Air compressors have become a significant part of our daily life. From hardcore jobs to daily home-based tasks, air compressors are now found everywhere. If it’s the same for you then you cannot afford production losses at all, right? With a broken air compressor, you must be stuck with what can you do with that.

Scarping and selling is not particularly a good option as it requires so much effort and produces little value. On the other hand, repair seems like a good option as it is worth the effort and time. Lastly, you can also replace that but that requires hundreds of bucks. The choice is entirely yours but don’t you worry since we have the details of everything below. This will let you decide better on what to do with a broken air compressor.

Tips Regarding Troubleshooting

A broken compressor can be due to several reasons. With a wide range of issues prevailing, you need to know what should you look for. We have made it easier for you by listing down the probable areas you should be checking.

Excessive and unusual noises

In case your compressor is making these excessive and unusual noises, you should definitely look for moving parts. These include bearing and flywheels.

Power Source

Issues in the lines are the most common. Check for the wires and socket which creates disturbance between the power source and the compressor.

Oil Levels

Do check for the oil levels. It should be at an optimal level. If not, add some to reach that level.

Hot air Discharge

This occurs in the case there are some significant issues related to the cooling cycle.

Blowing Fuses

If you notice that the blowing of the fuses occurs often, consider changing the size and capacity of electrical loading.

Large oil consumption

If your compressor is consuming more oil than usual, this is an indication of piston rings being worn. Further, it indicates issues with ventilation.

Belt Wear

If you notice wear and tear of the belt, it is due to the wrong alignment of the belt. Moreover, it may also be due to the belt bounded tightly.

All these can be done with a broken air compressor. However, if you cannot fix the compressor all by yourself, you can consult a certified technician or expert in this respective field for the issue. This will save the large money which you have to use in case of replacement.

When Should You Repair The Compressor

When should we look for repairing the compressor? It is a great solution when certain circumstances arise which are listed down below.

• If you have just bought your air compressor.
• Operational hours of the air compressors are not yet completed.
• It has all the advanced features and comprises of newer technology.
• The warranty period is remaining.
• Parts are available in the market.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it worth fixing an air compressor?

Fixing an air compressor comes with the risk of the air compressor becoming less efficient. Further, it can break again, and the probability increases. The new air compressors come with imported prices which are lower than the one you got your old one for. This is due to technology improvements. So, if it is easy on your pocket, it is always better to get a new one rather than fix the old one.

2. Can you scrap an air compressor?

Yes, an air compressor can be scraped. You can obtain the metals off the air compressors which enhances the price at which you can sell your old air compressor. However, you need to observe great care while scraping the metal. There are hazardous gases and oils which require handling. Therefore, do research well before scraping the air compressor for a great value.

3. How much does it cost to replace an air compressor?

It costs in the range of $600 to $1200 when it comes to replacing an air compressor. In addition to this cost, you need to consider the additional charges which come with contractor’s and workers’ costs.

Air compressors are machines that deliver high-pressure air and there is a high chance that they could explode if not used with proper care. There are many things that could possibly go wrong with an air compressor. In this article, we will discuss all these issues and also come up with solutions to help you handle these issues if they come up.

Problems along with solutions

Following are some of the issues that you might face when it comes to air compressors. We have also explained how you can handle each specific issue and fix it.

• Problem: Air leaks

If you shut down an air compressor once it is fully filled and you notice that the pressure starts dropping even though you have not used the unit, there may be an air leak in the unit. The air leak could be due to many different reasons. It could be from the pressure gauge, from worn piston seals, or a faulty tank valve. You may notice that the air compressor keeps restarting again and again in order to make up for the lost air pressure.

Solution:

In order to detect air leaks, you can cover all the joints and connections with liquid soap while the air compressor is unplugged. Turn it on and if you see bubbles forming anywhere, it means air is leaking from that location. You can then fix that part. Either tighten any part if it is loose or replace the piston or the valve if it is faulty.

• Problem: Blown fuses or breakers

Another problem that you may face with air compressors is that they may start blowing breakers and fuses once plugged in. One reason for this could be the use of extension cords that cuts down on the energy supplied to the unit and causes the unit’s motor to overheat. Another reason for this problem could be a worn-out motor that is not working well anymore.

Solution:

The solution for this issue is quite easy. You just need to ensure that you are connecting the air compressor directly to the power socket. If this doesn’t help then you need to look into replacing the worn-out motor if it is not too expensive to replace.

• Problem: Compressor won’t start

Your compressor may not start altogether. It might not start working even though the switch has been plugged in properly and the on/off button has been switched on.

Solution:

One major reason for a compressor not starting is that it does not have sufficient air pressure. In order to solve this issue, you need to check the exact cut-in setting and then adjust the pressure level accordingly.

• Problem: Noisy operation

A very irritating problem that can occur with most air compressors is excessive noise during operation. This could be because of a loose part such as a clamp, cooler, belt guard, flywheel, or pulley. Lack of crankcase lubrication could also cause this problem. Another reason for this could be excessive vibration or placement of the air compressor on hard and uneven surfaces.

Solution:

If loose compressor parts are causing the noise, then you can just fit them in place tightly. You can also try lubricating the unit using grease or oil. If all else fails, you can try using a soundproof box or blanket to cover the air compressor. This will absorb the noise and allow for a peaceful operation.

• Problem: Excessive oil consumption

If your air compressor is using up too much oil then there could be many causes for this issue. There could be some kind of oil leak which might be causing the oil to get used up so quickly. Other reasons could be a scored cylinder, wrong viscosity of oil, worn-out piston rings or even a restricted air intake.

Solution:

In order to fix this issue, you can try replacing or cleaning the air filter. Tighten the bolts or just replace the gasket. You can also replace the rings if they are worn out. Try using a different oil if you think the viscosity of your oil isn’t right. Finally, you can also try replacing the cylinder if all else fails.

• Problem: Worn out belt

The belt of your air compressor might become worn out due to multiple reasons. It could be either because your belt is too tight or too loose which is causing it to not function properly. Another cause for this could be that the pulley is out of alignment which is adversely affecting the belt.

Solution:

To solve this problem, all you need to di is adjust the tension of the belt and make sure that it is tightened the right amount. You can also try realigning the pulley with the compressor flywheel.

Conclusion

There could be many reasons why your air compressor is malfunctioning. We have discussed some of the major reasons and also offered advice on how you handle the problems. However, there are many other causes that we might not have discussed above. If you face any other issue, you can reach out to us and we would love to help you. Good luck!

FAQ’s

1. Can you repair an air compressor?

Answer: If there isn’t a big issue with the unit, you can easily repair an air compressor on your own. There isn’t too much science related to this and a few video tutorials will have you all set for the job.

2. Is it worth fixing an air compressor?

Answer: This depends on what is wrong with the air compressor. If there is a really big issue that costs a lot to solve, you might consider getting a new unit. However, if it is possible to solve the issue with minimal effort and cost then it is worth solving the issue so that the air compressor can continue to work for a few more years.

An air compressor is a machine that stores compressed air and uses it to run power tools and fill up pools and tires. Just like all machines that work with pressurized air, air compressors are bound to make some noise. However, if that noise is unbearable, it is better to look for a solution.

High-end air compressors are usually much quieter but not everyone can afford to invest that much money in a simple machine. For this reason, we have put together a complete guide on how you can make your air compressor quieter. Read on to learn more.

Air compressor noise levels

Let’s begin by discussing how much noise is too much noise. Noise is usually measured in decibels. Noise levels of 70 decibels or less are considered to be tolerable. These noise levels are not harmful to you or the environment. However, if you are working with a cheap or old unit then you will notice that the noise levels will be way too much. Noise levels may go up to 90 dB which is harmful to your ears and also very annoying.

How can you check the exact noise levels of your unit? There are many ways to achieve this but one popular method is used to measure noise levels using a mobile app. You can also use professional tools; however, mobile apps are much more accessible and easier to use.

Reasons for noisy air compressors

You must be wondering what causes your air compressor to make so much noise. Well, there are a number of factors that contribute to this.

• Vibrations of unit

Air compressors work with compressed air so these machines vibrate a lot. If your unit is vibrating way too much then there might be some underlying issue such as a loose part or improper assembly. However, even if everything is in place, it is still probable that your unit will vibrate and create noise.

• Materials

Air compressors manufactured using low-quality materials are bound to make a lot of noise. This is because thin materials vibrate more and hence, they create more noise. If high-quality materials are used in the construction of air compressors, it may help reduce noise levels.

• Placement

As mentioned before, air compressors vibrate during operation so if they are placed on a hard and uneven surface, they will vibrate a lot leading to more noise.

Tips to reduce noise levels

Following these simple tips and tricks can help you reduce the noise levels of air compressors.

1. Using rubber grommets

As mentioned before, one major reason for noisy air compressors is that they are placed on hard uneven surfaces. In order to prevent this, you can put a rubber grommet under air compressors. Rubber absorbs noise so it will reduce vibrations and in turn reduce the noise levels.

You can’t just place any rubber cutting under the unit. You need to ensure that it is of proper size and that it ensures proper stability of the air compressor. This is important because you also need to prevent uneven surfaces.

2. Lubricate all the bearings

Air compressors have moving parts so of course there are bearings present in the unit. Bearings may be subject to wear and tear over time that is caused due to friction. If this continues, this will constantly lead to an increase in the noise levels.

In order to take care of this problem, you can simply lubricate the bearing using any kind of grease or oil. This will not only reduce noise levels but will also help make the unit more durable by preventing wear and tear.

3. Place the unit outdoors

You can either use the unit outdoors and if that is not possible then you can also try just putting the air intake outside. However, you will need to get a longer hose if you do this but it is worth it if it helps cut down on all the noise.

4. Rubber padding walls

Just like placing rubber under the air compressor helps reduce noise levels, layering the walls around with rubber will also help cut down on all the noise. This is because the rubber absorbs the sound instead of reflecting it.

5. Soundproof the unit

You can either invest in a soundproof box for the air compressor or just covert the air compressor using a soundproof blanket. This way the noise will be contained within the unit and you will be able to work in a calm environment.

Conclusion

Air compressors can be noisy but that does not mean that there is no way to overcome this problem. We have provided you with various ways to help reduce the noise levels so that you can work in peace. These methods will surely make the air compressor much quieter and allow for a peaceful operation. If you are unclear about any of the above methods, you can send us your queries and we would be more than happy to assist you.

FAQ’s

1. Do air compressor silencers work?

Answer: Yes, silencers are very efficient at reducing the noise levels of air compressors. They work by absorbing the noise from the air compressor. This is done by using an insulating material. However, you will have to get them separately and they might cost a little extra.

2. Which types of air compressors are the quietest?

Answer: We believe that scroll air compressors are not only very quiet but they are also very efficient. Along with these, we also really like reciprocating compressors as well as rotary screw air compressors when it comes to low noise levels.

3. Why do air compressors get noisy?

Answer: Location, placement, and vibrations are just some of the reasons which may cause high noise levels in air compressors. These factors have been discussed in detail in the article.

Playing paintball is a very exciting activity that can keep you busy for hours. You can shoot paintballs at your friends and have fun while colors fly around. But do you know how the rifle for paintball operates? It operates using pressurized air. This pressurized air obviously comes from an air compressor.

Now you must be thinking: How do I fill the paintball tank with an air compressor? This is the question that we are going to answer in this article today. This is very different from filling up tires so make sure you pay attention. Let’s go!

Types of Paintball tanks available

There are 3 types of paintball tanks available on the market:

• HPA tanks

HPA or high-pressure compressed tanks come with oxygen which is stored in a highly pressurized form.

• Compressed carbon dioxide tanks

In these units, carbon dioxide is stored in the liquid form. However, it immediately turns into gas when it is released from the air compressor.

• Pure Nitrogen tanks

These units store compressed nitrogen which is a rare gas.

When it comes to productivity, HPA tanks are the best as they are not affected by extreme changes in temperature. Caron dioxide expands in heat so it affects the integrity of the tank. Similarly, it loses pressure when the temperature drops. However, compressed carbon dioxide air compressors are still more popular as they are very affordable.

Gun compressor

There is no specific air compressor manufactured solely for the purpose of filling up gun tanks. However, there are many units on the market that may be suitable for doing this job. This basically depends on the pressure limits of the air compressor. You need to find a unit that supplies the right volume and pressure of air to the paintball gun.

Steps to fill paintball tank with an air compressor

Now that you are clear about all the things related to air compressors and paintball gun tanks, we will now move on towards the actual process. Follow the following steps in order to complete this job quickly and easily.

1. Determine PSI of tank

First of all, you have to check the PSI indicator of the paintball tank. This tells you how much pressure the tank needs in PSI. This value is usually around 4500 PSI. If you are working with a compressed carbon dioxide tank, you will have to refrigerate it first in order to stabilize the tank’s temperature and pressure. This will allow you to fill in the right amount.

2. Attachment with fill nipple

Now look for the attachment that you have to connect to the air tank. This attachment should have an O-ring that will help prevent any air from escaping the tank once it has been attached to the air compressor. For this reason, the presence of the O-ring is extremely important so if you can’t find it, seek professional help.

Once you have found the O-ring, expose the central needle by pulling back on the attachment’s collar. Use the filling nipple to plug this into the tank. Jiggle the hose a little in order to ensure that the attachment is firmly in place.

3. Fill up the tank

Now you can slowly turn on the air compressor after ensuring the proper connection of the power cable of the compressor. Make sure you check the gauge of both the compressor as well as the tank in order to ensure that air is being transferred properly.

4. Hot fill check

A hot fill occurs when you try filling up the tank too quickly. This causes a sudden rise in the pressure of the tank that can be dangerous for the tank. It also affects the accuracy of the pressure gauge. A hot fill will show the pressure to be higher while the tank is filling but this pressure will immediately drop once the compressor is disconnected. This can only be prevented by filling up the tank very slowly.

5. Release the air

Push on the compressor valve in order to remove any extra air from the unit. This helps prevent any damage to the fill nipple. Finally, carefully detach the hose and place it back safely into the unit.

Conclusion

Filling up a paintball tank with an air compressor is a very simple task. You can easily do it at home. However, make sure you take all safety precautions because you are dealing with pressurized air that can be harmful to you. We hope our guide helped you figure out the whole process. Still, got more questions? Send them to us and we would surely assist you with them. Have a great time playing paintball!

FAQ’s

1. Is it possible to fill the paintball tank at home?

Answer: Yes, it is possible to fill up the paintball tank at home. All you need is the right equipment and you can easily achieve this task by following the steps mentioned above. However, make sure you follow all safety protocols when doing this on your own at home.

2. How long will my paintball tank last?

Answer: High-pressure paintball tanks usually last for up to 3 to 5 years. This is subject to proper maintenance. They can last even longer if you take proper care of them. Make sure that you hydro-test them every 3-5 years for safety purposes. This will allow you to determine if your tank is close to its expiry.

3. Can you fill HPA tanks with an air compressor?

Answer: Yes, it is possible to fill up HPA tanks using an air compressor. An HPA tank consists of a gas bottle along with a compressor. This compressor forces gas to create pressure. HPA tanks have the ability to be completely drained and then be refilled. This makes them much more portable than other tanks.