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Cold Weather Tips for Heavy Equipment: How to Keep Your Fleet Running Strong This Winter
December 2025
1. Plug In Block Heaters Overnight
If your machine is equipped with a block heater, plug it in whenever temperatures drop below freezing.
Benefits:
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Warmer engine = easier starts
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Reduced wear on starters and batteries
2. Warm Up Hydraulics Before Working
Hydraulic oil thickens in the cold, which can slow down or strain components.
Let the machine run at low idle for several minutes, and then slowly cycle the boom, bucket, or other hydraulic functions. This circulates warm oil and prevents shock to the system.
3. Inspect Fluids Daily
Cold weather exposes weak points in fluids quickly. Check:
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Engine oil levels
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Coolant strength and ratio - Inside the cab we have a sticker with the tested rating!
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Hydraulic oil levels
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DEF fluid - If equipped with DEF, you'll see a sticker that says "Don't fill DEF over 3/4 in Winter" This is due to the fluid expanding, and not being able to purge the lines - causing issues.
If you’re unsure which fluids are best for your equipment, the team here at Pacesetter can always provide guidance.
4. Train Operators for Winter Operation
Remind crews to:
- Turn Off Master Switches! - This one is an all season issue. We get frequent calls about dead equipment, turns out the lights were all night because the master switch was left on...
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Allow longer warm-up periods
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Avoid high-load operation right after starting
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Watch for slippery site conditions
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Monitor gauges closely (oil pressure, coolant temp, etc.)
Stay Productive All Winter Long
Cold weather is tough, but with the right preparation, your job doesn’t have to be. Taking a few proactive steps now can keep your fleet reliable, efficient, and ready to perform all winter, no matter how low the temperature drops.
If you need help sourcing winter-ready equipment, Pacesetter Equipment is here to support you!