10 Ways to Extend the Life of Your Industrial Air Compressor
Your air compressor system is the heartbeat of your facility—powering tools, machines, and production lines. But without proper care, even the most durable system will break down prematurely, costing you thousands in repairs, lost productivity, and energy waste.
At Process & Power, we help industrial and commercial operations across Memphis, Jackson, Little Rock, Springdale, and Tupelo maximize the lifespan of their compressed air equipment. Here’s how to keep your system running smoothly for years to come.
1. Stick to a Preventive Maintenance Schedule
The #1 way to extend the life of your compressor is to stay ahead of problems. Build a regular maintenance schedule that includes:
Daily/Weekly: Monitor pressure, check oil and fluid levels, inspect for unusual noise or vibration
Monthly: Inspect belts, clean or replace filters, drain tanks if not automated
Quarterly/Annually: Change fluids, replace separator elements, test safety systems, check motor amps
Pro tip: Partner with Process & Power for a custom maintenance plan based on your operating hours, environment, and compressor type.
2. Monitor Air Quality
Dirty or humid air can wreak havoc inside your system—corroding parts, fouling filters, and damaging tools.
Protect your equipment by:
Installing intake filters to block dust and debris
Using air dryers and aftercoolers to remove moisture
Replacing inline filters before they clog
Locating compressors in clean, dry, and well-ventilated areas
Memphis summers can be especially humid—make sure your air treatment system is up to the task.
3. Run at the Right Pressure
Running your compressor above what’s needed wears components down faster and burns unnecessary energy.
Every 2 PSI above requirement = ~1% more energy used.
Set pressure regulators appropriately and evaluate your system’s actual needs. We can help you measure and adjust for optimal efficiency.
4. Repair Air Leaks Promptly
Leaks are silent killers. A 1/8” leak can waste over $1,200 in electricity per year—while making your compressor work harder than it should.
Common leak points:
Hoses and couplings
Quick-connect fittings
Drain valves
Pipe joints
Process & Power offers compressed air leak detection as part of our audit services.
5. Keep Your System Cool
Heat is the enemy of compressor health. High temperatures break down fluids, wear seals, and cause shutdowns.
To avoid overheating:
Keep ventilation paths clear
Regularly clean fans, radiators, and coolers
Avoid placing units in unventilated enclosures
Use climate-controlled rooms when possible
Outdoor units? We recommend weather-resistant enclosures with proper airflow.
6. Don’t Ignore Warning Signs
A compressor usually gives warning signs before it fails—if you’re paying attention.
Watch for:
Unusual noises (rattling, knocking, whining)
Oil or water puddles
Hot spots or odor
Drops in pressure or flow
Frequent shutdowns or breaker trips
If something feels “off,” call us right away. Early repairs can prevent major failures.
7. Use OEM Parts and Fluids
Aftermarket parts may save money upfront—but they can reduce performance, void warranties, and shorten system life.
We stock OEM components and high-quality approved parts for:
Rotary screw compressors (oil-flooded & oil-free)
Scroll compressors
Inline dryers, filters, separators, and valves
Not sure what you need? We’ll match the right part to your equipment.
8. Add a Remote Monitoring System
Modern compressors can monitor themselves—if you let them.
Remote monitoring gives you real-time data on:
Pressure & flow
Temperature trends
Moisture levels
Maintenance alerts
We offer remote monitoring options that integrate with your existing controls—ideal for facilities with multiple units or limited staff.
9. Perform Regular System Audits
An air system audit evaluates more than just the compressor—it checks the piping, layout, and point-of-use equipment for pressure loss, leaks, and inefficiencies.
Schedule an audit if:
Your system is over 5 years old
You’ve added equipment or shifted production
You’ve seen an increase in energy use
Pressure or air quality issues are impacting production
We recommend a full audit every 12–24 months. Contact Process & Power to schedule yours.
10. Work With a Trusted Local Partner
Nothing extends system life like having the right support team. At Process & Power, we’ve been helping Mid-South industries get the most from their air systems for decades.
We provide:
Preventive maintenance programs
Emergency service, 24/7
Repairs and replacement parts
System upgrades and reconfigurations
Equipment rentals during service outages
Serving:
Memphis & Jackson, TN
Little Rock & Springdale, AR
Tupelo, MS and nearby areas
Protect Your Compressor—Protect Your Business
Your air compressor is a long-term investment. With smart maintenance and the right service partner, you’ll get the reliability and performance your operation depends on.
📍 Process & Power • 1721 Corporate Avenue • Memphis, TN 38132
📞 (901) 362-5500
🌐 www.processnpower.com
Let us help you extend the life of your air compressor—and keep production running strong.
