Summer and Winter Maintenance Tips for Ingersoll Rand SSR Compressors
Your Ingersoll Rand SSR rotary screw compressor isn’t immune to seasonal stress. High summer temps and cold winter air can both throw off performance, raise energy costs, and shorten the life of your equipment. Here’s how to prepare your SSR, including models like the SSR-EPE50, for whatever the weather brings.
Summer Maintenance Tips: Keep It Cool
1. Clean the Coolers
- Blow out the oil cooler and aftercooler with compressed air or rinse with water (as recommended)
- Remove dust, debris, and bugs that restrict airflow
2. Improve Ventilation
- Verify that intake and exhaust vents are unobstructed
- Install ducting or fans if the compressor room gets excessively hot
3. Check Coolant and Oil Levels
- Top off oil or coolant to ensure proper cooling and lubrication
- Monitor for overheating alarms from the Intellisys controller
4. Inspect Belts and Hoses
- Heat can accelerate wear. Check for cracks, fraying, or loss of tension
Winter Maintenance Tips: Prevent Freezing and Start-Up Issues
1. Keep the Room Above Freezing
- Compressor rooms should remain above 40°F (4°C) to prevent freezing of moisture in lines and components
- Use space heaters or insulation if needed
2. Drain Condensate Frequently
- Cold weather increases the chance of water freezing in the drain lines
- Manually drain if automatic valves begin to stick or clog
3. Check the Air Intake
- Snow and ice can block intake vents or filters
- Keep exterior vents clear and protected from the elements
4. Use a Winter-Grade Oil If Needed
- In extremely cold environments, a lower-viscosity lubricant may be necessary
- Check with your oil supplier or OEM for seasonal options
Protect Your SSR All Year Round
Whether it’s sweltering summer heat or a sudden winter cold snap, your Ingersoll Rand SSR can keep running strong with a few seasonal adjustments. Regular maintenance not only extends the life of your compressor, it helps prevent surprise breakdowns when you need air the most.