What to do When Your Compressor is Running Hot
High temperatures, like low temperatures, are an area of concern for compressors. When compressors run hotter than normal, oil can break down prematurely, interior parts can be damaged, and there may be a decrease in output and air efficiency.
Luckily, some compressors will shut down when the temperature exceeds normal operating temperatures. This indicates to owners that there is a problem that needs to be handled. There are a variety of different reasons that an air compressor might run hot, fortunately many issues are relatively easy to troubleshoot.
Parts are clogged or need changing
As parts age, or become clogged, this can cause a compressor to work harder to complete basic functions. Mainly, the oil filter should be checked and replaced if clogged or worn. Regular preventive maintenance should alleviate this issue from happening.
Thermal bypass is leaking
The thermal bypass valve is responsible for sending oil to the cooler when its temperature starts getting too high for operation. If a thermal valve fails, the hot oil is not getting diverted to the cooler anymore and being sent straight back to air end while it’s hot. The temperature will gradually increase until the compressor shuts down. Check your thermal valve and replace it if it is faulty. You can check the temperature of the oil heading back to the air end with a temperature gun. If the temperature is high, this is indicative that your thermal valve needs changing. It is a good idea to always have a thermal valve on your shelf, in case the old one fails suddenly.
Cooler has restricted air flow
Coolers can often be neglected. If your cooler needs cleaning, this could cause oil to not be able to cool down when it goes through the cooler. Cooler maintenance should be an important part of your compressor care. Pressure washing the cooler should help it start working properly again.
Oil level is low
This seems like an obvious answer, but if your compressor is low on oil, it can result in the compressor running at a higher temperature. Check the sight glass in the Sump tank and make sure levels are appropriate. Add more oil if necessary. It’s a good rule of thumb to always have oil on hand.
Faulty temperature switch
The temperature switch is responsible for shutting down the compressor when it senses that the compressor starts running higher than the designated high temperature, typically 220 degrees. If the temperature switch is faulty, this could trigger an unnecessary shutdown. Make sure to use a temperature gun and check how hot the oil is running through the compressor. If you are not noticing unusually high temperatures, this could be indicative of a faulty temperature switch.
All in all, high temperature shutdowns cause a large inconvenience. Understanding which areas could be causing this issue is beneficial to getting a compressor back up and running. This is not a comprehensive list of solutions for high temperature shutdowns that an air compressor may experience, but may help you narrow down the root cause of your perceived problem.
Air Compressor Services provides fast turn-around for orders and unparalleled support for any challenge you may be facing. Our team can provide you with an inspection or maintenance service (locally) and/or parts to get your compressor up and running again.
Connect with a member of our technical support team for any questions related to our service or products.
**Maintenance should always be performed by a qualified service technician.