Discuss the different brands and sizes of heat presses available on the market, including Hix, GeoKnight, Hotronix, and other smaller manufacturers. Topics include maintenance, selection, styles and more.
I have 2 heat presses a mug press and a cap press for my sublimation business. Now I was reading these forums and seen people asking the simple question if they should keep their presses open or closed when on and not being used. Now I already know that it must stay open (in the up position), I knew that years ago and since day one. After all I read my users manual back then. Well now after reading the forums here it has me wondering this: When the press is OFF and COOL and not being used how should I keep the press open or closed? For years I have been closing the press after it has cooled and snap it in with light pressure. As for my mug and cap press I keep them open. What is the proper thing to do? If the answer is to keep them open at all times then I would ask is that good for the gas springs? I have never had a problem with my heat presses, but I want to do what is proper. Thank you for any help or advice!
The only press you keep closed is the Mug Press with a Mug in it, if left open the heating pad can become damaged. as far as the other press goes leave open at all times
Allan
I am an old head at this and my opinion is it really doesn't matter. I have 3 heat presses. One swingaway, one 16x20 clam shell, and one mug press. All of them are at least 15 years old and i have never had a problem result as of how I handle my press when not in use.
Never in 15 years have I kept a mug in my mug press when not in use..what for????
I do make sure that the swing away is over the platen but that is really because it would be in my way if it wasn't but open or closed I have not seen any effects for either way.
If someone has proof of this I would be more than happy to take a look at it but in my case after 15 years would it really even matter now?
I think Tari has a point but I think the manufacturer recommends this as sort of protection from damage. I personally don't think it would matter one way or the other either but to ensure the press is not accidentally damaged in some way by following those recommendations can only aid in keeping your press in good shape. It surely can't hurt.
I have only been heat pressing 4 years now and over those few short years I have acquired a 15x15 clam shell, a Hix 9x12 Swing away and a Hix cap press. What ever position the press is in when I walk away is the position it will be in when I get back to it. I personally just have never bothered with it and they are all free of damage and in good working condition.
How to keep press when it is off? 
