Certified Facility Manager (CFM) Practice Exam

Routine maintenance is focused on the regular upkeep and servicing of equipment and facilities to ensure they function effectively over time. This proactive approach helps prevent issues before they occur, consequently leading to several benefits.

Reduced total maintenance costs is a key advantage of routine maintenance because regular attention often means minor issues are caught before they escalate into more significant, and costly, repairs. Increased equipment lifespan is also a benefit, as consistent maintenance can extend the usable life of machines and systems by preventing wear and tear from neglect. Enhanced operational efficiency refers to the improved performance of equipment that is well-maintained, as it operates at optimal levels without the disruptions that can arise from neglect or significant repairs.

In contrast, immediate repair of unexpected breakdowns does not align with the concept of routine maintenance. By definition, routine maintenance involves scheduled activities to prevent breakdowns rather than addressing problems as they happen. Therefore, while immediate repairs might be necessary in the case of unforeseen issues, they are not a benefit that arises from a planned and systematic approach to maintenance.