Why Is My Air Compressor Not Building Pressure?

It’s annoying to have an air compressor that won’t build pressure and it can put a serious wrench in your work. If you’re using it for DIY projects, inflating tires, or powering tools, you don’t want a compressor that’s underperforming that’s a headache waiting to happen.

But don’t worry! Well, this guide here covers all the possible causes of why is my air compressor not building pressure and how to remedy this situation. From leaks to faulty valves, we’ll discuss everything you need to know to get your compressor up and running again.

Common Reasons Your Air Compressor Is Not Building Pressure

1. Air Leaks in the System

One of the Most Popular Causes That Prevents Air Compressor Pressure Building So even a small leak base loss of efficiency, it’s impossible for the system to reach the pressure values desired. The leaks can happen anywhere along the hoses, fittings or tank, letting air escape before it is stored correctly.

How to Check for Leaks:

• Listen for hissing sounds.
• Try applying soapy water to connections and hoses to see if bubbles develop.
• Check fittings, valves, and hoses for signs of wear.

How to Fix It:

• Tighten loose connections.
• Replace any damaged hoses or fittings.
• Thread sealant or Teflon tape on threaded fittings.

2. Faulty Check Valve

A bad check valve can keep your air compressor from building pressure by letting the air bleed back into the pump. This valve is designed to keep compressed air in the tank and when it fails, air pressure leaks out, preventing the compressor from doing its job.

So, if you see air leaking from the unloader valve or if the compressor is constantly working without raising pressure, it is usually a sign that you need to clean or replace the check valve to restore its operation. A check valve prevents air from returning to the pump. If it’s stuck or broken, pressure will not build properly.

Solution:

• Take out the check valve and look over it.
• If it’s dirty, clean it out or replace it.

3. Worn or Damaged Piston Rings

Piston rings seal the compression chamber and compress air. When they wear or become damaged, air escapes past them, lowering pressure and causing the compressor to work harder. It can cause prolonged run times, high energy consumption and ineffective performance. Worn piston rings can go unrepaired and damage the pump, which will ultimately require expensive repairs.

Symptoms of Worn Piston Rings:

• The compressor runs for a long time but never reaches full pressure.
• Hose loss of air output.
• Visible leaks of oil in oil-lubricated compressors.
• Pump making bizarre hissing sounds.
• Longer oil change intervals in oil splash models.

How to Fix It:

• Take the pump apart and look at the rings.
• Replace worn or broken rings.
• Lubricate well to avoid wear in the future.

4. Malfunctioning Pressure Switch

A pressure switch which isn’t working properly can lead to an air compressor that is unable to build pressure if the motor does not turn on or off when it should. If the switch is faulty, the compressor may never turn on, or it may turn off too soon, resulting in an unpressurized tank.

Symptoms of a Malfunctioning Pressure Switch:

• The compressor does not start or stop as it should.
• Pressure gauge does not read anything despite operating
• Sounds like it clicks from the switch but no motor response.

Solution:

• Test for electrical continuity using a multimeter.
• Change switch settings if response to pressure does not improve
• If the pressure switch is faulty, replace it.

5. Blocked or Dirty Air Filter

A clogged or filthy air filter lowers air flow, so the compressor cannot get enough air for adequate compression. A clogged filter, blocking dust and debris, forces the pump to work harder, draining energy and preventing the system from building sufficient pressure. Neglecting to clean the air filter can cause the compressor to overheat and cause irreparable damage to the compressor over time.

How to Check and Fix:

• Check your air filter for dirt or damage and if necessary remove it.
• Wash the filter if reusable.
• If the filter seems too clogged or damaged, replace it.
• It will prevent further issues down the line if you either clean or swap out the filter regularly.
• The air filter might be clogged and restricting the airflow, making it hard for the compressor to operate efficiently.

6. Overheating Issues

Heating can have a serious effect on your air compressor’s productivity and durability. When a compressor operates too hot, internal components can wear out more quickly, resulting in pressure problems and system breakdown. Overuse, inadequate ventilation or bad maintenance often causes a build-up of heat. Disregarding signs of overheating can lead to permanent harm, so it is vital to determine the likely cause.

Solutions:

• Make sure the compressor is placed in an area where airflow is free.
• Better allow it to cool down after each use.
• Check reoil levels are dangerous if necessary.

7. Broken or Worn Seals

Seals used in an air compressor are used to create airtight seals in the system. With repeated usage and exposure to pressure changes, these seals wear out, crack, or break over time. When seals break down, air leaks out, causing lower compression efficiency and loss of pressure. At some point, the compressor may not reach the required pressure and runs for longer than it should.

How to Fix:

• Check seals for cracks or wear.
• Replace any damaged seals.
• Invest in high-quality replacement components for the longevity of your device.

8. Faulty Reed Valves

The reed valves operate within the pump to unflip air and allow it to flow in the correct direction during compression. If these valves are damaged, stuck up or worn the valves may not seal properly, allowing the air to escape and not allowing the compressor to build up pressure. Faulty reed valves can also cause a drop-off in performance that is audible in the pump.

How to Diagnose and Fix:

• Check valves (open the pump head).
• Replace broken reed valves if required.
• They will need to be correctly reassembled to prevent additional complications.

9. Pump Problems

When the pump is not working correctly, air cannot be compressed well enough, leading to pressure loss. Over time, the pump’s components (bearings, gaskets, cylinders, etc.) wear out, causing decreased performance and pressure issues. A bad pump can also be excessively noisy, vibrate a lot and fail to produce adequate airflow.

Signs of Pump Failure:

• The machinery makes unusual noises while in operation.
• Tested manually and found no compression.
• Vibration or overheating that exceeds the acceptable levels.

Fix:

• Examine internal parts for wear or damage.
• If necessary, replace worn components or rebuild the pump.
• Prevent further damage with adequate lubrication and cooling.

10. Issues with the Unloader Valve

When the compressor stops, the unloader valve lets out the air trapped in the hose ensuring a smooth restart. If it fails, it will either stay stuck in the open position, allowing air to escape, or not open, letting pressure build up possibly to dangerous levels.

If your unloader valve is not working properly, your compressor may run constantly without building pressure, making weird hissing sounds or may have trouble restarting once it’s shut down.

How to Fix It:

• Check for any blockages, dirt particles, or wear on the valve.
• Cleaning the valve to remove any debris that could be causing it to get stuck.
• If it is damaged or worn, replace that valve.

Conclusion

A faulty air compressor can be frustrating, however, most problems can be solved with proper way. For starters, check for leaks, valves, and your pump. A well-maintained and a timely repaired compressor will run more smoothly and efficiently. If none of the above solutions have solved the problems, you should take your compressor to a qualified repair service for further diagnosis.

FAQ’s