Air compressors are an integral part of modern life. They are found in many applications including hospitals, rescue operations building and construction, oil refinery, shipping, mining and refrigeration. Familiar pneumatic tools that rely on air compression such as needle guns, nail guns, jackhammers, metal working tools and high-pressure air cleaners. Like all mechanical tools, they need regular maintenance and sometimes need repair. Air compressor repairs maintenance can disrupt normal operations unless the service work is done promptly and proficiently.
For a business, it means production can continue with minimum interruption to revenue generation. For home handy persons and sports enthusiasts, it means they can get on with their job or fun with the minimum of delay. It is essential to know where to find a servicing operator that that places emphasis on getting the job done right the first time. The following tips may help.
Perhaps the first point to highlight is that it is important to follow manufacturer recommendations. This is especially the case if the compressor is covered by warranty. The manufacturer usually has a list of contracted servicing agents and requires the work to be performed by these agents. Endorsement by the manufacturer is effectively a vote of confidence in their knowledge, capability and reliability. Manufacturers often provide their after sales service agents with special training to ensure their knowledge base is up to date.
Selecting the best service provider other than the one recommended by the manufacturer may not be as easy as it seems on first blush. There are a surprisingly large number of different design types. When selecting a service provider, it is important to ensure that their service capabilities include knowledge of the design of the specific compressor.
The two basic categories are positive-displacement and negative-displacement compressors. Additional variations include rotary screw, reciprocating and turbo. Some compressors have electric motors. Others have a diesel or gasoline engine.
A key issue to consider is whether to select a specialist or generalist service provider. Some providers concentrate their expertise by working exclusively on products made by only a few manufacturers. Others claim a broader competence across products made by all manufacturers.
Several providers are capable of working at customer sites, being equipped with a fleet of specially tooled service vehicles. This can be a real benefit in accelerating job turnaround for the customer. Many service providers also strive to establish long-term relationships with customers by offering comprehensive maintenance and repair contracts at a discounted price. These agreements can cut administration costs for customers.
When the time comes for air compressor repairs or scheduled maintenance, most product owners will value a service provider that guarantees their work. Many also offer to maintain a permanent and comprehensive computerised history of all the maintenance and repair work performed on a unit. This log serves as a backup in the event that primary records maintained by the owner are lost or destroyed. Finally, most product owners will value a provider that strives to deliver consistent top quality service and works to build a strong customer care culture in their organisation.
