Having an air compressor in your arsenal of tools can come in handy in a million different ways. Yet unless you take good care of your compressor, it might not last you as long as it should. If you would like to learn more about how to protect this valuable investment, read on. This article will present three tips to keep your air compressor running strong.

Keep the tank drained of moisture.

Plenty of moisture gets drawn into your compressor along with the air. This is especially true for those who live in humid climates. And while the amount of moisture in any given tank-full of air is relatively small, over time it will build up, condensing into water at the bottom of the compressor tank.

If nothing is done to remove this accumulated moisture, before long it will begin rusting your tank from the inside out. Luckily, all air compressors come equipped with a valve for removing such condensation. Check your manual for the exact placement of the valve on your compressor, and remember that it will always be located on the bottom of the tank, where water will naturally pool.

Clean the air filter regularly.

Moisture isn't the only thing getting sucked into your compressor when it's running. Particulate matter such as dust and pollen is also being taken in. Luckily, that's where the air filter comes in: keeping that particulate matter from damaging the motor and other sensitive internal mechanisms.

Yet if you are not careful about keeping your air filter clean, all sorts of problems can ensue. For one thing, the pressure your tank is capable of generating will noticeably diminish. Likewise, it may lead to expensive damage to your compressor seals and valves. Finally, if the filter becomes so choked up that air can't effectively pass through it, you may end up blowing out your motor altogether.

Avoid all three of these scenarios by checking your air filter on a regular basis, and changing it as needed.

Change the oil as necessary.

Air compressors have numerous working parts that have to remain properly lubricated for them to function properly. The majority of air compressors use oil to perform this important duty. Yet if your compressor runs out of oil -- or if the oil gets too old and dirty -- it can cause numerous problems, including complete failure due to overheating.

Fortunately, your air compressor should be equipped with either a dipstick or an oil sight gauge, making it easy to keep an eye on your oil level. Top it off as needed, anytime it gets low. It is recommended that after every 300 hours of operation you change the compressor's oil completely.

It can be useful to find a company, like Phoenix Specialty, that offers parts such as compressor seals and filters. That way, when you need something for your compressor, you already know where to go.