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Air compressor checklist
An air compressor checklist grouped by frequency, with the receiver tank and pressure-relief checks made on each visit.
Daily
| Task | Required | Photo required |
|---|---|---|
| Before work | ||
| Before service, switch the compressor off, lock it out, release the pressure, and let it cool. | Required | No photo required |
| Inspect | ||
| Check that the lubricant level is correct, a few minutes after the compressor has run. | Required | No photo required |
| Check the overall condition, and that the safety guards are in place. | Required | No photo required |
| Check pressurised parts for rust, cracks, or leaks. If any are found, stop and relieve all pressure before repair. Photograph any defect. | Required | No photo required |
| Check for unusual noise, vibration, and lubricant leaks. | Required | No photo required |
| Check that the operating temperature is within the manufacturer's specification. Trend the run time and temperature. | Required | Photo required |
| Check that the dryer is working, and that its ventilation and inlet are unobstructed. | Required | No photo required |
| Look for system leaks, and report any found. | Not required | No photo required |
| Receiver | ||
| Drain the receiver tank, drop legs, and traps. | Required | No photo required |
Weekly
| Task | Required | Photo required |
|---|---|---|
| Before work | ||
| Before service, switch the compressor off, lock it out, release the pressure, and let it cool. | Required | No photo required |
| Safety | ||
| Operate each pressure relief valve by hand, and check that it works. | Required | No photo required |
| Cleaning and filters | ||
| Clean the intercooler, aftercooler, and compressor cooling surfaces. | Required | No photo required |
| Clean the intake filter pads. | Required | No photo required |
| Check belt tension and alignment. | Required | Photo required |
| Leaks and lubricant | ||
| Soap-test joints for air leaks while the compressor runs. | Not required | No photo required |
| Check that the lubricant is free of contamination. | Required | No photo required |
| Check air-using devices for leaks, such as hoses, sticking valves, and cylinder packing. Clean and check the drain traps. | Not required | No photo required |
Monthly
| Task | Required | Photo required |
|---|---|---|
| Before work | ||
| Before service, switch the compressor off, lock it out, release the pressure, and let it cool. | Required | No photo required |
| Lubrication | ||
| Lubricate motor bearings to the manufacturer's specification. | Required | No photo required |
| For rotary compressors, sample the oil for moisture and particulates. | Not required | No photo required |
Quarterly
| Task | Required | Photo required |
|---|---|---|
| Before work | ||
| Before service, switch the compressor off, lock it out, release the pressure, and let it cool. | Required | No photo required |
| Oil and valves | ||
| Change the oil in reciprocating compressors. | Required | No photo required |
| Check the valves for rust, wear, and carbon. | Required | No photo required |
Annual
| Task | Required | Photo required |
|---|---|---|
| Before work | ||
| Before service, switch the compressor off, lock it out, release the pressure, and let it cool. | Required | No photo required |
| Controls and drive | ||
| Check the pressure switch diaphragm and contacts, and the motor starter contacts. | Required | No photo required |
| Check that couplings are aligned, shaft seals are not leaking, and mountings are secure. | Required | No photo required |
| Check the pressure drop across each air-line filter. Replace the element when the drop is above 2 to 3 psid. | Not required | Photo required |
Each visit
| Task | Required | Photo required |
|---|---|---|
| Before work | ||
| Before service, switch the compressor off, lock it out, release the pressure, and let it cool. | Required | No photo required |
| Receiver | ||
| Check that the receiver gauge is present and readable. | Required | No photo required |
| Check that no valve is fitted between the receiver and its safety valve, and that no safety device is defeated. | Required | No photo required |
| Check that the receiver's pressure-vessel inspection certificate is in date. If it is not, have a certified inspector check the receiver. | Required | No photo required |
This checklist covers an air compressor’s daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual checks, and the receiver tank on each visit. Where the compressor maker’s manual gives a different interval or value, follow the manual. Pressure-vessel inspection is for a certified inspector.
Sources
- Compressed Air & Gas Institute, Reciprocating Air Compressor Maintenance
- US Department of Energy, Federal Energy Management Program, O&M Best Practices: A Guide to Achieving Operational Efficiency
- US Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 29 CFR 1910.147, lockout/tagout
- US Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 29 CFR 1910.169, air receivers
Import it into FixAhead
Upload this file in FixAhead's maintenance procedure import, as a signed-in owner or manager. Each frequency loads as its own procedure, with its sections, tasks, and each task's Required and Photo required marks. If your account already has a procedure with the same name, this one is skipped and the existing one stays as it is.
Maintenance procedures are on the Pro plan, as pricing shows.