electric motor runs fine for about 15 seconds then breaker trips
by Michael
(Georgia)
Motor runs fine for about 15 seconds,compressor is pumping and building pressure, then breaker trips. Doesn't matter what outlet its plugged into.
I was told the compressor needed a new motor by a compressor tech. The thing is I took this compressor to him to have the relief valve replaced and he charged me $236.00 and he switched the thing on for a few seconds and told me the motor may need to be replaced.
When i got it to the job site i couldn't even use it. Needless to say this guy lost my trust.
Bill says...
Hello Michael. Glad you took the time to visit my website and to write in.
I think your technical person is right.
If you have enough current running through your circuit to start the motor, then why should it trip out after 15 seconds? I think it's because as the pressure builds in the tank, it gets harder for the motor to continue pumping air into the tank via the piston. If the motor is failing, then it hasn't got enough oomph to continue pumping the compressed air, tries to do so, pulls more amps above the circuit breaker capacity, and pops the breaker.
The PRV is often included in the pressure switch assembly, so you may have had the whole thing replaced when he replaced the PRV.
Good luck.
Bill
