Pressure Relief Valve

by Sheldon
(Apex, NC)

I am glad this site is here! I recently "horse traded" for an older 20 gallon Speedaire compressor. Soemwhere along the way somebody swapped the original 2hp electric motor for a 5hp Gas Clinton. I have the Clinton starting on the first pull now and need to replace the PRV. The previous owner hastily replaced it and it "pops" at 130 and does not reset until 50. I would like one that resets back at 90 or so. What are my options?

Thanks!

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Bill says...

That your PRV is "popping" at all tells me that your compressor pressure switch cut out pressure level is too high, or your PRV isn't suited to the compressor.

That you have one that resets is good, most of them on smaller DIY type air compressors simply need to be pushed back to reset them.

I can't tell you if the 130 PSI "pop off" is right for your compressor, though it seems a bit low, since PRV's are a safety device.

If it were me, I'd take the PRV out of the line, and run the compressor, keeping a careful watch on the tank pressure level. Be ready to turn the motor off. Watch the pressure. Maybe the pressure switch is set to shut off at, say, 150 PSI (which is not a too high range normally) and the compressor will shut off then.

That being the case, visit your local compressor repair shop and ask to buy a PRV that opens at about 10 PSI higher than the cut off, and one that needs a manual reset.

Good luck.

Bill