1. Dust
Keep working area clean and dust-free. Dust can be detrimental, especially for electrical components. Use an air duster to clean the electrical components on a regular basis.
2. Lubrication
Lubricate all the wear points (pistons and rods) with high-temperature lithium grease. If you put in too much grease, wipe off the excess. Failing to lubricate your machine regular will cause the pivot joints to dry out, and be subject to friction and wear. We recommend do it more than once a year.
3. Keep Upper Platen Clear
A well-functioning platen, is a clean platen! Use a damp, soft cloth to wipe your platen with iron cleaner, alcohol, mineral spirits. Before you start cleaning, make sure to power off your machine.
Important Note: Never use anything rough to scrub off the residue in your upper platen. This can damage the Teflon coating.
4. Cord
Use the cord that comes with your heat press, other cords may fit but are unable to carry the necessary voltage. To avoid fire and other safety issues do not put cords on or near hot surfaces.
5. Protect the lower platen
To protect the silicone pad on the lower platen, use teflon. Teflon comes in sheets, covers or pillows. Teflon sheets can be placed on the top of your garments to prevent them from sticking to the upper platen. Teflon covers act like a mattress cover and safeguard the rubber pad. Teflon pillows help distribute pressure evenly when the item has irregular surfaces, such as buttons, collars, or zippers. Teflon should be replaced, when it is ripped, cracked or torn.
6. Test the temperature
Heat is essential for proper application. Once in a while check the heating platen using a machine test kit. Set the temperature and check the results.
BONUS: Read the manual
In general, the manual will provide guidelines on how to use the machine correctly. It can also offer tips on how to care for the machine, as it may require maintenance procedures that are specific to that particular model.
*These maintenance techniques may not fully prevent your heat press from becoming inoperative.
