A fluid compression system includes a compressor operable to produce a first flow of compressed fluid and a refrigerated dryer coupled to the compressor and operable to separate the first flow of compressed fluid into a second flow of compressed fluid and a flow of liquid. A first sensor is positioned to measure a property of the second flow of compressed fluid, and a controller is operable to initiate operation of the refrigerated dryer at a first time and at least partially in response to the measured property, and to initiate operation of the compressor at a second time. The first time is before the second time.