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There are many mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) operating in Northern climates with extreme temperatures in North America and Europe. Because MEWPs are some of the most frequently requested and rented machines in your equipment fleet, good operating condition and extended life expectancy of MEWPs in extreme operating environments, including the colder weather in Northern climates, are largely influenced by detailed care and preventive maintenance.

Here are three things you need to know about maintaining your Genie^®MEWPs in colder temperatures:

First, it is important to note that the stability and structural integrity of Genie MEWPs is unaffected by extremely cold temperatures, as long as operators are properly trained and the machines are used in accordance with the operators’ manual and safety decals.

Second, Genie MEWPs come equipped with components and hydraulic oil that will operate in temperatures as low as -20°F (-30°C). It is recommended that arctic hydraulic oils be used for prolonged use at temperatures below -20°F (-30°C). At very cold temperatures, it is recommended that the engine be warmed up before operating. Refer to the appropriate operator’s manual for complete instructions on starting machine engines in cold temperatures.

And third, because certain machine components can experience poorer performance at extremely cold temperatures (difficult starting, plastics, seals, etc), Genie offers cold weather options to provide better performance at lower temperatures. These options include:

• Arctic hydraulic oil
• Battery blanket
• Engine block heater
• Arctic hoses
• Arctic platform rotator seals

Following best practices for the care of MEWPs not only will save businesses a lot of money by positively impact the residual value and on-the-job performance of the MEWPs but also can enhance best practices for operators’ safe use. By following these proper safety and maintenance protocols, your Genie MEWPs can be counted on to operate in a wide range of operating environments, including extreme temperatures.