Free template · Machine shops, manufacturing, and facilities

Air Compressor Maintenance Schedule & Checklist

Daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual checks for a typical rotary-screw shop air compressor. Download it as a spreadsheet or put the complete schedule into RunTight.

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Ready-to-use schedule

What's included

Start with these intervals, then adjust them using actual run hours, condition, failures, and manufacturer guidance.

Daily

Daily Compressor Operating Check

  • Record discharge pressure and operating temperature
  • Check oil level through the sight glass
  • Listen for abnormal bearing, motor, or air-end noise
  • Inspect for oil and air leaks
  • Verify condensate drain operation

Weekly

Weekly Compressor Inspection

  • Clean cooler and cabinet intake screens
  • Inspect belts or coupling condition
  • Drain receiver and downstream water traps
  • Check dryer dew point or status indicators
  • Review run hours and loaded versus unloaded hours

Quarterly or by run hours

Quarterly Compressor Service

  • Inspect or replace inlet air filter
  • Inspect oil filter and separator differential pressure
  • Check electrical connections with power isolated
  • Inspect hoses, clamps, and minimum-pressure valve
  • Verify safety shutdowns and service reminders

Use run hours and condition—not the calendar alone

Compressor service intervals vary with model, oil type, temperature, dust, and load profile. Record run hours at every service and use the manufacturer interval when it is shorter than this starting schedule.

High discharge temperature, rising separator differential pressure, or a growing loaded-hour percentage are early warnings. Treat those readings as maintenance signals instead of waiting for a shutdown.

Before opening panels or servicing pressure-containing components, isolate electrical power, relieve stored pressure, and follow your lockout procedure.

Frequently asked questions

How often should compressor oil be changed?

Follow the compressor and lubricant manufacturer interval because synthetic and mineral oils differ substantially. Track both calendar time and run hours, and use whichever limit arrives first.

What compressor readings are worth recording?

At minimum record run hours, loaded hours when available, discharge pressure, discharge temperature, oil level, and dryer status. Trends are usually more useful than a single reading.

Why does the condensate drain belong on the daily checklist?

A failed drain lets water accumulate in the receiver and air system, increasing corrosion and contaminating downstream tools and processes.

Make the checklist run itself

Add it to RunTight, assign it to equipment, and automatically send each occurrence to the right phone. The Free plan supports up to 25 users—no credit card or per-user fee.

Use this template free