Air compressor troubleshooting

You will find below a list of common problems you may face with your air compressor and the respective fixes:

1.Problem: The Air Compressor Is Not Working

There are several things that can cause an air compressor to not operate. The problem can come from a basic problem or simple oversight. Luckily, these problems are typically easy to detect and solve.

Remedy:

1. No electrical power
   This one is pretty straightforward: no electrical power means that the air compressor won’t operate. So, check the breakers, check the power button and activate the reset switch if needed.
2. Not enough oil
   A nearly empty oil tank can cause the air compressor to stop working. To ensure that there is no lack of oil, remember to check or change the fluids.
3. The tank pressure is too low
   The pressure in the tank has to be compared to the cut-in pressure to know if there really is a disparity. If it is too low, replace the pressure switch for one with reduced cut-in.
4. Lack of contact between the pressure switch and inner circuitry
   The problem can be as simple as power switch failure. You can try adjusting the pressure switch to see if it works. If nothing happens, it might be time to call in a technician for maintenance.

2.Problem: The Fuses Do Not Last as Long as They Should

If the fuses in the compressors fail to last through their expected lifespan, you are looking at a problem with fuse size or voltage. But you should know that unloader, valve and belts can sometimes cause the same kind of issue.

Remedy:

Here’s what you can try:

1. Check the fuse size.
   If the incorrect fuse size has been used, it means that the fuse used doesn’t have the right ampere rating for the compressor. You always want to check the rating before purchasing fuses.
2. Check the voltage.
   Low voltage means that an insufficient amount of power is being delivered to the fuses. Check the voltage requirements and, if necessary, raise the level accordingly.
3. Check the unloader.
   A faulty unloader can cause the fuse to fail repeatedly. If it is the unloader, you’ll probably have to get them replaced.
4. Have a look at the check valves.
   Defective or expired check valves will cause the fuses to fail if not replaced.
5. Check the belt.
   If the belt is too tight, loosen it. A tensed belt can lead to blown fuses.

3.Problem: The Reset Mechanism Cuts Abruptly and Recurrently

Frequent cuts in the reset mechanism occur mostly for two reasons: an overloaded motor or inappropriate surrounding temperature.

Remedy:

The solution will vary according to the cause of the issue. If you think the problem comes from an overworked motor, shut it down promptly and get a technician on-site as soon as possible. If you think high temperatures or humid surroundings are the sources of the problem, try to boost ventilation in the area that surrounds your compressor.

4.Problem: The Compressor Runs Out of Steam Really Fast

The motor can cause the compressor to get bogged down, hence causing it to work well only for short durations.

Remedy:

The key is to find solutions that stop the compressor from prematurely run out of steam. The following can be helpful:

1. Ensure that the power of an outlet is dedicated solely to the compressor.
2. Compressors must get full power sources at all times. So, check that the air compressor gets the undivided power of at least a 15-20 amp breaker.
3. Manually enact the valve function to check that unloader valves are functioning properly. If the compressor still quickly runs out of steam after you drained out the air and water, the valve needs to be replaced.

5.Problem: You Can See Milky Oil in the Reservoir

Compressor oil that has taken on a milky color is an obvious sign of one problem: Water having penetrated the reservoir. Water can enter the reservoir through condensation. And once it does, the oil held within will go milky. When compressor oil takes on a milky color, water has made its way into the reservoir via condensation. This would indicate that operating conditions have been too hot for the compressor. For an instant remedy, you have two options:

Remedy:

The problem is coming from the compressor exposed to too warm of an environment. Here’s what you can do:

1. You can start by moving the air intake pipe to a cooler area.
2. Ensure, you drain the tank every day.

6.The Simpler Answer: Find a Trustworthy Supplier of Air Compressors in Your Locality

The best way to ensure that your compressor is always in top shape is by scheduling regular maintenances. If you live in Victoria, you may want to consider Promptair & Electrical Pty Ltd . They are not only renowned suppliers of air compressors, but they also provide reliable installation and maintenance.