Meta Description: An air compressor is a vital piece of equipment on most job sites. When issues with your compressor occur, it can be tricky to know what can be repaired and what is a sign you need a new compressor. Here are 8 signs you need a new industrial air compressor.
An industrial air compressor is an essential piece of equipment for most industrial facilities. When your air compressor stops working, it can cost you in downtime, maintenance costs and energy efficiency. But how do you know when it is an issue that can be repaired on your air compressor and when it is time to replace? Here are 8 indicators that it is time to get a new industrial air compressor.
- It Stops Working
If your air compressor won’t turn on and you’ve checked the fuse box for a tripped circuit, and you’re sure it is plugged into a working outlet, then you could have a more severe problem on your hands.
Other things to check are problems with the pressure switch, an overheating or overloading motor, and an unloader valve that needs replacement. If none of these issues seem to be the problem, then it is a sure sign your compressor has failed.
- It Won’t Stop Working
If you have the opposite problem, that your air compressor won’t stop running, then it could be a sign of a faulty pressure switch or bad pressure release valve. A properly working compressor will stop working when the tank reaches a cutoff pressure point.
If the release valve is broken, it can’t release the pressure, so the tank has too much pressure to stop working. If it is the pressure switch that is defective, it won’t tell the tank when it is at the correct level, so it doesn’t shut off when it should.
- It Powers off At High Temperatures
If your air compressor keeps powering down just as it reaches a specific temperature, you could be at risk of compressor burnout. This happens when the compressor overheats from too much humid air in the workspace, obstructed vents, not enough ventilation or old and dirty oil that has lost its viscosity and needs to be replaced.
- There Is Moisture in and Around Your System
It is natural for there to be a bit of condensation around your compressor, but a lot of water can damage the system and affect the quality of your air supply. Excess water can also get into your system and cause rust or block the interior parts, which will cause problems after it cools. Check that your dryer is working correctly, and the drain is functioning correctly.
- It Blows Warm Air
If you can feel warm or hot air blowing from the openings when your air compressor is operating, it could be an indication that you have problems with your condenser or refrigerant. Check for refrigerant leaks – if left unchecked, these can cause severe damage to your compressor.
- It Shakes and Makes Ticking Noises
If your air compressor is shaking or ticking, it is a sign that it is struggling to start up. Often these sounds are a sign that air compressor parts are out of place and affecting the whole system. It is not advisable to use a compressor that is shaking – you should have it looked at by a professional right away.
- It Makes Screeching and Rattling Sounds
If your compressor is making loud rattling or screeching sounds, it is a sign you need to call for service right away. These sounds could be a sign of an electrical failure, or that some part of the machine is loose and needs replacement or realignment. If the sounds persist and you start to have other problems, it is often a sign that it is time for a new compressor.
- There Is Low or No Pressure
If your air compressor has little or no pressure, this is usually an indication of a control issue. Check the settings to make sure they are set at the right place. If this doesn’t fix the issue, it could mean that there is a problem with wear on the internal compressor, a leak or a slipped belt. It could also be a sign of a compressor failure.
For a quick, temporary fix, you can turn to rental air compressors just so you can avoid downtime. However, when it comes to air compressors, one money-saving trick is to go ahead and find a more durable replacement. Don’t let air compressor failure stop your business in its tracks, call a professional immediately for a quick assessment.
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