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Industrial air compressors, whether used for air conditioners or other systems, are critical components of many businesses, including factories, manufacturing facilities, as well as distribution centers. Many large pieces of machinery rely on compressed air to function, which makes it important to always ensure that your air compressors and air compressor parts are performing effectively and efficiently. 

Energy surveys and audits reveal that compressed air is one of the most energy-intensive resources for industrial businesses. In the average facility that relies on an air compressor for daily operations, air compressors are responsible for 10 percent of the total energy consumption. By monitoring your air compressors for energy efficiency, you could save a significant amount of money each week, and the savings could be enormous when tracked on an annual basis.

Testing and Checking Gauges

It is important to always refer to the operator’s manual or the manufacturer’s specifications for your air compressor model to determine the proper CFM and PSI. Then, check the gauges or have the air compressor tested to see if it is operating in the normal range. You can also use a KWH meter to measure the unit’s energy consumption. Another helpful tool is a flow meter. This diagnostic tool will give you additional information to guide you through the process of improving and increasing the air compressor’s energy efficiency. 

Once you have gathered all the data and performed all of the necessary tests, make adjustments or alterations to the unit and its output until the levels are at peak efficiency. After you have made adjustments, monitor the unit every couple of hours on the first day. You can then monitor the unit daily for the first week, and weekly or bi-weekly after that. Ideally, the air compressor should only be producing the minimum CFM and PSI that is required for each specific job.

Routine Maintenance

Air compressors have moving parts, and therefore, they require periodic maintenance at regular intervals. The manufacturer of your air compressor model should have details on the tasks that should be completed and how frequently they need to be performed. Regular maintenance ensures that the air compressor is running smoothly, which not only increases energy efficiency but also increases the machine’s lifespan and reduces the risk of major breakdowns. Be sure to check for leaks as part of your maintenance routine. Leaks are the number one cause of wasted energy when it comes to air compressors. 

Other Tips for Saving Energy

Many industrial management teams take a system-wide approach to air compressor operations. Air compressors can be staged or outfitted with automatic controls to reduce human error in manual adjustments. By implementing a policy and putting it in writing, you will be sure that all of your employees know how to properly operate and maintain the air  compressor. 

To save money, you can also purchase air compressors of various sizes. Some of your jobs may not require an air compressor as large as the one you are using. If your air compressor is not running efficiently, you will want to contact an experienced service technician or consider a replacement. Contact a professional air compressor manufacturer or distributor for further information about which air compressor is best for your particular needs.


Industrial Compressor Supplies is a major distributor of replacement air compressor parts across the United States and worldwide. Industrial Compressor Supplies sells only the best quality air compressor parts and air compressor supplies online. We offer unparalleled support, with competitive pricing on air compressor parts. We supply parts for most major brands of air compressors. Industrial Compressor Supplies is not associated with any of the OEM manufacturers on their website. Industrial Compressor Supplies also provides air compressor service and air compressor maintenance solutions to businesses to the Greater St. Louis, MO area and across the United States. Visit online, or call (877) 426-3131 for more information.

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