Once you have invested in an air compressor for your business, you might wonder what to do if your compressor requires servicing or needs a filter or oil change. Compressor are designed and built to be easy to maintain. Properly maintaining your air compressor can save you time and money while increasing its lifespan.

Before starting any maintenance tasks on your compressor, it is important to read the operator’s manual. The manual will provide helpful tips on proper compressor maintenance and guide you to the correct location of filters, hoses, and other components. Incorrect maintenance or using makeshift repairs may void your warranty if not done correctly.

When it comes to maintaining an air compressor, preventive maintenance is crucial in preventing common issues. Some common preventive maintenance practices include:

• Cleaning intake vents
• Ensuring all fasteners are tight
• Regularly checking hoses for cracks or corrosion
• Checking and replacing air filters
• Checking and changing oil and oil filters
• Cleaning the heat exchangers

However, there are certain situations where it is better to let a professional technician handle the maintenance or repairs. Rotary screw compressors, in particular, can be more complex to maintain than piston compressors, especially as they accumulate more operating hours (8,000+). The following issues typically require a service call for your air compressor:

• Any electrical issues – Always have a qualified electrician install or troubleshoot electrical units to prevent injury.
• Motor issues – When dealing with electrical units, capacitors can still hold a charge, posing a risk of injury.
• Valve or drain removal on larger units – Failure to completely drain the tank can lead to explosions.
• Pressure switch repair – It is common to mistake a check valve issue for a pressure switch issue. Replacing a pressure switch unnecessarily should be avoided.

The key to maintaining an efficient screw compressor is to regularly schedule your own preventive maintenance tasks. The money and energy saved by performing regular maintenance on your unit will pay off in the extended lifespan of the machine. If you encounter critical issues with your machine that require professional attention, contact our technicians to schedule a service call and safely repair your machine.