The back-ups

Heating systems are crucial for growers with climates that turn chilly in the winter. If something breaks, it can spell major trouble for a crop. Most spare parts can be shipped to a grower within a tight, 24-hour window. But if a heating system is down during that whole time, or if something goes wrong with the shipping, growers could be staring at losses totaling in the thousands of dollars.

That’s part of why Hurst Boiler provides each of its customers with a spare part list. Chad Fletcher, director of aftermarket parts and sales, says that a chunk of the items on the list will probably not be stocked by growers either because they’re too expensive or the chance of a break or leak is too low.

But of the 16 item list, Fletcher says the first nine items are must-haves:

“These are the items that can leak, be easily broken, or will be needed if the boiler is shutdown to be cleaned or serviced,” Fletcher says.

Most of the other items on the list are needed on a case-by-case basis. Some growers may say their boiler is too important to risk even a one-day shutdown and keep several items on-hand. Other growers may find that investment too redundant.

“Having these spare parts greatly reduces the chance of lost time cash flow,” Fletcher says. “These items are basically simple, precautionary items to have. We can get all the other items to you within 24 hours, but the ability to switch out stock, if needed, can save thousands and thousands of dollars.”  

The full list of items is pictured below: