Whether an air compressor is simply a handy tool in your workshop or garage or a crucial part of your business, you’ll want to ensure it works properly for the long haul. A surefire way to ensure this is to keep up with its maintenance needs.
Regular maintenance helps keep unplanned downtime to a minimum and delivers significant energy savings throughout the system’s life. Well-maintained air compressors have a longer working life and positively impact the longevity of the tools it services.
Regular air compressor maintenance also prevents catastrophic accidents or failures that can result in significant injuries or replacement and repair costs. It also keeps vibration, heat, noise, and pollution in check to minimize the impact on workers.
If you’re unsure about how much maintenance your air compressor requires or how to go about performing it, we’re here to help. Hovair Systems not only provides top-notch air compressors and tools but also has a team of professionals that can guide you when it comes to choosing the right one for your facility and keeping it maintained for optimal performance.
Before Getting Started: Make Sure You Read the User’s Manual Properly
It’s imperative to consult the user manual before undertaking any kind of air compressor maintenance. While guides usually offer generic instructions, manuals are more specific when it comes to performing basic tasks.
Following the manual will help ensure each task is performed safely and without leading to any potential damage. Failing to follow the instructions in the manual can also void your warranty. In addition, you may find helpful safety information and tips unique to the compressor model in the owner’s manual.
Maintenance Tips for Optimum Air Compressor Performance
#1- Check Oil Levels and Replace Lubricants
Make it a habit of checking the oil levels of the compressor engine and pump prior to daily operation. Most air compressors have a dipstick that you can use to check and maintain optimal oil levels.
It also functions as a crankcase vent so don’t operate the unit without the dipstick provided by the manufacturer. It’s recommended to keep the level 2/3 on sight gauges that make the task of checking oil levels easier.
Changing the oil regularly is equally important because it can eventually get contaminated with moisture, become dirty, or develop tannins. This could result in overheating or damage. Check the user manual for the ideal oil change schedule and the oil capacity and type recommended for the unit.
#2- Drain Tank Moisture and Inspect Air Filters
When air is compressed, the water vapor condenses into a liquid form. It gets collected in the drain valves or air filters installed to enable moisture to be drained out. Over time, debris, rust, or condensates can contaminate the air supply.
When the filters become saturated, they allow dust and dirt to enter the pump. This could damage the gaskets, valves, and other internal components. Therefore, it’s a good practice to drain the tank after every use and periodically change the air filters.
#3- Check for Leaks
Remove connectors and hoses to isolate the compressor and fill up to top pressure to check for any leaks. Observe the tank pressure gauge when the compressor idles down or shuts off. The pressure typically drops slightly when the temperature of the internal air decreases. But if the needle continues to drop, it may indicate a leak somewhere in the system.
If you think the crankcase is being refilled quickly or if you find pooling oil around the pump, the compressor may be leaking oil. Consult authorized professionals right away in this situation to quickly diagnose and repair the issue before it escalates into a bigger problem that could impede safety, reputation, or your company’s bottom line.
If you don’t use air-powered tools yet, explore the major benefits of energy-efficient air compressors and material handling equipment with experts at Hovair Systems, a reputable material handling system provider leading the heavy load moving sector for over five decades.
Our range of sustainable heavy load handling systems includes air skates, air beams, air casters, air bearing kits, load leveling airbags, and more. Automated handling of heavy loads with pneumatic ergonomic equipment that utilizes compressed air to move heavy loads makes operations safer and more efficient.
Our professionals can also help you streamline top-quality air compressor tools, automobile and industrial turntables, and other lifting and rigging equipment.
Schedule a consultation with us to speak to our qualified experts. We can work together to understand your facility’s unique needs as we provide you with information about our cutting-edge moving systems for heavy loads. We’re just a call away!