5 energy-saving tips for compressors

Saving energy (and money!) is top of mind for every company. That’s why Kaeser has a few ideas on how to save energy and reduce costs for your compressed air systems.

1. Avoid using your compressors when it’s not needed

It’s strange for an air compressor company to write, but it’s true — you may not need every compressor running all the time. There are huge savings in that simple idea. For example, a 100-hp compressor can cost $75,000 per year in energy costs (based on 8,760 hours at 0.10 per kWh).

Before deciding, conduct an air demand analysis (ADA) with the machines you think you can turn off to ensure it’ll work before doing so. Or you can always consult with a technician.

Although, be careful before you turn the compressor off. Ensure — especially during the winter months — it’s been drained of water and condensation. Also, before powering it back on, consider scheduling maintenance to ensure it’s working well.

2. Use compressed air appropriately, including using the lowest pressure possible

To save energy use the lowest possible pressure. Did you know that every 2 psi reduction in pressure can save 1% in efficiency? That’s savings that impact your bottom line.

Also, using compressed air for blow-off isn’t just wasting energy, it can be a safety hazard. Using air over 30 psi for blow-off is actually an OSHA violation that could cause fines and injure employees.

3. Use proper controls for multiple compressor systems

Master system controllers maintain pressure and stabilize airflow. That could reduce the energy your system is using. Plus, these controllers ensure your system is running at peak efficiency. You can deploy other automation, making it easier to manage your compressed air system. Talk to us, we can help.

4. Do things right the first time

Choosing a low-cost compressor and installation service may actually cost you more in the long run. Doing it right the first time saves a lot of time, energy, and money. For example, your solutions providers and technicians should understand your business and be asking questions such as

• What are your long-term goals?
• Do you have any production goals or operational goals you’re trying to meet (such as ISO certifications or operational excellence requirements)?
• What’s your current system look like? What are the issues you’re having?
• What opportunities are there? Are you looking to save more money and energy?
• Do you plan to expand soon or in the next five years? Move?
• What’s your budget now versus in the future to expand and protect your current investment?

Knowing these questions will help plan the right compressed air system as well as ensure you’re planning for maintenance along the way. It all involves really being a partner and understanding your business.

5. Conduct maintenance

Everyone understands maintenance is important for your machines to continue running efficiently. But not everyone puts in the maintenance needed. It’s best to get that first maintenance scheduled at the time a new machine is purchased. It’ll ensure everything is running as you expect and get a regular maintenance cadence going. Also, depending on the conditions of your facility, run time, and various other factors, you may need maintenance more often than you think. Again, our technicians can help.

Elevated is your partner

With more than 60 years of combined expertise taking care of every major compressor brand out there, Elevated Industrial Solutions, formerly Compressed Air Technologies and Palmetto Compressors, is your Ohio, Kentucky, and South Carolina partner. We can help with maintenance, running ADAs to ensure top efficiency, and getting the right equipment in your facility the first time.