3-Step Guide To Solving Pressure Problems With Your Air Compressor

While using your air compressor at work, you may notice a marked decrease in pressure. This could be caused by an air leak, a blocked air filter, or a malfunctioning intake valve. Use the troubleshooting guide below to determine which one is causing the decreased pressure, along with ways to fix it.

Step 1:  Inspect The Hose For Air Leaks

The first step involves checking the hose for air leaks. If there are any holes in the hose, the escaping air will cause the pressure to decrease because it is not able to build up inside of the hose. For this step, you will need a container large enough to cover the hose with an inch of water.

While the hose is still connected to the air compressor, place it in your container. Then, cover it with water. Turn on the compressor and watch for any air bubbles that indicate a leak.

If you see any bubbles, keep the compressor on until you locate their source. If there are only a couple, you may be able to patch them by spreading epoxy glue and a cloth patch over the holes. However, if there are multiple leaks, the hose should be replaced.

If you discover there are no leaks in the air hose, or if the pressure is still low after repairing the hose, go on to the next step.

Step 2:  Remove And Clean The Air Filter

The next step is to remove and clean the air filter. If the filter is excessively dirty, air is not able to get through it. The lack of air entering the compressor will prevent the build-up of pressure.

Once you have taken out the air filter, lightly tap it on the ground to remove any loose debris or dust. Then, rinse it with warm water, running it through on both sides of the filter. If there are any spots of stubborn dirt, use a soft brush to gently scrub it out.

For oily or greasy dirt, sprinkle a small amount of baking soda onto a wet brush. Then, carefully rub it into the stain. The baking soda will absorb the oil or grease, while its mild abrasiveness will lift it away. Then, rinse the filter thoroughly.

Lay the filter to the side so it can air dry. While you still have it out of the compressor, go on to the third step to check the intake valve.

Step 3:  Check The Intake Valve

While the filter is drying, check the intake valve to see if it is still working properly. If the valve is malfunctioning, it will not allow enough air to reach the filter and hose, causing a significant decrease in pressure.

With the filter removed, turn on the air compressor and place your hand a few inches away from the opening found underneath the filter. If you do not feel any or only a small amount of air, the intake valve is not working correctly.

To make sure this is the cause of the problem, locate the port on the opposite side of the compressor. If you feel an extreme amount of air coming from it, the air is not reaching the filter or the hose but is being expelled out the back. If this is the case, the intake valve needs replacing.

Once you have replaced the valve, put the air filter back in its place. Your air compressor should have adequate pressure. However, you may find that the pressure is still not high enough even after going through the above steps. If so, you may want to contact the air compressor's manufacturer, such as Sullair, to see if they have any suggestions for the next course of action. You can contact a manufacturer of Sullair air compressors at http://www.compressor-pump.com.

Share