Cold weather threatens air compressors through freezing condensate, thickened oil and condensation inside the air end. A few precautions prevent winter damage.
Keep the Room Warm
Maintain the machine room above freezing and preheat the compressor before starting when temperatures drop.
Drain Condensate
Water in lines and separators can freeze and split pipes. Drain all low points after shutdown in freezing weather.
Use the Right Oil
Cold-start viscosity matters. Use compressor oil rated for the lowest expected ambient temperature.
Check Before Restart
Inspect for frozen drains and ice before starting, and let the unit warm up gradually.