How to Adjust Air Pressure on a Compressor

Many of the different types of air compressors used for industrial or residential purposes can support a variable rate of compressed air released from the compressor. The ability to adjust the pressure released from your air compressor allows the compressor to be used for a variety of tools requiring different PSI levels. In order to increase or decrease the air compression rate, you need to adjust an air control device located on your compressor.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Owner's manual
• Screwdriver (if necessary)
• Allen wrench (if necessary)

1. Disconnect your air compressor from any energy source powering the compressor.

2. Read through your air compressor's owner's manual to locate the position of the air control device.

3. Remove any panels necessary to access the air compressor's air control device. Some air compressors have an external air control device, while others contain their control device within the compressor. Place any screws removed in this way in a safe place.

4. Rotate the air control device to increase or decrease the PSI, or pounds per square inch, of the compressed air leaving the air compressor. Some air compressors use a screw that is tightened or loosened to control the air intake. Use a screwdriver or Allen wrench to adjust any screws controlling the compressor's air pressure.

5. Replace any panels removed when trying to access an interior air control device.

References

• Grizzly Industrial: 3 HP Air Compressor - Instruction Manual
• Popular Mechanics: How It Works - Air Compressor
• Machinery Lubrication: Reciprocating Compressor Basics

Resources

• About Air Compressors: Reciprocating Compressors