Sullair Compressor Maintenance Guide – LS Series, 185 Portable, OFS Oil-Free

Q: How often should I change the oil in LS Series compressors?

Every 2,000–4,000 hours depending on usage and environment.

Q: Can I use non-Sullair oil in my compressor?

Not recommended—may void warranty and reduce air end lifespan.

Q: What’s the best way to winterize a 185 Portable?

Use block heaters, check coolant, and inspect fuel system for condensation.

Q: How do I know if my OFS compressor is still Class 0 compliant?

Periodic air quality testing with certified instruments is required.

Q: What’s the lifespan of PTFE-coated rotors in OFS Series?

Typically 100,000+ hours under rated conditions.

Q: Can I monitor LS Series remotely?

Yes, via AirLinx®—available on most newer models.

Q: What’s the most common cause of downtime?

Neglected filters and oil changes—simple tasks with big impact.

Q: How do I find the right manual for my model?

Visit ManualsLib’s Sullair section for downloadable guides.

Q: Should I schedule professional service?

Yes—especially for OFS Series and high-horsepower LS units.

Introduction

Whether you’re running a high-demand factory, a mobile service team, or a pharmaceutical cleanroom, your Sullair compressor is the heartbeat of your operation. But even the most durable machines need care. This guide breaks down maintenance best practices for three key models—LS Series, 185 Portable, and OFS Oil-Free—so you can keep your air supply clean, consistent, and cost-effective.

LS Series Maintenance (Lubricated Rotary Screw)

Routine Tasks

Daily:
- Check oil level and pressure
- Inspect for leaks and unusual noise
- Verify temperature readings on control panel
Weekly:
- Clean intake filters
- Inspect belts and couplings
- Drain moisture from separator tank
Monthly:
- Check motor alignment and vibration
- Inspect electrical connections
- Review AirLinx® diagnostics
Every 2,000–4,000 hours:
- Replace oil filter and separator element
- Change Sullube® lubricant
- Inspect air end for wear

Watch For

Oil carryover
High discharge temperature
Vibration spikes (use vibration monitoring tools)

185 Portable Compressor Maintenance

Routine Tasks

Daily:
- Check engine oil and coolant levels
- Inspect fuel tank and hoses
- Test safety shutdowns
Weekly:
- Clean exterior and air intake
- Drain water from fuel/water separator
- Check tire pressure and trailer hitch
Every 500–1,000 hours:
- Change engine oil and filters
- Replace air filter
- Inspect and clean cooling system

Watch For

Diesel exhaust buildup
Hose wear and leaks
Cold-start issues (use block heater in winter)

OFS Series Maintenance (Oil-Free Rotary Screw)

Routine Tasks

Daily:
- Monitor control panel for alarms
- Check temperature and pressure readings
- Inspect for condensation or corrosion
Weekly:
- Clean intake filters
- Inspect PTFE-coated rotors visually
- Check drain valves and moisture traps
Every 4,000–8,000 hours:
- Replace air filters and seals
- Inspect bearings and rotor coating
- Test ISO Class 0 air quality compliance

Watch For

Rotor coating degradation
Moisture intrusion in cleanroom setups
Sequencing errors in multi-unit installations

OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts

Using genuine Sullair parts ensures compatibility, warranty protection, and optimal performance. Aftermarket parts may reduce upfront cost but often compromise lifespan and efficiency.

Seasonal Maintenance Tips

Season	Key Actions
Winter	Use block heaters, check antifreeze, inspect battery health
Summer	Clean cooling fins, monitor ambient temperature, check ventilation airflow

Maintenance Tools to Consider

Vibration monitoring sensors
Oil sampling kits
AirLinx® remote diagnostics (LS Series)
Cleanroom particle counters (OFS Series)

How to Maintain Sullair Compressors FAQ

How often should I change the oil in LS Series compressors?

Can I use non-Sullair oil in my compressor?

What’s the best way to winterize a 185 Portable?

How do I know if my OFS compressor is still Class 0 compliant?

What’s the lifespan of PTFE-coated rotors in OFS Series?

Can I monitor LS Series remotely?

What’s the most common cause of downtime?

How do I find the right manual for my model?

Should I schedule professional service?

Further Read

Conclusion

Maintenance isn’t just a chore—it’s a strategy. Whether you’re running a portable 185 in the field or an OFS unit in a cleanroom, consistent care ensures uptime, efficiency, and peace of mind. Bookmark this guide, share it with your team, and keep your Sullair compressor running like new.

Have tips or stories from your own maintenance routine? Drop them in the comments and help others learn from your experience. And if this guide helped you, share it with your network—especially those managing industrial air systems across Europe.