Keeping your air conditioning and electrical systems running smoothly

Courtesy of Jewelers Mutual Insurance Co.

Ben Franklin observed, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” That saying is true for all kinds of business-related issues, including preventive maintenance for your jewelry operation.

As a successful jewelry business owner, you must keep your eye on what your customers want. Offering the right merchandise is what keeps your business profitable. In addition, you need to maintain your facilities to manage operational costs, prevent expensive repairs, and provide a safe environment for your staff.

Having to deal with unexpected building repairs or heating and cooling issues isn’t just an inconvenience, it’s expensive and could even require you to temporarily suspend your operations at a time of year you can least afford to do so. The relatively small investment you make in preventive maintenance on a routine basis throughout the year is a cost-effective way to avoid critical systems surprises that could otherwise cost you a lot more.

Take the Heat Off Your Air Conditioner

Jewelers Mutual recommends following these tips to keep your air conditioner in good repair and your facilities functioning at their best:

• Condenser: If your condenser—that’s the actual air-conditioning unit heat exchanger located outside your building—is not level or is dirty or blocked, it will have to work harder, thus reducing cooling capability, increasing your power bills, and ultimately decreasing the life span of the unit. The good news is that keeping your condenser clean takes just a few moments. Clear any trash, dirt, or weeds from the unit’s surface. Keep grass trimmed and vegetation at least a four-foot radius from the unit’s coils.
• Filter:To keep your air conditioner running at peak performance, change your air filter at least quarterly. Doing so will save energy and improve the overall air quality.
• Wiring and refrigeration: Have a qualified service technician check refrigerant pressures as well as electrical connections annually, preferably before you start using it to fight the summer heat.
• Crankcase heater: Some air conditioning units employ a crankcase heater to keep lubricating oil at a proper temperature and prevent the oil from mixing with liquid refrigerant. Crankcase heaters must be energized all season and must be operated for at least eight hours before starting the A/C unit. Have a qualified service technician inspect the heater annually, too.

Avoiding Sparks in Your Electrical System

Keeping your overall electrical system in good health also requires ongoing preventive maintenance. Consider these steps to reduce your risk of business interruption, poor energy efficiency, and even electrical fires:

• Electrical equipment room: Your electrical equipment room may be tucked out of the way in a basement or storage room. That likely means you and your cleaning staff may not give it the same level of consideration as other areas in your facilities. Yet keeping an equipment room clean isn’t just about appearances. It’s also about safety. Don’t use your electrical equipment room for storage, and limit access to this room to authorized staff who can vacuum regularly to remove dirt, dust, airborne contaminates, and debris. They can also periodically confirm that the area is dry and free from potential sources of water.
• Hire an expert: While many jewelry business owners try to cut costs by taking care of routine maintenance issues themselves, electrical work requires competent technical skills. If not done correctly, it can be dangerous. Hire a reputable, qualified electrician for your annual electrical inspections.
• Electrical connections: Have a qualified electrician check connections for signs of arcing, corrosion, and excessive heating and to ensure proper attachment. The electrician should scan connections using infrared imaging to identify hot spots.
• Electrical devices: Make sure all electrical equipment is in good operating condition and maintained per the manufacturers’ instructions. Keep ventilation openings clean, inspect seals and gaskets regularly, and change or clean filters.

For more information about operating your business safely and securely, visit Jewelers Mutual’s website at JewelersMutual.com.

MJSA exclusively endorses Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company’s commercial and personal jewelry insurance products. To learn more about Jewelers Mutual’s coverages and to find an experienced insurance agent in your area, contact Jewelers Mutual at 1-800-558-6411.