Top Air Compressor Problems — and How to Troubleshoot Them

Kaishan engineers its air compressors for unsurpassed quality — and stands behind them with one of the best warranty programs in the business. However, as with any piece of heavy-duty equipment, there’s always the possibility of a sudden problem jeopardizing your productivity. Regular maintenance can reduce the risk of this issue happening in the first place, but if something does occur, there are likely to be some easy steps you can take to correct it.

Here’s a quick overview of some of the most common air compressor problems and what you can do to troubleshoot them.

Your Air Compressor Won’t Start, or It Stops During Operation

If an air compressor won’t start, it’s usually due to a lack of power or oil. Check all connections and confirm the oil level in your unit. Another potential cause may be a failure of the pressure switch or a lack of adequate pressure compared to the cut-in. Correcting either of these issues may require replacing the switch.

If your air compressor stops working suddenly, check the power source and all connections. If that doesn’t solve the problem, your unloader valve may require replacement.

Your Air Compressor Is Noisy or Vibrates Excessively

Excessive noise is a potential health hazard — and can be a sign of problems with your compressor. There are several reasons that a compressor can run noisier than usual. Loose parts, such as a flywheel, pulley or belt, are often the cause. It may also be the result of a lack of oil in the crankcase or a problem with the case itself.

Compressor vibration is a similar but often related issue. In this case, it may be the result of loose mounting bolts or improper mounting, a damaged crankshaft or a misaligned pulley and flywheel, among other problems.

Your Compressor Is Leaking Oil, or It’s Expelling Oil in Discharge Air

Oil is essential to the proper operation of your compressor. A leaking gasket, damaged cylinder or worn out piston ring or air filter can cause your compressor to burn through oil too quickly. Alternatively, the unit may be installed wrong — uneven levels can cause a compressor to tilt, leaking out oil in the process.

Many of these issues can also lead to the presence of oil in discharge air. However, this problem may also be the result of too much oil — check the levels before replacing or adjusting any part, particularly if there are no other signs of a problem.

Your Air Compressor Isn’t Producing Enough Pressure

Air compressors are designed to compress air, and if yours isn’t doing that, it’s a sure sign of a problem. Common causes for pressure issues include restricted air intake, leaks and loose belts. It also may be possible that you’re overtaxing the unit and should be using a more powerful compressor instead.

Getting Help for Air Compressor Problems

To prevent damage and avoid compromising your warranty coverage, always check your owner’s manual before attempting any air compressor maintenance. If you have a Kaishan machine, don’t hesitate to contact our office or your local dealer for assistance.