Knowing when it’s time to replace your industrial air compressor or whether it’s worth repairing your unit instead can be a tough decision. Repairs are sometimes a great way to save time and money, but sometimes, investing in a new unit may be the smarter option.
Repairing Your Industrial Air Compressor
Repairing a broken or malfunctioning air compressor has both benefits and drawbacks, depending on your situation and the extent of the disrepair. As you decide if repairing is best for you, consider the following:
Benefits of Repairing Your Air Compressor
One of the biggest benefits of choosing to repair your industrial air compressor is the money you save repairing as opposed to replacing your unit. When you have a scheduled maintenance plan and are proactive in identifying and addressing problems with your system, you’re likely to spend only a fraction of what you would have to in the event of purchasing an entirely new unit. Repairs also save time; you can typically have your system back up and running in a day or less.
Repairs, when done properly, can also add years to your industrial air compressor’s lifespan, which helps prevent the need for an entirely new system and saves you the hassle and cost of investing in a brand-new unit.
Drawbacks of Repairing Your Air Compressor
On the other hand, if you find that your system breaks down frequently and requires more and more repairs, you may spend more on maintenance over time than you would with a new system. In the event that your system needs constant maintenance and repair services, it may be a better option to just replace the entire system.
The more repairs you put into an old machine, the more money you invest in that unit. As time goes on and technology improves, you could end up spending more money to get an old, inefficient system working properly than you would on a newer, more energy-conscious model.
Repairs to your system may also simply address the symptoms of a bigger issue instead of the true cause of the problem. While they can be a short-term solution, additional breakdowns may occur in the future due to underlying problems with your unit.
When to Repair Your Industrial Air Compressor
If your equipment is new, your best bet is to repair your compressor system. Newer systems have fewer issues, and the occasional problem can be fixed quickly with straightforward repairs.
If the repair on your unit only requires parts that are inexpensive and easy to obtain, repairing your system is the right choice and a more efficient way to solve your problem.
If a new compressor system is particularly difficult to install because of its placement or size, it’s probably smarter to repair your original unit.
Replacing Your Industrial Air Compressor
Buying a replacement air compressor also has benefits and drawbacks. Consider the following points:
Benefits of Replacing Your Air Compressor
Opting to replace your industrial air compressor can be a great idea in certain situations. New compressors are more technologically advanced, making them more energy-efficient than older systems. Replacing an old, inefficient unit can save you money and energy in the long run.
Getting a new air compressor also means a reprieve from the regular repairs older systems often require and saves you precious downtime.
One of the best reasons to replace your system is because new units are, well, new. They come with new control options, enhanced efficiency, and up-to-date safety features, and they are easier to use overall.
Drawbacks of Replacing Your Air Compressor
Unfortunately, replacing your air compressor system requires a high initial investment, which can be difficult if purchasing a new unit isn’t included in your current budget plan.
The installation and setup of a new unit and the removal of the old system can require a significant amount of downtime for your operation. The new system must be brought in, installed, and integrated into your existing systems and machinery.
Replacing an old air compressor also means getting rid of a system that arguably still has functional parts and doing away with components that are still in working order.
When to Replace Your Industrial Air Compressor
If your compressor doesn’t meet the size requirements of your operation, the best thing to do is replace the system. Having an optimally sized compressor is vital to both energy efficiency and the performance of your application.
If your system is nearing the end of its lifespan and you constantly have to make repairs, purchasing an entirely new system may be more cost and time-effective.
Repair prices also influence whether you should repair or simply replace your current operating system. If repairs or parts are going to cost a significant amount of money, or if the parts required to repair your system are scarce, it may be wise to opt for replacing your compressor altogether.
ESA For Your Industrial Air Compressor Needs
Need advice on whether you should repair or replace your industrial air compressor? Give our experts a call. At ESA, we have decades of knowledge and experience that you can rely on when deciding to repair or replace your system. Best of all, ESA will be there to help make it happen whatever you decide. Our technicians will be there for you along the way and can help obtain and install the parts you need for repairs or set up a new system for you if you decide to replace.