being stored on the wheels can leave “flat” areas on your wheels from the weight alone.

Storing your edger

Any edger with a rubber pad should not be stored on the pad.

Final thoughts

The equipment you purchase is a huge investment. I would like to reiterate how important it is for you to read, understand, and follow what is in your owner’s manual.

Shawn Carrier is ProShop Specialist/ Manager at Denver Hardwood in Denver. He can be reached at 303.296.1168 ext. 193 or scarrier@denverhardwood.com.

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