Air compressors can explode if you fail to practice using proper air compressor maintenance and repairs. There are three main functions that are needed for air compressors to function properly. The air compressors will need power, be able to control the flow of air and to maintain pressure.

Here are a few tips for amateurs who cant to repair their compressor:

Here are the three main DIY air compressor fixes that you can do yourself at home. Most times, the malfunctions that occur with an air compressor will be in one of the three categories. Remember high pressured air compressors can rupture if the tank has become damaged; this is when the complex air compressor repairs should be left to the professionals.

Adjusting the airflow

First, you need to take the plastic cover off the air compressor, which is done by removing the screws. You can now take the cover off, which will give you access to the screws that are found underneath on the pressure maintaining valve. The screws on top will turn the compressor off while the bottom screws are there to turn it on. You can turn the compressor on then off again and check the air compressor settings. You may need to adjust the pressure using the upper screw. Now tighten the screw, which will raise the pressure or reduce the pressure by loosening the screws. You can engage the pressure release valve but take note of the pressure when the compressor goes on.
Use the lower screw to adjust the compressor settings. When you have found the right pressure, you can finish the air compressor maintenance by putting the cover and screws back on.

Air compressor unit

How to Fix an Air Compressor

Restoring the power

Start with the most obvious repair and check to see that the compressor is plugged in and switched on. If your compressor still doesn’t go on, then you can try to hit the reset button which can be found on the side of the motor right near the power cord. The reset button will either be red or black, press it which will reset the circuit breaker. If you still don’t have power, you can check that the cord is in good condition and everything is plugged in properly. You can then try to plug the compressor into a different socket and check that the circuit has not been tripped for the plug that you are using. Remove any extension cords that you may be using and test the plug by plugging in another electrical device. If you still have no power, then you may need to consider seeking the advice of a professional technician.

Repairing the leaks

Start by unplugging all the hoses and tools start up your air compressor so it can start to charge up. Now go and mix up some water and soap and then spray it all around the fittings. If there is a formation of bubbles, it is a good indication that you have a leak. Turn off your compressor and release all the pressure from within the tank. Remove all the fittings where the bubbles were. You can use some plain plumbers tape on the threads around the fittings. Now put all the fittings back and ensure they are tight. Turn the compressor on and let it charge up again. Go ahead and try the soap test again and look for any bubbles forming. If you can still see the presence of bubbles, then you need to discharge your air compressor and add more tape.

Look for the right parts

The tips above are the easy fixes to repair the most common problems that occur in air compressors. There may be repairs that will require you to buy new parts like tubing, gauges and valves. Youtube is a great tutorial when you need advice on the right parts to buy and install.