When your air compressor operates inefficiently or malfunctions, it may be tempting to invest in a new one. In fact, it may be worth your while to get it overhauled instead. Here are some times when a compressor overhaul makes more sense than a replacement. If it's new If you have not been using your compressor for very long, it is probably better to get it repaired. This is particularly true if it has not given you any problems in the past.