How to drain the air compressor tank?

How to drain air compressor tank?





Bill answers...

Thanks for writing in.

I've uploaded a picture for you to see what I'm talking about.

Under the tank, usually at the lowest spot on the tank, you'll find a valve, one of which you can see in the photo.

Turn this valve one way and the air and water can flow out of the tank. Turn it the other, and the valve closes keeping your compressed air in the tank.

When I'm finished using my air compressor I open this valve to drain off the collected water, and I leave it open until the next time I want to use the compressor.

Don't forget to close it before you turn on your air compressor. Most of them are so loud you won't be able to hear the air escaping out the drain valve is the compressor tries to fill the tank.

That the drain valve is open is one of the many reasons why your air compressor runs but doesn't build pressure in the tank.

One other thing. Expect the drain to have water in it, so when you open the valve you'll get water with crud and oil in it all over your hand. I wear a glove when I drain my compressor tank. :-)

Cheers,

Bill




Comments for
How to drain the air compressor tank?

Click here to add your own comments

Jul 28, 2011
 About draining my air compressor
by: Effie from TX

Hello Bill
I wanted to know if I should be concerned about rusty water blowing out of my air compressor?
And if I'm in danger of any sort..??
There has been times where I forgot to drain it.
Is it okay if I leave the valve open after every use??

____________________

I recommend that you leave the drain open after every use, yes.

The rusty water indicates that you have rusting taking place inside the tank, which doesn't surprise me, as they tanks, like all the rest of DIY import compressors are ordered from the lowest bidder.

One of the good things (if that can be said) about a rusting air tank is that, eventually, when rust eats away sufficient wall thickness, they will leak, and that's all.

I don't believe you are in any danger due to the possible rusting of the compressor air tank.

In terms of how to drain it, please see the page Drain the tank (how to).

Cheers,

Bill

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How?
Simply click here to return to How To