15 May 2019

Purchasing an air compressor is not the beginning and end of it. If you want your compressor to stay in its best working condition for a long period of time, you need to take care of it. Like any other power tools, an air compressor has to be regularly maintained. Regular air compressor maintenance is highly necessary to make the most out of the money you bought it with. Compressor Care also provides a range of air compressor maintenance, servicing, and repair solutions for all types of air compressors, in our workshop or on site.

To better perform air compressor maintenance, follow these tips:

Tip #1: Follow the Instruction Manual

The best way to take care of your air compressor is to read and follow the instruction manual that comes with your purchase. This must be the first thing you need to read and learn before even starting to use your air compressor. It provides ways and tips to properly conduct air compressor maintenance.

Tip #2: Drain Tanks Moisture

If you live in a humid environment, the air compressor tank will collect moisture faster. Most air compressors have draining valves and you need to make sure that these valves are drained regularly. Keep in mind to release the air first before draining the water.

Tip #3: Tighten Fasteners

As you use your air compressor over time, the vibration will cause screws, nuts, and bolts to loosen. This is why it is advisable to regularly check these parts and fasten them to make sure that your air compressor is working at its best.

Tip #4: Check and Change Air Filters If Needed

A heavy build-up of dust and dirt in your air compressor’s air filter may cause it to take in some of these residues. When this happens, the air compressor is forced to work harder than it should. It lowers the output capacity of the power tool. Make sure to check air filters regularly and change them if the build-up is already heavy.

Tip #5: Keep the Intake Vents Cleaned

Regularly check the intake vents of your compressor to make sure that they are clean. Taking in dirt and dust inside causes your air compressor to work harder and easily overheat. This is especially important if your air compressor is located in a dusty environment.

Tip #6: Check and Change Compressor Oil

Compressor oil plays an important role in how the air compressor works. It acts as a lubricant and a cooling agent that prevents your air compressor to overheat easily and prevent its parts from wear and tear. Follow the instructions stipulated in your instruction manual on the frequency of changing compressor oil and the type of oil that you should use.

Tip #7: Regularly Check the Hoses

The hoses serve as the vein of your air compressor so they need to be well-maintained. Make sure that they are cleaned regularly and that there are no signs of cracks or corrosion. Any strain on your air compressor hoses can gravely affect all other parts of the power tool and negatively impact its performance.

Tip #8: Keep Fuel Tank Clean in Petrol Air Compressor and Diesel Drive Air Compressor Units

Ensuring that your fuel tank is regularly cleaned helps to make it perform at its best and last much longer. Like any engine, cleaning the fuel tank is absolutely necessary to ensure that the compressor receives all the necessary power it needs.

Tip #9: Clean Heat Exchangers on Screw and Valve Type Air Compressors

Other parts of your air compressors that need to be cleaned are its heat exchangers. A clean heat exchanger efficiently reduces the operating temperature of the air compressor allowing it to work for a longer time. Any residue build-up in your heat exchangers may cause the power tool to easily overheat.

Tip #10: Check the Safety Shutdown System on Screw and Valve Type Air Compressors

A safety shutdown system is built within air compressors so it automatically shuts off when the compressor overheats or if the pressure is too low. Test if the system works so you can ensure a longer lasting compressor.

Being mindful of the state of your air compressor and adhering to the instructions provided by the manufacturer is the best way to make your compressor last a long time.