How to Properly Store Your Electric Motors

Proper storage of electric motors is critical to ensuring their longevity and performance when they're finally put to use. Whether you're storing motors as backups or preparing for extended downtime, taking the right steps can prevent costly repairs, replacements, or failures down the line. At Universal Rewind, we’ve seen firsthand the issues that arise from improper motor storage, and we’re here to help you avoid these pitfalls. Here’s a guide to ensure your motors are kept in prime condition during storage.

1. Choose the Right Environment

Electric motors are sensitive to their surroundings. The storage area should be dry, clean, and free from any extreme temperature fluctuations. Moisture and dust can cause significant damage, leading to rust, corrosion, or contamination in the motor’s components. Ideally, motors should be stored in a climate-controlled environment to maintain optimal conditions.

2. Protect Against Moisture

Humidity is a motor’s worst enemy. To protect motors from moisture, make sure they are stored off the ground, preferably on pallets or shelves. Cover the motors with plastic or a tarp to create an extra layer of protection from any dust or humidity in the air. For long-term storage, consider using desiccant packs or dehumidifiers to keep the storage area as dry as possible.

3. Rotate the Shaft Regularly

Even in storage, motor bearings can deteriorate if they aren’t properly maintained. To prevent flat spots on the bearings or the settling of lubricant, it’s a good practice to rotate the shaft by hand periodically (every 3-6 months). This keeps the bearings in good shape and ensures the lubricant remains evenly distributed.

4. Properly Seal All Openings

Before storing, make sure to seal any openings to protect the motor’s interior from dust, moisture, or pests. Use tape or plastic caps to cover openings such as conduit boxes, vents, or fan covers. This helps keep the motor clean and ready for use when needed.

5. Maintain Lubrication

For motors with greased bearings, it’s important to check and maintain the grease levels before storage. Over time, the grease may dry out, leading to bearing failure when the motor is put back into service. Follow manufacturer guidelines on how often you should check and refresh the lubrication, especially for long-term storage.

6. Monitor Motor Temperature

For motors that will be stored for extended periods, it’s crucial to monitor their temperature. Sudden temperature changes can cause condensation inside the motor, leading to electrical shorts or corrosion. Using a motor heater or keeping motors in a stable environment can prevent these temperature-related issues.

7. Tag and Track Your Motors

It’s easy to lose track of motors in storage, especially if you have multiple units. Make sure each motor is tagged with key information such as the date it was stored, any special maintenance actions taken, and when the shaft was last rotated. Keeping a log or spreadsheet to track these details will ensure that no motor is forgotten and that all are properly maintained.

Trust Universal Rewind for All Your Motor Needs

Storing motors properly is just the first step in maintaining their longevity. When it's time to put them back into service or if you encounter any issues, trust Universal Rewind to get your motors back to optimal performance. We specialize in motor repairs, maintenance, and custom solutions to keep your operations running smoothly.

Need help with motor storage or servicing? Contact us today!

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