How to Adjust Air Compressor Pressure Switch
Most people consider using air compressors for operating the tools which need compressed air to work in homes as well as for commercial usage. Every tool has different pressure ratios to follow to make it run efficiently only if you know how to adjust air compressor pressure switch.
By handling these adjustments yourself, you can work on any project without thinking twice. This way you can save an excessive amount of money in the long run.
As per the manufacturer and model of pressure switch, you can easily adjust the pressure either through fixed or differential settings.
Most people are often confused about the detailed and comprehensive steps. We have compiled some easy to follow and simple structures because adjusting the pressure switch can be a little tricky.
Steps to Adjust Air Compressor Pressure Regulator
When adjusting the pressure regulator, there are some preprocessing steps that might be followed. Initially, you should take a look at the mechanics of the air compressor and whether or not it has been installed with accurate settings. Secondly, as every compressor has different requirements, buttons, and models, thus keeping the instruction manual with you is essential not to get lost with the buttons. Here is how to adjust the air compressor pressure regulator.
After making sure that every functionality is at the right spot then follow the steps below to regulate pressure.
Switching off Air Compressor
First of all you have to turn off the air compressor by disconnecting every valve and hose. Every model has different types of procedures for turning off the model and you should take a peek in the instruction manual to know more about it.
In particular, you should ensure that the pressure switch is turned off and power supply is completely disconnected.
Set Cut-in Pressure
Now, initially, you should set the cut in the air pressure point. You’ll find this pressure screw somewhere nearby the motor. Look through the manual for accurate location.
You just have to turn it clockwise to run it under higher pressure or else if you want to run it under lower pressure then you have to turn the knob anti-clockwise.
Drain the Tank
Once you’ve set the pressure, you have to completely drain out the tank so that no air would be left. Usually, compressors beep when the compressed air has reached the minimum. You’ll find all the air released in just a short span.
For instance, if you want 125 to 135 PSI to be filled in the tank then you’ll have to wait only for 5 minutes.
Increasing tool Compatibility as per Pressure
Next, you have to make sure that the tool you’re using is compatible with the pressure that you need. Every air compressor comes with an indication of PSI compatibility. If the PSI of the tool isn’t specified and just mentioned as higher then you can get an air compressor with higher capability.
If somehow your air compressor and tool aren’t pressure compatible then it may result in ruining the mechanics of both of them.
Check Cut-in Pressure Again
After adjusting the tool comparability and draining all the excess air, you should measure the new cut-in pressure. If you’re not satisfied with the pressure then you can always repeat the above steps.
Set Cut-Out Pressure
After getting satisfied with the cut-in pressure, you have to set the cut-out pressure making sure it stays between 20 and 30 PSI.
For this, unplug the compressor again and rotate the knob clockwise and anti-clockwise to increase and decrease the pressure respectively.
Adjusting Pressure Regulator
If you have a fixed differential pressure switch then you’ll have a single screw connected to the air compressor with a spring.
Just screw it clockwise to increase both cut-in and cut-out pressure and rotate anti-clockwise to decrease both types of pressure settings from the pressure switch.
Conclusion
Air compressors have so many different features that it is difficult to keep up with them all. So, if you have a daily interaction with an air compressor then you must learn about all of those options. Taking pressure switches for instance, you had to do it quite frequently as per the demand of your usage.
We have mentioned some of the easiest steps to adjust the pressure switch so that the air released wouldn’t just burst but slowly and gradually transfer.
Frequently Asked Questions
As we’ve reached the end, it’s time to answer some of the queries that are mentioned below:
Is it necessary to use a consistent cut-in and cut-out pressure for an air compressor?
Yes, you are supposed to follow the fixed ratio of air pressure before you drain the valve from excess air and also after the drainage as well.
Is the pressure switch and pressure regulator the same?
No, both the pressure switch and pressure regulator have different jobs to do. A pressure regulator regulates pressure to the tool and you have to adjust it accordingly. While the pressure switch is just needed to turn on and doesn’t require adjustment.
What is the ideal air pressure needed to operate air tools?
Most of the tools that work on air compressors require pressure from 70 to 90 psi. However, different tools have different compatibility level.