Hot Storage

[RP62]

I don't weld everyday, just weekend projects. My 250EX lives in the garage as I suspect most weekend warrior's machines do. My question is this. My garage is in Gilbert AZ and in another couple of weeks or so, my garage is going to be around 105+ degrees for about 6 hours a day, every day until late September. Is it ok letting the welder heat soak this way or will that adversely affect its longevity? Should I bring it in the house when not in use? Humidity by the way won't be a problem, it will be in single digits.
Thanks,
-RP

[Rodsmachineshop]

I keep my welders in my shop garage all year round , I just cover them with some old sheets i had to keep the dust off welders . I live in parker az so have the same weather , had them for over 2 years and had know problems , do turn on coolers to cool garage down before starting to weld stuff .

[Brian Ski]

The manual does not say anything about temp of storage. I would say you are fine. Most electronics are good to 140. It did mention stay away from moisture... But you should be fine with that...

One thing to watch for the higher the ambient temp it would affect the cooling of the unit and shorten the duty cycle of the welder. But we probably don't want to be out there that much longer either!!!!!

[67cudafb]

I think real cold temps are harder on them then the higher temps.

[undercut]

I think real cold temps are harder on them then the higher temps.

I would agree. Cold equipment can promote condensation which is the death knell for electronics. Starting up electronics when they are quite cold can also shock the electronics if they warm up quickly. Shock could promote solder joints to fail.

Higher temps for us is not terribly hot for most electronics when they are off. As Brian states, though, higher ambient temperature will raise the operating temperature of the equipment when they are on.

[RP62]

Thanks guys.

[5440]

Most electronics are ok with cold temps down to -20 to -40C. I doubt any shop gets that cold. Heat is the killer, but more to do with temps from operation, but high ambient temps will just lower your duty cycle when welding. You would not believe that large utility power transformers will operate at 30% more capacity at -40 compared to +40C.

I would recommend covering your machine with a decent cover, and recommend a BBQ cover if a welding cover is not in your budget.