+recommended minimum temp to operate oil lube air compressor

[big bubba]

have a 220v single stage HD oil lube pump air compressor on a covered porch outdoors. i understand not recommended to operate in cold temps below 35-40 F? am using manu recommended syn oil type & viscosity
your thoughts? don't want to replace a $700+ 11cfm compressor, could be more now with tariffs
thanks in advance

 

[Fuddyduddy1952]

Me? I would make a simple enclosure for it, insulated (2x4s , OSB & Door ). Then use one of these $19 thermostats with a heat lamp. Temp low as it will go (50°).
In warm weather turn off & prop door open.

 

[big bubba]

good idea. this is for my remote part time cabin, already have thermostat heat lamps for plumbing, but don't want to increase fire risk with another setup, guess i could just wait for warmer days. best regards

 

[SPYDERLK]

How cold does it get on the porch? The main problem I see is that a little water always gets around the system. Starting a compressor cold soaked below 32F will be dealing with some frozen water somewhere(s). Above that, or if you just warm the compressor some before starting it, should be OK.

 

[big bubba]

ok good point, didn't think about the moisture problem in freezing weather.
i may use heat lamp for an hour or so on the pump head before use.

 

[oldnslo]

I may be the odd duck but I have never worried about using my compressor in the winter. How is it different from starting a cold small air cooled engine like on a snowblower. They are both splash lubed.

 

[big bubba]

could well be. just asking since the Campbell Hausmen manual states not to operate below certain ambient temp. maybe it's overkill, regards.

 

[Shawn T. W.]

Just a crazy hair brained idea ... What about those oil dipstick heaters?

Or ... A oil pan magnetic mount heater?

You could just plug it in a bit before using it ...

 

[dodge man]

Mine is in a heated garage but I keep it pretty cold, maybe 45. It sure doesn’t sound good for when it starts for about 10 to 20 seconds. I plan on trying to preheat when I use it from now on.

 

[LouNY]

Or a synthetic air compressor oil.
I start mine at some quite cold temperature, it has run at zero F before.