First, determine if your compressor needs lubrication. Serviceable compressors will look like a single-cylinder engine with a window or a dip stick to check the oil level. Low-end compressors have an oil-free design that replaces the piston with a rubber diaphragm. If the compressor was cheap or the stated service life lists short "on" times it's probably oil-free. Some high-end nail gun compressors also use this design because it's better suited for the quick bursts needed to maintain high tank pressure.

Next, determine which oil you should use. If there is nothing listed in the user's manual, the safest bet is oil labeled specifically for air compressors: This should be available at your local hardware store. Non-detergent 20w or 30w oil can be used in older compressors. This is available at your local parts store. Other motor oils should not be used in compressors unless specified because it can foam, preventing it from creating a protective film on the internal components. Some new high-end compressors are designed to use synthetic motor oil without foaming problems.

Now you are ready to change your compressor's oil. The compressor will need to be turned off, but the air tank does not need to be decompressed. Changing the oil in a compressor is a lot like changing the oil in your car; the oil sits in a crankcase or sump and is distributed either by the crank splashing in the oil, by an oil pump, or both. The old oil is drained by opening a plug at the bottom of the case and new oil is added through a hole in the top. If the compressor has a fill window the drain plug will be directly below it. The filler spout will be at the top of the crank case directly above the drain plug.

Open the plug and let the used oil drain into a container. This oil should be taken to your local parts store for recycling. Close the plug and pour the new oil into the filler spout. Add oil until the level comes to the center of the window or the "full" mark on the dip stick. Most compressors use a quart of oil or less. Oil should be changed at least once a year. User manuals for industrial compressors should specify oil life in service hours; these will often have an hour meter next to the compressor housing. There is no oil filter, so if the compressor is opened for any reason the oil should be changed immediately.

Maximizing the efficiency of your industrial air compressor can save you money. Energy is the most expensive element in the use of compressed air. Over time, energy may cost you more than the initial cost of the compressor itself.

First of all, when the compressor is not in use, it is probably a good idea to turn it off if possible on week nights and weekends. This could reduce your energy bills. If you have any leaks in the compressor, make sure you fix them right away. Even a small leak of air in an older compressor can waste energy being used. Make sure you inspect your compressor on a regular basis. This will help prevent new leaks. Your pipes should be dry and clean to give you good quality air pressure. Do not let corrosion build up in the pipes. Dust or sludge building up in the pipes will cause corrosion, increase your leaks and waste energy.

Do not run your compressor at a higher pressure than what is required for the job. Do not turn up the pressure just to compensate for a leak, it is best to fix the leak.
The piping system from your compressor to the point where you are using the air should be of the proper size. If you shorten the distance the compressed air has to travel you will reduce the pressure drop. Another way to reduce pressure drop is to make sure you change all the filters in the compressor and the compressor room and pipes often.

Another way to reduce your compressed air costs is by using the heat that your compressor gives off in other parts of your building. The heat from your compressor can be used to warm up the loading docks, workspace or warehouse. This will give you a big savings in your energy costs.

Proper maintenance cannot be stressed strong enough. Compressors will run more effectively and efficiently when they are maintained properly. Proper maintenance will prevent unforeseen breakdowns and keep your company from having downtime due to poor equipment. When your compressor is properly maintained, it can also save you about one percent of your energy costs. Your profits will be protected with the proper maintenance of your compressor.

As always, check with an established, credible air compressor dealer when it comes to preventative tips and reducing energy cost ideas. These experts know just how to get the most out of your compressor, and these helpful tips can go a long way in saving your company money.

Air compressors play a unique yet very important role in the fabric of smooth and successful industrial operations. Air compressors are machines that escalate the volume of air which is stored within a particular space. While holding volumes of air, the pressure is relatively increased. This produces a force that is commonly utilized for a range of application. The applications are usually by industries in manufacturing, commercial and even personal use.

There are several types of air compressors present today in the market. Basically, air compressors intended for industrial use are categorized in two forms: dynamic or positive displacement. Each type is defined through their primary mode of application.

Now, used industrial air compressors aren't something that most prospecting buyers would think about. When you are about to purchase something such as this, you apparently assume that you'll be purchasing a brand new unit for your business since that is what you know is the only option. However, when you are searching for holes in which you can squeeze some savings, a used model may suffice.

There are tremendous amounts of benefits in purchasing an industrial air compressor that is pre-owned, regardless of what your needs or demands are for an air compressor. If you are considering on purchasing and investing on a used industrial air compressor, your priorities should be what the quality of the used unit will be like. It is only normal to imagine about whether or not you can really obtain a mint condition air compressor unit with a cheaper price tag. To do so, you should take the time and the effort in researching for the best leads and sources in which to purchase an air compressor.

If you are able to purchase and bet on the right places, it is indeed possible to get an air compressor with the same quality as a brand new one yet with a much cheaper price. Another gain you get from purchasing used industrial air compressors is that your range of options is broader. Also, the chance for getting better and more advanced models are increased since you have more money to shell out. There are tons of uses and applications that an air compressor can play as for your business and having a unit around your business will always be a benefit for you. Given some know-how and doing your homework correctly, you can obtain everything that you need. At the same time you can invest a portion of your funds into a used air compressor.

Maximizing the efficiency of your industrial air compressor can save you money. Energy is the most expensive element in the use of compressed air. Over time, energy may cost you more than the initial cost of the compressor itself.

First of all, when the compressor is not in use, it is probably a good idea to turn it off if possible on week nights and weekends. This could reduce your energy bills. If you have any leaks in the compressor, make sure you fix them right away. Even a small leak of air in an older compressor can waste energy being used. Make sure you inspect your compressor on a regular basis. This will help prevent new leaks. Your pipes should be dry and clean to give you good quality air pressure. Do not let corrosion build up in the pipes. Dust or sludge building up in the pipes will cause corrosion, increase your leaks and waste energy.

Do not run your compressor at a higher pressure than what is required for the job. Do not turn up the pressure just to compensate for a leak, it is best to fix the leak.

The piping system from your compressor to the point where you are using the air should be of the proper size. If you shorten the distance the compressed air has to travel you will reduce the pressure drop. Another way to reduce pressure drop is to make sure you change all the filters in the compressor and the compressor room and pipes often.

Another way to reduce your compressed air costs is by using the heat that your compressor gives off in other parts of your building. The heat from your compressor can be used to warm up the loading docks, workspace or warehouse. This will give you a big savings in your energy costs.

Proper maintenance cannot be stressed strong enough. Compressors will run more effectively and efficiently when they are maintained properly. Proper maintenance will prevent unforeseen breakdowns and keep your company from having downtime due to poor equipment. When your compressor is properly maintained, it can also save you about one percent of your energy costs. Your profits will be protected with the proper maintenance of your compressor.

As always, check with an established, credible air compressor dealer when it comes to preventative tips and reducing energy cost ideas. These experts know just how to get the most out of your compressor, and these helpful tips can go a long way in saving your company money.

Compressed air is used to power lots of industrial machinery, and it is essential to perform regular maintenance on your air compressors. There are a few things that can be done to ensure that they run well. This maintenance should be performed on a regular basis, and using professional firms is one way for compressor owners to get the most out of their machinery. Here are a few essential maintenance tips that will keep your air compressor running efficiently. These jobs can be performed by in-house technicians, or companies that will regularly service compressors for their clients.

Most compressors have a large pre-filter that cleans the air entering the unit. These air filters are often found on the side of the machine. They should be inspected and cleaned weekly for the best results. Many of the filters can be shaken out to remove any built-up dust and debris. The filters should also be replaced monthly to ensure quality compressed air.

Most compressors rely on oil to lubricate the pistons. This oil should always be at the full mark on the gauge. Oil should be checked weekly and changed as needed. Most compressors also have an oil filter that is designed to be changed at regular intervals. Inlet filters also need to be inspected weekly and cleaned or replaced as required.

Piping and joints that are found on the machines should be checked for air and water leaks. Small air leaks in the pneumatic hosing can cause machines to overwork, and this seriously shortens the life span of an industrial air compressor. Most air leaks are easy to fix. Owners can simply snip off the leaking portion of hose and reattach the pneumatic line.

Compressors should also be kept clean. Oil should be removed from the machines regularly, and this makes it easy to spot a leak. Removing dirt and debris from the exterior of a unit helps keep the air filter clean.

Most compressors feature a serpentine style belt that turns the motor. These belts will wear out over time. Small threads and separations are a sign that a belt is worn out and should be replaced. Belts should be inspected weekly for wear and tension.

Keeping a log of inspection dates and services performed is the proactive way to ensure machine reliability. Most compressors have a pad attached to them that makes it easy to track oil and filter changes. Filling these out when any repairs are made helps everyone in an organization know the condition of an industrial compressor.