When air is compressed, the moisture present in the air is converted into water droplets and accumulated inside the compressor tank. Though it is a natural consequence of air compression, it is highly important to drain accumulated water from the tank frequently. Doing so prevents moisture buildup, rust, and performance issues. But, how frequently? In this comprehensive blog post, we will try to find out the frequency of draining air compressors based on several conditions and factors. Keep reading!
A] Why Draining Your Air Compressor Is Important?
The accumulation of water within the compressor’s tank is a natural consequence of air compression. However, when accumulated water remains unattended for an extended period, it causes severe damage to the air compressor. That’s why compressor manufacturers emphasise the importance of draining the compressor tank periodically. As long as the periodic draining of water from the air compressor is maintained, water accumulation doesn’t impact your compressor severely.
B] Factors That Affect How Often You Should Drain Your Air Compressor
1. Frequency of Use
It is obvious that the more frequently you use the compressor, the more moisture it builds up. So, it is vital to assess your usage pattern and schedule water drain time accordingly. High use frequency demands frequent draining, whereas low usage frequency needs less draining schedules. Also, doing so protects the protective coating from deterioration and prevents moisture buildup in the compressor. It also mitigates any chances of corrosion formation, safeguarding the compressor from potential downtime.
2. Environmental Conditions
Environmental conditions play a pivotal role when it comes to setting the frequency of draining water from the compressor tank. If you operate in high-humidity conditions, you should drain your compressor more frequently or at least once a day. Similarly, frequent removal of water from the air compressor is required if you operate in high-temperature conditions. In addition, cold weather contains less moisture in the air, even though it is good practice to clean the compressor’s tank to remove ice build-ups. On the contrary, dry climates require less frequent draining.
3. Type of Air Compressor
Which type of air compressor you use also determines the frequency of how often you should drain the air compressor after every use. Compressors like oil-free scroll air compressors build up less moisture, requiring less drainage work. On the other hand, lubricated compressors require more frequent drainage as they accumulate more water and build up more moisture. Some compressor experts, like Bimpex India, suggest draining both compressors once a day while prioritising drainage of lubricated compressors during air compressor draining schedules.
4. Tank Size
The size of the tank plays the utmost role in determining the frequency of accumulated water drainage. Small tanks fill up faster and may require more frequent draining, while big tanks fill up slowly. If your compressor contains a small water container, be ready to drain it frequently as it fills faster. On the contrary, a larger tank fills slowly, requiring less drain frequency. However, you can utilise an automatic drain valve, an automatic water drain for the air compressor, to facilitate water drainage without recurrent manual interventions.
C] General Guidelines for Draining Your Air Compressor
1. For Regular Users
If you use your air compressor daily or for extended periods:
- Drain the tank after every use to prevent moisture accumulation.
- If operating for long hours, consider draining midway through the day as well.
- Investing in an automatic drain valve can help eliminate manual effort.
2. For Occasional Users
If you use the compressor only a few times a week or less frequently:
- Drain after each session to remove condensation that forms during use.
- Before storing for long periods, release all moisture to prevent internal rust.
3. During high-humidity Seasons or Regions
If you operate your compressor during high-humid or high-temperature seasons:
- Moisture buildup happens faster in humid conditions.
- Drain multiple times a day if necessary, especially after extended operation.
- Consider using inline moisture filters or air dryers to reduce condensation inside the tank.
D] How to Properly Drain Your Air Compressor?
1. Switch Off Your Compressor
Before initiating the process of draining your air compressor, ensure to cut off the power supply of the compressor by unplugging it from the outlet. It prevents any additional pressure build-up and safeguards you from potential electrical shocks in case of current leakage.
2. Evacuate Pressure
Now, pull the pressure release valve safely to further evacuate any pressure buildups inside the water tank. Further, keep pulling the pressure release valve until the pressure is released completely.
3. Release Drain Valve
After evacuating pressure from the water tank, slowly open the drain valve and wait until the complete removal of water from the container. The drain valve is usually located at the bottom of the air compressor. In the case of an automatic drain valve, check the proper functioning and its workability.
4. Close the Drain Valve
After draining accumulated water and moisture build-ups, close the drain valve tightly and firmly. Ensure the drain valve is securely closed and check for any indication of leakage. Repeat this process whenever you have an air compressor drainage scheduled.
Conclusion
Regularly draining your air compressor is crucial to prevent moisture buildup, rust, and performance issues. As we have discussed, the frequency of draining depends on usage, environmental conditions, and compressor type. Setting up the water drainage frequency based on these parameters will prolong your compressor’s lifespan and maintain optimal efficiency.
Bimpex is India’s leading air compressor distributor, offering cost-effective and heavy-duty air compressor solutions for individuals and industries. We have a variety of modern solutions to facilitate air compressor water drain needs. Contact us today to know more!