The Pros and Cons of DIY Air Compressor Repairs vs. Professional Services

When an air compressor malfunctions, it halts the workflow and subsequently disrupts project profitability. This situation places the owner in a position where swift decisions are imperative, involving choosing between engaging an air compressor repair shop or embarking on a DIY repair project. Resolving this dilemma hinges on factors such as time, financial considerations, one’s technical expertise, parts availability, and the extent of the air compressor’s prior maintenance. By carefully evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of each option, a clearer path toward making an informed decision can be illuminated.

The regular maintenance of the air compressor is central to sustaining the smooth operation of the machine. While maintenance serves to preempt numerous issues, it does not provide a guarantee against eventual breakdowns. Possessing the knowledge that the machine has been diligently maintained becomes crucial information when engaging a repair shop or contemplating a self-repair endeavor. This awareness confers a strategic advantage, positioning one step ahead in decision-making.

DIY Air Compressor Repairs

If the owner chooses to do the repairs themselves, they will find some things favorable, while others may not work in their favor. Considering these beforehand will give a more educated and well thought of decision.

• Cost Savings: DIY repairs could cut the cost in half, which doesn’t hurt the profits as bad. The cost savings come from two parts. The first part is that the labor cost is relinquished by DIY. Second, the markup price on parts is erased because by calling in professionals, they mark up the price on all parts purchased for replacement.

• Skill Development: The skill development in learning how to repair the air compressor will offer a buildup in confidence through the DIY process. However, if the skill is lacking, attempting to repair and fail at the task would be devastating. It becomes wasteful with time and money.

• Potential Risks: The risk factors deal with safety, and not knowing or being unsure about something in the repair could cause potential damage to the machine or harm individuals working around the air compressor.

• Tools and Resources: Having the tools and resources is another thing to consider if it becomes a DIY repair. Having the tools handy could save money, but without them, the owner must spend additional money to purchase the right tools.

Professional Air Compressor Services

The services offered all have good sides to them while considering the following:

• Expertise and Experience: Hiring professionals deliver peace knowing they know what they are doing. Knowing professionals are repairing the air compressor also allows the owner to make other projects available while waiting for the machine to be fixed.

• Time-Saving: When professionals know their skills, they can move faster to have the air compressor fixed and back up and running for the company.

• Warranty Considerations: This is a significant consideration. Owners are encouraged to work on air compressors themselves if it is still under warranty. If anything happens, the warranty will become void, and the owner will have to pay for any additional repairs or replace the machine at an out-of-pocket cost. Remember, it’s better if the air compressor is still under warranty to let the professional services handle all repairs because the owner doesn’t have to pay for parts or labor.

• Safety and Compliance: Professional services have rules to follow, and the state mandates some laws in certain areas where safety is a primary factor in repairs. The professionals are trained, certified, and know the rules to follow. They handle everything with professional upkeep and work to keep the air compressors operating at total capacity and guarantee safety for all workers who work nearby or in direct contact with the machine.

• Cost Considerations: Looking at the budget will help determine if the funds are available to hire professionals if the air compressor warranty is over. Requesting an estimate before the job is performed would be the best suggestion.

Factors to Consider

These are some areas to consider, ask questions, and research to know what the air compressor owner is facing before starting a DIY repair or if they should hire a professional service.

• Complexity of the Repair: Ask the questions: How difficult is the task at hand, and is it worth investing the effort and energy? If the repair is too complex, then hire professionals.

• Availability of Resources: The owner should consider if they have the resources such as tools, help, and workspace to complete a repair job.

• Time and Skill Constraints: Time and knowledge go together because those with the skills will work faster and safer than those without. Having the skills work in favor of completing the job on the first shot. Keep in mind that the more time that is lost, the more profits slip away.

• Risk Tolerance: This consideration asks if the repair job is worth the risk. What are the costs, and what will be gained or lost by a DIY repair job on an air compressor? Know the risk before starting.

• Warranty Coverage: The answer should be easy if the air compressor is under warranty. Never work on any machine that is still under warranty. Doing so will be at the owner’s expense and void all free parts and repairs.

Making the Decision

Now, it’s time to come to a conclusion and make the final call on what to do: DIY repair or call a professional service.

• Weighing the Pros and Cons: Money and warranty are the two top things to consider. After those two things, weighing the options is more accessible according to which choice is better. Make a list for each side of the pros and cons; whichever is the most extended list should give a better insight into what to do.

• Consulting with Professionals: Always, if unsure of something in repairs or if you need advice and estimates, talk to those with experience and who are certified.

• DIY Maintenance vs. Repairs: DIY maintenance will prevent about 90 percent of all repairs. Some are unavoidable because wear and tear are still imminent. Consult the manual and ask professionals for all the maintenance required for the specific make and model of the air compressor.

Contact Complete Engineered Solutions Today

Complete Engineered Solutions can answer any questions or concerns about your air compressor. We can assist if you are looking for upgrades in purchasing a new one or if repairs are needed.

We are a local reliable service with fast emergency response time 24 hours a day, every day of the year. These are the things we can help with when you contact us:

• Service,
• Parts,
• Equipment,
• Rentals,
• Control and monitoring systems,
• Design,
• Turnkey installation.