Common Mistakes in Industrial Air Compressor Maintenance

Proper air compressor maintenance is too often an overlooked aspect of industrial operations. This is partly because today’s top-of-the-line industrial air compressors from trusted manufacturers like Gardner Denver perform so well and for such extended periods that many operators forget maintenance altogether.

While that may seem like a “good problem,” skipping routine air compressor maintenance can lead to premature breakdowns and costly replacements. Even companies that stay on top of scheduled upkeep can make mistakes—some of which our experts at C&B Equipment encounter regularly.

Below, we break down three of the most common air compressor maintenance mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Ignoring Moisture Drainage

Moisture is one of the biggest threats to an air compressor’s longevity. Every time your compressor runs, it pulls in air—and with that air comes moisture. Without regular drainage, this moisture collects at the bottom of the tank and creates a humid environment that promotes rust and internal corrosion.

Key Risk:

• Corroded tanks 
• Internal damage over time 
• Reduced equipment life 

Best Practices:

• Drain the tank daily or at least once per week to prevent rust. 
• If your system uses automated drains, don’t assume it’s working perfectly. Automated systems can clog or fail. 
• Add weekly inspections of automated systems to catch issues early. 

2. Neglecting the Air Filter

Air filters are vital for maintaining clean airflow and protecting your system from dust and debris. When clogged, the compressor must work harder to force air through, leading to increased energy usage and strain on the motor—ultimately causing premature failure.

Common Mistake:

• Forgetting to inspect or replace the filter until performance drops 

Best Practices:

• Check the filter weekly, cleaning or replacing as needed. 
• In dusty or particle-heavy environments, inspect the filter daily for the first month to develop a custom filter replacement schedule. 
• Never attempt to extend the life of a clogged filter—it only shortens the life of your compressor. 

3. Forgetting About Oil Levels in Lubricated Models

If your system uses an oil-lubricated compressor, consistent oil levels are a must. Running a compressor with low or incorrect oil will cause excessive heat and friction, which damages internal components and reduces efficiency.

Common Mistake:

• Skipping oil checks 
• Using the wrong oil 

Best Practices:

• Check oil levels before every use 
• Top off or replace with the correct compressor-specific oil 
• Never substitute with automotive or general-purpose oil 

Using the wrong oil can lead to:

• Overheating 
• Excessive wear 
• Complete motor failure 

Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. At C&B Equipment, our team can help you choose the correct oil and connect you with service support from your compressor’s brand team.

C&B Equipment: Your Trusted Air Compressor Distributor

The industrial air compressors we distribute are built to last, but they still require specialized care. By avoiding these common mistakes and sticking to a maintenance schedule, you’ll extend the life of your machine, reduce downtime, and improve safety in your facility.

If your business is dealing with aging or underperforming equipment, or simply needs to scale up, contact C&B Equipment – we are ready to help. We’re more than just a distributor—we’re your industrial equipment partner.

From expert guidance and equipment sourcing to service and support, we help your operation stay productive, safe, and efficient.