Even the best compressed air systems can encounter unexpected issues requiring system shutdowns. Because of the risk an unexpected production shutdown poses, many businesses with industrial applications opt to keep a backup compressed air system. Backup systems help to ensure that your application encounters minimal downtime in the event of an unplanned issue with your primary compressed air system.
Do You Need a Backup Compressed Air System?
While having a good backup plan is always smart in case of unplanned issues, is it wise for everyone to have a backup compressed air system? Here are a few things to remember before deciding if a backup system is right for you.
Can you afford a backup system? Purchasing an air compressor is a significant business expense. Buying a backup system may seem too expensive to be worth it. This is one area where the feasibility of having a backup compressed air system will vary from business to business. It’s essential to consider the amount of money you will lose due to unplanned maintenance or downtime compared to the price of a backup system.
How much does your production or application require compressed air? Another factor that may influence whether or not you decide to keep a backup compressed air system is the amount of your production application that relies on having access to compressed air. Applications that rely heavily on using compressed air have the most to lose when unable to utilize their compressor. Even applications that rely less on their compressor may experience backups in their production rates due to compressor downtime while their sales suffer.
Do you have access to 24/7 repair and replacement parts installation? One last thing to consider when deciding whether or not to invest in a backup compressed air system is the ease with which you will have access to replacement parts and repair services. If you have access to a repair and parts company on a 24/7 basis, the need for a backup system may be lower than if you are in an area where access to repair and replacement parts and services is more challenging to come by. Long wait times for parts and services can result in extended downtime, costing your business significantly.
Reasons to Have a Backup Compressed Air System
Now that you know what you should be thinking about when considering purchasing a backup compressed air system, here are a few reasons why having a backup system may be a good idea for your application:
- A backup compressor reduces system downtime. Instead of wasting time waiting for your primary system to be correctly repaired – a task that could cost your business days or even weeks of downtime – you can simply switch to your backup compressor, saving your business money in the long run.
- Having a backup compressed air system can save you money. While the initial cost of a backup compressed air system may be high, a backup system prevents your business from losing money if your primary air compressor system requires downtime. On top of that, you won’t have to worry about paying your employees overtime to meet deadlines.
- Having a backup system makes maintenance easier. You can make plans to utilize your backup system when your primary system requires planned or unexpected maintenance services.
- A backup compressed air system allows you to complete projects without a time delay if your primary compressor system goes down for whatever reason. A backup system allows you to continue your project without any breaks.
- Load sharing is an available option for applications with multiple compressed air systems. Spreading your workload between both machines helps to take some pressure off your primary compressor while keeping your backup in good working order. In the event of a large production order, you can even increase production by running both systems simultaneously.
- Over time, a backup compressed air system will pay for itself. You save both time and money by having a backup system available.
Air Compressor Rental Is an Option
If you’re not ready to purchase a backup compressed air system, don’t worry; there are still options for you. Many businesses that are not ready to buy a backup system opt to rent an air compressor when they need one. Renting is a cost-effective way to ensure you have a contingency plan without the huge price tag that comes with purchasing a second compressor system.
ESA For All Your Compressed Air System Needs
Whether you decide to invest in a backup air compressor or you prefer to rent one when you need it, ESA can help. Our experts have a wealth of knowledge regarding compressed air systems and decades of experience in installation, maintenance, and repair. We always want our customers to get the best value for their money and are committed to ensuring your satisfaction. Contact us for all of your compressed air system needs. Our team of technicians is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to help.
