If your business or project relies on an air compressor to deliver hydraulic power, air injection, or air-powered painting, you need to make sure that the engine of your project isn't ruined by careless mistakes. From exposing the filters and damaging internal components to burning up high-powered generators, here are a few problems to avoid and preventative maintenance points to consider to keep your air compressor in good shape for as long as possible.

Filter Selection and Maintenance

The air filter for air compressors is a vital component that is so simple in installation and use but can have terrible results if not maintained properly.

Air compressor systems are sturdy--especially when designed for construction and field use--but have some components that can be damaged easily. When an air filter isn't installed properly, you're sending a blast of high-pressure dust, sand, and other fine debris into a system that both clogs easily and relies on small pores to continue the air compression process.

There is a bit of room for error, but operating an air compressor around grit that can be kicked up by boots or when trucks drive by can lead to disaster. For this reason, you need to review not only the filter type but proper installation.

It's possible to install some filters upside down or sideways if the length and width are close enough in size, and this can lead to long, narrow gaps. There are also some air compressors with hooks or mounting tabs that may puncture a new filter if you're not careful, so make sure anyone who uses the air compressor has some information on installing filters and connecting hoses.

Oil Filter Checking and Maintenance

For air compressors using high-temperature, high-friction movement such as oil-injected screw compressors, oil filters are necessary to make sure your system does not burn up or run through too many metal components too quickly.

Like vehicle and turbine oil filters, an air compressor oil filter is designed to clean dirt, sand, corrosion, and other debris from the oil system. Unlike air systems, the oil system has to be filled with purchased lubricant that can become costly, and you will eventually need to change the oil as part of the maintenance process.

If you don't replace the oil filter, you'll have to deal with both restricted oil flow and new oil that becomes filled with finer debris, which may clump up over time. Contact an air compressor oil filter maintenance professional to discuss cleaning, parts replacement, and specific maintenance schedules for your business or project.