Drones are quite expensive. If you have one that is of good quality, much for if it has an AI capability, you have to learn how to maintain it. Knowing the basic care guide for drones will save you a lot of money. By properly taking care of an expensive item, you can save money from repair and be thrifty.
You need to know basic drone maintenance to keep the drone working. You have to check every gear if it still fits or needs replacement. Like car maintenance, drone maintenance can be less expensive if you already know the do’s and the how’s.
If you are still unfamiliar with your drone, don’t worry! This will guide you on how to care for drones.
Care Guide For Drones
If you take care of the following points for taking care of your drone, you will have one of the best flying experiences.
1. Check for Visible Damage
There is no proper order for drone maintenance. However, checking for visible damage is the easiest. It’s a no-brainer. Do this before buying the drone, before, and after a flight.
2. Inspect the Antennae
The antennae are responsible for the wireless signal connection between the drone and the control system. Damage to just one of the drone’s antennae would cause signal disruption. This would lead to loss of control and, or worse, crashing. Check that all the antennae are tightly screwed. Also, make sure that it is in good shape. Check for cracks and make sure that they are not crooked.
Whenever going on a new flight, try to have your drone flown in a safe environment and not at far distances. This would allow you to check the antenna connectivity as well. You can gradually increase the height as well as the speed of the drone as you see that the antenna is responding well.
3. Inspect the Landing Gear
You would want your drone to land safely without scratching or cracking your device. If the drone cannot properly land, it may also damage the internal system of your device. Check and ensure that the shock absorbers are still intact within the drone’s feet. If damage is found, you can visit the online shops of the manufacturer. Also, check your drone’s feet. Make sure that it is neither bent nor cracked. Inspect it before and after a flight.
4. Inspect Battery Packs
Examine each pack carefully. Your batteries may cause leakage if there are any bulges or deformities. If you find any, you need to replace your battery packs immediately. You can buy new battery packs off from amazon.com easily.
5. Inspect Charger
Battery-related issues are often caused by charger docks that were ignored. Check for cracks or swelling. Also, ensure that the specified voltage by the dock is compliant with the batteries. Check both battery packs and chargers religiously. You don’t want your drone to crash due to battery issues.
Besides, having the right charger matters as well. Some people use a counterfeit charger which could overcharge or not charge the batteries. Counterfeit chargers don’t come with protection against overcharge. Moreover, they can spark anytime as well and this could damage the batteries. Make sure that you are using the genuine charger that came with your drone and not using any other counterfeit chargers.
6. Inspect the Propellers
The propellers are some of the delicate pieces of your drone. Very closely, inspect for cracks. Also, ensure that the propellers are tightly screwed. Immediately replace broken pieces and do not attempt flight when found. Your drone may break down mid-flight, even with a small crack. Check the propellers regularly, even if your last flight went well.
In case the propellers are broken or have any minor cracks in them, the drone is not fit to fly. Although you might be flying with a cracked propeller in the perfect manner, they can break up anytime. In case that happens, your drone will come flying down mid-flight. This could break other components as well. Try to always check the propellers. Take care of them mid-flight as well. Try to avoid trees, metal, or any other sharp objects which could impact the propellers in any way.
7. Charge all Batteries Pre-Flight
This is a common practice for drone maintenance. Never overcharge your batteries nor allow them to drain completely. It is ideal for keeping your batteries charged within 30 – 90%. Also, when you have your batteries replaced, make sure each pack can retain a 75% battery charge. Do this always before a flight. In addition to that, always have a spare pack of batteries with you. This would allow you to have an uninterrupted drone flying experience. While you are using one battery, the alternative could be charged and vice versa.
8. Check the Motors
Be sure that there is nothing lodged in the space between the propeller and the motor. The motor chamber can be obstructed by dirt and organic matter. Remove the propellers for proper access to the motor. This will allow you to clean the motor thoroughly. If it becomes difficult, you may disassemble the drone to remove debris.
9. Check the Camera
This does not only ensure that you get a good shot, but it also ensures the good condition of your drone. Debris may build up in the component. Therefore, it should be cleaned routinely. Keep in mind that a camera protectant could be a great piece of equipment for your drone. While some drones come equipped with a camera that is protected, there are a few cameras that are not protected and can be damaged. Besides, every once in a while, clean the camera with a microfiber cloth as it will allow you to have a clear view every time. The lens will last for a long time as well.
10. Software Update
This is important because some manufacturers release updates to fix bugs. Some updates are for enhancements. Your drone may not be able to fly without updated software. Sometimes, a drone might be able to fly without a software update as well but the functionality might be limited or it may cause some kind of glitches. This could lead to crashes as well. Therefore, if you want your drone to stay in one piece, don’t only focus on its hardware but also take a keen look at its software as well.
11. Pre-Flight Checklist
Ensure that your drone flies perfectly fine and performs all tasks you need it to do. You can divide the pre-flight checklist into three: before the day of the flight, immediately before the flight, and take off. You may have your pre-flight checklist. Here’s one that you might want to try.
BEFORE THE DAY OF THE FLIGHT
- Firmware Update
- Pre-Notification Requirements
- Aircraft Battery Charged
- Controller Charged
- Ground Station Charged
IMMEDIATELY BEFORE FLIGHT
- Inspect for Faults
- Check Signal Strength
- Check Satellite Strength
- Correct Flight Mode Selected
- Batteries Properly Fitted
- Batteries are in Correct Temperature
- Flip Antennae Out
TAKE-OFF
- Turn on Controller First
- Turn on Drone
- Check if all Controls are Responsive
Conclusion
Now that you know how to take care of your drones, your worries are reduced. Don’t be afraid to take flight as long as you take proper care of your drone. And always remember to have fun. Keep in mind that the key to having a successful drone experience is to properly care for it. Those who mismanage the drone often end up crashing them. The more you care, the better will its durability factor be.
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