How to Reduce Energy Costs with Your Ingersoll Rand SSR
Your Ingersoll Rand SSR compressor, including models like the SSR-EPE50, can quietly drive up your power bill if it's not operating efficiently. The good news? Small adjustments and smart maintenance can lead to significant savings over time. Here’s how to make your compressor work smarter, not harder.
1. Eliminate Air Leaks
Leaks are the silent killers of system efficiency. Even a small hole can waste thousands of dollars in electricity every year.
What to do:
- Conduct regular leak audits with ultrasonic detectors
- Spray soapy water around suspect fittings and watch for bubbles
- Repair or replace damaged hoses, valves, and fittings
2. Don’t Overpressurize
Running your SSR at a higher pressure than necessary increases energy use by about 1% for every 2 psi. If your tools or processes don’t require max pressure, dial it back.
What to do:
- Check your system requirements and reduce setpoints accordingly
- Adjust your Intellisys controller to run at the lowest acceptable pressure
- Install a pressure regulator at the point of use instead of increasing overall system pressure
3. Keep Filters and Separators Clean
Clogged air filters and oil separators force your compressor to work harder, reducing efficiency and increasing energy draw.
What to do:
- Replace air filters every 2,000 hours (or sooner in dusty environments)
- Replace oil separators every 4,000 hours or if pressure drop exceeds 10 psi
- Monitor pressure differentials regularly and log trends
4. Run the Compressor Only When Needed
Letting your SSR run unloaded for extended periods wastes energy. Compressors consume about 25% of full-load power even when they’re producing no air.
What to do:
- Set auto-start/stop or idle timers through the Intellisys controller
- Use sequencing controls if you run multiple compressors
- Shut down the system during off-hours or non-production shifts
5. Maintain Proper Ventilation and Cooling
High ambient temperatures make your compressor work harder and run hotter, increasing wear and power consumption.
What to do:
- Ensure proper ventilation in the compressor room
- Clean coolers regularly and inspect fans for proper operation
- Maintain coolant and oil levels to recommended specs
Bonus Tip: Log and Trend Your Energy Use
If your Intellisys panel tracks run time, loading hours, or power draw, use that data to measure performance over time. Spikes in energy use can often be traced back to simple maintenance needs.