A remanufactured compressor is the most cost-effective way to get reliable performance without making a huge investment in a brand new compressor. A properly remanufactured unit is completely cleaned, repaired, and tested using many new components.
That means remanufactured compressors can save you money on multiple levels.
They offer great performance along with the certainty that you won’t have to replace your unit with a new one any time soon. It’s never been easier to ensure the continuity of your operations. Of course, not all remanufacturers adhere to the highest standards.
If you are going to work with a remanufacturer, it’s crucial to do your due diligence. Once you feel confident in the company’s performance, then you can build the relationship long-term. This has the potential to expand the value you get.
A Great Compressor is Only the Beginning With a Trusted Remanufacturer
Naturally, you want a compressor that will always perform the way you expect it to. But the compressor itself is only one part of the total value your remanufacturer can offer you.
A properly remanufactured compressor should work for years to come. During that time, if you have questions about maintenance, repairs, or efficiency, is your remanufacturer there for you?
Here’s how you can test the waters and decide if a remanufacturer may be worth it:
1. Does the Process Include Complete Disassembly?
There are hundreds of components within a commercial or industrial compressor. To bring the unit up to OEM specifications, they need to be upgraded or replaced with quality replacement parts. All critical components should be replaced: For instance, the reeds, rods, discharge pucks, seal joints, bearings, and gaskets – among many others will be replaced during the remanufactured process.
2. Is Dehydration Performed?
A manual dehydration process shows that your remanufacturing vendor has a true attention to detail. Excess moisture is one of the biggest threats to any compressor unit. That’s true during operation and even while repair work is underway. External painting can also help the unit meet environmental performance standards, but isn’t a replacement for more intensive work!
3. Is a Warranty Offered?
If a remanufacturer really stands by its work, then a warranty should be offered. Parts and labor should always be covered within a warranty. Of course, there are some important caveats: If you fail to operate or maintain the compressor properly, even the best warranty becomes invalid. This is part of the reason why building a relationship with your vendor is so important.
4. Are Compressors Tested Under Load?
You really don’t know how a compressor will respond until it faces “real world” conditions. Duplicating your exact work environment isn’t an option – so, testing under load is the next best thing. Remanufactured compressors should be tested under load on multiple occasions. That should include testing under the unit’s full specified capacity for at least a brief period.
5. Is Root Cause Analysis Performed in Case of Failure?
When something goes wrong with a compressor, the wisest thing you can do is figure out what is behind the issue. Root cause analysis ensures you’re never in a situation where you continue putting new units into service only to replace them soon after. Your vendor can help perform a full analysis of the unit to track down workplace issues that contributed to a failure.
6. Is Your Remanufactured Unit Certified to OEM Standards?
Be sure to ask your remanufacturer about their credentials and experience with your compressor brand. This may include their training from and relationship with the compressor OEM.
Last but not least, don’t forget to check on the fundamentals. A valid business registration (with the date of incorporation), a professional website, and great customer service are all good signs that a company is on the up and up.
Your Relationship With a Remanufacturer is a Two-Way Street
In an ideal situation, you would be able to visit the facility used by your remanufacturer. This isn’t always possible: Far less than 10% of compressor customers will make the journey. Nonetheless, the option should always be on the table, even for remanufacturers with many sites.
There are thousands of enterprises in the world of compressors, refrigeration, and HVAC services. Every one of them is different. You should always ask the important questions and expect full, satisfying answers. Once you find the right remanufacturer, staying in touch after the sales process will ensure they can provide you with ongoing assistance and expertise.
