10 Tips on how to reduce your compressed air costs

Want to know the most energy efficient way to operate your compressed air system, here we’ve put together a quick checklist.

10 Tips to reduce the running costs of your Compressed Air System

Compressed air is integral to many industrial processes, it’s often energy-intensive but in most cases, there is a lot of waste. If you want to reduce your energy bills and environmental impact, it's crucial to optimise the efficiency of your system. Here are some of the best energy efficiency tips for compressed air systems:

1. Regular Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance is essential to keep your compressed air system operating efficiently. Ensure that filters, lubricants, and other components are regularly inspected and replaced as needed.
2. Air Leak Detection: Even small air leaks can lead to significant energy waste. Conduct routine leak detection surveys and promptly repair any identified leaks to prevent air losses.
3. Pressure Control: Adjust the system's pressure settings to the minimum required for your specific applications. Lowering the pressure can significantly reduce energy consumption.
4. Use Variable Speed Drives: Implement variable speed drives (VSDs) on compressors to match output to demand. This ensures energy is not wasted when compressed air needs are low.
5. Heat Recovery: Consider heat recovery systems to capture and reuse heat generated by compressors. This can provide cost-effective heating for your facility and reduce overall energy consumption.
6. Proper Sizing: Ensure that your compressed air system is appropriately sized for your needs. Oversized systems can lead to inefficiencies, while undersized systems can cause unnecessary wear and tear.
7. Smart Controls: Invest in advanced control systems that can optimise compressor operations based on real-time demand patterns.
8. Employee Training: Educate your staff on energy-saving practices and the importance of minimising compressed air wastage.
9. Regular Audits: Conduct energy audits to identify opportunities for improvement and track your energy consumption over time.
10. Energy-Efficient Equipment: When upgrading or purchasing new compressed air equipment, choose energy-efficient models with high-performance ratings.

Implementing these energy efficiency tips can help your business significantly reduce energy consumption and lower operational costs while contributing to a more sustainable future. By adopting a holistic approach to compressed air system management, businesses can strike a balance between productivity and environmental responsibility.