Has your portable air compressor just stopped working? Here´s a few steps to fix the problem yourself and save the time and effort of shipping it away for warranty or simply unnecessarily returning the unit. These machines like the Viair 300p are extremely handy and portable but do require a minimum level of maintenance.
The main consideration you need to be aware of is that operating the machine and producing compressed air also creates moisture when the water is extracted from the air. It is a good idea to develop the habit of draining the compressor tank before you begin to operate the unit. Not doing this can mean you will end up with a tank that is full of water, instead of air. If you can do this every time, you are giving the machine its best chance to operate perfectly for years to come. In most of the cases, I have found that problems are caused from general use and wear of the compressor and the fix is relatively easily. This is where to begin:
- Check the portable air compressor is plugged into the wall socket and the wall socket is functional. Basic yes, but the amount of times this is the cause of our electrical nightmares is more than you would think.
- Make sure the power switch of the compressor is in the On position. When a compressor does not appear to be running it is due to the tank pressure exceeding the cut-in pressure. This means the compressor is in the correct pressure range to begin use. The actual compressor itself does not need to be operating at this point of time. When you begin using the tool, the compressor will begin again to maintain the pressure.
- If you are operating the machine in cold temperatures outside or below freezing, this can cause the machine to stop working. Relocated the compressor inside for enough period of time to return to normal operating temperature.
- Check for leaks in the tubes if you are not getting enough pressure. Tighten the fittings but not too tight as you can cause more damage and make a bigger headache for yourself. Brush soapy water over any areas you think might be losing air and look for bubbles.
- Unfasten, remove and clean the valve. If you have been operating the portable compressor in dirty conditions, it can be blocked and pass on leaks to other parts of the compressor.
- Ease off on the use of the compressor if it is not building enough pressure. It is a possibility that a gasket has been blown, so replace it. It is under the head. Check all the valves and look for signs of cracks or wear that mean it won´t seal like it used to. Check the tightness of the head, as it may be loose and require tightening the bolts.
- If none of these are the issues, check for a leak at the tank. This situation is more common for much older compressors. Use the soapy water again and even check the welds. A leaking tank will require replacement. Trying to weld the tank will just mean it will rupture the next time so don´t waste your time.
Check out my Viair 300p Portable Air Compressor Review to read about a unit that doesn´t break down. It is absolutely killing it on its reviews on Amazon right now.
