As temperatures begin to rise across Canada, your compressed air system faces a new set of challenges. Heat, humidity, and increased demand can all impact performance, efficiency, and reliability. Without proper seasonal maintenance, even a well-designed system can struggle during the summer months.
Here’s how to keep your compressed air system running at peak performance all summer long.
Why Summer Conditions Matter
Summer doesn’t just mean warmer air; it often brings higher humidity and heavier system loads. These factors can:
- Reduce air density, lowering system efficiency
- Increase moisture in your system, leading to corrosion and contamination
- Put additional strain on your compressors and dryers
- Raise the risk of overheating and unplanned downtime
A proactive approach to maintenance helps avoid costly disruptions at your facility. At NCA Ltd., we specialize in preventative maintenance programs that ensure your system is always running at peak performance, which is especially important when temperatures rise during the summer months.
- Keep Your Compressor Cool
High ambient temperatures can push your compressor closer to its operating limits.
How to keep your compressor cool:
- Ensure proper ventilation in the compressor room
- Clean intake vents and remove any obstructions
- Check and clean coolers (aftercoolers and oil coolers)
- Verify that cooling fans are functioning properly
Pro tip: If your compressor room feels hot, your equipment feels it even more.
- Manage Moisture and Humidity
Canadian summers can be humid, especially in Ontario and other central/eastern regions. More humidity means more condensate in your system, which if left unmanaged can lead to a number of issues.
Focus on:
- Draining air receivers regularly
- Inspecting and testing automatic drains
- Servicing your air dryer (refrigerated or desiccant)
- Checking for water buildup in filters and lines
Ignoring moisture can lead to rust, bacterial growth, and product contamination. These problems can result in costly downtime and product quality issues.
- Inspect and Replace Filters
Filters work harder in the summer due to increased contaminants and moisture.
Best practices:
- Check differential pressure across filters
- Replace clogged or saturated elements
- Inspect for oil carryover or unusual buildup
- Have a professional inspect your filters
Clean filters improve air quality and reduce energy consumption.
- Monitor System Load and Demand
Summer can bring production spikes and/or changes in usage patterns at your facility.
Keep an eye out for:
- Compressors running continuously or at full load
- Increased cycling in fixed-speed units
- Pressure drops across the system
If your demand fluctuates, a variable speed compressor can help maintain efficiency and reduce energy costs. At NCA Ltd., we offer numerous variable speed compressors that could be beneficial to your operation.
- Check Lubrication and Fluid Levels
Heat accelerates oil breakdown and reduces its effectiveness.
Make sure to:
- Check oil levels frequently
- Follow manufacturer intervals for oil changes
- Use the correct oil type for summer conditions
- Book an oil change with NCA Ltd.
Proper lubrication reduces wear on your system and prevents overheating.
- Inspect Belts, Hoses, and Connections
Rubber components are especially vulnerable to heat/harsh conditions.
Look for/Inspect:
- Cracks, brittleness, or wear in belts and hoses
- Loose fittings or air leaks
- Signs of vibration damage
Even small leaks can significantly increase energy costs over time. A single 1/4” leak at 100 PSI can cost upwards of $2,500–$8,000/year. Most facilities can lose 20–30% of total air output to leaks.
- Test Safety Systems
With higher operating stress, safety systems become even more critical.
Don’t skip/overlook:
- Pressure relief valve checks
- Temperature shutdown system testing
- Alarm and monitoring system verification
These safeguards protect both your equipment/investment and your team.
- Schedule Preventative Maintenance
Summer is not the time for reactive fixes. Make sure to get in touch with NCA Ltd before issues arise in your system.
Stay ahead by:
- Booking routine service inspections with NCA Ltd.
- Reviewing system performance data
- Partnering with a trusted service provider like NCA Ltd.
Preventative maintenance helps you avoid downtime during peak operating periods.
In Summary
Summer in Canada can be demanding on compressed air systems—but with the right maintenance approach, you can keep everything running efficiently and reliably.
By focusing on cooling, moisture control, filtration, and system monitoring, you’ll reduce energy costs, extend equipment life, and avoid unexpected breakdowns.
Need help preparing your compressed air system for summer?
Get in touch with NCA Ltd. today to ensure your system is ready for the heat.
Phone: 519-659-2691
Email: info@ncaltd.ca
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