Don’t Be a Tool! Oiling Pneumatic Tools: How Often and Why It Matters
You wouldn’t drive your car without oil, right?
So why do so many people forget to oil their pneumatic tools?
Pneumatic (air-powered) tools are the workhorses of workshops, garages, and job sites everywhere. They’re fast, powerful, and reliable — when you take care of them. And the #1 way to keep them running smoothly? OIL.
Why Oiling Matters
Pneumatic tools work by compressing air and blasting it through internal moving parts. This friction, combined with moisture from the air, creates a perfect storm for:
Rust
Wear and tear
Power loss
Total tool failure
A few drops of oil:
Lubricate moving parts
Prevent rust and corrosion
Keep seals tight
Maximize tool performance
Extend the life of your investment
How Often Should You Oil Pneumatic Tools?
Here’s a good rule of thumb:
Daily Use - Oil before each use (and again at lunch if it's a long day).
Occasional Use - Oil every use, even if it’s just once a week.
Long-Term Storage - Oil it before AND after storing.
High-Volume/Industrial Use - Consider an inline oiler or automatic system.
Yes — that often. It’s quick, easy, and saves you from big repairs later.
What Kind of Oil Should You Use?
Do NOT grab your car’s motor oil or WD-40. ❌
Instead, use pneumatic tool oil, sometimes labeled as:
Air tool oil
Air compressor oil (make sure it’s non-detergent)
10W or 20W non-detergent oils (if in a pinch)
These are specifically formulated to:
Resist gumming up
Disperse moisture
Handle high-speed tool internals
⚠️ Tip: NEVER use oils with detergent additives — they’ll destroy your seals over time.
How to Oil Pneumatic Tools (The Right Way)
Disconnect the tool from the air supply
Safety first, always.Add 3–5 drops of oil into the air inlet (where the air hose connects).
Reconnect and run the tool briefly (5–10 seconds) to circulate the oil.
Wipe off any excess that spits out — that’s normal.
Bonus: If you want to really show your tools some love, run a drop or two through at the end of the day too.
What Happens If You Don’t Oil?
You’ll probably notice:
Tools running slower or losing torque
Strange noises
More air leaks
Complete failure — sometimes beyond repair
And don’t forget, repairs cost more than oil. You’ve been warned.
Wrap-Up: A Little Oil Goes a Long Way
Regular oiling is:
✅ Easy
✅ Cheap
✅ Fast
✅ And one of the best ways to protect your tools and your business
So do your tools (and your wallet) a favor — oil early and often.
Need a tool repaired?
If your pneumatic tool is acting sluggish or leaking, bring it to us — we’ll get it running like new.
Call us, stop in, or schedule a repair online — we’re here to keep your tools turning.
Phone: (403) 798-1051 | Address: 3620 29 Street Northeast, Calgary, AB T1Y 5W4