The cleaner the air your compressor creates and uses, the safer your patients. In a dental practice, there is the risk of exposure to bacteria, microorganisms and pathogens. When equipment is producing poor-quality air, or it’s improperly generating a moist environment in machine parts, you could be creating a breeding ground for these dangers.

The filtration system is integral to the efficiency of an air compressor. As long as the air and oil are sufficiently filtered throughout a given cycle, the dental air compressor can be expected to produce cool air at consistent volumes with an overall smooth performance from the machine. However, if the filters are clogged with dirt, pressure drop can ensue, and this forces the air compressor to work harder just to perform basic functions. Consequently, energy gets consumed and parts get worn in the process.

If gunk and dirt are allowed to accumulate over several seasons, the decline in air quality could serve as a warning sign of costlier problems down the way with an air compressor. To prevent these problems from occurring in the first place, check the filters regularly and clean them out as needed.

Maintenance of an air compressor unit is only part of what keeps a compressed air system in optimal condition throughout the four seasons of a given year. In order to keep a well–functioning compressor performing up to par, you also need to ensure that the compressor room is maintained with optimal working conditions for the machinery contained within.

As with the air and oil filters within the air compressor, it’s important to check the ventilation for the room that houses the machine. To prevent the ambient air from becoming too congested, perform the following steps on a routine basis:

Check air vents for dust deposits.
Clear away dust buildup from air vents.
Inspect the HVAC system for dust buildup and defects.

In any kind of work environment, the air needs to circulate in order to remain healthy. Even if you have an HVAC system in place that’s been especially programmed to maintain suitable temperatures and ambient air quality inside the room that stores your compressed air system, the HVAC unit itself could become compromised if not subject to periodic inspections.

An air compressor is capable of working under all types of weather, providing that the compressor is kept in optimal shape and the operating environment is suited to the technology. With periodic maintenance of your compressed air system and its room of operation, you could enjoy optimal performance throughout the year with minimal downtime.