Frost fans aren’t just seasonal - they’re regionally responsive. Whether you're operating in Marlborough, Central Otago, Hawke’s Bay, or anywhere frost risk flares up, your frost fans may be working at different times of the year. That’s why knowing how to safely shut down, store, and reactivate them is essential to keeping your system reliable and your crops protected.
This guide outlines the off-season care process for your Hydralada TBX frost fan - drawn directly from the manufacturer's manual - so you're not caught off guard when frost returns.
Step 1: Safe Shutdown After the Season
Once your frost season is done (for now), follow these shutdown steps:
- Isolate and power down the system completely
- Grease all lubrication points (2–3 pumps per grease nipple)
- Check hydraulic oil levels and top up if needed
- Inspect fan blades, vanes, and duct for cracks, dents, or imbalance
- Check the transmission and test the fan brake
- Inspect for oil, fuel, or battery fluid leaks
- Ensure boom lock is installed and functional
- Clean around stabiliser legs and confirm locking pins are present
- Test the emergency stop and engage it before storage
- Remove the boom transport pin
Tip: Perform this while the fan is still installed and upright - it gives you easier access for a full walk-around.
Step 2: Smart Storage for the Off-Season
If your fan is going to sit idle for more than three months, proper storage prevents unnecessary wear and costly repairs.
- Disconnect the battery to extend its life
- Put the battery on a trickle charger if possible
- Drain fuel from the tank to prevent build-up or contamination
- Cover the fan engine with a weatherproof cover to protect from UV, rain, dust, and rodents
- If stored outside, cover the level indicator bubble to prevent deterioration
- Clear any dust from the air cleaner dust cap
- Check for nesting or rodent damage in wiring or engine components
Tip: While shed storage is preferred, a high-quality outdoor cover works well when sheds are full.
Step 3: Pre-Season Restart & Safety Inspection
When you're ready to bring your fan back into action, don’t just power it up - give it a full inspection first.
Restart Checklist:
- Reconnect the battery and fully charge it
- Check for leaks (oil, fuel, hydraulic, battery acid)
- Top up fuel and hydraulic oil as required
- Remove any rodent nests or debris from engine housing
- Confirm decals and warning labels are clean and legible
- Inspect the electrical system for broken wires or damage
- Confirm stabiliser pads and legs are intact and locked
- Test the auto-start system
- Carry out a full function check once the fan is stabilised on-site
Download our Frost Fan Maintenance & Restart Checklist PDF to keep this process simple.
Need Help?
Whether you're winding down for the off-season or ramping back up for spring, our team is here to help:
- Book a professional service or fan inspection
- Order parts or schedule maintenance now to avoid delays
- Ask about layout reviews or additional fan placement
👉 Download Frost Fan Maintenance & Restart Checklist
Because in NZ, frost doesn’t follow a fixed schedule - but your protection can.