PCP Moisture Management & Storage Basics
Moisture is the quiet killer of performance. Keep water out of your air path, protect internals from corrosion, and store your kit so fills stay clean and consistent.
Why moisture control matters
Moist air heats under compression and can condense in hoses, valves, or rifle internals. Clean, dry air preserves seals, gauges, and consistency across sessions.
Keeping the air path dry
• Use reputable fill sources and keep dust caps on all ports.
• Let the system cool between top-ups; avoid rapid, repeated fills that build heat.
• Keep threads and O-rings clean; wipe grit before every connection.
• If you suspect wet air, pause and allow components to return to ambient temperature.
Smart storage habits
• Store tanks upright in a cool, dry place away from direct sun or heat.
• Coil hoses loosely—no tight bends or heavy objects pressing on them.
• Keep light positive pressure in the tank between sessions to deter contamination.
• Cap ports and QD ends to keep dust and humidity out.
Field-day best practices
• Set up on a clean, dry surface; avoid wet grass and puddles near the fill area.
• Route hoses off the ground and away from mud and fouling.
• After rain, wipe connections dry before attaching; never connect through visible moisture.
Troubleshooting signs
• Fogging gauge lenses, sticky needles, or erratic fills hint at contamination.
• Visible water on fittings or inside caps means stop, dry, and clean before use.
• Recurrent corrosion on threads suggests storage humidity—improve airflow and dryness.
Next steps
Read our guides on safe fills, hose choices, tank care, and backpack routing. Use the site menu for Retailers, Contact, and Newsletter.