10 Tips For A Healthy Compressor System This Holiday Season

10 Tips For A Healthy Compressor System This Holiday Season

1. Read & Follow Your Air Compressor's Manual
Nothing stops an air compressor faster than an owner who doesn't read the owner's manual. There's going to be some simple tips in there for you that will help you to get a nice long life out of your air compressor - simple stuff for you to do that you would never have thought to do unless you read it. Besides, no one knows your compressor better than the manufacturer.

2. Check the Oil Level Regularly
If you're running a compressor that uses oil you should be checking it on a daily basis to make sure that your machine is topped off. Then, every 500-1000 hours of use you should be changing this oil to ensure maximum functioning of your air compressor.
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3. Drain The Moisture From The Tanks
The receiver tank collects moisture from the air that it's compressing - especially if you live in a humid climate. Most tanks have a valve for draining this moisture that accumulates and it's up to you to make sure that these are drained regularly. Before draining the water you should be sure to release the air pressure from the tanks.
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4. Inspect & Clean the Air Filter
A dirty air filter is only hurting your air compressor by allowing unclean air from the outside in, plus forcing it to work harder to intake air. Check your filters regularly and change them if you notice a heavy build up of dust and dirt. Change every six months or so if you use it infrequently.
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5. Change the Separator Element
The separator element prevents the excessive use of oil, but it has to be replaced periodically. Keep your compressor in top condition by replacing the separator element every 1,000 hours of operation.
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6. Stop, Look & Listen
Stop, Look & Listen for any unusual noise, failure to compress, overheating, vibrations or belt slippage and correct before damage of a serious nature develops. Your air compressor's a running, vibrating engine and it will loosen its screws, nuts and bolts on a regular basis. Be sure to check these periodically and tighten them up if you find any that have jiggled loose.
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7. Check for Leaks Throughout
Check entire system for air leakage around fittings, connections, and gaskets, using an ultrasonic leak detector. Air leaks in a system can keep an entire system from running at proper temperature and pressure because of the leakage. Common areas to check are piping and flexible joint packings, control lines, control line fittings, clamps and connectors, valves, air pressure safety relief valves, and pressure gauge connections.
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8. Proper Compressor Temperature
Should be within manufacturer's limits. Refer to the air compressors manual to make sure you are operating within the proper temperature range. Many of the tips from above can affect temperature if they are not checked regularly.

9. Compressor Cleanliness
Maintain in a clean condition; a compressor should never leak oil. When you’re checking your compressor, remove any dust from the motor, pump and cooling fin area. This will help to keep the pump and motor running cooler and prolong the life of your compressor.

10. Keep Extra Filters and Parts on Hand
One of the main keys to maintaining an efficient compressed air system has been and still is Preventive Maintenance.

Plan your preventative maintenance before-hand so it will least effect production
Purchase you maintenance supplies prior to the scheduled date
Be sure to check all the devices that need maintaining before you purchase your supplies
Don’t let system failure be your signal that is time to do maintenance