A well-maintained machine will help to keep your business running efficiently, avoiding unnecessary downtime and costly repairs, says Roger Cawood.

This is particularly true of the lint filter system, which is designed to prevent lint and dust entering the air cooler. If the lint filter fails and the cooler becomes blocked, servicing the machine can be expensive as the cooler will have to be removed and cleaned.

If lint gets into the cooler it can also result in extended drying times, increased solvent consumption and possibly solvent odours in the garments.

There are two main types of lint filter – bags and screens. Both types need frequent and regular cleaning to ensure efficient machine operation and efficient use of solvent.

Lint screens should be cleaned after every load and the screen should be kept in good condition. The foam pad should be cut so that it projects around the edge of the screen so that it forms an efficient seal in the recovery head and against the access door.

I often see screens where the foam does not form a seal with the result that the lint bypasses the screen and often ends up in the cooler.

Bags should be fitted correctly and should be discarded and replaced immediately there are any signs of fraying or of holes developing in the bag. Bags and foam pads need to be cleaned or washed periodically to maintain their porosity.

Some screens will have a fine wire mesh in addition to the foam. This mesh will eventually become blocked with dust and dirt so it should be checked each time the foam is removed. Any obstruction can be removed with either the steam or air gun.