The little window on your compressor crankcase—the oil sight glass—does a big job. It shows you oil level and oil condition at a glance, so you can avoid costly failures. When that window turns cloudy, leaks, or falls out (yes, it happens), you lose your safest way to check your oil. This guide explains how … Read more
The motor is the heart of your air compressor. Without a strong and reliable motor, even the best pump and tank can’t deliver the air power you need. Whether you’re replacing a burned-out motor, upgrading to a larger horsepower, or simply learning how to care for your current unit, understanding air compressor motors is essential. … Read more
If your air compressor has been running for a while, chances are the inside of the tank has collected rust, oil residue, and water deposits. Over time, this buildup can weaken the tank, contaminate your air supply, and even lead to dangerous leaks. That’s why cleaning the inside of an air compressor tank is one … Read more
If you use pneumatic tools regularly, you’ve probably noticed they run smoother and last longer when properly lubricated. That’s exactly what an air line lubricator does—automatically adding a fine mist of oil into your compressed air system. This keeps moving parts inside air tools from seizing, reduces wear, and improves efficiency. Without one, you’ll be … Read more
Moisture is one of the biggest enemies of compressed air systems. If you’ve ever noticed water spraying from your air tools or ruining a paint job, you know how frustrating it can be. A commercial refrigerated dryer is the perfect solution, but with prices starting around $1,000, many DIYers ask: Can I build a homemade … Read more
If you notice air blowing out of your compressor’s intake instead of just sucking air in, something isn’t working properly. Normally, the intake should only pull in air. When compressed air escapes back out, it signals a valve problem, worn seals, or another mechanical fault inside the pump. Left unfixed, this issue reduces efficiency, increases … Read more
When setting up an air compressor system, one of the most overlooked decisions is choosing between steel vs brass air fittings. These tiny components may not seem like a big deal, but they directly affect air flow, durability, sealing, and even long-term maintenance costs. Pick the wrong fitting, and you’ll be dealing with leaks, rust, … Read more
Moving a compressor isn’t always simple. Maybe you just bought a new one, or you’re trying to fit your shop compressor into a pickup bed or trunk. The big question people ask is: Can I lay my compressor down? The answer depends on the type of compressor. Oil-free pancake and hot-dog compressors are usually fine … Read more
If your air compressor is producing oily discharge in the lines, chances are the oil separator is due for replacement. This crucial component ensures clean, dry air by separating oil mist from compressed air before it leaves the machine. Without it, your tools, paint jobs, and production equipment can suffer contamination. In this guide, we’ll … Read more
When shopping for an air compressor, you’ll see ratings like SCFM, ACFM, and sometimes ICFM. But what do they actually mean? These airflow ratings are critical, because they tell you how much usable air your compressor produces under different conditions. Misunderstanding them can lead to buying a compressor that doesn’t meet your needs. This guide … Read more