24/7 Emergency Call Out

Minimising downtime for emergency breakdowns and maintenance

On-site service, maintenance and repair

Hydraulic systems rarely break down at a convenient time and when they do fail, downtime can quickly become expensive.

Having the right tools and spare parts on site can help buy you time and reduce downtime expenses until professional help arrives, but even with preparation, some problems still require specialist intervention, and that’s where a 24/7 emergency call-out service is critical.

Our24/7 mobile hydraulic call outs include highly skilled engineers that provide an array of advantages that can significantly enhance your operations. By having our team readily available around the clock, you can address any unforeseen issues promptly and keep your project on track.

Why preparation matters

When a hydraulic system fails, the real cost isn’t just the replacement parts or hefty repair bills; it’s the downtime. Every hour critical machines are offline can mean lost productivity, delays to projects and missed deadlines.

For industries that rely on continuous operations, those hours quickly translate into thousands in lost revenue.

There’s also the safety aspect to consider, as makeshift fixes may seem like a way to keep things moving, but often introduce new risks in the workplace.

From fluid leaks creating slip hazards to equipment operating at unsafe pressure levels, a rushed or improvised repair can turn a manageable breakdown into an extremely dangerous situation.

Having a basic “first response kit” on sight is so important. Stocking emergency tools and spare parts gives your team the ability to act immediately at stabilising the system until specialist engineers arrive.

Essential tools for emergency repairs

No two breakdowns are the same, but having the right tools on hand can mean the difference between containing the issue quickly, or causing a much bigger problem later on.

Here are some of the most valuable items to keep on hand for emergencies:

Adjustable spanners: these give flexibility for a range of fittings.

Torque wenches: ensures components are tightened to the correct specifications, preventing damage from over or under tightening.

Hydraulic hose crimping tool: portable crimping tools allows you to replace or repair hoses on-site, restoring function quickly.

Leak detection kit: helps identify hard-to-spot leaks, preventing fluid loss and contamination.

Pressure gauges and test kits: enables you to quickly assess if a fault is due to over-pressure, under-pressure or inconsistent flow.

Spill containment kit: absorbent pads, drip trays, and containment socks are essential for safely managing leaks and keeping the work area safe.

PPE: gloves, goggles and fire resistant clothing reduce the risk of injury when working around pressurised systems.

Must-Have Spare Parts

Even the most stocked toolkit won’t get you far with the right spare parts also at hand. Keeping a core set of spares on hand ensures minor failures can be addressed quickly and more serious breakdowns can at least be stabilised until professional engineers arrive.

Some essentials include:

Common hose fittings: keeping a range of standard hose sizes and compatible fittings on site allows for fast replacements.

O-rings and seals: small seal failures can cause major system inefficiencies and fluid loss. Having a variety of p-rings and seal kits means leaks can be tackled quickly.

Hydraulic fluid: leaks are inevitable in many breakdowns and maintaining a supply of the right hydraulic oil allows safe top-ups to prevent damage caused by low fluid levels.

Quick release couplings: this makes it easier to swap out hoses and components without draining an entire system.

Filters: a blocked or damaged filter can impact system performance. Keeping spares ensures you can quickly restore system efficiency.

When to call the professionals

Having tools and spars on hand is a smart way to prepare, but not every hydraulic issue can be handled on-house. Knowing when to step back and call in specialist engineers can save you from much bigger problems down the road.

Warning signs you need expert support:

The breakdown involves major leaks or fluid spraying under pressure.
You’re dealing with unfamiliar components or systems outside your team’s training.
Repairs require specialist diagnostic equipment that isn’t available onsite.
The fault keeps recurring even after temporary fixes.

Attempting internal repairs without the right expertise can make matters worse. Incorrectly fitted hoses, mismatched seals or over-torqued fittings often cause further damage to systems and can create safety hazards for staff.

Furthermore, in some industries, non-compliant repairs can lead to failed audits or regulatory penalties.

For anything beyond a straightforward swap, the safest choice is to call in the professionals.

Hydraulic & Offshore Supplies Ltd
Offshore House,
Southwick Industrial Estate,
Sunderland,
SR5 3TX

+44 (0)191 549 7335
hos@hos.co.uk