Air Compressor Filter And Hose Troubleshooting

2 January 2015
 Categories: Business, Blog

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Air compressors are a building block of construction and a life saver on the road. Whether you're using a high-capacity compressor for pneumatic tools or a travel compressor for pumping tires, the air filter and hose fitting components are key trouble areas that need to be inspected and understood for proper maintenance. With a few inspection and troubleshooting techniques, you can restore your compressor to operating capacity or at least know what parts you need to repair.

Filter Inspection For Clogging And Damage

The filter for an air compressor is used to keep large debris from entering the system and causing damage. Unnecessary debris can rupture the insides of the air compressor, burn out the compressor motor or at least reduce the air capacity for storage tanks.

Filter cleaning is usually basic, and although you can use any vacuum cleaner and soap solution to clean off excess debris, consult the owner's manual for proper cleaning techniques and prohibited materials. Some filters may be made out of a plastic that melts against certain cleaning solutions.

The filter mesh needs to be inspected carefully for tearing or enlarged holes in the mesh. If the mesh is too large due to tearing, larger than acceptable debris can flow in. The border may be damaged as well, allowing debris to leak through the edges of the filter.

Do not attempt to patch the material; get a new filter that is designed for the air compressor. If in doubt, contact the manufacturer or an air compressor rentals professional to find the fit you need.

Hose And Hose Fitting Inspection

If your air compressor sees a lot of use and is used by different people, there's a chance for unnecessary damage. Unskilled or careless workers may drop the hose to the ground, causing the filter to crack or come loose in unseen ways. After a while, even the hardest metal fitting can begin to leak air.

When improperly stored or bent, the hoses can crack as well. By placing the hose in water and turning on the air compressor, you can see what parts of the hose are damaged and how severely.

For small breaks in the hose, you can use electrical tape or duct tape to create a seal and  test your air compressor. If the air is to your liking, you can use the hose and fitting until a replacement is needed. If there are large cracks or the fitting is coming off, it's best to get a new hose and hose fitting.

If you have a specialty fitting that you'd like to have reattached, air compressor rental services can use industry tools to clamp the fitting in place. Contact an air compressor rentals expert at places like Summit Tool Rentals Division Of Wirtz Rentals to find fittings and hoses that work with your equipment.