Cement Mixer Maintenance: Simple Tips That Save Time and Money
If you're on the tools day in, day out, your cement mixer is one of your most valuable assets. It works hard, takes a battering, and is expected to perform reliably without complaint. But like any piece of equipment, if you don’t look after it, you’ll end up spending time and money on repairs, or worse, replacing it altogether.
Looking after your cement mixer doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With a few simple steps and the right tools, you can keep it running smoothly for years.
1. Clean it after every use
This might sound obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people skip this step. Cement sets quickly, and once it starts to harden, it becomes more difficult to remove without damaging the drum.
At the end of each job, rinse the mixer thoroughly using a hose and a stiff brush. Pay close attention to the paddles inside the drum. Avoid using metal scrapers or hammers which can cause dents and reduce the life of the mixer.
Using a tool like CemixFlo makes this process easier. By directing water flow precisely to the back of the drum, it helps clean more effectively and with less splash, reducing the mess around your workspace and making clean-up faster.
2. Regular checks for wear and tear
Make it a habit to check your mixer weekly. Look for signs of rust, worn paddles, loose bolts, or any strange noises during use. Catching a small issue early on can save you from major repairs later.
Also, inspect the drum for cracks or thinning of the metal. If you’re using a CemixFlo pipe, the controlled water flow also helps prevent accidental damage caused by overfilling or sudden pressure surges.
3. Store it properly between jobs
The British weather doesn’t do your tools any favours. If your mixer lives outside, try to keep it covered when not in use. Rainwater can cause rust and affect the electrics.
Even if you’re rushing to finish for the day, never leave leftover mix in the drum. It will harden and affect future performance. Using CemixFlo speeds up water delivery, meaning less hassle when rinsing out at the end of the job.
4. Lubricate moving parts
Like any piece of machinery, your mixer needs the occasional bit of maintenance. Grease the bearings and oil any moving parts in line with the manufacturer’s instructions. A mixer that runs smoothly will last longer and be safer to use.
5. Use equipment that works with your tools, not against them
Buckets and general-use hoses are messy and inefficient. They splash, spill, and make the mixer harder to clean. CemixFlo is designed specifically to work with cement mixers, delivering water where it’s needed, and letting you control the flow using the built-in valve.
Treat your mixer well and it will repay you with years of reliable service. A bit of care each day makes a big difference. And with tools like CemixFlo, keeping your kit in top shape has never been easier.