Top 7 Most Common Compressor Issues & Possible Causes

What Causes High Compressor Discharge Temps?

• Low Oil Level
• Dirty Heat Exchanger
• Faulty Thermal Bypass Valve
• Plugged Oil Filter or Air/Oil Separator
• Obstruction in Oil System

What Causes Excessive Lubricant Consumption?

• Clogged Separator Scavenger Line
• Incorrectly Adjusted Scavenger Line
• Overfilled Oil Sump
• Oil Foaming in Sump

Why does Lubricant Break Down Prematurely?

• Compressor Running to Hot
• Intake Ingesting a Foreign Substance
• Excessive Condensate in System
• Mixing Incorrect Oil Types
• Incorrect Oil Additives

Why Does Compressor Discharge Pressure Drop?

• Faulty Inlet Valve
• Plugged Air/Oil Separator
• Plugged Intake Filter
• Plant Piping Leaks

What Causes Increased Compressor Amp Draw?

• Plugged Air/Oil Separator
• Air End Bearings Starting to Fail
• Obstruction of Air or Oil Lines
• Dirty or Spent Lubricant

What Causes Compressor Shut Down?

• Overheating
• High Discharge Pressure
• Low Oil Pressure
• Blown Fuse

Why do Compressor Air/Oil Separators Collapse?

• Minimum Pressure Valve Sticking
• Dirty or Spent Lubricant
• Faulty Check Valve
• Intake Ingesting a Foreign Substance