Signs Your Air Compressor Filter Needs Replacing

The filter is an integral part of your air compressor, which is vital for improving the quality of air. Over time, outdoor and indoor contaminants can clog it and weaken its performance. Routine maintenance can play a vital role in maintaining the system’s functionality.

Even then, sometimes things go wrong, and maintenance cannot fix it. In such cases, you have to think about bringing a replacement. But how do you know when to do that? What are the signs your air compressor filter needs replacing? That’s what I’ll discuss here today. Read along! 

What Are The Symptoms Of A Bad Air Filter? 

There are multiple symptoms that will tell you when you need to replace your air compressor filter. Let me show you the most common ones below.

Lower Airflow 

A dirty, clogged air filter will lower the airflow and cause decreased efficiency in your home’s HVAC systems. So, if you notice their performance quality has dropped, check the filter. It may also be the reason why your systems get overworked and start overheating. A replacement can prevent them from malfunctioning.

Physical Damage 

It is essential to check your air filter regularly because it allows you to monitor visible wear, i.e., holes, cracks, dirt buildup, etc. If you see these signs, replace your filter now. Otherwise, the damaged filter can cause more severe problems within a short span. 

See, routine inspection helps you detect small issues and prevent bigger ones. So, when you detect them, pay attention. You can also consult an expert to be sure whether you must replace the filter. Do that fast! 

Higher Energy Bills 

When your air compressor filter gets stuffed with dirt, it makes your industrial machine or HVAC system work harder. And so, as their efficiency declines, their energy consumption increases to perform the same job. That consequently increases your energy bills.

Dusty Areas Surrounding The Air Vents 

If the areas surrounding the air vents look covered with dust and grime, it may be because of your air compressor filter. When clogged, it releases various contaminants into the circulated air and ejects them through the vents. 

Note that it will also lower the air quality. That is a clear sign that there is too much dust in your filter, and it needs replacing.

Abrupt Shutdowns 

An air compressor becomes inefficient when its filter needs to be replaced. There are several signs of that. For one, the compressor system will become hotter than usual. It will also struggle to keep up with the air pressure. You may even hear odd noises.

It could be all these symptoms or just one. In either situation, it’s best if you have a technician check it. If the last time you changed the filter was a while ago, then these issues are sure signs that you need to do it again. 

Allergic Reaction Worsened 

Has your allergy got worse lately? Did you check your air compressor filter? Since it spreads dust particles along with other contaminants, you may experience allergic reactions frequently. Call an expert to examine the filter and discuss a replacement soon.

A Discolored Air Filter 

When inspecting the filter, look at its color. A tan, off-white, or white color indicates that the filter is clean. But it becomes wrapped with grime and dust particles over time, turning dark brownish. 

Now, yes, you may think cleaning will fix it. But chances are, it has gone beyond that stage. So the better option is to go for a replacement. 

Old Air Filter 

Even with routine cleaning, an air filter can only last so long. At one point, its performance will not be as good as it once was. It is especially applicable if your filter has exceeded the duration mentioned by the manufacturer. Usually, they recommend the replacement interval of the filter. You should maintain that accordingly. 

Read More: How To Replace A Compressed Air Filter

What Happens If I Don’t Replace My Air Compressor Filter? 

If you are planning to procrastinate on replacing your air compressor filter, you have bad news coming your way. Here are the consequences of ignoring the signs of replacing it. 

• Your entire production process will start to deteriorate. All the systems will consume more energy and work harder to produce the same output. Eventually, your costs will rocket up. 

• Flawed air filters can lead to damaged machines that will increase your production downtime. 

• Your pneumatic tools, air motors, and valves may get frozen or blocked.

• The dirty air filters in your HVAC systems at home or the workplace will pollute the environment, causing asthma or allergy attacks. 

• The storage of compressed air will become corroded, which will soon extend into the distribution system. 

• In manufacturing facilities, the contaminants from the air filters can be the cause of goods turning out damaged or spoiled.

• A faulty filter will affect the functions of its air compressor. In the absence of a second air compressor, you might have to close down all operations for some time. 

• The lack of a timely filter replacement can damage your air compressor. Its repairs will cost you a lot of money in the long run. So it is essential to replace it to keep the compressor’s performance quality optimal.

What Are The Contaminants That Typically Clog Air Compressor Systems? 

You can never keep your air compressor 100% clean. Dirt will always get their way into them. That said, if you know about the common contaminants, you can at least try to take care of them with a new filter before they damage your system. Have a look at them below. 

Dust Particles

The location of your air compressor filter affects what types of particles will go into your machines. Say, it is positioned in the airflow. Then, the particles are likely to damage your pneumatic tools. Plus, they raise health concerns for the people around.

Microorganisms 

When in contact with oil residues and water, the contaminants in the compressed air often cause the development of microorganisms, particularly in pipes. Under such conditions, the growth of bacteria and viruses will escalate and further pollute the air that comes out of your pneumatic tools. But they are all removable when you have filters. 

Oil Particles 

How many oil particles pass through your systems depends on what types of systems you use. Other factors that influence this are the performance of your current air compressor, its age, usage, and working condition. 

Water Vapor 

If the surrounding area of your air compressor has high humidity, the vapor particles can cause issues with constant exposure. For instance, the rejection rates may be higher for spray painting because of this. Additionally, there may be increased leakage as well as corrosion in pipes.

Final Thoughts 

So, to sum it up, what are the signs your air compressor filter needs replacing? Higher energy bills, sudden shutdowns, old and/or discolored filters, worsened allergic triggers, and lower airflow are the signs telling you to replace your filter. 

Regular monitoring can be highly effective in this regard. Make sure you do it in a well-lit area. It will help you spot the signs and get a quick replacement. Trust me, the change you will see in your air compressor’s performance will be totally worth it!