How Often Should You Service Your Air Compressor?

How Often Should You Service Your Air Compressor?

Whether you’re running a stationary rotary screw, a tow-behind portable, or a shop-floor reciprocating compressor, one thing holds true: consistent maintenance keeps you running.

So how often should you service your compressor? That depends on the type of machine you’re using. Below is a simple guide to help you stay ahead of the most important service intervals.

Rotary Screw Compressors (Stationary)

• Air Filter: Every 2,000 hours — Shop air filters
• Oil Filter: Every 2,000 hours — Shop oil filters
• Compressor Oil: Every 4,000–8,000 hours or annually — Shop lubricants
• Separator: Every 4,000 hours — Shop separators

Portable Rotary Screw Compressors

• Air Filter: Every 2,000 hours — Shop air filters
• Oil Filter: Every 2,000 hours — Shop oil filters
• Compressor Oil: Every 4,000–8,000 hours or annually — Shop lubricants
• Separator: Every 4,000 hours — Shop separators

Reciprocating (Piston) Compressors

• Air Filter: Every 3–6 months — Shop air filters
• Oil Filter: Every 3–6 months — Shop oil filters
• Compressor Oil: Once per year — Shop lubricants

How to Keep It All on Track

With multiple machines and parts to manage, keeping up with maintenance doesn’t have to be a guessing game. The ACS mobile app (also on Google Play) helps you:

• Set reminders for each unit
• Track part replacement history
• Reorder kits and filters in seconds

One More Tip

If you're not sure when your last service was—or what parts you used—it’s a good idea to start fresh. Replacing your air filter, oil filter, separator (if applicable), and lubricant gives you a clean baseline and peace of mind going forward.

The best part? You can do it all from your phone with the ACS mobile app (also on Google Play).