Any time you're working in an environment that depends on air-powered tools or high-pressure air for any other purpose, you'll have air compressors that you rely on regularly. While air compressors, in general, are pretty dependable pieces of equipment, they aren't without their vulnerability. If you have an air compressor that's accumulating moisture, which may cause equipment failure, you need to troubleshoot the cause and seek repairs. Here are a few things that you should know about your air compressor and moisture accumulation issues.

Why Do Air Compressors Build Up Moisture?

For those who are unfamiliar with the way that air compressors operate, it can be confounding to understand why moisture is an ongoing problem with these machines. The fact is, moisture naturally exists in the air. When that air is compressed, it consolidates that moisture. That's why every air compressor has a drain line. The residual moisture typically drains out and away from the air.

Unfortunately, that moisture can also pass through the air compressor's output lines, which then includes moisture in the air that your compressor passes through the tools. This moisture can lead to corrosion inside your air compressor tank, and it can damage your tools as well.

How Can You Fix Moisture Retention In Your Air Compressor?

If your air compressor is retaining moisture, there are some things that you can do. Understanding the common causes of this retention can help you to seek the air compressor repair that you need.

For example, if your air compressor's drain line isn't adequately attached, or is clogged with debris, moisture isn't going to be able to flow out of the machine. This leads to the moisture accumulating in your air compressor's tank and potentially causing corrosion inside the tank.

You'll want to flush your drain line and ensure that it is installed so that the line runs downhill. Remember that gravity is important for the water to flow out and away from the compressor. Even if it means putting your compressors on an elevated surface, make sure those lines are running in the right direction.

You may also need to have an air conditioning repair technician replace the inner liner of the air compressor's tank. If corrosion has already started, you may find that flaking and rust accumulation can lead to persistent clogs in your drain line. 

In addition, you should consult with an air compressor repair technician about incorporating a water filter in your air compressor's output line. Placed between the compressor and the line, these filters are designed to catch moisture from the air that your compressor puts out. That way, it keeps the moisture away from the tools and the final products that those tools are working on.