Tech Tip: Daily shop compressor maintenance

Most of the daily maintenance tasks for reciprocating compressors are pretty elementary, such as keeping the unit clean, inspecting the electrical wiring and tightening loose components. But there are a few checks that are commonly missed.

• Check air filter type
  There are many types available, but matching the wrong filter to the job, or failing to use one at all, can cause problems. For example, a standard filter will trap dust particles based on micron size, while a coalescing filter will remove water and oil from the air. With paint spraying applications, an air dryer should be used with a coalescing filter so that all moisture is removed from the lines. On the other hand, some tools function better with some moisture.
• Clean air filter
  While making sure the air filter type is correct, it’s a good time to do a quick cleaning. Though it’s not really needed to be done this often, it’s easier to simply brush out a little debris from the filter rather than waiting until it collects an exceptional amount of grime. But don’t overdo it. Using something too aggressive to blow or wash out the debris can damage the filter medium, doing more harm than good.
• Drain air tanks
  It’s very important to drain the air tank(s) at the end of each day. Moist air can take a toll on a compressor’s longevity, collecting on the pump and producing sludge in the lubricant. Disconnect the power source and then slowly open the drain to bleed the air from the tank(s). When the pressure drops to 10 psi, the valves can be fully opened and the tank(s) drained. If working in higher-humidity conditions, be sure to drain the air tanks several times throughout the day.