Air compressor maintenance is essential to getting your money’s worth out of the device. These are some tips on how to maintain an air compressor so that it will run for you as long as possible:
1. Perform Nut and Bolt Inspections
After reading the owner’s manual, the first thing to do is check the nuts and bolts on the device. You can reveal loose bolts by turning them with your fingers. Grab a tool and tighten them if any of them seem to be getting undone. This process is the easiest part of maintenance and should be how you start your inspection.
2. Check the Hoses for Wear
Your air compressor has hoses you need to inspect as well. Over time, the components in the materials break down. Thus, you’ll need to give the hoses a visual and physical review. Look at them to see if you notice any cracks or small holes. You will also need to feel them for weakness, which is a sign of degradation. You’ll need to have someone replace the hoses if you find any of those issues.
3. Inspect the Belts
Not all compressors have a belt drive system, but you will need to check yours if it does. Belts wear in the same way that hoses do. Therefore, you will need to check for cracks, holes, slits, and other imperfections. Also, ensure that any belts on the compressor are tightened with a decent amount of tension.
4. Review the Electrical Connections
The way your compressor vibrates may cause your electrical connections to loosen over time. Look at those connections to see if you notice anything odd happening. Turn off and disconnect your compressor to ensure your inspection process is safe first. Then try to tighten the connections if you can do so gently. Otherwise, you can request that a professional come to your home or office.
5. Inspect Your Air Filter
The air filter is another area you should inspect on your air compressor. Filters become dirty and clogged over time and are much less effective. A dirty filter can cause foul materials to enter the pump and destroy vital compressor components.
To check the condition of your air filter, you will need to remove the cover. Pull the air filter out to check for dust and debris. You’ll need to replace the filter if you see any such problems.
6. Clean the Outside of the Unit
Ensuring cleanliness outside the compressor is another task you should complete when performing maintenance. To do so, you will need to unplug it and use a soft brush to clean away any dust, dirt, cobwebs, etc.
7. Check Your Oil Level
Your compressor may have a sight glass that will allow you to see how much oil is in the device. Look at it quickly to ensure that you have the appropriate amount of oil.
8. Change the Oil
You may also need to inspect or change the oil. An expert can help you perform that process if you feel uncomfortable with it.
9. Remove the Condensate
Condensate can collect inside your tank after so many uses. Unscrewing the drain plug and allowing the liquid to fall into the pan is another process you’ll need to complete.
10. Check All Safety Devices
Check your safety mechanism to ensure that all of them work properly. The user’s manual will give you more information on how to do that.
Now you know what to do for air compressor maintenance. Use those tips to ensure that your compressor runs properly, and you can prevent common breakdowns from occurring. Remember to contact a service person if any part of maintenance or operation gives you an issue.