Compressors, long a favorite of professional builders and cabinetmakers, are finding their way into home workshops and garages. They can be used with sprayers to refinish kitchen cabinets, with power nailers and impact wrenches, or for sanding and grinding. Along with their versatility and convenience, however, comes the need for regular maintenance.
• If your unit is oil-lubricated, change the oil at the intervals recommended in your manual. Although the oil will not look dirty, like it does in your car, it still should be changed. Change oil filters and air filters as recommended.
• Drain condensation from the air storage tank after each use. There is usually a petcock located at the lowest part of the tank that releases the air in the tank, along with moisture contained in the air. If you don’t drain the tank, it will rust from the inside and eventually begin to leak air.
The Reader’s Digest Association, Inc./GID
A compressor is a useful tool to have at home.
