Designing a compressor system for industrial applications is more complex than adding a compressor to a hobby workshop in a garage. These facilities must strike a balance between energy efficiency and the capacity for future expansion. It’s also important to have access to external service support in addition to the internal staff. With so many options available at the touch of a button, selecting the right air compressor distributor can be overwhelming. In this blog, we explore six capabilities to look for in your compressed air distributor for lasting success.
Why Trust Local Air Compressor Distributors?
The main advantage of having a local air compressor distributor is their availability to visit your facility in a timely manner. Whether you need 24/7 emergency repairs or a second set of eyes to design the footprint of a new compressor system, your distributor is one call away to provide the support you need.
Our Commitment to Product Education
Northwest Pump works closely with our product suppliers to stay up-to-date on all the latest industrial manufacturing trends, such as reliability and energy efficiency. Both our sales and service staff are in alignment with CAGI and Best Practices training.
1. Consulting Expertise on Compressor System Design
A trusted air compressor distributor will be capable of planning a complete compressor system for their end-users as well as providing a replacement compressor for an existing system. Your distributor should be able to identify your current air demand needs and advise about the best courses of action for air treatment, future-proofing your air supply, and maintenance requirements for each component of your compressor system.
2. Turnkey Installation Solutions
After purchasing a brand-new compressor system with all the components and design parameters in place, your air compressor distributor should be first in line to offer turnkey installation services. This is not only to limit expenses with additional contractors. Your distributor will be your intermediary with the manufacturer if you need to file any warranty claims, which typically require that an authorized representative be present during initial startup.
3. 24/7 Compressor Service & Repair Capabilities
You should look to find a distributor that will meet your service needs. Many offer service contracts or agreements to handle the routine maintenance needs of your facility. Emergencies do not wait for an air compressor distributor to open their doors in the morning, so facilities working late into the evening or on weekends should prioritize looking for a distributor that can offer extended operating hours.
Not only should your distributor be able to provide service for any equipment they provide, but they should also be capable of repairing or maintaining all makes and models of compressors. Air compressor distributors work closely with manufacturers to receive training opportunities, especially for each compressor’s maintenance needs. Your distributor should offer service for all makes, models, or types of compressors, and may even be certified or authorized for additional manufacturers as well.
4. Locally Stocked Inventory
Local distributors offer some insulation from longer lead times for new equipment. Some manufacturers stipulate a minimum quantity of their inventory that an authorized distributor must have on hand. This threshold can reduce lead times from months to weeks, and in some cases, even days. In the off chance the closest branch does not currently have your equipment, distributors with multiple branches can still carry the equipment or parts your facility is waiting on.
5. Product Offerings to Fit Specific Needs
Local distributors offer some insulation from longer lead times for new equipment. Some manufacturers stipulate a minimum quantity of their inventory that an authorized distributor must have on hand. This threshold can reduce lead times from months to weeks, and in some cases, even days. In the off chance the closest branch does not currently have your equipment, distributors with multiple branches can still carry the equipment or parts your facility is waiting on.
6. Solutions-Based Approach
While many businesses sell air compressors, what sets your next air compressor distributor apart will be a solutions-based approach. Rather than selling to meet a quota set by the manufacturer, your distributor should take the time to understand your facility’s current needs and future goals. They will work with you at every step of the process, including after the equipment is in place, to ensure that your facility has met its compressed air needs.
Your Screw Compressor Supplier in the Pacific Northwest
Northwest Pump’s Industrial division has over 60 years of combined experience in designing, troubleshooting, servicing, and using compressor systems in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you need a plug-and-play replacement of your previous unit or a complete system overhaul, we can help. Our team works closely with our product suppliers to stay up-to-date on all the latest industrial manufacturing trends, such as reliability and energy efficiency. Both our sales and service staff are trained in compliance with CAGI and Best Practices CAC1 & CAC2 standards. We stock our seven branches in the Pacific Northwest with both parts and equipment to reduce lead times as much as possible for our customers.
Our service division offers comprehensive equipment maintenance solutions, including 24/7 site support with SolvOne and rotating equipment service agreements. The compressor service team also carries vendor certification from five compressor manufacturers. Our service team handles installations, including wiring, pipe assembly, oil sampling, and the initial startup sequence.
Next Steps
Reach out to your local Northwest Pump branch today by clicking the button below, and let us take it from here!
