Question 1) Is it Safe ?

Let's face it a 3000Kg machine that's got a spin cycle of 750rpm could be lethal if something goes wrong. The current guidelines by the Health and Safety Executive ( HSE ) states that both the seller and the buyer are responsible for machinery safety. The seller cannot simply state ' Sold as seen ' to protect himself against his liabilities. If the machine you are looking at appears to have little or no evidence of maintenance, or generally looks in bad condition - walk away and don't consider it. Your safety, and that of your employees is always paramount.

Question 2) Do you know its history ?

If you are buying a machine from site, it's always a good idea to see the machine operating in situ if you can. Always enquire how old the machine is, what hours it has operated at, and as to see the meters if installed ( older machines may not have them ). Caution - If the machine has been out of service for some time and left idle, it may develop faults, for example ' flats ' on the shaft seals, leading to major repairs.

Question 3) What about the machines' structure ?

Are there cracks around the drive assemblies? What about the seals and drive bearings? What about corrosion and wear on the dampers, door seals, locks and hinges? Our advice is: Use a torch, get on your hands and knees and inspect it inside and out - and if in doubt use a qualified engineer to provide an objective machine condition report.

Question 4) What sort of process controls does the machine have ?

You need to ensure the machine you look at has the relevant controls for the variety of processes you will require. If it doesn't, it could be inefficient and cost you more to run. Check the wiring - is it neat - or a tangled mess ? Is there a wiring diagram and operators manual ? Does the machine have a card or drum control ? A dedicated microprocessor or a PLC ? Consider what's on offer as it may have staff training implications if it's an unfamiliar type.

Question 5) Are spares and support readily available ?

All industrial laundry equipment requires regular servicing and spare parts from time to time, to provide optimum efficiency. This will be a financial headache if the machine is a rare model and the parts are expensive and difficult to get hold off. Not a problem you need if your machine has broken down, leading to inconvenient and more importantly, expensive down-time. Also consider technical back-up. Who will service this type of machine ?

Question 6) Does it come with a warranty ?

Does the seller offer a warranty ? 3 months ? 6 months ? Or if they don't offer a warranty at all, you should seriously consider - why not ? They obviously do not have much faith in the machines they are trying to sell you. If the machine does come with a warranty, check carefully what it includes. Do they charge extra for call outs as well as the labour ? Do they use original parts or another brand ?

Question 7) Is the motor in good order ?

Motors are vital components to the machines drive and can often be costly to repair or replace if they fail. Check the machine you are considering has a motor in good working order and is not an obsolete model.

Question 8) Who is going to install and commission it ?

Industrial laundry equipment can't just be plumbed in and turned on. The siting of the machine, installation and power it will require, have to be looked into carefully. For instance on the power supply to multiple motor machines, you would be wise to consider adding KVA interlocking, to safeguard against damage caused by power surges. Installing and commissioning machines should only be undertaken by experienced and fully qualified engineers, which will cost you extra on top of the price of the machine.

Question 9) How much will it cost to run ?

Older, second hand machines depreciate quickly and are not as energy efficient as their modern equivalents. Some can easily consume up to 3 times more power when compared to modern, single motor models on the market today. Also older models rarely have energy saving features and have inflexible controls - resulting in waste water and steam - It's literally money down the drain.

Question 10) Is it REALLY worth it ?

When looking at the points above, second hand machines could be an unexpected burden on the pocket when you are expecting to get a bargain. They can end up costing you more with increased running costs, expensive repairs, downtime, spares, and depreciation.

The second hand machine market can offer some cost effective options when you look to invest in machinery for your business, but always go to a reputable dealer who will offer you back-up, after sales service, warranty, and assured quality for your peace of mind.