How to Adjust an Air Compressor Regulator

Air compressors can make a job so easy and adjusting the regulator can be easy too. Air compressors vary in size, from small (easy to carry) to so large that it needs its own wheels. The largest of all are the single tanks that are mounted in the garage and cannot be moved; these are similar in size to a 50 gallon hot water heater. The air pressure for each individual air compressor varies greatly also, ranging from 100 to 1200 psi.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Air compressor
• Air hose
• Air tools

1. Plug the air compressor into the appropriate electrical socket. Most air compressors will come equipped with a 3-prong electrical cord, but there are a few that come with a 4-prong electrical cord. The 3-prong electrical cord is set for use with a standard 110 outlet, which makes it convenient for home projects. The 4-prong electrical cord is generally used for 220 outlets, commonly found in garages or workshops.

2. Turn on the air compressor.

3. Allow the air compressor to fill completely. This ranges from 100 to over 200 per-square-inches, depending on the unit capacity.

4. Check the manufacturer guide for the tools you are planning to use with this unit once it has reached full pressure. The guide will properly inform you which tools can be used with the unit.

5. Connect the tool to the air hose and the air hose to the compressor.

6. Adjust the air pressure regulator adjustment knob by turning it counterclockwise to drop air pressure and clockwise to increase air pressure.

Tips & Warnings

• Once you reach the manufacturers desired regulated air pressure, it may be necessary to adjust to your own settings for optimum use.
• Adjustments should be done in small increments and in ¼-inch turns because air pressure will fluctuate drastically.
• Sometimes older compressors will draw a lot of amps on their initial start up which can cause breakers to pop or turn off. This is especially true if hooked up to a GFCI or ground fault circuit interrupt.
• Some air compressors require oil as per manufacturer specifications.