As winter approaches, cold temperatures can challenge your compressed air system, causing oil thickening, moisture freezing, and reduced efficiency; all of which can cost you time and money!
Performing compressor winter maintenance is essential to avoid costly downtime, maintain system reliability, and extend the life of your equipment. Below are seven (7) tips you can implement right now to help maintain your compressed air system over the winter months.
Moisture levels rise in compressed air systems during winter, increasing the risk of frozen lines or damaged components. Cold winter temperatures can cause short-term and long-term damage to your air compressor system if not managed appropriately. Frozen condensate in your lines can clog and/or crack critical components within your compressor system. Other components such as control lines, drain valves, compressed air filters, and heat exchangers are also at risk of freezing and cracking.
Proper management of condensation is a key part of preventive maintenance for compressed air systems, preventing blockages, equipment damage, and costly downtime.
Cold weather can thicken oil, making lubrication less effective and increasing wear on components. If not managed correctly, your oil could drop to a temperature where it could thicken and potentially render it unable to lubricate or seal the machinery, which then means it takes more power to operate your compressor pump. Frozen/icy oil creates a number of issues for your compressed air system that can lead to potential downtime and machinery breakdowns.
Maintaining proper lubrication is critical for reliable compressor performance during the winter months and beyond.
Dryers and filters are crucial for removing water from your compressed air system and are vital in preventing downstream freezing. Air filters can get clogged in the winter due to ice buildup and increased rain/snow. This can result in pressure drops and increased contamination risks. Restricted filters reduce airflow, making your system work harder and consume more energy. Ice and snow in/around intake areas can lead to a number of potential issues. Inspecting and replacing air intake filters during the winter is especially crucial to maintain optimal performance and prevent potential failures.
As previously mentioned, air dryers prevent moisture from freezing within your system, which is especially important during the winter months. Cold weather creates unique challenges for compressed air systems, especially when it comes to moisture. Even the best dryers struggle if maintenance is ignored during the winter. Filters, drains, and dryers all work harder in colder weather. Without proper maintenance, contaminants and moisture may slip through and start damaging your equipment. Air dryers, especially refrigerated and desiccant models, have temperature limitations. If they aren’t maintained and protected from the cold, they cannot remove moisture effectively.
Exposed piping and outdoor equipment are vulnerable to freezing and damage. As noted above, if moisture freezes and clogs the system, it forces your compressor to work harder, reducing efficiency and increasing energy use. A frozen drain valve or icy air line can cause serious issues if not dealt with in a timely fashion, or prevented altogether. Winterization ensures your system remains operational, even during extreme temperatures, saving you from costly interruptions. Taking preventative steps such as insulating piping, adding heat tracing, using low-temp lubricants, and protecting outdoor enclosures may help your system last longer and reduces maintenance costs over time.
Maintaining an appropriate compressor room temperature is crucial for the performance, efficiency, and lifespan of your air compressor system. Cold compressor rooms can lead to hard starts, condensation, and reduced efficiency. Low temperatures can cause moisture in the system to condense or freeze, leading to blockages, water damage, or reduced air quality. Cold temperatures may also thickens lubricants, increasing friction and wear on moving parts, and can make compressors harder to start, stressing electrical components. To prevent these issues, the compressor room should be kept around 10°C–15°C (50°F–59°F) using insulation, heaters, or controlled ventilation. Proper winter temperature management helps prevent freezing, supports efficient start-up, and extends the lifespan of the entire compressed air system.
A professional preventive maintenance service helps identify potential problems before they lead to downtime. Winter preventive maintenance by qualified professionals safeguards your system against cold-related issues, ensures reliable operation, and protects your investment.
A winter PM service may include:
At NCA Ltd., our certified technicians specialize in preventive maintenance for compressed air systems, ensuring your equipment operates efficiently throughout winter.
Book Your Winter Maintenance Service Today!
Ensure your compressed air system is winter-ready. Trust NCA Ltd. to deliver expert service and keep your operations running smoothly. Get in touch with us today!
Call: 519-659-2691
Email: info@ncaltd.ca