If you own an air compressor, chances are you will need to know how to clean the tank at some point. Over time, the tank can become full of dirt, dust, and other debris. It can lead to problems with the compressor itself, so keeping the tank clean is important.
An air compressor tank is a vital part of the compressor, and it needs to be cleaned on a regular basis to ensure that the compressor is running efficiently. To clean the tank, you will need to make sure that you have all of the tools necessary to do so.
It needs to be cleaned regularly to prevent rust and corrosion. This process is not difficult but requires some basic knowledge and supplies. In order to clean an air compressor tank, you will need a cleaning solution, a brush, and a towel.
Let’s get started.
How To Clean An Air Compressor Tank
Cleaning an air compressor tank is a fairly straightforward process. The steps are given below:
- Drain the tank completely and then rinse it out with water.
- Use mild soap and a soft brush to scrub the inside of the tank. Rinse thoroughly.
- Fill the tank with fresh water and then drain it again.
- Repeat these steps until the water coming out of the tank is clear.
- Run the air compressor for about an hour to dry out the tank.
If you have a small compressor, cleaning the tank less frequently is okay, but you should still do so at least once a year.
Why An Air Compressor Tank Needs To Be Cleaned
An air compressor tank needs to be cleaned for a variety of reasons.
- If there is dirt or debris in the tank, it can clog the air filter and reduce the efficiency of the compressor.
- A dirty tank can harbor bacteria and other microbes that can cause illness if inhaled.
- Over time, dirt and debris can corrode the tank and cause it to leak.
- A dirty tank can cause the air compressor to overheat and fail.
Benefits of Clean An Air Compressor
An air compressor is a device that increases the pressure of air by compressing it. The benefits of having a clean air compressor are many and varied. Perhaps most importantly, a clean compressor will prolong the life of your machine and keep it running efficiently for many years. Additionally, regular cleaning will prevent costly repairs down the road.
Aside from the financial benefits, a clean air compressor also provides a safer working environment. Dust and debris can build up inside the machine, leading to dangerous fires and explosions. By keeping your air compressor clean, you can avoid these disasters.
Preventions While Cleaning An Air Compressor
There are a few things you can do when it comes to preventing rust and corrosion in an air compressor tank.
- Make sure the tank is clean and free of any dirt or debris. It will help to keep moisture from seeping into the metal and causing rust.
- Apply a thin layer of oil to the inside of the tank. It will create a barrier between the metal and the air, preventing rust from forming.
- Keep the tank filled with compressed air at all times. It will help to prevent moisture from entering the tank and causing rust.
The above tips will help to prevent rust and corrosion in an air compressor tank. While they aren’t the only ones, they are a great place to start. There are other things you can do as well, but these are some of the most important.
Conclusion
If the tank is extremely dirty, it may need a second cleaning. To ensure your air compressor lasts a long time and runs efficiently, be sure to perform this task regularly as part of basic maintenance. Doing so will save you money in the long run and keep your air compressor working properly.
It’s important to keep your air compressor tank clean because it helps the machine run more efficiently and prevents rust and other buildups from damaging the tank. If you have an oil-free air compressor, you should still clean the tank regularly to prevent dirt and dust from clogging up the machine.
