Moved my compressor outside today

[Slednut]

I built this box from material I had lying around. The box has two 4 inch holes near the bottom and five 2 in holes at the top. When it really gets hot I figured I’d just leave the top open when using it. It’s a small Craftsman 25 gallon, is this going to cause any trouble with the compressor?

 

[sharkytm]

I'd put some mesh over the holes or else you'll have wasps in there... ask how I know.

Other than that, you should be good. The compressor looks like an oil-free unit, so cooling is extra important. You might consider some fans that are tied to the compressor pressure switch.

 

[Denwood]

Just switch out the oil for synthetic. I moved both compressors outside this winter (shed) and 10w30 synthetic in the crank cases was required so they would start at very cold (-30C) temps.

 

[Caman]

Just a suggestion, but do a search for "automatic vent opener". Installing one onto that top hatch would help in keeping it cool, even if you forget.

 

[Cyberbear]

Just keep in mind that heat is not good for air compressors and perhaps some side vents of some sort might be good. It's better to be too noisy than too hot.

 

[600SL]

Compressor Outside is priceless. Suggest you keep the top off when running it. I used a side vent and soffit venting above the door.

 

[sberry]

Nice. For short run and single cycle work in the summer it will be fine. Keep an eye on the thing. Someone does make crank case heaters too. The one on the side of the building wouldn't be bad to low level heat. The door on the outside saved inside wall space, that is a huge space saver especially in a narrow building.

 

[Slednut]

Thanks for all the suggestions, I did put mesh over the 4 and 2 inch holes. I think I will add some more venting using soffit vent covers. I don't care if it’s loud outside. Before I added onto my garage the compressor was outside under an awning. For a year now it's been inside and was really irritating.

 

[mitchtr25068]

The only thing you're going to likely forget to do as often is drain the tank. But u will love having it outdoors

 

[Slednut]

The only thing you're going to likely forget to do as often is drain the tank. But u will love having it outdoors

There are 11 screws that hold the front panel on which isn't too bad of a job to drain the tank.

If I put a soffit vent at the bottom I can use it as access to the drain. Every time I drain the tank only a couple drops come out.

 

[edcantu9]

Any worries about vandals?