What does it mean when the mechanic says air compressor that he just installed is taking to much air?

When a mechanic says a newly installed air compressor is "taking too much air," it means the compressor itself is consuming significantly more compressed air than it should be to operate correctly. This isn't about the air it's *supplying* to a system; it's about the air it's *using internally* to function. There are several possibilities:

* Internal Leak: There's a leak within the compressor itself – in the tank, valves, seals, or piping. This causes the compressor to work harder and consume more air to compensate for the lost pressure.

* Faulty Pressure Switch/Unloader Valve: These components regulate the compressor's on/off cycle. A malfunction can cause the compressor to run continuously or cycle on and off too frequently, wasting air.

* Inefficient Design/Manufacturing Defect: In rare cases, the compressor may simply be poorly designed or have a manufacturing defect that leads to higher-than-expected air consumption.

* Incorrect Installation: Though less likely if a mechanic installed it, improper installation could contribute to leaks or strain on the system leading to increased air consumption.

Essentially, the compressor is working inefficiently, requiring more energy (and thus air) to achieve the desired pressure. This is a significant problem, as it could indicate a serious fault requiring repair or replacement. The mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause of the excessive air consumption.