How long should a compressor hold it’s pressure?

by Richard Swenson
(Wareham, MA USA)

I am new to compressors. I just purchased a used 30 gallon/5.5 hp compressor (craftsman compressor 919.165310). It is working fine, but I notice that it will lose all it’s pressure if shutoff and left alone for about 2 days.

Is this normal? obviously there is a very small leak(s), but i don’t know if this should be expected or something i should address.

Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

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Compressor hold it’s pressure
by: Bill

In theory, once the compressed air gets to the tank, it should remain in the tank indefinitely.

The reality is that the tank check valve may leak a bit, a fitting on the discharge line may leak a bit, if the hose is plugged into the discharge coupler and whatever it’s attached too leaks a bit, over time, the tank pressure will dissipate.

That yours loses all air pressure in two days suggests a bit more than a small leak, and with the tank empty of air and the power off, I would pull the tank check valve and check it / clean it to see if that resolved the leak.

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Thanks…
by: Richard

Thank you for the help. i found the leak, and the system is holding pressure well now. thanks again.

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