Keep your machine's air compressor running cool and at peak performance all summer long with these regular maintenance steps.
Keep your compressor canopy closed while running
While it may seem counterintuitive, keeping your compressor's canopy closed during operation actually enhances its performance. A closed canopy will
- facilitate better airflow.
- protect against direct sunlight that can increase heat.
- greatly reduce the entry of debris from the surrounding environment into your compressor.
Inspect compressor and engine air filters
All compressors have air intake filters, which are to be changed at regular service intervals. If you are not yet due for a change but notice your machine running poorly (i.e. losing pressure), you should check the air filters. It's good practice to do this daily if dry blasting or weekly if wet blasting.
All of our compressor models have four air intake filters - two for the engine and two for the compressor. Find and remove both the engine air filters and the compressor air filters, and simply shake any dust or debris out.
You can also use compressed air to clean these, but only very gently. These air filters are just made of paper, and high pressure air could damage them. Never clean any of the air filters with water.
Keep Canopy Heat Vents and Radiator Clean
Your compressor canopy's heat vents are your first line of defense against external dirt debris entering your air compressor. Make it a part of your daily pre-startup inspection to just check that they're clear of any major dirt or debris.
Depending on how often you use the machine, once every few weeks or once a month, you should also flush out the radiator fins. If they are plugged up with dirt and debris it’ll inhibit the airflow that cools the engine.
To clean your radiator, all you need to do is use either a garden hose or a pressure washer to wash the fins clean, from the outside in.
Some of our older machines come with APT compressors, on which the alternator is right behind the radiator. If you plan to pressure wash the radiator fins on an APT compressor, simply put a piece of cardboard in front of the alternator to protect it. You can always use compressed air instead, and not worry about protecting the alternator.
Check Coolant Levels
After cleaning the radiator, now is a great time to check your coolant levels and top off if needed.
Check for leaks, cracks, and loose fittings
Go through and check your connecting hoses for leaks or cracks. After that, check all the mounting bolts as well as fittings to make sure everything is tight and hasn’t vibrated loose.
Change the oil at recommended intervals
Low or old oil can increase friction and heat in the compressor. Change your engine and compressor oil as directed by your compressor and compressor engine user manuals.
Read
Always refer to your user manual
Refer to the appropriate user manual for the maintenance schedule of your machine — when to replace the oil, fuel, and air filters etc. Find your user manual here.
Order Compressor Maintenance Parts
Chicago Pneumatic compressor maintenance kits can be ordered by contacting them directly at 832-481-6858.
ELGi / Rotair compressor maintenance parts and maintenance kits can be ordered from our Dustless Blasting Online Store or by contacting ELGi Compressors at portableservice@elgi.com or (704) 523-4123.