There are many industries that need to use compressed air for a wide range of applications and so regular maintenance of the compressor is essential to avoid breakdowns and other issues.

When planning a maintenance schedule, it is important to think about daily, weekly and long-term tasks as some major work will only need doing annually.

Some compressors need the oil level checking daily for example a piston compressor uses oil so therefore will need the oil topping up regularly. The cylinder that is situated underneath or alongside the compressor, called the receiver, usually has a drain valve that needs opening at least weekly to drain any water or oil out however some compressors do this automatically. Air fittings and pipes should all be checked for leaks on a daily basis as the cost of leaked air can be high.

It is very important that any air compressor has an annual health check where oil is drained out and replaced with new oil, air filters are inspected and replaced, belts are checked and replaced if necessary and receivers are inspected for any signs of corrosion.

If this regular maintenance is carried out by a competent person, the air compressors should work well and be trouble free.