Properly maintaining your air compressor can help it last longer than it would normally and it keeps the compressed air safe and stable. Many people forget that compressed air can be dangerous if your compressor is not cared for. Many people also think that the only maintenance that needs to happen is draining the compressor after each use, but there are some other important steps that can be taken on a regular basis to be sure that your compressor is up to par.
Changing The Oil in Your Compressor
Looking through the user manual on the compressor or looking on the sticker located near the motor, you should see the recommended oil change frequency. Just like on the engine in your car, changing the oil in your compressor can help the engine last far longer and it will lessen the chance of anything breaking in the motor.
Checking for loose Bolts
When an air compressor turns on to compressor air, this is often accompanied by a lot of shaking. After a long period of time, all of the shaking can cause bolts and screw to become loose and fall off. It is important to periodically tighten all nuts and bolts to make sure that they are tight. It can be a very frustrating process to find out that a bolt became loose and then became lost. Often, this will happen and make it hard to find a replacement bolt.
Checking the Tank for Corrosion
Draining the tank of air and moisture after each use can help to prevent any corrosion on the inside of the tank, but after an extended period of time it can slowly build up and become a hazard. It is important to take the compressor into a tool shop to have it checked for corrosion and pressure tested. If the tank becomes corroded it has the possibility of failing under pressure and this can a be a very dangerous situation.