A Guide to Air Compressor Maintenance

If you want your air compressors to remain efficient and in full working condition for as long as possible, you must stay on top of maintenance. Critical components, including valves, vents, and filters, sustain wear and tear with time. If you neglect small issues, they can quickly exacerbate into costly problems, causing damage not just to your compressor but also to any attached equipment.

Having your compressed air installations professionally inspected is highly recommended. However, on top of professional inspections, you should perform basic maintenance tasks frequently to protect your compressor and ability to do business.

This guide will explain the basics of DIY air compressor maintenance, but we are only a phone call away if you need an expert’s touch.

Introducing Anglian Compressors

At Anglian Compressors, we have been a leading supplier and installer of compressed air solutions and industrial equipment for a variety of UK industries for nearly five decades. As a premier distributor for Atlas Copco since 1977, we settle for nothing but the most pioneering solutions for our clients. We are fully qualified to handle maintenance and inspection tasks, including the written scheme of examination (WSE).

Keep reading for key insights into DIY air compressor maintenance and what to expect when hiring professionals. Do not hesitate to call us if you want to discuss your needs during a no-obligation consultation.

Why Air Compressors Need Maintenance

Like all other industrial equipment, air compressors wear with time and usage. However, you can extend the lifespan of your compressor, components, and associated equipment by inspecting critical components frequently.

In short, staying on top of air compressor maintenance can help you:

Prevent Costly Equipment Failures

By maintaining your compressor correctly, you can catch minor problems before they spiral out of control and result in equipment failures that can be costly to put right.

Minimise the Risk of Business Downtime

Equipment breakdowns and failures can cause your operations to come to a standstill, and any business downtime can cost you a small fortune. Preventing breakdowns ensures you can always operate your business smoothly.

Maximise the Efficiency of Your Equipment

Clogged filters, valves and other small problems can all decrease the energy efficiency of your compressor, leading to unnecessarily high electricity bills.

Remain Compliant

All UK businesses that use pressure systems such as compressors must comply with quality and safety standards. Staying on top of maintenance helps you stay on the right side of the law and avoid potentially costly fines.

Essential Maintenance Tips for Air Compressors

Neglecting compressor maintenance will inevitably lead to problems arising sooner than they should. Fortunately, the most essential upkeep tasks are among the most straightforward:

Read the Manual

Before attempting any inspection or maintenance tasks, you should read your compressor’s manual, which provides a roadmap to understanding the ins and outs of your machine. Most manuals contain basic instructions for essential maintenance, safety precautions, and advice.

Drain the Compressor

During the compression process, your compressor will likely generate small amounts of moisture. Allowing this moisture to build up can make your unit less efficient and cause wear on crucial components. If you run your compressor daily, you should check and drain its receiver (tank) at least once a week or as necessary.

Check the Filter

Over time, your compressor’s filters can clog up with dust, dirt, and debris, reducing your system’s airflow and overall performance. You can locate your compressor’s filter by referring to the manual. Simply remove the filter, clean it of dust and debris, then put it back in its correct place.

Monitor the Belt

If you have a belt-driven air compressor, you should periodically inspect the belt for signs of wear and cracks, misalignment, incorrect tension, sufficient lubrication, and the condition of the pulleys. In most compressors, the belt is located inside a fan guard.

Change the Oil

You should replace your compressor’s oil at least every six to twelve months, depending on the type of compressor and how frequently you use it. Make sure to use the correct type of oil as specified by the manufacturer. Also, be careful not to overfill your compressor with oil. Most machines feature an oil viewing window to achieve the correct level.

Listen for Leaks

The easiest way to determine whether your compressor’s air hose leaks is to listen. Minimise all background noise and then carefully listen for hissing noises that hint air may be escaping. If you detect a leak, ensure all the fastenings and connections are tight before replacing the air hose.

Air Compressor Maintenance Schedule

Different compressors in different environments have different maintenance requirements. However, here is a general overview of what your schedule might look like:

• Daily: drain the tank, check for air leaks, and inspect all safety devices.
• Weekly: clean all intake vents and filters and inspect the belt for signs of wear and tear.
• Monthly: inspect safety valves, test auto drain systems and clean the cooling fins.
• Quarterly: recalibrate pressure gauges and replace the oil and filters.
• Annually: organise a professional inspection by an experienced expert.

Book a Professional Inspection Today

Staying on top of maintenance can save you a small fortune in the long run. Basic tasks like changing the oil and cleaning the filters can help your compressor run more efficiently while minimising breakdowns and downtime. It is a small investment of time that can do wonders for your compressors. However, it is best to leave certain maintenance and inspection tasks to the professionals.

At Anglian Compressors, we provide a broad range of comprehensive maintenance services that could add years to the lifespan of your compressors and attached equipment. We have you covered whether you need energy audits, a written scheme of examination, air quality testing or leak detection; you will not find more reliable or high-value services elsewhere.

The next time you need a professional compressor inspection, look no further than Anglian Compressors. Contact us today to organise a no-obligation consultation at a time that works for you.