Even a small degree of misalignment can have significant negative impacts on the bearings’ operational life. Misalignment problems should be addressed as soon as possible. Otherwise, they cause a decrease in motor efficiency. Eventually, machinery with alignment problems will fail more quickly and easily from increased loads on major components including the seals, couplings, and bearings. Regular inspection and preventative maintenance can prevent alignment problems from happening in the first place or from causing major motor damage. Operating motors within their recommended operational range can also prevent electric motor bearing failures from misalignment and preserve the motor’s longevity.